Top 5 Things to Know Before Heading to a Cannabis Dispensary

The growth of medical cannabis is on the rise. The surge in demand is no doubt related to discovered medical benefits to cannabis. Such benefits include alleviation for anxiety, chronic pain, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer. 

Although cannabis dispensaries are not a new concept, they have only recently grown in popularity and accessibility. If you’re looking to visit a dispensary for the first time, you likely have questions on what to expect. You may even feel discouraged or nervous about the concept of going to an online dispensary Canada or even shopping near you.

Don’t worry—you are not alone. 

Shopping for medical cannabis does not have to be an intimidating experience. All you need is a little guidance. This guide offers the top things you should know before visiting a cannabis dispensary. If you are looking for tips for your first dispensary experience, read on. You will be shopping like a pro in no time.

What to Know Before Heading to a Cannabis Dispensary

Visiting a cannabis dispensary can be a fun experience for those new to the world of the benefits of medical marijuana. Here are some things you should know before going on your first adventure.

1. Bring Your ID

You need to make sure you have your identification with you when you visit a dispensary. Whether your use is medical or recreational, you need to be able to prove you are twenty-one years or older.

The most common form of ID used is a state-issued driver’s license. But other legal photo IDs are often accepted.

In addition to your ID, you will need to obtain a medical marijuana card. To get medical cannabis, you’ll need a written recommendation from a licensed doctor. When making a medical cannabis purchase at the dispensary, they will ask you to provide both forms of identification.

2. Know Your Reason for Use

Like any medicine, each strain of cannabis has a specific medical use. Some are more effective for anxiety and depression, whereas others can help treat chronic pain or build an appetite. Knowing your goals is essential when you visit the dispensary.

The better you can communicate your needs to the budtender, the better. They will be able to effectively assist you and make recommendations based on the symptoms you’re experiencing.

You may also want to consider your preference for consumption. Our most immediate idea of cannabis is in the form of a smokeable flower. But this is not your only option. Did you know cannabis sells as an oil, a vape pen, or a topical cream? 

If you’re considering medical cannabis, you likely already know what you are looking to achieve. Even if it is your first time-consuming cannabis, there is a good chance you know what symptoms you are trying to alleviate. Your budtender is there to help, so knowing your objectives before you purchase helps achieve shared goals.

3. Go in With Multiple Forms of Payment

In the age of plastic and Apple Pay, it is easy to go without cash and still have the option to make purchases just about anywhere. However, in the case of dispensaries, you will want to have multiple forms of payment.

 While some dispensaries will accept debit or credit sales, it’s wise to go in with cash just in case. Many dispensaries operate cash-only, given cannabis is still illegal on a federal level. But don’t panic—that means the dispensaries are excluded from banking. Just make a quick stop at the ATM before visiting, and you will be fine.

4. No Returns

By law, dispensaries can not accept any returns. That means you’re stuck with what you buy. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your budtender can help you make effective choices and avoid buying too much all at once.

5. Find the Right Dispensary and Have Fun

With the rapid growth in the demand for medical cannabis, new dispensaries are opening up all the time. Services like the Rollin Now app make the search easy so that you can find the best and nearest dispensary for you.

Once you’ve found the right dispensary, grab your keys and hit the road. Even if it is your first time going to a dispensary, it won’t be the employee’s first time helping a new customer. They are there to help you make the best choice possible. The experience should be fun, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and get their professional insight.

Want to Learn More?

Now that you know what to expect before your dispensary visit, your next step is to go. Get out there and enjoy the experience. Don’t be afraid to try something new, and take advantage of your budtender’s knowledge.

There are plenty of resources out there to help you get started, so look around as much as possible.

Still have questions about the benefits of medical cannabis? For more helpful insight on all things lifestyle, check out the rest of our website.