CBD is a cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp plants. Because of the link with the cannabis plant, many people wonder if it’s legal to travel with CBD locally and internationally. When it comes to flying with CBD oil, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure you are on the right side of the law. But don't worry, we've got you covered.
In this guide
- If CBD oil is legal to fly with (domestically and internationally)
- How much CBD oil you can fly with
- Whether CBD oil can go in hand luggage
- Tips for flying with CBD oil
Can you take CBD oil on a plane?
Although CBD products are being legalised for recreational and medicinal use in many countries, flying with CBD oil may not be as straightforward as you think. CBD oil’s acceptability varies based on the country (and sometimes state or region) you are flying to and from.
Always check local laws first. Some countries have not legalised CBD, or restrict it to prescription-only formats.
As of 2020, US TSA guidance indicates travellers can fly domestically with hemp-derived CBD products that contain no more than 0.3% THC (dry weight). CBD is distinct from THC: CBD is non-intoxicating, while THC can be psychoactive.
Read more: CBD vs THC
For high-THC medical cannabis, products generally must be specifically approved/prescribed where you depart and arrive.
In the UK, non-prescription CBD sold as a Novel Food is permitted if compliant with UK law and labelling. When in doubt, ask the airline, your destination’s embassy, or airport authorities.
How much CBD can you fly with?
Where CBD is permitted, typical legal THC limits are:
- EU/UK: commonly up to 0.2% THC in hemp (product rules vary by country).
- US/Canada: up to 0.3% THC (hemp-derived) at the federal level in the US; Canada permits cannabis products but has other controls.
Quantity allowances for personal CBD vary. A conservative approach is to carry only what you reasonably need for the trip and ensure each item meets local THC rules. Some UK guidance references a control threshold of ≤1 mg controlled cannabinoid per container; check current rules and your product’s certificate of analysis (COA).
If you need a larger amount for medical reasons, obtain a doctor’s letter/prescription where applicable.
Read more: Countries where CBD is legal
Can you carry CBD oil in hand luggage?
Yes—subject to security liquid rules and local legality. Most airports require liquids to be:
- In containers of 100 ml or less
- Placed in a single 20 cm × 20 cm clear resealable bag
Keep CBD in its original, clearly labelled packaging. Do not conceal it. TSA or security officers must report suspected violations—staying transparent reduces delays.
Can you take CBD oil on a plane in the UK?
Yes—on domestic flights, if your CBD product complies with UK law and labelling (e.g., compliant Novel Food, THC within legal limits). International flights depend on destination/layovers.
Can you fly with CBD oil internationally?
There’s no universal rule. Laws differ by country, and sometimes by region/province. You must check the laws for your destination and any transit/layover locations—even if you don’t leave the airport.
Regional rules (high-level)
Europe 🇪🇺
Many European countries allow hemp-derived CBD (often with ≤0.2% THC), but several restrict CBD to prescription products or have tighter THC rules. Countries where travellers commonly carry CBD without issue (when compliant) include: UK, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Italy, Hungary, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Cyprus, Greece, Ireland, Czech Republic, Estonia, Romania, Lithuania, Latvia, Croatia, Switzerland, Poland.
Countries with tighter rules or prescription-only expectations include: Portugal, Austria, Denmark, Germany, Finland, Malta. Other potential issues: France (mixed enforcement), Sweden (THC-free only), Slovakia (historically very restrictive).
USA 🇺🇸
Hemp-derived CBD (≤0.3% THC) is federally permitted; states can enforce additional rules. Keep products clearly labelled and carry COAs. Check state laws for both origin and destination.
Canada 🇨🇦
CBD is legal nationally within the cannabis framework. Domestic air travel: permitted within personal carry limits (e.g., up to a 30-day supply). Respect the standard 100 ml liquid rule for carry-ons.
Australia 🇦🇺
Low-dose CBD is available OTC, with broader medical access via prescription. Australian residents may fly with up to a three-month prescribed supply domestically. For international travel, check the destination’s laws.
Asia
Many countries ban or heavily restrict CBD. Penalties can be severe. Best practice: do not travel with CBD unless you have explicit confirmation it is allowed.
Africa
Many countries lack clear regulation or prohibit CBD. South Africa allows certain CBD products under specific conditions. Otherwise, avoid flying with CBD.
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4 tips for flying with CBD oil
- Carry it in hand luggage: Respect liquid limits and keep any vape devices in carry-on (battery rules).
- Check local laws: Confirm legality for your destinations and layovers before you fly.
- Bring lab test results (COA): Have proof of CBD content and THC level from a reputable brand.
- Label & declare if needed: Keep original packaging visible; declare if requested by officials.
Quick checklist
- Keep it in your hand luggage and within liquid limits
- Check local laws for destinations and layovers
- Bring COAs to verify ingredients & THC content
- Label clearly and be prepared to show/declare
Frequently asked questions
Is CBD legal to fly with?
It depends on the country (and sometimes state/province). In general, hemp-derived CBD with trace THC is widely permitted domestically in places like the UK, EU (varies), US, and Canada—but always verify local rules and layovers.
How much CBD can I bring?
Carry only a reasonable personal amount and ensure it meets local THC rules (commonly ≤0.2% in the EU, ≤0.3% in the US). Follow airport liquid limits (≤100 ml per container in carry-on). Medical quantities may require a prescription/doctor’s letter.
Should CBD go in checked or hand luggage?
Hand luggage is best (and required for vapes due to battery rules). Keep it in original packaging, within liquid limits, and readily accessible.
Do I need proof of what’s in my CBD?
It’s wise to carry the product’s certificate of analysis (COA) showing cannabinoid content and batch details—especially when crossing borders.
Will CBD gummies or capsules be treated differently?
Edibles and capsules are typically allowed where CBD is legal, but they’re still subject to local laws and security rules. Keep original labelling and COAs.
Final thoughts on travelling with CBD oil
Even with evolving laws, security officers have final discretion at checkpoints. Reduce risk by researching ahead, keeping within THC and liquid limits, carrying COAs, and being transparent at screening. If in doubt, contact your airline and destination authorities before you fly.
