From fresh leaves to powdered extracts and capsules to resins, kratom is available in many forms. Many kratom users like to fly with their stock at their disposal because of its various health benefits. But before slipping kratom in your checked luggage or even your carry-on bag, you need to know about all the travel rules and regulations surrounding the use and carrying of kratom to avoid getting into any trouble during your trip. That is why it is essential to know about all the do’s and don’ts when people need to travel with kratom to stay on the right side of the law. Here, we will discuss some key points to keep in mind while flying with kratom.
The Kratom Tourist’s Guide To The US States – Regulations And Laws
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate Kratom as a medicinal supplement, but this plant-based substance is not considered illegal by U.S. federal laws. Because of this, many people own, use, consume and deal with this herbal drug. However, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) considers including Kratom in the schedule drugs like marijuana. The reason being this botanical substance can be abused because of its drug-like effects.
Kratom is currently banned in 5 states in the U.S., including Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. It impacts brain receptors which increases the risk of dependence. FDA hasn’t shared any approved uses for Kratom. It affects the body in different ways. The sale of Kratom is restricted to kids under the age of 18 in legal states.
The FDA has restricted importing Kratom strains or anything labeled as containing these botanical names. During the past couple of months, Kratom has been under the strict radar of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Both agencies have been detaining overseas shipments of Kratom.
Consignment or shipment companies like DHL, UPS, and FedEx are also cautious and keeping a close eye to ship the products which are/or can be linked with any form of Kratom. American Kratom Association is collaborating with the FDA to ban the sale of adulterated versions of Kratom and only pure Kratom should be available for sale and consumption.
American Kratom Association strongly opposes fraudulent vendors advertising misleading benefits associated with Kratom to increase sales. Every consumer is encouraged to report potential violations in labeling and marketing for the FDA to investigate and take appropriate actions. Labeling Compliance Program is a new and valuable program that can help spread awareness in Kratom Truth.
Kratom is a controversial product when it comes to traveling and its legal status and policies around it are ever revolving worldwide. It is highly recommended to make sure to check about the legal status weeks before your travel date.
Can You Fly With Kratom To International Countries?
Since international standards and regulations concerning traveling with kratom are unclear, they can always differ based on the region. The safest thing is to research the laws in the destination country regarding kratom. Sometimes, even if kratom is legalized in some places, it is still advised by professionals to avoid carrying it while traveling because of specific laws in stopover countries during your flight.
What Does The TSA Say About Traveling By Kratom On a Plane?
Planning smartly and ahead of time can always make your screening process easier and hassle-free, especially at the airport. Always know and research beforehand what you are allowed to carry in your carry-on or your baggage. Sometimes, kratom is allowed in hand-carry and other times it is only permitted to be carried in your luggage packed and sealed during the boarding process.
There are different laws in different states regarding the carrying of kratom. Sometimes, when a specific item is generally allowed, it is still made to go through an additional screening or just not allowed any further if it triggers security alarms.
The screening procedures by TSA’s are mainly focused on improving security and detecting any possible threats to the passengers and aviation. Generally, the TSA security team does not always screen for kratom. Still, if it is discovered, then the matter is then forwarded to the law enforcement officers, which will only delay your traveling process.
Do’s While Traveling With Kratom
1. Questions you should answer
Before making travel plans or booking a ticket you should ask certain questions related to kratom from yourself.
What are the laws of the country where you are traveling about carrying and use of kratom?
Are there any laws in the country of your destination about kratom and other natural substances and their transportation?
The airline you are traveling with, does it have regulations about transportation of natural substances?
Does the airline limit the amount that you can carry with you?
2. Research your destination
Although kratom is not illegal in many countries, it is imperative to research first about your destination and double-check any laws or prohibitions related to kratom. Never assume that since kratom is not banned in the country you are flying to, it is legal there. Countries where kratom is illegal or you may have difficulty while traveling there with kratom include Germany, Australia, Jordan, Denmark, Israel, the United Kingdom, Finland, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, New Zealand, Vietnam, Sweden, Poland, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, Romania, Canada.
If you are traveling in the USA or to the USA, you should know that every state maintains its laws and has its own decision related to kratom. States that do not permit kratom include Indiana, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Rhode Island, Alabama, Vermont, San Diego in California, Washington DC, Union County; Mississippi, Alton; Illinois, Jerseyville; Illinois, and Sarasota County; Florida. It is impossible to give a complete list of destinations that recognize kratom as a legal substance because regulations related to it keep changing. Therefore, it is best to do your research within the coming weeks of your traveling to have a hassle-free trip.
3. Research the airline you will be flying with
However, kratom is legal in many countries, including several USA states, but it is wise to check the TSA website about what things are allowed to be carried on flight and what is restricted by the authorities. You can follow the list of prohibited items available online for the flight.
4. Where to place your Kratom in your luggage?
Where you keep your kratom while traveling is very important. Since kratom is a new substance and many individuals at the airport might not know about it and can misunderstand it for contraband. So it is better to keep it in the checked luggage. This way, you can avoid questions related to it and any other problem that may arise.
But if you think that you should keep kratom at hand, then you should keep it in your carry-on. If that’s so, you should keep it unopened and in its original packaging to avoid questions. Another benefit is that you don’t need to open the whole bag for inspection if airport security requires it and can take it out quickly when needed.
5. How to store Kratom while traveling by air?
Kratom should be stored in its original and unopened packaging. The ingredient list should be visible on the packaging so that airport security or customs can verify that the product is what it says. This will remove any suspicions from you of carrying contraband.
Delays come with suspicions. Therefore, if you store kratom in any other container other than its original packaging, it will be sent for testing to a drug lab and you will eventually have to face delays.
6. Know your answer
Confidence is the key. It would be best if you weren’t shaky or confused when asked by a customs officer what you are carrying. It is better to craft your answer before leaving for the airport. When asked what you are carrying and what purpose does it serve? You should respond confidently that you are carrying a herbal supplement known as kratom. It is a medicinal herb and you use it on your physician’s recommendation for its medical benefits. They may also ask you about the legal status of kratom. So get prepared beforehand and research all the possible questions they can ask. If you get confused while answering their question, they might get suspicious.
7. Reach Airport early
In case of agents get a little suspicious and have to wait to get clearance from customs, it is better to reach the Airport a little early. This is helpful to avoid the boarding process in case someone has questions about kratom.
8. Listen to what your gut feeling says
Though it will be difficult for you to travel without kratom, it is better to leave it at home if you are not sure about the legislation related to kratom in your destination country. Some countries do not recognize kratom and therefore don’t have procedures to test it. They might think you are carrying some illegal substance and you might have to face legal consequences because of it if the law enforcement authorities of the country in question misunderstood it for something illegal.
If your gut says that you might face problems if you travel with kratom, it is better to listen to it. What you can do is that you can stop taking kratom in the weeks approaching your travel plans. In this way, your body will become accustomed to not taking kratom and adjust accordingly.
9. Kratom alternatives
If you have listened to your gut voice and decided to leave kratom back at home because your destination does not permit kratom and recognizes it as illegal, you should search for legal kratom alternatives in the respective country. Match, Kava Kava, Akuamma Seeds, Blue Lotus, Mitragyna Hirsuta, and Kanna can be used as alternatives.
Don’ts While Traveling With Kratom
1. Never try to hide Kratom
Kratom is considered legal in many countries; therefore, you do not have anything to hide. Misunderstanding can arise if you try to hide kratom. Customs officers or airport security may become suspicious if you treat kratom like an illegal substance. It would be best to pack your kratom like you would pack any other essentials and move along.
2. Never lie about Kratom
When the security personnel or customs officers ask you about kratom and what it is used for, you should not lie. Similarly, you should not articulate answers to appease the agents. Just when you are worried, you should not twist the truth.
You will not get any benefit in the long run if you gloss over the truth about kratom. You should not feel any pressure while carrying kratom with you since it is not illegal. Be honest with the agents about the kratom and explain in detail the medicinal benefits for which you are using it.
3. Don’t try to bring Kratom where it is illegal or banned
While many countries allow kratom to be owned, sold, used, or consumed, several countries do not allow it. You should be 100% confident about the country you are traveling to and kratom’s legal status there. If you find that kratom is not permitted in the country of your destination, you should not bring it there.
Even if you somehow manage to take kratom where it is banned without raising any questions and problems, you will be putting yourself at risk of getting caught and facing law enforcement authorities.
Why Is Kratom Not legal Everywhere?
The craving property of Kratom is widely recognized despite its medicinal use. The FDA has reported no evidence about the therapeutic benefits of kratom. This further damages the credibility of kratom as a medicinal substance. Similarly, potential side effects of kratom have been noted. Nausea, vomiting, sweating, chills, loss of appetite, and itching may be common effects but delusions, or hallucinations are serious problems. Some individuals may also experience difficulty in breathing. Keeping these potential side effects in mind, many countries have restricted kratom.
The Take-Away
There are many controversies regarding traveling with kratom. Efforts are being made by the authorities to include it in the list of scheduled drugs because of its mind-altering effects. People can abuse this effect of the herb. That is why the legislation related to kratom keeps on changing. Whether you are traveling within the USA or any other country, you need to keep an eye on the ever-changing regulations. You can take help from kratom travel guides while making travel plans. It is wise to get ready for traveling properly but getting worried won’t bring you any benefit.
Avoid situations where an agent can become suspicious by following all the tips we have mentioned. Travel with kratom in its original packaging, remain confident when answering about kratom and its benefits. Where kratom is banned, make use of alternatives. If in doubt, avoid traveling with kratom.
Following the don’ts mentioned here will hopefully keep you out of trouble and save you from facing criminal charges. What matters most is that you travel hassle-free, enjoy your time there, and do not have to face any delays that add to your trouble. This can only be made sure with the right research. Travel easy and safely.
Kate Freeman is the wellpreneur behind Kratomguides.com, an informative blog focused on spreading the goodness of Mitragyna Speciosa. Kate supports scientific research on this natural tree “Kratom” and believes that this herb can help millions of people to live a healthier life. She works with many kratom vendors to help extend their brand influence online. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, cooking, trying new recipes, and locating reliable stores selling kratom on sale.
