Ever since the legalization of cannabis across several states, people have been storming dispensaries to get their hands on the latest cannabis products. Your first visit to a cannabis dispensary can be exciting. However, it can feel awkward or overwhelming if you’re new to cannabis and don’t know what to try.
This article will help you feel confident and better informed about the world of recreational cannabis. Above all, we hope it makes your first trip to a dispensary store go smoother.
Dispensary stores carry hundreds – sometimes thousands – of products. In other words, with so many choices, don’t let the pressure to make a decision force you into a random purchase you’ll regret. Research your options. When in doubt, consult the dispensary’s staff. Dispensary staff often know their store inventory inside and out. If they don’t have direct experience with a particular product, chances are they’ve received feedback on the product from their other customers. Consequently, they possess a wealth of knowledge – so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
The two most common cannabis uses are medical (therapeutic) and recreational. Identify what type of cannabis you want. Do you prefer the tranquility of the cannabis strain known as “indica”, or the more energizing feel of “sativa”? Maybe you’d feel more comfortable trying a blend of the two. Deciding what to buy is easier once you know the type of cannabis experience you’re seeking.
Next, decide how you’d like to consume cannabis. Smoking cannabis remains popular. On the other hand, the cannabis industry boom has created so many alternative products that it’s worth researching them to learn more. Edibles are a great example. Although the onset (time it takes for a “high” to take effect) for cannabis edibles is longer than the onset for smoked cannabis, many enthusiasts still prefer edibles – often for two common reasons.
Firstly, they don’t have to worry about inhaling smoke into their lungs. Secondly, edibles taste great. They also come in enough food types and flavors that chances are, you’ll find a cannabis version of your favorite snack.
Popular cannabis edibles include gummies, chocolates, beverages (including sodas), sparkling water, breath mints, brownies, hard candies and dissolvable tablets. Likewise, if you decide you’d prefer to smoke cannabis, you’ll have just as much choice. Find out what types of cannabis bud strains the dispensary offers.
Ask what type of smoking accessory they recommend for a first time user – such as a vape pen, glass pipe, or bong. If you don’t have an herb grinder from your bud, be sure to pick one up. If you later decide you’re looking for a more intense smoke than fresh cannabis bud, your other smoking options are cannabis concentrates. They include wax, shatter, and live rosin. Ask your dispensary to learn more.
Depending on what state you live in, recreational cannabis may or may not be legal. If it is legal, you’ll need to be at least 21 years of age in order to make a purchase. Medical cannabis, by comparison, is legally available in some states for anyone 18 or older.
Some of those states require a doctor’s note or state-issued “card” in order to purchase medical cannabis. Before entering any cannabis dispensary, you will be required to present photo identification to prove your age. Your current driver’s license, passport, state ID, or military ID are acceptable forms of identification.
The number of medical marijuana cardholders in the United States is steadily increasing. However, keep in mind that your medical card will only be valid in the state it was issued. Just to be safe, it’s recommended that whenever you go to a dispensary, you carry both your ID and your state-issued medical card. If you forget either of these, the medical marijuana dispensary may refuse to sell to you.
Cannabis is illegal at the federal level. Only certain states carry state-specific laws that govern the purchase and sale of cannabis. Because there is no federal law that permits legal cannabis access, cannabis dispensaries do not accept credit or debit card payments. The states that have legalized cannabis accept cash payment only.
Cannabis products can be costly. They can range from a few dollars to a few hundred. Review the dispensary’s prices on their website first, then bring adequate cash. If you’re short on cash, most dispensaries have an on-site ATM machine or can direct you to one nearby.
When you enter the dispensary, you’ll see numerous products on display. The broad selection can be confusing. Dispensary staff, also known as budtenders, are experts in cannabis use. They are friendly and knowledgeable guides who can help you find the best option for your needs – whether your needs are recreational, medicinal/therapeutic, or both. It’s a good idea to let your budtender know your cannabis requirements, and budget, up front. Take your time and don’t rush your decision.
Open cannabis use is relatively new to the U.S. but popular. The longer that cannabis has been legal in state, the greater the available number of dispensaries. If your state only recently legalized cannabis, you may only have a few dispensary options right now – which can mean long lines.
Wait your turn; it’s normal to come across quite a few people waiting to enter the store. Budtenders are helpful and courteous. It’s not required, but it can be a good idea to tip them as gratitude for their service and expertise. Over time, you may get to know your budtender so well that when you next enter the store, they’re ready to recommend to you a product they know you’ll love.
Visiting a dispensary may be exciting and confusing, but knowing these tips will help you enjoy the trip. Buying cannabis is easier than it sounds – and you have helpful dispensary staff to thank for that.
Avoid feeling overwhelmed by researching your preferred cannabis products online. You can visit the Pure Oasis website to find the latest products, check reviews, and confirm prices. The Pure Oasis staff is ready to help – so don’t hesitate to contact us for your next (or first!) cannabis purchase.
Thanks to growing legalization nationwide, cannabis has become a mainstay hobby in many people’s lives. The Boston craft cannabis scene continues to develop, and new...
Boston has developed a lively marijuana scene thanks to both medical and recreational legalization. With this boost in attention has come an outpouring of support...
Are you at least 21 years old?