Why Storage Matters More Than You Think
If you’re prescribed medical cannabis in the UK, how you store it matters more than most people realise. Proper storage can preserve terpenes, protect potency, and help your prescription last longer and work better.
Prescribed flower isn’t cheap. If it dries out or breaks down, you’ll feel the effects — less flavour, more harshness, and weaker results. This guide is here to help UK patients get the most out of their cannabis by storing it correctly, using tools designed to protect what you pay for.
What Happens When Cannabis Isn’t Stored Properly
Once cannabis flower is exposed to heat, light, air, or the wrong humidity, it starts to degrade. It doesn’t just lose its smell or go stale — it loses its effectiveness. That means less relief, more waste, and more frequent trips back to your pharmacy.
Why Storage Goes Wrong
Terpenes fade — the flavour and effects lose their edge
Cannabinoids break down — THC and CBD lose potency
Trichomes dry out or fall off — which means you lose the most important part
Vapour becomes harsh — and inconsistent
This is why so many patients end up using more flower for less result. Good storage isn’t about being fancy, it’s about getting the most out of your medicine.
The 4 Essentials of Cannabis Storage for UK Patients
Humidity
Keep your flower between 55% and 62% relative humidity (RH). Too dry and it gets brittle. Too moist and it can go mouldy.
➡ Use humidity packs like Boveda to keep levels stable in any jar.
Light
UV breaks down cannabinoids quickly. Even glass jars let in enough light to cause damage.
➡ Terpseals stainless steel and XL polymer jars are light-blocking.
Temperature
Ideal range is 15°C to 21°C. Too warm and your terpenes break down. Too cold and trichomes get brittle.
➡ Store in a drawer or cupboard, away from radiators and sunlight.
Air Exposure
Oxygen oxidises your flower and breaks down cannabinoids. It also dries out terpenes.
➡ Vacuum-sealed jars help stop this. Airtight lids slow down the process.
What Storage Options Do UK Patients Have?
Not all containers are created equal. Here’s how popular options stack up:
Storage Type
Pros
Cons
Plastic Tubs
Foil or plastic packs
Glass jars
Inert, easy to clean
Vacuum-Sealed Jars
➔ Terpseals jars combine vacuum sealing, airtight lids, and real-time monitoring.
Why Real-Time Monitoring Makes a Difference
Environmental conditions change. And with flower, a 10% swing in RH or a few degrees of heat can start to degrade quality fast. Terpene loss isn’t something you can spot right away — but it’ll show up in how your session feels.
Digital monitors inside the jar mean:
You’ll know exactly when something changes
You don’t have to guess if it’s too warm or dry
You avoid losing flower to mould or overdrying
➔ Terpseals jars include a digital display for live readings.
Practical Storage Tips for UK Patients
Keep jars in a drawer or dark cupboard
Add one Boveda pack per jar (replace every 2–3 months)
Avoid opening the jar too often — it disrupts the RH balance
Separate strains by jar to preserve their terpene profile
Don’t handle bud directly — use a scoop or tweezers
More prep advice here: How to Prepare and Store Medical Cannabis Flower in the UK
Store Smarter: Setup Ideas That Actually Work
Whether you’re storing for the week or the long haul, using the right jar makes a difference. Here’s what UK patients are using every day — with setups that protect your flower, not just contain it.
Glass Jar (Short-Term Use)
Airtight glass jar
62% Boveda pack
Kept in a cool, dark place
Stainless Steel Jar (Daily Use)
Opaque, durable stainless steel
One humidity pack inside
Strain/date label on lid
Terpseals Jar (Long-Term Storage)
Built-in temperature and RH monitor
Best for rare strains or bulk flower
📦 Ready to take control of your cannabis care routine?
Browse our full shop for premium accessories — including precision grinders, storage jars, and everything you need to get the most from your prescription.
🔍 Looking for long-term freshness and protection?
Explore our Terpseals vacuum-sealed storage range, trusted by UK medical cannabis patients who prioritise consistency, precision, and peace of mind.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions: Medical Cannabis Storage & Travel (UK)
What’s the best temperature to store cannabis?
Should I vacuum-seal my cannabis?
What humidity level works best?
Is a humidity pack necessary?
Can I keep cannabis in its original pharmacy tub or foil packs?
Will cannabis go mouldy if it's damp?
How should I travel with medical cannabis in the UK?
- Travel in the original pharmacy-labelled container;
- Carry a paper copy of your prescription and a clinician’s letter;
- Keep it in hand luggage;
- Pick up only what you need for the trip. For travel outside the UK, check embassy guidance—some countries may require a licence or issue strict limits.
Do I need a personal licence to travel with cannabis?
What safety advice do UK clinics give on storage?
Clinics like Cannabis Clinic Cardiff recommend locked, secure storage—especially away from children and pets. Keep medication upright, labelled, and in original packaging when carrying it.
Can patient support letters help if stopped by police?
Yes. Carry your clinic letter or prescription and photo ID. UK law recognises medical cannabis as any other prescription medication.
