It’s widely believed that the world is becoming more cannabis-friendly. However, the legal landscape is very diverse, which is a challenge for any cannabis enthusiast traveling abroad. Below, we’ll review the seven most cannabis-friendly countries and the key details travelers need to know about them.
The 7 Most Welcoming Countries for Cannabis Travelers
1) Canada
Recreational cannabis has been legal in Canada since 2018. Adults can now purchase and consume marijuana. Each province has its own regulations; the legal age can vary between 18 and 21 years old. You will find many licensed dispensaries, including in Toronto and Vancouver.
The safest option is to buy it only in regulated stores (the packaging is discreet here). You can consume cannabis in most public places, but not on federal lands such as national parks (it is still illegal here).
A quick tip for travelers: You Can Travel With Cannabis Across the United States — Check the rules for flying with edible products However, you are allowed to travel with cannabis between Canadian destinations. BUT, you cannot take cannabis out of or into the country with it.
2) Uruguay
Uruguay was the first country to legalize recreational cannabis. It did so in 2013 (five years before Canada)! However, this does not mean that the country openly promotes marijuana tourism. It does not. Only residents can legally purchase cannabis. Travelers can enjoy it in private (unless they buy it from illegal sources – in which case even private use is illegal).
A quick tip for travelers: You cannot bring edibles with you from the United States, so the safest option is to ask a local friend to share them with you.
3) Jamaica
In 2015, Jamaica decriminalized marijuana possession. The maximum amount allowed is two ounces. Unlike Uruguay, marijuana is legal for locals and visitors. The island is also home to medical cannabis facilities (many of which offer educational tours).
A quick tip for travelers: Yes, marijuana is decriminalized, but technically it is not legal for recreational use outside of religious use. Not that you're going to get into legal trouble because of it, but it's worth knowing.
4) The Netherlands
The Netherlands (at least Amsterdam) is traditionally considered to have a rich cannabis culture and many people assume that recreational cannabis is legal here. This is not entirely the case. On the contrary, it is decriminalized and the law is not enforced on its sale in coffee shops. The safest thing to do is to consume cannabis in Amsterdam and stick to coffee shops. Smoking in public is generally allowed here too.
A quick tip for travelers: If you buy cannabis in Amsterdam, you will have to consume it there. In other words, you will not be able to take it with you when you leave the country.
5) Mexico
In 2021, Mexico decriminalized cannabis for personal use. Its residents are now allowed to possess it (up to 28 grams). The laws surrounding the sale of cannabis are still evolving. The places where you can consume it in public are limited (but it is easy to find discreet places).
A quick tip for travelers: Technically, it is legal to sell recreational cannabis. But the regulations are not 100% uniform yet, so it is best to be cautious (as always).
6) Germany
Germany is the third country in the European Union to legalize cannabis for personal use. Anyone aged 18 or over can possess cannabis (up to 25 grams). They can also grow up to three plants at home.
A quick tip for travelers: You can consume cannabis in special clubs and in private, but not in public. Also, do not try to transport it across borders.
7) Thailand
When Thailand became the first Asian country to legalize the use of cannabis leaves in 2021 (and the whole plant in 2022), everyone was… well, a little shocked. Now, you can buy it for medical and personal use (most dispensaries are in Bangkok and Chiang Mai).
A quick tip for travelers: Dispensaries are the safest place to buy cannabis and are best used in private.
Conclusion
Overall, the key aspect to keep in mind is that you cannot bring edibles on international flights. It is illegal even if you are traveling between countries where its use is decriminalized. Additionally, some states tolerate cannabis use, but that does not mean it has been legalized there (e.g., the Netherlands). And finally, it is always safer to stick to specialty stores (e.g., dispensaries in Thailand) and avoid consuming cannabis in public unless you are 100% sure it is legal.
