So you’re living in a state where marijuana is legal. Whether it’s medical or recreational there’s a few things you need to know before you before you take a ride - on a plane that is.

Despite what you think about Mr. Weed and friends, in California at least, they’re here to stay. But before you put your baggies into your baggy there’s some things you should know.

Let’s first look at the big picture, man.

Amazing to think but in recent years the USA has started turning green.

Look at the map, it’s constantly changing so this isn’t even 100 percent up to date but the Green states are the legal ones (so recreational use allowed), orange are the medically legal states and the ones in white are where it’s currently illegal.

So here’s the theory: If you’re living in a legal state and you put some weed in your pocket and fly to another legal state, all is well, right?

WRONG!

The fact is, your mellow could well and truly be harshed, because the moment you fly out of state and cross the line you’ve actually crossed a line. A Federal one. Marijuana you see is what we call a “Schedule 1 drug” (not that you’ll probably want to schedule anything if you use it). That means it’s up there with Heroin, LSD and a whole bunch of others.

Surprising? Yes! So that means that even if your state is legal it’s NOT legal nationally.

The brutal truth is that even if you’ve got medicinal marijuana and you’re carrying a card to prove it, you’re still not safe. Pass through security, get on a plane and you’re still not guaranteed to be protected. Even if you fly to a green state to get into a green state.

Regardless of your condition, if you suffer from cancer or glaucoma or epilepsy amongst others, the fact is you can use it medicinally where you have been granted permission to do so, BUT step out of state and all of that goes up in smoke. States don’t give what’s called “reciprocity”, every state has different rules. You’d have to apply all over again when you reach the state to buy and use it legally.

Confused? Need a snack? And hey Rick didn’t LAX release a new policy about flying with Mary Jane?

Well yes they did - here it is. And it gets to the point: “Airport Guests Should Be Aware That The TSA Screening Stations are under Federal Jurisdiction.” Which is as it sounds, a blunt . . . I mean BLUNT!

You could be pushing your luck - and if you’re not careful, even if you’re carrying it legally you might end up literally with red eyes and without an ounce of comfort  . .  behind bars.

The main point is this. It’s a hugely complex subject and if you’re in any way concerned it's best to listen to an expert.

“Don’t take the risk, don’t fly with marijuana or travel out of state. Leave it behind, get organized and scope out your destination ahead of time to find a local, legal dispensary where you land," said Stefan Borst-Censullo, a criminal defense lawyer at the Hoban Law Group in Los Angeles.

Even if it’s medical - make sure you know that facts before you fly high. Or else the next time you use a joint might be IN the joint.