Cannabis today comes in a wide variety of forms, flavors, and potencies, and just as many ways to enjoy it. Yet despite all the options, smoking remains one of the most common and familiar methods of consumption.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re coming back after a long break, it’s completely normal to have questions about how to smoke cannabis. From how it works to what to expect, we’re here to guide you through it, step-by-step. Learn the basics of smoking cannabis, including different methods, how to inhale properly, safety tips, and what to know about local laws. Along the way, we’ll answer common questions like:
- Why do people smoke cannabis?
- Is it legal to smoke weed?
- What’s the best way to get started?
- How do I inhale correctly?
- What should first-time cannabis smokers keep in mind?
By the end, you’ll know what to do, how to do it, and what to keep in mind for a smooth first-time cannabis smoking experience.
Why Do People Smoke Weed?
Just as no two people are exactly alike, there’s no end of reasons to enjoy cannabis. For some, it can be an all-natural tool for relaxation, while others turn to it for a delightful social buzz that may lend itself to conversation and connection. Due to its psychoactive and cerebral qualities, it can also support when brainstorming ideas or entering the flow state of creating art.
Many people also lean on cannabis for therapeutic support, with some medical cannabis patients turning to this specific consumption method for a number of reasons, including nausea relief. However, the potential benefits of smoking weed vary widely by strain, THC and CBD levels, your goals, and your personal tolerance.
Is It Legal to Smoke Cannabis?
While the purchase and use of cannabis is legal in many states in the US, its overall status is somewhat cloudy. While individual states have legalized or decriminalized it, weed remains illegal at the federal level.
In Illinois and Massachusetts, individuals 21 and over can smoke weed, though there are restrictions to keep in mind. As with most legalized states, it’s not legal to smoke cannabis in public. If you’re planning on lighting up, stay in a private residence and avoid smoking cannabis in parks, cars, and on federal land.
But what about smoking weed in front of your house? That depends on whether you’re on public property or not, and how visible you are. Many states prohibit using cannabis “in public view,” such as on streets or sidewalks.
There’s also a distinction between cannabis and hemp. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp products containing < 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—the primary intoxicating cannabinoid—are legal at the federal level. But again, since smoking anything in public is generally illegal, you’ll want to observe local statutes.
How to Smoke Weed Step–by–Step
Smoking cannabis might seem straightforward, but a little preparation can go a long way—especially if you’re new. Knowing what to expect and how to do it properly can help you feel more confident, stay comfortable, and get the most out of your experience.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you light up, it’s important to gather a few essentials. Having the proper supplies on hand can make a significant difference in the smoothness and enjoyment of your session. Here are some of the most common setups and what you’ll need for each:
- Joint: You’ll need a cannabis grinder, rolling papers (or a pre-rolled joint), a crutch or filter (optional but helpful), and a lighter or hemp wick.
- Pipe: A grinder, a pipe (glass, metal, or wood), and a lighter or hemp wick are all you need.
- Bong: You’ll need a grinder, a water pipe (bong), water (for filtration), and a lighter or hemp wick.
- Flower Vaporizer: A grinder and a dry herb vaporizer designed for cannabis flower.
New to flower vaporizers? These devices heat cannabis without combustion, creating a smooth, inhalable vapor instead of smoke, and can be ideal for those seeking a gentler experience, while bongs tend to deliver a more potent effect, so they’re best approached with care, especially for beginners.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you’ve got your tools ready, it’s time to walk through the process. Whether you’re using a joint, pipe, bong, or vaporizer, the steps below can help you stay comfortable and in control as you learn how to smoke cannabis with confidence.
- Grind your cannabis evenly: This ensures a consistent burn. If you don’t have a grinder, use a sharp kitchen knife or tease it apart with your fingers.
- Pack your device: Load the joint, pipe, or bong as needed. Don’t overpack, as this can lead to uneven burns and wasted bud.
- Light: Using your lighter or hempwick, apply flame gently, just above the edge of the flower. Avoid torching it directly.
- Inhale slowly and gently: Aim for a smooth, steady draw. Take a reasonable amount of smoke into your mouth, then draw it down into your lungs. For first-time cannabis smokers, start with less than you think you need.
- Exhale: After about 2–3 seconds, exhale the smoke.
- Pause before consuming more: For newcomers, wait at least 10–15 minutes to evaluate its effects before having more.
And remember: Start low, go slow. Your first cannabis experience should be comfortable, not overwhelming. With the right tools, a bit of patience, and a step-by-step approach, you’ll be well on your way to a safe and enjoyable session.
For a deeper view into smoking cannabis, head to our guides on how to smoke a pre-roll and how to smoke a bowl.
How To Properly Inhale Cannabis
Now that you know the steps, it’s time to get into the nuances of smoking cannabis, like how to properly inhale weed for the best session. The goal of proper cannabis inhalation is fairly straightforward: inhale enough smoke to absorb the maximum levels of psychoactive cannabinoids and aromatic terpenes, while avoiding a coughing fit.
One way to visualize the inhalation process is to imagine sipping on a mug of hot tea. Take gentle, brief inhalations. Contrary to popular opinion, you don’t need to inhale a gigantic amount of weed smoke into your lungs to feel its effects. Instead, hold the smoke for no longer than 2 seconds before gently releasing it. Why? While it appears that occasional cannabis smoking isn’t linked to adverse lung function, it also seems that holding in weed smoke for a longer period of time doesn’t actually have any pronounced effect besides starving your brain of oxygen.
Whether you light up a pre-roll, pipe, blunt, or bong, the basic technique for inhalation remains more or less the same, though there are varying techniques. Some draw the smoke from their mouths directly into their lungs in one smooth inhalation, while others draw the cannabis smoke into the mouth and then down into the lungs by breathing into the diaphragm, the thin dome of muscle that sits beneath your heart and lungs.
One inhalation technique isn’t necessarily better than the other, and it will come down to your personal preferences and smoking style.
Tips for First-Time Weed Smokers
New to smoking cannabis? You’re not alone, and taking your time to learn is a great first step. Here are a few key tips to help you feel more prepared, more comfortable, and more in control as you get started.
- Start low, go slow: The most important tip for newcomers is to start low and go slow. In other words: Take small hits, don’t hold the smoke longer than a couple of seconds, and resist the urge to inhale huge amounts. Take your time and let your body and mind be your guide.
- Choose balanced or CBD-dominant strains: Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating. By sticking with strains that contain both cannabinoids, you’ll enjoy the potential benefits of CBD and minimize the possibility of an overly intense experience. Some popular high-CBD strains include Harlequin, ACDC, and Charlotte’s Web.
- Set and setting: This refers to the physical and emotional space you occupy when working with cannabis. We recommend you enjoy it in a calm, comfortable space with friends or people you’re familiar with. Stay amply hydrated—dry mouth is a commonly reported side effect—and think about having some fresh, healthful snacks on hand if and when the munchies strike.
- Safer smoking practices: If you’re using pipes or bongs, make sure to clean your devices regularly so that they remain free of any potentially harmful bacteria.
Cannabis affects everyone differently, and that’s okay. Go at your own pace, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted dispensary team—like ours at Mission—if you have questions along the way.
Dosage, Effects Timeline, and Safety When Smoking Cannabis
When inhaled, THC takes effect relatively quickly, typically within a couple of minutes. So, the safest way to smoke weed is to take your time and see how your own unique endocannabinoid system interacts with the compounds in cannabis. Start small, just a gentle puff or two, and go from there.
Even with moderation, there’s still a chance that at some point in your cannabis-smoking journeys, you’re going to have a bit too much. What’s to be done? First—don’t panic. An excess of THC is rarely dangerous; it’s just unpleasant. The worst of the sensations generally subsides within an hour or two.
But what happens if you smoke too much weed? Often referred to as “greening out,” it’s been an experience felt by many. Here are a few things that can help you get grounded if you’ve consumed too much:
- Hydrate: Drinking water can help you regulate the negative sensations, as well as counteract the dry mouth that often accompanies an excess of THC.
- Eat: Having something to eat before (and after) cannabis consumption may help dampen its effects.
- Head to the spice cabinet: Sniff some fresh black pepper. One study suggests that the terpenes pinene and caryophyllene in peppercorns may help your body metabolize THC.
- Shower: A hot shower or nap can be great for helping you come down.
While everyone’s response to cannabis is a little different, preparation and mindfulness go a long way. Knowing what to expect—and how to respond—can help you stay calm, centered, and in control, even if things feel a bit intense. It’s always okay to step back, take a break, and try again another day. Your comfort and safety come first.
Alternatives to Smoking Cannabis
Though smoking cannabis may be the classic way to enjoy it, it’s not your only option. If you’d rather avoid inhaling smoke—whether for comfort, health, or personal preference—there are several other ways to enjoy cannabis.
Vaporizers
Cleaner, smoother, and emitting less odor than smoking, vaporizers—aka vape pens or vapes—heat cannabis to the point where the cannabinoids vaporize, but not enough to cause the plant matter to combust. Instead, they emit a more cooling mist that’s easier on the lungs, making vapes one of the most popular ways to consume weed aside from lighting up.
Edibles
Edibles are discreet, convenient, and often quite delicious. They’re available in a variety of formats, including gummies, chocolates, mints, and beverages, making it easy to find an option that fits your taste and desired experience.
Edibles and other ingestibles take longer to kick in than smoked cannabis—up to two hours— but their effects can last up to six hours, in some cases even longer.
Tinctures & Capsules
Tinctures and capsules offer a smoke-free, low-calorie option that’s both discreet and easy to dose. Tinctures are taken sublingually—placed under the tongue—where they typically take effect within 15 to 45 minutes. Capsules, on the other hand, are ingested like edibles and may take a bit longer to kick in but offer similarly long-lasting effects.
Both formats provide a consistent, measurable dose, making them ideal for finding your minimum effective amount and maintaining control over your experience. They’re also shelf-stable, travel-friendly, and typically free of added sugars or calories.
Topicals
These products are typically non-psychoactive and offer localized relief right where you need it. Formulated to address muscle aches and pains, these balms and lotions harness the cannabis plant’s potential anti-inflammatory qualities to deliver relief fast.
Your First Smoke Made Easy with Mission
If you’re just learning how to smoke cannabis, starting with the right tools and trusted guidance can make all the difference. With a grinder, a pre-roll, or a simple pipe, you can begin exploring one of the most time-tested and accessible ways to enjoy cannabis.
When you’re ready, stop by your nearest Mission Dispensary in Illinois or Massachusetts. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you find high-quality flower, pre-rolls, and accessories—everything you need for a smooth and confident first experience.
How to Smoke Weed FAQ
How old do you have to be to smoke weed?
While cannabis laws vary by state, the legal age to smoke cannabis is typically 21 or older. However, in some states, individuals between 18 and 21 may legally use medical cannabis with a valid medical marijuana card.
How long does a cannabis high last?
While everyone reacts somewhat differently to weed, the effects from smoking weed typically last between 1 and 2 hours. This changes with other consumption methods; to learn more, visit our deep dive on How Long Does Being High Last?
Is it legal to smoke weed in public?
While cannabis laws vary from state to state, it’s generally illegal to smoke weed in public, or even where you could easily be viewed smoking it. Check your local laws before lighting up.
Can you smoke old weed?
Yes, but the amount of THC decreases over time, along with the flavor. For the most effective and flavorful experience possible, we typically recommend using your stash within 6 months.
What does weed smoke smell like?
Depending on the specific blend of terpenes, or aromatic oils, weed smoke can smell floral, skunky, earthy, sweet, and many other scents. However, the usual scent is described as skunky.
What’s the difference between joints, blunts, and spliffs?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Joint: A cannabis “cigarette” that contains just ground cannabis, though some versions employ a filter or a “crutch,” which is a simple tube at the mouth end to help it retain its shape.
- Blunt: A cigar that’s been slit down its side and the inside tobacco removed. Then it’s refilled with ground cannabis and smoked for an especially flavorful experience.
- Spliff: A joint that contains a blend of ground cannabis and tobacco.
Can you build a tolerance to smoking weed?
Yes—our bodies naturally build up a tolerance to cannabis over time. If you’re noticing that the usual amount isn’t having the same effect, consider taking a tolerance break, aka a “t-break,” every now and then to ensure you derive the maximum benefit from your cannabis smoking sessions.
