Kratom manifests in various forms, encompassing powdered extracts, capsules, fresh leaves, and resins, all crafted by adept manufacturers.
As we traverse different regions for reasons like work commitments, meetings, familial visits, or satisfying our inner wanderlust, the question often arises: Can kratom accompany us on a plane? Many fail to conduct adequate research, leading to inadvertent encounters with airport security, creating the appearance of transporting illicit substances due to kratom's legal complexities.
This article delves into essential do's and don'ts for traveling with kratom, facilitating hassle-free domestic or international journeys where permitted. While we strive to provide comprehensive information, it's advisable to verify local laws and regulations on official websites before embarking on your travels.
So, Can You Travel with Kratom?
Carrying kratom while traveling isn't inherently problematic, but the crucial factor lies in your destination (country or state). It becomes a significant concern if you're heading to a location where kratom is classified as an illegal substance, leading to potential legal consequences, including criminal charges for kratom users.
This article aims to provide comprehensive insights into everything you need to consider before taking kratom on a flight. Let's explore the essential points to keep in mind in this specific scenario!
Don't Forget To Consider Kratom's Legal Status Before Traveling to a Different State or Country
It is essential to familiarize yourself with the legal status of kratom in the destination you are traveling to. Determine whether it is recognized as a legal substance, listed on controlled substance registers, or subject to specific restrictions. This proactive approach can help you avoid unexpected consequences and ensure a smooth, hassle-free trip.
Considering that many states have pending kratom legislation, changes can occur unexpectedly. To preempt any issues with law enforcement, it is advisable to research and stay informed about kratom laws in different states within the US and internationally.
Ensure that the information you seek is from a government-approved source. With a plethora of information available on the internet, relying solely on government-endorsed websites ensures accuracy and credibility.
Can I Legally Fly With Kratom Within The United States?
I understand the desire to keep a piece of your heart close, even when away from home and traveling within the United States. However, it's crucial to ensure that transporting kratom aligns with the legal regulations of the state you're heading to.
Before anything else, pay close attention to your destination. If the state laws prohibit kratom, it's strongly advised not to bring it with you. While it might feel like a heavy blow, refraining from carrying it prevents any potential misconceptions with authorities, sparing you from facing state law penalties. It's worth noting that there are no federal laws banning kratom in the US, but individual states have varying regulations at the state level, necessitating careful consideration.
Back in 2016, some politicians tried to introduce federal bans on kratom and classify it as a Schedule 1 drug such as other substances like heroin and marijuana. It could make kratom completely illegal from the federal standpoint, but with the support of kratom enthusiasts and the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, this ban was pulled off.
Here's a list of States and Cities where Kratom is Ban
Let's move towards the list of localities where kratom is banned (at the time of writing this article) in the US, and you cannot fly with kratom if your destination is any of the places mentioned below:
You can travel to places where using kratom is not a crime, but I would strongly advise you not to carry kratom in either your carry-on bag or checked baggage if you fly to any of the destinations mentioned earlier, where the legal status of this substance may cause troubles with airport security personnel or even a drug enforcement agency.
If you violate the law, you will not only face legal issues but also a chance for kratom ban advocates to highlight negative information about the substance.
Can I Travel to a Different Country With Kratom?
It is a frequently asked question by tons of people traveling to different countries, so here you can clarify the dos and don'ts of traveling abroad with kratom in either your carry-on luggage or checked bags.
Popular kratom strains are legal in many countries, but there are some prohibitions in a few countries as well. So, you need to double-check if it is not banned by federal or state law in the country you are traveling to. The people of the US support kratom like no other country (there is even the American Kratom Association), but worldwide, many anti-kratom movements want it to be considered as one of the illicit drugs.
You can look at the listed countries below that do not allow the production and consumption of kratom at any cost, and you might end up looking like a mule.
As it is a tentative list, you are obliged to check the legislation at the federal level as well as the local laws for your own sake before you travel with kratom because the bills are not yet passed in many countries and states.
Pending legislation may also cause problems, as before it is officially applied, it can still be illegal to carry kratom in a particular country. What's more, there can be age limits when it comes to using kratom, so that's worth checking as well.
Germany
Brunei
Australia
Finland
Colombia
Cambodia
Denmark
Israel
Germany
Italy
Japan
Ireland
Latvia
Laos
Jordan
Philippines
Romania
Lithuania
Poland
Myanmar
Sweden
Russia
Saudi Arabia
United Kingdom
Singapore
United Arab Emirates
South Korea
Turkey
Vietnam
If Your Gut Says No, Give Up On Flying With Kratom
Whether you should pack kratom in your checked luggage or your hand-carry, this essential guide for traveling with kratom will answer all your queries, so move on.
1) The Legal Status Of Kratom At Your Proceeding Destination
You should always check about the legality issues before taking kratom on an air journey. The country has its own legislation for drugs. So carry out thorough research about the legal status (which might get changed) of kratom at your place of arrival. Good homework will help you with a smooth journey.
2) Keep Kratom In Your Checked Luggage Bag
When you take kratom with you on an air journey, make sure that once you have cleared the security check, kratom is in your checked luggage bag. It will help you not to be misunderstood for carrying contraband.
3) How To Store Kratom During Air Travel?
When there are suspicions, there come delays. All you have to do is keep your kratom in its original packaging, where the ingredient list is visible, and the customs can read all the other authentic information. This way, they won't suspect you of carrying any contraband.
On the other hand, if you store kratom in any other container, they might go for a drug test, and consequently, you would have to face delays. So be smart, and be confident. Original packaging is a way to go for.
4) You Should Know Your Response If Questioned
It is essential to prepare your response well before you leave with kratom to the airport. The customs might ask you what you are carrying and for what reason.
You should tell them it's a medicinal herb called kratom, and you use it for specific reasons. Explain everything to them confidently, and if you get conscious, they might find the situation suspicious.
5) Check The Airline Regulations
Most airlines have specific regulations on what cannot be taken on their planes. So, it is worth checking not only the state and federal laws of your destination country but the rules of your air carrier as well. This way, you can avoid time-consuming lab testing in case airport security has some doubts that it is only pure kratom, even if this substance is allowed in your destination state or country.
I know it's challenging to leave kratom at home when you use it for calming purposes and discomfort-related issues.
They can trigger you anytime, right? But folks, there are some countries where kratom is not a known substance and its status is not federally regulated so they do not have authentic procedures to verify this botanical product.
Do not try to hide kratom in your luggage, or you might get caught by the airport staff or the law enforcement authorities abroad if they mistake kratom for any other illegal substance, especially if it doesn't have its original packaging.
Nobody can enforce a claim on you in the US until they do not prove it with evidence. You will be an innocent being, and the official cannot arrest you no matter what.
On the downside, other countries may not function similarly, and you might be detained and face hefty charges. So, the best way out is to quit your kratom use a few weeks (or at least one week) before you have to travel abroad. Your body will take some time to make adjustments, and you have to be patient.
That was all about the legality issues of kratom and in what circumstances you should and should not travel with this botanical product.
Now let's move towards the situation where you can happily take kratom with you, but you are confused about how you will travel with it.
An Essential Guide For Traveling With Kratom
What Should I Do If I Want To Take Kratom To A State Where It Is Not Allowed?
For some people, leaving kratom at home and moving to another state is a huge chunk to swallow. Don't worry; I am here to offer you a perfect solution to this problem.
Do you know there are some other herbs that offer the same benefits as kratom? Like Kanna, Akuamma Seeds, Mitragyna Hirsuta, and Blue Lotus are some of the kratom alternatives that people use. Which one will be best for you is your own decision.
You can check for the legality of these herbs where you are traveling to, and enjoy the same effects as kratom used to produce.
Final Thoughts On Traveling With Kratom
Kratom comes with various controversies, and its legal status tends to change with time in many states and countries worldwide. Make sure you check its legality where you intend to travel. Also, make sure that the airline regulations of your carrier don't ban carrying kratom on a plane.
If you are traveling to a destination where it is a controlled substance, you can make use of kratom alternatives; they will help you out by bringing similar effects.
I hope this article helped you with all the necessary information for traveling with kratom both within the country and abroad.
Abdullah Mamun, founder of Authentic Kratom, is a notable expert in the kratom industry, blending technology, finance, and advocacy skills to promote kratom's benefits and legal status.
Since founding Authentic Kratom in 2013, Mamun has been a vocal advocate for kratom, joining the American Kratom Association (AKA) in 2016 to combat regulatory challenges. He has played a crucial role in advocating for the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA), emphasizing the need for safety...
