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Canadians Traveling with Medicinal Cannabis

Topic: Patient Information

Traveling with medicinal cannabis as a Canadian requires proper planning, adherence to legal regulations, and respectful behaviour. By understanding the legal framework, obtaining proper documentation, and familiarizing yourself with destination-specific regulations, you can enjoy your travels while responsibly managing your medical needs.

Understand the Legal Framework

Before embarking on your travels, its crucial to familiarize yourself with the legal regulations surrounding medical cannabis in your destination.

• Across the Canadian border:

It is illegal to take cannabis – including products containing cannabis, such as edible cannabis, cannabis extracts and cannabis topicals, and all products containing CBD – across the Canadian border, whether you are entering or leaving the country.

• Travelling within Canada:

When you are travelling within Canada, if you meet the minimum age requirement of the province or territory you are in, you may possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or the equivalent.

For travelling within Canada:


1 ) Obtain Proper Documentation

To travel with medical cannabis, you must possess the necessary documentation. Start by obtaining a valid medical document or authorization from a healthcare professional (medical doctor or nurse practitioner). This document should clearly state your need for medical cannabis and specify the recommended dosage. Additionally, ensure you have valid registration with a licensed producer (such as Entourage Health Corp./Starseed Medicinal) and carry any associated documents, such as product receipts.

2 ) Know the Transportation Guidelines

Transportation options can vary when traveling with medical cannabis. If you plan to fly, it’s essential to understand the regulations of the airline you’re flying with. Most airlines require advance notification and have specific guidelines regarding the amount of cannabis you can carry, packaging requirements, and storage limitations. Contact the airline well in advance to understand their policies and make necessary arrangements.

3 ) Pack and Store Cannabis Securely

Proper packaging and storage are crucial when traveling with medicinal cannabis. Ensure that your cannabis is securely sealed and labeled according to Health Canada guidelines. Carry your cannabis in its original packaging, clearly indicating the product details and your name. Additionally, store your cannabis securely in your carry-on luggage to comply with transportation regulations and prevent damage or loss.

4 ) Research Destination-Specific Regulations

Each province and territory in Canada may have its own regulations concerning the use and possession of cannabis. Before travelling, research and understand the rules of your destination. This includes knowing where consumption is permitted, public use guidelines, and any restrictions on cannabis possession. Respecting local laws ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

5 ) Plan for Alternative Options

While traveling, it’s essential to plan for contingencies. Consider carrying alternative forms of medical cannabis, such as oils, capsules, or topicals, in case smoking or vaporizing is not practical or permitted in your destination. It is also recommended to follow up with your healthcare provider to get backup prescriptions for pain and sleep while you are away from your medical cannabis.

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What is the difference between Medicinal and Recreational cannabis?
Canadians have access to both medicinal and recreational cannabis products, and while they may come from the same plant, it's essential to understand the distinctions between the two. According to Canadian surveys of people who take cannabis for medicinal purposes: • Almost 1 in 3 reports taking it for over 10 years • Nearly 1 in 2 reports taking it to reduce the use of other medications However, almost 1 in 2 individuals do not have a medical authorization from a healthcare provider so they purchase their cannabis from a recreation store (such as online or dispensary). Healthcare providers may not authorize the use of medicinal cannabis for several reasons, including: • 34% say they have concerns about lack of evidence • 36% reports unwillingness to discuss cannabis • 50% reports lack of knowledge about medicinal cannabis Why is this a concern? People living with serious health conditions (and sometimes life-threatening ones) are pushed to self-medicate without any medical supervision. This increases the risk of ineffective symptom management, incorrect dosing, and adverse effects. Cannabis as a medicine requires the same consultation, screening, and monitoring as any other medication – from a trained medical professional! Book an appointment with a Health Care Practitioner here: Book An Appointment References: Balneaves, L. G., Brown, A., Green, M., Prosk, E., Rapin, L., Monahan-Ellison, M., McMillan, E., Zaid, J., Dworkind, M., & Watling, C. Z. (2023). Medical Cannabis Access and Experiences in Canada. Medical Cannabis Access Survey Summary Report. University of Manitoba, McGill University, Sante Cannabis, Medical Cannabis Canada, & SheCann. Retrieved from: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/61cf68c3e7f7444a96b5c047/t/642c7d2fbde575503e411b4a/1680637234265/MCAS+Report+April+4+2023.pdf Clarke, H., & Fitzcharles, M. (2023). The evolving culture of medical cannabis in Canada for the management of chronic pain. 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2023.1153584 Costiniuk, C. T., MacCallum, C. A., Boivin, M., Rueda, S., Lacasse, G., Walsh, Z., Daeninck, P. J., Margolese, S., Mandarino, E., Jagpaul Kaur Deol, Sanchez, T., & Bell, A. D. (2023). Why a distinct medical stream is necessary to support patients using cannabis for medical purposes. 5(1), 25–25. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-023-00195-8
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