Traveling with cannabis: legal tips and practical advice

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Are you a cannabis user dreaming of traveling without giving up your prescription weed? Whether it's a short trip within the EU or an adventure outside Europe, with the right preparation, you can travel with complete peace of mind. But be careful: Is it just a case of packing it in your suitcase and going? Not a good idea! While cannabis has no longer been classified as a narcotic in Germany since April 2024, strict regulations apply in many countries.

What do you need to travel legally and stress-free? In collaboration with Herbspot.de, today we'll show you the most important steps: from the Schengen authorization for travel within the EU to international certificates for long-distance travel. We'll also give you practical tips to avoid problems at customs and keep everything safe in your carry-on luggage.

Curious? Watch our video and learn how to easily plan your prescription cannabis journey, without any unpleasant surprises! Below, you'll find all the essential information summarized in a checklist.

Medical cannabis users can also travel if they meet the requirements. — Traveling with cannabis is possible if you have all the documentation in order (Image: Freepik)

As we mentioned, prescription cannabis is no longer considered a narcotic in Germany since April 2024. That sounds great, but beware: in many countries, even within the EU, strict regulations still apply, so unprepared travelers risk problems at the airport or even serious consequences. This video provides all the information you need to travel safely, although we've summarized it below to make it crystal clear. Remember, you can change the subtitle language in your YouTube settings!

To help you enjoy your vacation or business trip stress-free, we've summarized the most important steps and tips from the video here:

Prescription cannabis on airplanes: What's allowed?

Many patients wonder: Can I carry cannabis in my carry-on luggage or suitcase? The general rule is:

Cannabis must always be transported in hand luggage, i.e., in the cabin (not in checked baggage).
You need official documents that prove legal ownership.
The original pharmacy packaging is required.

Traveling within the EU with cannabis: Schengen certificate

Travel to Schengen countries requires a Schengen certificate (certificate for carrying narcotics as part of medical treatment).

Validity: Up to 30 days
Requirement: For your own use only
How to get it :
- Your doctor will complete the form with information about you, your medication, dosage, and length of trip.
- Have the document certified by the responsible state health authority.
- You can find the form on the Federal Ministry's website.

Tip: Start the process at least 2 to 4 weeks before your trip, as the procedure may take some time.

Cannabis while traveling: country-specific regulations in Europe

France: Bring a copy of your prescription, with a maximum supply for 30 days of treatment.
Spain: You will need an additional permit from the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), as well as a medical certificate.
Italy: The certificate must be approved by the Ministry of Health of the country of origin.

Traveling with medical cannabis legally is possible. — If everything is in order, your only concern will be that your flight is not delayed (Image: Anete Lūsiņa)

Traveling internationally with cannabis: certificate and special permits

Outside the Schengen Area/EU, stricter regulations apply. Some countries are relatively tolerant, while others prohibit the entry of cannabis altogether.

What's required: A multilingual medical certificate with information about you, your medication, dosage, and trip duration.
Certification: by the State Health Authority.
Form: non-standard, but based on INCB (International Narcotics Control Board) guidelines.
Check: Before confirming your trip, it's a good idea to contact the embassies of your destination and transit countries to ensure everything is in order.

How much marijuana can you carry with you?

Often: up to 30 days supply.
Some countries: total bans, regardless of prescription or certificate.

Additionally, we recommend that you take special care if you are traveling to any of these countries:

Asia and the Middle East: These tend to have very strict drug laws, with possible prison sentences.
USA: In states without current legalization, they also threaten harsh penalties.

Keeping cannabis in its original packaging is of utmost importance. — When traveling with cannabis, remember to always carry it in its original packaging (Image: Stephen Cobb)

Checklist: How to Transport Cannabis Safely When Traveling

Plan ahead: at least 2 to 4 weeks before departure.
Contact the embassy of your destination country (also for transit countries).
Always keep your cannabis in its original packaging; otherwise, your license may become invalid.
Keep documents and medications in your carry-on or cabin luggage; do not try to check them in.
Patient identification can be helpful, but it does not replace official documents.

As you can see, with proper preparation, you can travel without problems, even as a cannabis patient. Although your doctor will surely have warned you, take this matter very seriously and don't try to skip any steps: breaking the rules can have serious consequences!

Have a good trip!