Can you fly with cannabis drinks?
No. Under U.S. federal law, cannabis is illegal, and that applies at airports and on planes. TSA does not search for cannabis, but if a cannabis drink is found during security screening, TSA refers the matter to local law enforcement. Cannabis drinks are also liquids, so they must follow TSA liquid rules if you carry them on.
Why federal law matters at the airport
Airports and aircraft are under federal jurisdiction. Even if you fly from a state where cannabis is legal, federal law still applies. TSA is a federal agency. Its officers do not look for drugs, but they will report any illegal item they find. Local police decide what happens next. In a legal state, that may mean no arrest, but the drink can be confiscated. In a non-legal state, you could face charges.
TSA liquid rules for cannabis drinks
Cannabis drinks are liquids. If you put them in carry-on, they must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per container. All containers must fit in one quart-sized bag. Larger bottles must go in checked bags.
can you fly with cannabis drinks
Carry-on limits
- 3.4 oz (100 ml) max per container
- One quart-sized clear bag per passenger
- One bag per person
Checked bag limits
Checked bags have no liquid limit for most drinks, but TSA may inspect your bag. If a cannabis drink is found, the same referral to law enforcement applies. Airlines also have their own rules. Many airlines ban cannabis on their planes.
What happens if TSA finds your cannabis drink
- TSA stops the screening line and calls a supervisor.
- The supervisor contacts local law enforcement.
- Police decide whether to cite, arrest, or release you.
- Your drink may be confiscated.
- You may miss your flight.
Flying between legal states
Crossing state lines with cannabis is illegal under federal law, even if both states allow it. A flight from California to Nevada is still a federal matter. Do not assume that legal status at your departure or arrival city protects you.
Flying with cannabis drinks in checked bags
You can place cannabis drinks in checked bags if they are sealed and packed well. But checked bags are subject to random searches. If a search finds cannabis, TSA refers it to law enforcement. The same federal risk applies.
What about hemp-derived drinks?
Hemp drinks with less than 0.3% THC by dry weight are legal under federal law. But TSA cannot test the THC content on the spot. If a drink looks like cannabis, TSA may still call police. Carry lab reports or a certificate of analysis if you fly with hemp drinks. Even then, police may confiscate the item while they verify.
Safer options
- Do not fly with cannabis drinks.
- Buy cannabis drinks at your destination from a legal dispensary.
- Ship cannabis drinks only if you follow state and federal shipping laws. Most carriers ban cannabis.
- Leave cannabis drinks at home.
Prerequisites for a smooth trip
- Check your airline's cannabis policy.
- Check local laws at your destination.
- Pack any liquids in 3.4 oz containers if carry-on.
- Have a plan to buy cannabis at your destination instead.