Travelers Warned About Cannabis Laws When Crossing Borders

U.S. officials have issued a warning to travelers regarding the illegal status of cannabis products in many countries, particularly in light of new customs policies in Thailand. In June 2026, Thailand implemented stricter penalties for individuals caught bringing cannabis into the country, which can include up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to 500,000 Thai baht (approximately $15,000), according to the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Thailand. Although cannabis possession was decriminalized in Thailand in 2022, importing or exporting cannabis without the necessary permissions remains illegal. Jeffrey Hoffman, a cannabis attorney, emphasized that travelers must adhere to the laws of the countries they visit, regardless of the legality of cannabis in their home jurisdictions. He cited the case of WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was imprisoned in Russia for having cannabis oil in her luggage, as a cautionary example. Travel expert Bobby Laurie advised travelers to check local laws and ensure their bags are free of prohibited items before traveling, noting that some countries have strict regulations on everyday items. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has also updated its guidance regarding medical marijuana for domestic flights, but experts warn that international travel laws differ significantly.