Can I Take My Dab Pen on a Plane?

Dab pens are made to be super discreet and portable, meant for traveling or a quick fix for when you're running around. Now, you have your entire vacation planned out, every activity down to your Sunday morning beach outfit, but... wait, can you take your dab pen with you?

The answer is yes, but also no. There are many factors you need to consider before taking your dab pen on vacation with you. Although “Penjamin” might love to visit Aruba, it's probably best to avoid any one on one time with a TSA officer.

What is a Dab Pen - What is Considered a Dab Pen?

A dab pen is sort of an umbrella term, some people refer to electric nectar collectors as dab pens, while others think that devices like the puffco pivot are more dab pen-esque. Then there are SO MANY disposable dab pens on the market, as well as carts, and all in one devices.

For the sake of this blog we will separate the two CORE variations, and that is pens that DO NOT have THC in them and pens that DO have THC in them.

So like, a seahorse pro plus that's never been used? Totally fine to travel with. On the other hand, your Stiizy disposable? Probably not a bright idea.

TSA Rules and Regulations Regarding Cannabis

It's important to note that marijuana is still considered an illegal substance under federal law here in the United States. Since airports are federal property transporting any sort of substance, even if both states you are traveling to and from are legal, can result in a federal offense. However, a TSA agent's main concern is security. They want to make sure all travelers, the aircraft, and the airport are safe.

While your items make their way through security, the TSA officers inspect them, by law they are required to refer any findings of illegal substances to law enforcement. Then law enforcement officers determine what they would like to do from there on out.

They can fine you, confiscate your substances, or they can charge you which would be the worst possible scenario.

Flying with Cannabis Oil or THC Pens

There’s a bit of a gray area when it comes to flying with a THC or wax pen. In practice, TSA rarely stops travelers for carrying a small amount of thc oil, like the amount that is included in a disposable pen, and law enforcement usually won’t make an arrest. However if you ever find yourself in a bind, cbd products are federally compliant if they contain less than 0.3% thc.

Worst comes to worst, blame it on the CBD!

How to Pack a Dab Pen for Travel

***(this is just general advice for vape pens even nicotine or nicotine free ones - what you decide to do is at your discretion)***

Packing a dab pen for travel depends on whether it has an integrated battery or not, and whether it has thc in it or not.

For something like a puffco pivot or a seahorse pro, make sure you remove any sort of residue on it and pack it into your carry on or personal bag. TSA states that batteries should not be packed into a checked suitcase, this is because they can catch fire!

For a disposable vape pen, you would want to store it upright in your carry on or personal bag so that it doesn't leak. The change in pressure can cause your pen to leak, storing it in a ziplock bag will stop it from leaking all over your things. If you have the option to power your pen off before flying, that would be more ideal than leaving it on to avoid accidental activation!

Traveling with a Dab Pen Domestic Vs International Flights

All of the tips above mainly apply to domestic flights. When it comes to international travel, it’s a completely different ball game.

Once you leave the United States, the laws of the country you’re entering take over. Some nations have zero tolerance policies toward cannabis, and being caught with it can lead to severe penalties including years in prison. Even certain European countries can fine or arrest travelers for possession.

Getting caught with cannabis abroad can also result in travel bans, deportation back to the United States and long term restrictions on future international travel.

Flying Within States Where Cannabis is Legalized

As expected, many commuters don't fully understand what the laws are surrounding cannabis especially when traveling from one legal state to another. Legalization is still pretty new in a lot of states which leads people to believe, well its legal that means its okay.

Although cannabis might be legal in your state and the state you are traveling to, high concentrations of thc is not federally legal. Airports are considered federal property; it is not legal to fly domestically or internationally with thc, whether it be cannabis flower or thc dab pens!

Alternative Options

ALRIGHTY, so now that we have all that squared away and you decide to leave poor “penjamin” at home, what are your options to stay medicated even while on vacation?

• As previously mentioned, cbd is federally legal, you can opt for a cbd option temporarily until you get back home!
• You can purchase a new pen or concentrate at your destination! This is obviously only an option where cannabis is legal, but you will be surprised how many states and even countries are actually legalized!
• Go for edibles instead of wax pens. Edibles are a little more discreet and food items are actually allowed in your carry on bag.