Frequently asked questions

Have any questions about cannabis tourism? Refer to our FAQ to help clarify some common questions travelers might have when considering cannabis trips.

**Please note that these pages feature content pertaining to cannabis which remains illegal under US federal law and under state law in certain states. For purposes of clarity, while some US states have legalized recreational cannabis on a state level, it remains illegal on a federal level. In addition, while recreational cannabis is legal nationally in Canada, there are nuances by province. The following guide is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only, it is not legal advice and should not be used as such. You must ensure you know and understand the local laws, regulations, ordinances, rules and policies of the destination you are traveling to, including the policies of your hotel, accommodation, and/or rental car.

General

Transportation

Visiting a dispensary

Sources

You can see a breakdown of cannabis laws across US states here.

No, often times once the bill is passed to legalize recreational marijuana, it does not take effect immediately. That’s why it’s important to read, understand and know the local laws of the destination you are traveling to.

Marijuana is still classified as a Schedule 1 drug at the federal level. However, the Cole Memorandum of 2013 established the Justice Department will not challenge individual states’ legalization laws with the expectation that each state has robust enforcement efforts in place.

Since National Parks are on federal land, you cannot possess or consume cannabis in any national parks.

The Seattle government has a great overview of what consuming in public means but this may vary by state and local laws. If you are traveling, it’s important to read the hotel or rental’s smoking policy. Despite it being legal to consume in private, you still cannot smoke where smoking is prohibited.

In all provinces it is legal to possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or equivalent. The legal age to purchase differs by province (either 18 or 19). In addition, provinces offer different ways to purchase cannabis from private in-person stores, online and government-operated in-person stores. You can see a breakdown of legal cannabis laws across provinces and territories here.

No, since cannabis is still illegal on the federal level, you cannot transport cannabis in your checked or carry on luggage. Per the TSA, “Marijuana and certain cannabis infused products, including some Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, remain illegal under federal law except for products that contain no more than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis or that are approved by FDA. TSA officers are required to report any suspected violations of law to local, state or federal authorities”

No, cannabis purchased in the state must be consumed in that state. Even if a neighboring state also has recreational laws in place, you cannot transport anything out of the state you purchased it in.

No, in most states and provinces it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of cannabis.

Consumers may carry cannabis in their car, as long as it is in a sealed container. Some states suggest also keeping it in the trunk while driving – you can see a breakdown of US laws here.

When traveling within Canada, if you meet with minimum age requirement of the province or territory, you may possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or equivalent. It is your responsibility to know the laws of the province. When traveling on a plane, it’s important to note that no cannabis can be transported internationally or cross-bored to the US. Air Canada notes that even if a flight is domestic, there is the potential for unforeseen issues causing a diversion to a US airport where possession of cannabis is illegal.

No, most states require a valid, government-issued ID proving you are at least 21 years of age. Medical marijuana cards are not required to purchase recreational marijuana.

No, no one under the age of 21 is allowed to enter a recreational marijuana retail store in the United States. The minimum age in Canada is either 18 or 19, you must check the province laws before visiting.

Just ask! Budtenders, employees at dispensaries, are trained to know what each product offers and the intended side effects. Describe the experience you’re seeking and they should help you find the product that suits your needs.

Canada authorized cannabis retailers

NCSL Cannabis Overview

NCSL Driving with Cannabis in a Vehicle