Can You Fly With Delta 8 THC? Things To Know Before Flying!

Delta 8 THC, a popular cannabinoid known for its milder psychoactive effects compared to Delta 9 THC, has gained significant attention, especially among travelers. While federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, its transportation, particularly by air, involves navigating complex legal and regulatory landscapes. 

Understanding these intricacies, including TSA regulations, state laws, and airline policies, is crucial for anyone considering flying with Delta 8 products. This guide provides comprehensive insights into the do’s and don’ts of traveling with Delta 8 THC to ensure a smooth and lawful journey.

Can You Take Delta 8 On A Plane? 

If your item contains more than 0.3% delta 9 THC, it cannot be legally transported across state lines or on airplanes. This regulation also applies to medical marijuana, as it remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Consequently, traveling with marijuana is unlawful, even if it’s allowed at your destination.

Regarding Delta 8 THC, while the chances of being arrested for carrying Delta 8 products on a plane are slim, there are still significant risks. TSA agents have the authority to seize any hemp product you carry on a domestic flight. Although the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived items with less than 0.3% THC, not everyone, including TSA officials, fully comprehends the complexities of hemp legality.

For international travel, the situation becomes more hazardous. There are no legal protections for carrying delta 8 THC and possessing cannabis products can lead to severe consequences. Understanding these risks and making informed choices when flying with Delta 8 is essential.

Understanding Delta 8 THC

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol, often referred to as Delta-8 THC, is a cannabinoid that is closely related to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis. While they have similar characteristics, Delta-8 THC is recognized for causing a gentler psychotropic effect. This feature makes Delta-8 THC an attractive choice for those who prefer a more moderate and controllable experience.

Is Delta 8 Legal? 

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived Delta 8 THC with a THC content of 0.3% or less at the federal level in the U.S. However, state laws vary, and some states have implemented specific bans on Delta 8 THC.

It’s crucial to stay informed about the evolving cannabis regulations. Conduct thorough research before traveling with Delta 8 vape products or any other Delta 8 items to ensure they comply with the latest laws.

Legal Considerations of Flying with Delta 8 Cannabis

Understanding the legal framework surrounding flying with Delta 8 THC is essential. Although Delta 8 THC is federally permissible, facilitating interstate transportation without federal repercussions, there are still significant factors to consider.

Primarily, it’s imperative to comprehend the legal statutes of both your departure and destination states. Even if Delta 8 THC is permissible in your originating state, the state you’re journeying to might impose distinct limitations. Local law enforcement at your destination could potentially raise legal concerns if they discover your Delta 8 THC products. For instance, states like Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, and Utah have implemented complete bans on Delta 8 THC.

Additionally, be aware that certain airlines may impose their own restrictions on transporting Delta 8 THC or vaporizer batteries. To mitigate any potential issues, thoroughly review the airline’s regulations on Delta 8 THC before confirming your flight arrangements.

By familiarizing yourself with state laws and airline policies, you can effectively navigate the complexities of traveling with Delta 8 THC.

TSA Regulations

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a U.S. government body tasked with ensuring the safety and security of transportation systems, with a strong emphasis on air travel. Every passenger must go through TSA screenings before boarding flights in the United States.

Although the TSA’s main objective is to ensure security, searching for drugs is not their primary focus. Nevertheless, TSA regulations prohibit marijuana products with over 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis from being taken on flights. If these products are found during routine checks, TSA will notify law enforcement.

This rule is enforced regardless of the states involved in your travel.

While TSA typically does not restrict hemp-derived Delta 8 products with less than 0.3% THC, this doesn’t ensure a trouble-free passage through airport security. Most Delta 8 items are sourced from hemp rather than marijuana, yet TSA agents can exercise their own judgment in these situations.

If you choose to travel with hemp-based Delta 8, ensure your products contain under 0.3% THC to stay within the guidelines.

Guidelines for Traveling with Delta 8

When traveling with Delta-8, it is crucial to understand both airline policies and state laws. Additionally, it is wise to be discreet with your products. Avoid using them at the airport or on the plane. As previously noted, choosing items with less than 0.3% THC will help you adhere to TSA guidelines.

To reduce the stress of flying with cannabis products, consider purchasing Delta-8 alternatives once you reach your destination. Many states have a variety of Delta-8 products available, allowing you to find comparable options. This strategy can contribute to a smoother and more hassle-free travel experience.

Cannabis Flower

Transporting Delta-8 flowers on an airplane demands thoughtful deliberation. Despite its increasing appeal as a substitute for conventional marijuana, it’s prudent to rethink bringing it on board.

Even if Delta-8 flower is permissible at your destination, its transportation via air may pose challenges. The visual resemblance between hemp and marijuana can hinder TSA agents’ ability to distinguish them based solely on appearance. Consequently, your Delta-8 flower could be seized during security screenings, potentially causing travel delays or complications.

Gummies

Taking Delta-8 gummies on an airplane requires adhering to certain guidelines to comply with TSA regulations and federal law.

Since TSA allows food items on flights, you can include Delta-8 gummies in your checked baggage or carry-on. Make sure to keep them in their original packaging and clearly labeled to indicate they contain less than 0.3% THC, ensuring they meet federal standards.

Keep in mind that some airports employ TSA security dogs, which are primarily trained to detect explosives. While their primary focus is not on detecting drugs, there is a possibility that these dogs may alert to Delta-8 gummies. In such cases, be prepared for the potential confiscation of your gummies during screening.

In states where cannabis and Delta-8 products are legal, TSA typically disposes of confiscated items without legal repercussions for passengers. However, in states where these products are illegal, travelers may face involvement with local law enforcement. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of the legal status of Delta-8 products in both your departure and destination states before traveling with Delta-8 gummies.

Carts and Vapes

Flying with Delta 8 carts and vapes requires careful adherence to TSA regulations to ensure a smooth travel experience.

TSA has stringent safety protocols for vapes in general, but it is possible to bring Delta 8 carts and vapes on board with proper planning and compliance.

Here are some guidelines to follow when flying with Delta 8 carts and vapes:

1. Carry vape pens in your carry-on bag only; they are not allowed in checked luggage.
2. Spare lithium batteries must also be stored in your carry-on bag.
3. Be prepared to remove any lithium batteries from your bag at the request of airline staff for safety reasons.
4. When carrying carts, take precautions to prevent them from activating during the flight. This may involve disassembling your vape, removing the battery, or using a protective case.

By following these rules and listening to TSA agents’ instructions at the airport, you can safely travel with Delta 8 carts and vapes.

Tinctures

Transporting Delta-8 tinctures necessitates strict compliance with TSA’s liquid regulations to ensure a hassle-free trip.

When carrying Delta-8 tinctures in your carry-on, ensure the container holds less than 100 mL or 3.4 ounces. Seal them securely and place them in a small plastic bag following TSA guidelines. For larger containers, pack them in your checked luggage to adhere to regulations. Regardless of size, using a plastic bag is essential to prevent any leaks or spills.

As with other Delta-8 products, be prepared for the potential confiscation of your tincture during security screenings. TSA agents have the authority to determine which items are permitted onboard, hence there’s a possibility of confiscation. Considering this uncertainty, it’s advisable to avoid traveling with Delta-8 tinctures if possible.

Where to Keep Delta 8 During Air Travel?

During air travel, it’s important to store your Delta-8 products in secure and sealed packaging to prevent leaks and facilitate identification if questioned by TSA agents.

Here are some guidelines on where to keep different types of Delta-8 products during air travel:

1. Edibles (e.g., gummies): These can be easily brought onto the plane and kept in either your carry-on or checked bags. Ensure they are in their original packaging.
2. Vapes (e.g., cartridges): If you use a vaporizer for Delta-8, the cartridge must be packed in your carry-on luggage, as per TSA requirements for vaping products.
3. Liquids (e.g., oils, tinctures): For liquid Delta-8 products, such as oils or tinctures, store them in your carry-on bag. The TSA allows one quart-sized bag containing bottles of liquid up to 100 mL each. If you need to bring more, pack them in your checked luggage.

Always check with your airline for specific guidance on storing Delta-8 products during air travel. Remember not to use Delta-8 during your flight and to follow TSA regulations for a smoother travel experience.