Top 5 Things To Know Before Heading To a Cannabis Dispensary

At this point, you’re likely well aware of the growing success of the medical cannabis industry. In 2020 the global legal marijuana market valued at USD 9.1 billion, with an expected 26.7% growth from 2021 to 2028.

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. As the list of benefits grows, more patients are looking to learn about how cannabis dispensaries function.

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 a cannabis dispensary.

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. So if you are looking for tips for your first dispensary experience, read on. You will be shopping like a pro in no time.

Here Is What You Need to Know

You want to make sure your first visit to the dispensary is a good one. A great first impression will encourage you to go back and feel more confident. Here are some tips you’ll want to consider.

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 (for states that have legal recreational regulations), 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, including passports.

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.

If you do not have a medical card, consider talking with your doctor about obtaining one.

Know Your Reason For Use

Like any medicine, each strain of cannabis has a specific medical use. For example, 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. Then, 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?

For those who do not like combustion or smoke, dispensaries have various options to enjoy the benefits of medical cannabis. Knowing your preference will help eliminate specific options and give you a better idea of what to consider.

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.

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 just means the dispensaries are excluded from banking. Just make a quick stop at the ATM before visiting, and you will be fine.

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.

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. Applications like Rollin Now 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. Plus, the experience should be fun, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and get their professional insight.

Where to Find a Dispensary Near Me

Now that you know what to expect before your visit, your next step is to go. Get out there and enjoy the experience.

If you’re looking for the best dispensary in your area, download the Rollin Now app and start browsing. It’s your one-stop-shop for everything you need to get started.