Walking into a cannabis dispensary for the first time might feel a little intimidating, but don’t worry — it’s way more laidback than it seems. Even if you’re new to the whole experience or just curious about how it works, visiting a dispensary is actually a great time. You’ll find friendly faces, a wide variety of products, and a vibe that’s all about making you feel comfortable.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know so when you head to your local dispensary, you’ll feel like a pro in no time.
The Number One Rule: Don’t Forget Your ID!
First thing’s first, you have to have your ID on you. To enter a dispensary, you’ll need to be 21 or older, or 18+ if you’re shopping with a medical card. Also, please make sure that it’s a current ID and not a temporary paper ID.
Different forms of ID you can use are:
- Valid driver’s license
- Passport
- State-issued or federally-issued ID, like a driver’s license or a military ID
Any of these valid, government-issued forms of identification or your medical card is your golden ticket inside. This isn’t like walking into a regular store — cannabis is highly regulated, so showing ID at the door is a must. Just hand it over for a quick check, and you’ll be good to go.
Start Exploring: Entering the Sales Floor
Once you’re checked in, it’s time to explore the sales floor. Browsing the sales floor might feel unfamiliar at first, but here’s what to expect:
- Wide Selection of Products: As you look around, you’ll find displays of all kinds of cannabis products, like flower, edibles, concentrates, and more, each neatly showcased so you can get a good look before making a choice.
- Secure Display: Keep in mind that the actual products are usually locked behind the register, so while you can see them, handling them directly isn’t possible.
- Browsing Tools: While you won’t be able to physically touch or examine them up close, many dispensaries offer helpful tools like “smell jars” to sample aromas or digital menus to browse the selection. The setup is designed to keep everything secure while making your shopping experience smooth and enjoyable!
With these basics, you’re ready to make the most of your time on the sales floor! Don’t hesitate to ask questions and explore—your perfect product might be just a smell jar away.
Products Galore
There’s something for everyone at the dispensary. Let’s break down some of the products you’ll see:
- Flower: The dried cannabis buds, perfect for rolling or packing into a bowl.
- Vapes: Pre-filled cartridges or disposable pens for a discreet, smoke-free experience
- Edibles: Tasty treats like gummies, chocolates, or beverages that offer longer-lasting effects.
- Concentrates: Highly potent extracts like wax or shatter, best for more experienced users looking for a stronger experience.
For those just starting out, there are beginner-friendly options like low-dose edibles or pre-rolls that let you ease into the experience.
Meet Your New Best Friends: Budtenders
When it comes to navigating the dispensary, the budtenders are your go-to guides. These friendly, knowledgeable folks are there to ensure you have a great experience. Feel free to ask any questions, even if you think they’re basic. They’ve heard it all and are happy to help.
Looking for something relaxing? Need an energy boost? They can guide you to the perfect product based on what you’re hoping to experience. No pressure, just support to make sure you walk out with exactly what you need.
Payment and Cash-Only Policies
When checking out, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the process smoother. Here’s what you need to know:
- Cash only: most dispensaries are cash-only. This is due to federal banking regulations, which means many dispensaries can’t process credit or debit card transactions like other stores.
- ATM Convenience: It might feel a little old school, but don’t worry if you don’t have cash on hand. Many dispensaries have ATMs conveniently located inside, so you can easily withdraw money on the spot.
- Added Taxes: You might also notice that the total is a bit higher than the price tags you see on the products. That’s because cannabis sales often come with additional taxes. These can vary depending on the state or even the city, so whether you’re in Rhode Island or in Massachusetts, it’s something to be prepared for. Your budtender will explain the breakdown of costs so there are no surprises.
Having cash ready and being aware of the added taxes will make checkout a breeze, ensuring you’re out the door and enjoying your products without a hitch.
Being a Responsible Consumer
Before you head home with your new products, the last thing to remember is responsibility is key, especially if you’re new to cannabis. Starting slow is always the best approach for beginners. Whether you’ve picked up some edibles, flower, or a vape, taking it easy will help you understand how your body reacts and avoid any overwhelming effects.
Enjoy the experience, but do it mindfully. If you’re ever unsure about how much to consume or how a particular product might affect you, don’t hesitate to ask your budtender. They’re there to help and can give you advice on dosage, timing, and what to expect. By taking things slow and staying informed, you’ll ensure a safe, enjoyable experience every time.
Your First Dispensary Visit Made Easy at Aura Dispensaries
Visiting a cannabis dispensary for the first time is an exciting and welcoming experience. From friendly budtenders to a wide range of products, you’ll find everything you need to start or continue your cannabis journey with confidence. Just remember to bring your ID, ask all the questions you need, and take things slow, especially if you’re new to cannabis.
Stop by an Aura dispensary near you and discover a comfortable and laid back environment where you can find the perfect products for your needs. If you’re looking for flower, edibles, vapes, or something in between, Aura’s knowledgeable team will help guide you every step of the way. Your cannabis experience starts here!
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
