Cannabis is fully legal in Canada and is now allowed in carry-on or checked luggage for flights within the country. However, even if it is no longer the target of drug-sniffing dogs, there are still some rules to abide by.
Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) spokesperson Christine Langlois has given some reminders about security rules, especially with the expected increase in air travel during the upcoming school break.
1. Cannabis is only allowed for domestic travel and absolutely cannot cross international borders.
According to Langlois, air travelers must keep in mind that crossing international borders with cannabis still remains illegal. She said that whether you are coming in to or going out of Canada, bringing cannabis is not allowed. It is only allowed if you are flying domestically.
2. The amount of cannabis you can bring has a limit.
If you are using cannabis for recreational purposes, you are allowed to bring only up to 30 grams with you. This is roughly the size of a clear sandwich bag. However, if you are using medical cannabis, the limit is higher. You are allowed up to 150 grams of medical pot provided, of course, that you have brought your medical documentation.
Airport security officials are not likely to weigh each pack of cannabis you bring with you, but you are still advised to ensure that you do not exceed the allowed amount. If, at pre-board screening checkpoint, security personnel suspect or discover that you are bringing more than the legal limit, protocol dictates that they call the police. This may lead to charges and prosecution.
3. Know the provincial cannabis regulations of your destination.
Different Canadian provinces have different provincial legislation in relation to cannabis, and it is the responsibility of the traveler to be familiar with these regulations. So make sure you know the local rules and that you are obeying them even before you reach the airport.
4. No packing specifications.
Because cannabis is an allowed item, travellers are not really required to pack it in a particular way. This means that it does not have to be in its original packaging. A clear sandwich bag will suffice.
5. Cannabis oil is subject to liquid restrictions.
If you are bringing cannabis in liquid form, it will be subject to liquid restrictions. For one, you should pack your liquids properly to make you security screening experience easier and quicker. Carry-on liquids should be in 100 ml/100 g (3.4 oz) containers or less. These containers should be able to fit in one transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter and with approximate dimensions of 15.24cm x 22.86cm (6in. x 9in.) or 20cm x 17.5cm (8in. x 7in.).
Each passenger is allowed only one 1L bag containing liquids, food, and personal items. Take your bag out of your carry-on at the screening point and place it in a bin. Containers exceeding the 100 ml/100 g limit can be placed in your checked baggage.