Flying & Travelling with Cannabis in Canada: Laws & Best Tips

April 1, 2025

As cannabis legalization continues to mature across Canada, consumers often have questions about traveling with their products. Whether you're planning a domestic flight, road trip, or public transit journey, understanding the rules around cannabis transportation is essential for staying compliant with Canadian law. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about flying and traveling with cannabis within Canada's borders.

Domestic Air Travel with Cannabis

Can You Fly with Cannabis Within Canada?

Yes, adult passengers can legally travel with cannabis on flights within Canada, with some important restrictions:

  • Legal Possession Limits Apply: You can carry up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent in other forms (e.g., 450 grams of edibles, 2100 grams of liquid product, 7.5 grams of concentrates).
  • Domestic Flights Only: This permission applies exclusively to flights that both take off and land within Canada.
  • Provincial Laws Still Apply: Be aware of the legal age and possession limits at your destination, as these can vary between provinces.

Packing Cannabis for Air Travel

When flying with cannabis within Canada, follow these guidelines:

  • Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage: Cannabis and cannabis products can be packed in either carry-on or checked baggage.
  • Original Packaging: Keeping products in their original, sealed packaging from licensed retailers helps identify them as legal products to security personnel.
  • Liquids Rule Applies: Cannabis oils and liquid products must follow the standard liquids rule (containers of 100ml or less) when packed in carry-on luggage.
  • Medical Cannabis: If you're traveling with prescribed medical cannabis, consider bringing your medical documentation, though it's not legally required for domestic travel.

Airport Security Procedures

When going through airport security with cannabis:

  • No Need to Declare: You are not required to specifically declare cannabis to CATSA (Canadian Air Transport Security Authority) agents.
  • Screening Process: Security may inspect cannabis products as part of normal screening procedures.
  • Verification: Security personnel may verify that quantities are within legal limits.

Road Trips and Provincial Borders

Crossing Provincial Boundaries

Traveling across provincial borders with cannabis by car is legal throughout Canada, but remember:

  • Follow Provincial Rules: Each province has its own regulations regarding age requirements, where cannabis can be consumed, and how it must be stored in vehicles.
  • Vehicle Storage Requirements: Most provinces require cannabis to be stored like alcohol – in closed, sealed packaging and not accessible to the driver or passengers during travel.
  • Quantity Limits: The federal limit of 30 grams of dried cannabis (or equivalent) applies nationwide.

Province-Specific Vehicle Rules

Here's a quick overview of some provincial rules for cannabis in vehicles:

Ontario:

  • Must be in its original, unopened packaging OR
  • Packed in baggage that is fastened closed or not otherwise readily available to anyone in the vehicle

British Columbia:

  • Must be in a sealed package or inaccessible to all vehicle occupants

Alberta:

  • Must be stored in closed packaging and not within reach of any occupants

Quebec:

  • Must be in a sealed container and stored in a space that is not readily accessible

Public Transit and Cannabis

Using public transportation with cannabis is generally permitted throughout Canada, with these considerations:

  • Respect Consumption Rules: While possession is legal, consuming cannabis on public transit is prohibited nationwide.
  • Discrete Packaging: Keep products in sealed, odor-proof containers out of courtesy to other passengers.
  • Be Aware of Quantity Limits: Standard possession limits (30 grams of dried cannabis or equivalent) apply.

International Travel: A Strict Prohibition

It is absolutely illegal to cross international borders with cannabis, regardless of:

  • The destination country's cannabis laws
  • Whether you have medical authorization
  • The amount you're carrying

This prohibition includes:

  • Flights to the United States (even to states where cannabis is legal)
  • Cruises that enter international waters
  • Road trips crossing into the U.S. or other countries

Penalties for international cannabis smuggling can be severe, including lifetime travel bans, criminal charges, and imprisonment.

Traveling with Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis patients have the same rights as recreational users when traveling domestically, but should consider these additional points:

  • Carry Documentation: While not legally required for domestic travel, having your medical documentation can help avoid complications.
  • Plan Ahead: Research your destination's medical cannabis reciprocity policies if you're staying for an extended period.
  • Medication Continuity: If traveling for a longer period, research legal access points at your destination through platforms like Poof.

Using Poof to Find Legal Cannabis While Traveling

When traveling within Canada, accessing legal cannabis products in unfamiliar locations can be challenging. The Poof marketplace and app can help:

  1. Locate Nearby Retailers: Quickly find licensed cannabis shops near your hotel, Airbnb, or travel destination.
  2. Compare Products and Prices: View available products, compare prices, and check reviews before visiting a store.
  3. Order Ahead: In many locations, you can place orders for pickup through the Poof platform, saving time during your trip.
  4. Stay Compliant: Access information about local cannabis regulations through Poof's resources to ensure you're following provincial rules.

Travel-Friendly Cannabis Products

Some cannabis products are more convenient for travel than others:

  • Pre-rolls: Compact and ready-to-use without additional accessories
  • Vape Pens: Discreet, minimal odor, and typically come in protective cases
  • Capsules and Oils: Precisely dosed and easily stored
  • Edibles: No consumption accessories needed and available in discreet packaging

Practical Tips for Cannabis Travel

To ensure a smooth experience when traveling with cannabis in Canada:

  • Know Before You Go: Research the specific cannabis regulations at your destination province.
  • Proper Storage: Invest in odor-proof containers to minimize smells during transit.
  • Respect Public Spaces: Remember that consumption is generally restricted to private residences or designated areas.
  • Keep It Private: Be discrete and respectful of those around you who may not be comfortable with cannabis.
  • Have Identification Ready: Carry government-issued ID that proves you're of legal age.

Conclusion

Traveling with cannabis within Canada is legal but requires knowledge of federal, provincial, and municipal regulations. By understanding the rules and planning ahead, cannabis consumers can confidently bring their products along on domestic trips while staying compliant with Canadian law.

Remember that while cannabis is legal nationally, each province has implemented its own framework for sales, possession, and consumption. Using resources like the Poof app can help you navigate these differences when traveling across Canada, ensuring you always have access to legal, quality cannabis products no matter where your journey takes you.

For up-to-date information on cannabis retailers wherever you're headed in Canada, download the Poof app today or visit our website to explore legal cannabis options across the country.

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