Kratom, a herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has gained popularity for its potential effects on pain relief, mood enhancement, and energy. However, its legal status and regulations surrounding its use are complex, particularly when it comes to air travel. Flying with kratom is a legal gray area that many travelers don’t realize until it’s too late.
In the United States, kratom’s legal status changes from state to state and even county to county, meaning what’s perfectly acceptable in one location could get you in trouble in another. While federal agencies like the TSA are not actively searching for kratom, possession in a banned state or during a layover can lead to legal headaches. And when it comes to international flights, the risks multiply, as many countries treat kratom possession as a serious offense under strict drug laws.
Understanding the patchwork of laws surrounding kratom is crucial before you board a flight. Whether you’re a casual user or someone who relies on kratom for wellness purposes, carrying it without knowing the local regulations can result in confiscation, fines, or worse. In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know about traveling with kratom, highlight key legal considerations both in the U.S. and abroad, and offer practical tips to help you avoid unnecessary risks.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Its leaves contain active compounds, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects ranging from stimulation at low doses to sedation at higher doses. Kratom is commonly consumed in powder, capsule, or extract form and is used for various purposes, including pain management, anxiety relief, and opioid withdrawal support.
Despite its growing popularity, kratom’s legal status varies widely across the United States and the world, creating challenges for travelers. Understanding these regulations is critical to ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
Legal Status of Kratom in the United States
Federal Regulations
At the federal level, kratom is not classified as a controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In 2016, the DEA proposed scheduling kratom as a Schedule I substance, but public backlash led to the withdrawal of this proposal. As of July 15, 2025, kratom remains legal federally, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not specifically list kratom as a prohibited item.
The TSA’s primary focus is on security threats, such as weapons and explosives, rather than regulating herbal supplements like kratom. According to TSA guidelines, passengers are allowed to bring powders, including herbal supplements, in carry-on and checked luggage, though powders over 12 ounces (approximately 350 grams) in carry-on bags may require additional screening to ensure they are not hazardous materials.
However, while kratom is federally legal, travelers must also consider state and local laws, as these can differ significantly.
State and Local Laws
Kratom’s legality varies by state and, in some cases, by city or county. As of July 15, 2025, kratom is banned or restricted in the following states:
- Alabama: Kratom is a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal to possess or transport.
- Arkansas: Kratom is also classified as a Schedule I substance.
- Indiana: Possession and use of kratom are prohibited.
- Rhode Island: Kratom is illegal to possess, sell, or distribute.
- Vermont: Kratom is banned statewide.
- Wisconsin: Kratom is a controlled substance, and possession is illegal.
Additionally, certain cities and counties in otherwise kratom-legal states have imposed local bans. For example:
- San Diego, California: Kratom is banned within city limits.
- Sarasota County, Florida: Local ordinances prohibit kratom.
Before traveling, check the laws of your departure state, destination state, and any states you may pass through during layovers. Ignorance of local laws is not a valid defense if you are caught with kratom in a prohibited area.
Airport and Airline Policies
While the TSA allows powders like kratom in both carry-on and checked luggage, individual airlines may have their own policies. Most airlines defer to TSA guidelines, but it’s wise to review your airline’s baggage policies before flying. If you’re carrying kratom in your carry-on, be prepared for potential additional screening, especially if the quantity exceeds 12 ounces.
Flying Internationally with Kratom
Traveling internationally with kratom is significantly more complex due to varying global regulations. Many countries have strict drug laws, and kratom is explicitly banned or heavily regulated in several destinations. Below are examples of countries with known kratom restrictions as of July 15, 2025:
- Thailand: Despite being the native home of kratom, it is illegal, though recent reforms have decriminalized it for medical use under strict conditions.
- Australia: Kratom is classified as a Schedule 9 substance, making it illegal to possess or import.
- Malaysia: Kratom is banned under the Poisons Act of 1952.
- Japan: Kratom is considered a narcotic and is illegal.
- United Arab Emirates: Kratom is strictly prohibited, with severe penalties for possession.
- European Union: Regulations vary by country. For example, kratom is banned in countries like Denmark, Finland, and Sweden but legal in others like the Netherlands.
When traveling internationally, you must also comply with U.S. Customs Service regulations when returning to the United States. Importing kratom is generally allowed, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued import alerts, allowing customs officials to detain kratom shipments if they suspect the product is mislabeled or intended for unapproved uses.
Given the risks, it’s generally not advisable to travel internationally with kratom unless you are certain it is legal in your destination country and any countries you may transit through. Always research the laws of each country and consult with customs authorities if you’re unsure.
Practical Tips for Flying with Kratom
If you decide to travel with kratom, follow these best practices to minimize the risk of issues:
- Verify Legal Status: Before packing kratom, confirm its legality at your departure point, destination, and any layover locations. Use reliable sources like government websites or legal databases to check state and local laws in the U.S. or international regulations for foreign travel.
- Pack Kratom Properly:
- Label Clearly: Keep kratom in its original, sealed packaging with clear labeling that identifies it as a dietary supplement. Avoid loose powders in unmarked containers, as they may raise suspicion during screening.
- Quantity Limits: Stick to reasonable quantities (e.g., enough for personal use during your trip). Large amounts may attract attention from TSA or customs officials.
- Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage: Placing kratom in checked luggage may reduce scrutiny during security checks, but carry-on luggage allows you to keep it in your possession and explain its purpose if questioned.
- Prepare Documentation: Carry documentation, such as a receipt or product label, to prove that your kratom is a legitimate supplement. If you use kratom for medical purposes, a doctor’s note explaining its use may help, though it’s not a guarantee against legal issues in restricted areas.
- Be Honest and Cooperative: If TSA or customs officials question you about kratom, answer honestly and calmly. Explain that it’s a dietary supplement and provide any documentation you have. Avoid confrontational behavior, as it could escalate the situation.
- Consider Alternatives: If you’re traveling to a location where kratom’s legality is uncertain, consider leaving it at home to avoid potential legal trouble. Research alternative supplements or consult a healthcare provider for substitutes.
- Stay Informed: Kratom laws can change rapidly. Check for updates before every trip, as new bans or restrictions may be enacted at the state, local, or international level.
Risks of Flying with Kratom
Traveling with kratom carries inherent risks, particularly in areas where its legal status is ambiguous or prohibited. Potential consequences include:
- Confiscation: If kratom is found in a location where it’s illegal, it will likely be confiscated, even if you were unaware of the law.
- Fines or Arrest: In states or countries with strict bans, possession of kratom can lead to fines, arrest, or criminal charges.
- Travel Delays: Additional screening or questioning by TSA or customs officials can cause delays, potentially causing you to miss flights.
- International Penalties: Some countries impose severe penalties, including imprisonment, for possessing banned substances like kratom.
To mitigate these risks, thorough research and cautious planning are essential.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues
If TSA or customs officials question or confiscate your kratom, remain calm and cooperative. Explain that it’s a dietary supplement and provide any documentation you have. If you’re in a location where kratom is illegal, do not argue or resist, as this could worsen the situation. In extreme cases, such as arrest or detention, contact a legal professional or your country’s embassy for assistance.
Conclusion
Flying with kratom is possible in many cases, but it requires careful planning and awareness of the legal landscape. While kratom is federally legal in the United States and permitted by TSA in both carry-on and checked luggage, state and local bans can complicate domestic travel. International travel is even riskier due to varying global regulations and strict drug laws in many countries. By researching laws, packing kratom properly, and preparing for potential scrutiny, you can reduce the risks associated with traveling with kratom.
Ultimately, the safest approach is to verify the legality of kratom at every point in your journey and consider leaving it at home if there’s any uncertainty. Staying informed and cautious will help ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. If you or a family member is suffering injury or wrongful death from kratom, contact a kratom lawyer for free case evaluation. Fill out the form below to reach out to us.
Additional Resources
- TSA Guidelines: Visit www.tsa.gov for the latest information on traveling with powders and supplements.
- U.S. Customs Service: Check www.cbp.gov for regulations on importing kratom.
- International Laws: Consult the embassy or consulate websites of your destination country for drug and supplement regulations.
- Kratom Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the American Kratom Association (www.americankratom.org) provide updates on kratom laws and advocacy efforts.