Thailand is the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize cannabis in 2022, however, after the selection process was completed, the new government took a U-turn on Thai’s cannabis law. Srettha Thavisin, the new Prime Minister of Thailand has stated that cannabis in Thailand shouldn’t be used in recreational activities but should only be used for medical purposes.
It has raised a lot of questions among travelers including the question about carrying cannabis across the country since the legalization in 2022 has attracted more tourists to visit the country.
Here are do’s and don’ts to smooth your travel journey in Thailand as explained by the Airports of Thailand (AOT).
Key Takeaways
- The cannabis law in Thailand has taken a turn to become a controlled herb.
- Passengers aged 20 years old and above are allowed to carry cannabis on domestic flights in Thailand.
- The cannabis should be packed within the checked baggage with a smell-proof container.
- Cannabis extracts containing over 0.2% THC are illegal.
- Smoking cannabis in the airport is strongly prohibited.
- Cannabis products are not allowed to enter and leave the country.
- The ONCB officers have full authority to inspect your baggage at the security check to prevent illegal cannabis products on the flight.
Do’s for Cannabis Lovers on Thailand’s Domestic Flights
- Acknowledge Thai’s Cannabis Laws Before Your Arrival
There’s a change in Thai cannabis laws towards cannabis, therefore, understanding cannabis flight regulations and staying up to date is advised to avoid any legal problems and interruptions in your travel within Thailand.
- Passengers Must Be At the Age of 20 Years Old and Above
You must be at least 20 years old to be able to carry cannabis such as cannabis flowers without any limitations of THC on domestic flights within Thailand. However, carrying secondary cannabis products such as oils and edibles can cause delays and legal issues.
- Pack Cannabis in the Checked Baggage
It is advised for travelers who wish to transport cannabis on domestic flights to securely pack it in the checked baggage for the reason that the Narcotic Control Board staff will inspect your hand luggage to prevent any illegal cannabis – cannabis extracts containing more than 0.2% THC and higher from getting on the flight.
There are also times that the Narcotic Control Board officers may allow carrying cannabis in the luggage being carried on the flight. Please note that if you bring cannabis products in your hand luggage, the ONCB officer has full authority to decide whether you can carry cannabis in your carry-on luggage or not. It may cause delays at the security check as well as the confiscation of the products, or worse like getting legal consequences.
- Carry Cannabis With Caution
Although cannabis is still legal in Thailand, there’s also a lot of complexity when it comes to the law. That’s why it is recommended that cannabis enthusiasts be vigilant when deciding to carry cannabis, especially on domestic flights.
- Adhere to Thai’s Laws and Regulations
It is a serious business. Trust me you don’t want to experience the aftermath of doing any legal issues. Tourists and cannabis users should obey and respect the local cannabis laws and authorities.
Don’ts That Should Avoid Doing on Thailand’s Domestic Flights
- Carry Cannabis Extracts Over 0.2% THC
According to the laws and regulations of cannabis in Thailand, only cannabis extracts within the medicational level which is not more than 0.2% THC are permitted. In that case, it means that any cannabis extracts over 0.2% THC are considered illegal.
- Carry Cannabis in Hand Luggage
The Narcotic Control Board officer has the authority to check your hand luggage being brought on board, therefore, if they find any illegal cannabis products, it might delay your time during the security check. There is no limitation on how much cannabis can be carried, though, it must be within the limit of airline luggage policies that cannabis in liquid form should not exceed 100 ml just like any other liquid, and it should be stored in a smell-proof container.
- Carry Cannabis into Thailand
Bringing cannabis from outside Thailand into the country is prohibited as the Public Health Ministry of Thailand has made it clear that it is forbidden to carry cannabis or hemp into the country.
- Carry Cannabis Across Thailand’s Border
Transporting cannabis and hemp products in any form across the Thai border is illegal and could result in imprisonment.
- Consume Cannabis at Thailand’s Airport
Even though you can bring cannabis in your checked baggage, it’s sad to say that smoking cannabis in airports is illegal.
There are restrictions on where you can consume cannabis in Thailand, particularly, in public places. Those who smoke cannabis in schools, temples, shopping malls, and airports can get legal consequences of a 25,000 baht fine or around $690 or face three months in prison.
Conclusion
Travelers who wish to carry cannabis within Thailand by domestic flights should be more cautious about cannabis flight regulations as the new Prime Minister of Thailand has stated that he would like to change the cannabis law in Thailand.
Those who violate the laws and regulations could be charged with a 25,000 baht fine or a three-month prison sentence.
