THC Drinks for Beginners: Your 2025 Guide to a Better Buzz
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Key Takeaways
Intro
Raise a glass to a new kind of buzz! THC beverages are revolutionizing the way we enjoy cannabis, offering a delicious, zero-calorie way to drink less alcohol and feel great the next day.
THC beverages are the fastest growing segment of the legal cannabis market, and for good reason. They are a super simple swap for alcohol: Can for can, buzz for buzz.
No smoke, no smell, just a refreshing drink and a good time.
And because THC drinks don’t cause a hangover, you’ll wake up the next morning feeling fresh as a daisy.
But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s where I come in!
In this comprehensive guide, I will break down the basics of THC drinks, explore different types and flavors, discuss dosage, and even share some of our favorite brands.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to sip your way into the world of THC drinks!

What Are THC Beverages?
THC Beverages come in many shapes and sizes to suit your every need.
THC Seltzers
The most common form of THC drinks are THC Seltzers. Think Weed White Claw.
THC Seltzers are portable and tasty, and typically zero or low calorie. They are the easiest swap for alcohol, you just bring a 6-pack of these to your next get-together and you’re set.
THC Sodas
THC sodas offer a cannabis-infused alternative to those of us with a sweet tooth.
Brands like Keef have range of classic soda flavors, from Cola to Orange Kush. Their Bubba Kush Root Beer is my go-to. It’s as delicious as any name brand root beer, but with a dose of THC to make you feel extra happy.
The only downside to THC sodas is they are typically sugar-heavy, just like their non-cannabis soda counterparts, so consume mindfully.
THC Beer
Craft beer giant Lagunitas offers a THC Beer called “Hi-Fi Sessions” that is expertly crafted, truly delicious, and comes in 4 different flavors and strengths.
My personal favorite is their “Hoppy Balance.” Each can has 5mg THC and 5 mg CBD, leading to the perfect balance of body buzz and head high, a warm fuzzy feeling that you’ll never want to end.
Unfortunately, these babies are only available in California and Colorado dispensaries. If you are lucky enough to live in or travel to one of those states, be sure to hit a dispo and check them out.
THC Infusions

THC infusions are the way to make any beverage into a THC beverage. They are pre-dosed liquid THC in a dropper bottle.
THC infusions are great for a social setting where you know the anti-cannabis stigma is real – think family Thanksgiving – and you need a way to discreetly consume.
Privately drop a little (or a lot) into your favorite beverage and go.
Other Cannabis Drinks: CBD Tea
CBD tea is a non-intoxicating cannabis beverage, and a great option to support restful sleep. I love it for a post-yoga cooldown.
CBD tea usually comes in the form of either loose leaf or bagged tea, and often includes other calming herbs like chamomile and lavender. Prepare it as you would any other tea.

How Do THC Drinks Make You Feel Compared to Alcohol?
In my experience, THC drinks make you feel a lot like alcohol drinks, relaxed and buzzy. When you’ve had one or two cans of THC drinks, you’ll likely feel a lot like you would after one or two beers.
The difference comes from when you have too many.
Too many alcohol drinks and you may feel “out of it,” say things you wouldn’t otherwise say, feel tired or groggy, and in extreme cases, have a feeling of the room spinning.
Too many THC drinks and you may feel “geeked out.” It’s a lot like how you feel when you’ve had too much THC anything – like you’re in a movie instead of real life, maybe a little paranoid, maybe quiet.
As I always say, alcohol helps you check out, cannabis helps you check in. But with too much THC, you can get a little TOO checked in.
It’s not a good feeling to be on too much alcohol or too much THC. This is why proper dosing is the key to having a good time with THC drinks.
Finding Your Perfect Dose: A Beginner’s Guide to THC Drink Dosage
Start Low, Go Slow: Why Microdosing is Key
Using the right dose of a THC drink is CRITICAL to your enjoyment.
This is something I have learned the hard way. Possibly more than once. 🙂 But I am here to keep you from making the same mistake!
The golden rule here – and with all cannabis use as a beginner – is “start low, go slow.”
“Start low and go slow” means start with a low dose, and slowly wait to see how it makes you feel before having more.
You’re looking for your “Goldilocks dose”: not too much, not too little, juuuuust right.
Most THC drinks come in single servings, usually around 5-10mg of THC.
If you’re new to all cannabis, start with a dose around 2.5mg-5mg. That may mean you mix half your higher-dose THC seltzer with a flavored soda water to get to the right dose.
Then wait for an hour before drinking more. In the meantime, you can switch to another beverage, or just try to take an hour to finish your 2.5mg-5mg serving.
Don’t stack more than 2-3 of these 2.5mg-5mg servings in a row as a beginner. Drink water in between. Be patient and see how you feel.
I would not suggest taking more than 10mg at a time as a beginner, and certainly not 20mg or 50mg, as some THC drinks contain. Be sure to read the label so you know what you’re working with.
You can always have more, but you can’t undo what you’ve already consumed.
Just like learning your limits with alcohol, learning your limits with THC beverages is a process that will take time and experience.
Factors Affecting Dosage: Individual Tolerance and Product Potency
Your Goldilocks dose is going to be different than mine, and may even be different for you from day to day.
Just like with alcohol, your body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and how much you’ve eaten that day can all play a role in how it affects you.
So while I can give you some general guidelines, it’s really about paying attention to your own body and finding what works for you.
A Quick Guide to THC Drink Dosage: What to Expect
If you’re a total newbie, 2.5mg of THC is a good starting point. This might just give you a mild sense of relaxation and maybe a bit of a giggle fit.
If you’re a bit more seasoned, you might want to try 5mg, which could bring on a more noticeable high, with increased euphoria and creativity.
But if you’re chasing that full-blown, “whoa, dude” experience, 10mg or more might be your sweet spot. Just be warned, this is where things can get a little trippy.
Now, before you go chugging a whole bottle, remember that THC drinks can take a bit longer to kick in than smoking or vaping. We’re talking anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. So, be patient, my friend.
Don’t be tempted to have another drink because you’re not feeling anything yet, that’s a recipe for disaster.
And always check the label! Different THC drinks have different potencies (some up to 50mg per bottle!), so don’t just assume they’re all created equal.
Some brands even offer microdose options, which are perfect for beginners or those who just want a subtle effect. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and gradually increase your dose over time.
Remember, finding your perfect THC drink dosage is a journey, not a race. It’s about experimenting, listening to your body, and respecting the power of this amazing plant. So, go forth, my friend, and sip responsibly!

Kate’s Picks: My Favorite THC Drinks and Flavors to Explore
Of course, I haven’t even scratched the surface of all the amazing THC drinks out there. There are so many more brands and flavors to explore, and new ones are popping up all the time.
So my advice? Don’t be afraid to try new things! Step outside your comfort zone and see what tickles your taste buds. You might just discover your new favorite drink.
And remember, finding your perfect THC drink is a personal journey. What works for me might not work for you, and that’s okay. The important thing is to have fun, experiment, and enjoy the ride. So, go forth, my friends, and happy sipping!
Mixing It Up: Create Your Own THC Cocktails with THC Infusions
THC Infusions are handy dandy little dropper bottles of joy. They contain pre-dosed THC liquid, you just drop the amount you want into any beverage, and voila, you have a THC drink.
The benefit here is that you have your choice of beverages, you can make anything into a THC-infused drink.
BLNCD has a really nice infusion called Fuse, with 5mg of THC, perfect for a beginner.
Responsible Enjoyment: Tips for a Safe and Pleasant THC Drink Experience
Know Your Limits: Setting Boundaries and Sticking to Them
Alright, my friends, let’s have a heart-to-heart about enjoying THC drinks responsibly. Because as much fun as these beverages can be, it’s important to remember that they’re still a form of cannabis, and that means consuming them wisely.
First things first: know your limits. Just like with alcohol, everyone has a different tolerance for THC.
So like we talked about, start low and go slow, especially if you’re new to THC drinks. It’s always better to have too little than too much, trust me.
Can I Mix THC Drinks with Alcohol?
With some experience, yes, but not at first. Mixing alcohol and cannabis is called “crossfading,” and it can be great. But I never recommend it for cannabis beginners.
Cannabis and alcohol are both powerful substances. You need to have a solid handle on how they each make you feel before you let them become friends.
The truth is, most people’s worst experience with cannabis involves them already being drunk on alcohol, giving them the liquid courage to try smoking weed for the first time, or gobbling an edible at midnight, leading to disastrous, room-spinning results.
But with some experience under your belt, once you understand how cannabis affects your body, you know your Goldilocks dose, and you can stick to it, then yes, you can absolutely use your grown-up judgment to mix THC and alcohol to your degree of comfort.
My favorite move is dropping a THC infusion into my favorite tasty pale ale, currently Deschutes Fresh Squeezed. The result is a lovely, relaxed buzz, full of giggles and letting the moment flow. Delish.
Pairings and Activities: Enhancing Your THC Drink Experience
Is there a bad place to have a THC drink? Not for me.
But the best places are probably your backyard BBQ, an outdoor music festival, or your post-yoga cooldown drink.
CBD tea lends itself to a bit more calming vibe. Put on some chill music, light some candles, grab your book. Relax, unwind, and fully appreciate the experience.
And speaking of pairings, think about what you’re eating and drinking alongside your THC beverage. Some foods can enhance the effects of THC, while others can mellow them out.
For example, mangoes are said to boost the high, while CBD-rich snacks can help take the edge off.
And as with alcohol, be sure to stay hydrated! THC can be dehydrating, so make sure to drink plenty of water.
When I’m at my most responsible, I alternate with water between each THC beverage.
Storage and Safety: Keeping Your THC Drinks Fresh and Potent
Now, let’s talk storage. Most THC drinks should be kept refrigerated, but always check the label for specific instructions. And once you open a can or bottle, try to finish it within 1-2 days.
Remember, enjoying THC drinks is all about finding what works for you. Experiment with different brands, flavors, and doses, but always prioritize your safety and well-being. And if you’re ever unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to talk to a budtender or healthcare professional, or drop me a question in the “Ask Kate” section of my site.
They can offer valuable guidance and help you navigate the world of THC drinks with confidence.
So, there you have it, my friends. A few tips for responsible enjoyment from yours truly. Now go forth, sip wisely, and enjoy all the wonderful benefits that THC drinks have to offer!
FAQs: Your Burning Questions About THC beverages, answered
Alright, let’s tackle some of those burning questions you might have about THC drinks.
- How to THC drinks work?
- Are THC drinks legal?
- Will THC drinks show up on a drug test?
- What Does Cali Sober Mean?
How Do THC Drinks Work? The Science Behind the High
You may be thinking, how do they get weed in that can?
THC seltzers are typically made by taking regular seltzer water and adding a THC isolate, which is a pure THC extract.
(It’s like vanilla extract, only way more fun).
It used to be that when you drank THC, it was more like taking a THC gummy. It took a long time to feel it because it had to go all the way through your digestive system.
But now, THC drink producers use a super-scientific process called nanoemulsification, which means that THC is broken down into tiny particles, making it easier for your body to absorb.
That’s why THC drinks tend to kick in faster than edibles, so they’re perfect for happy hour.
But remember, just because they hit you faster doesn’t mean you should overdo it! Start low, go slow, and listen to your body.
Are THC drinks legal?
Yes, as long as you are of age to purchase them. That means 21+ in a dispensary and 18+ online. THC and CBD beverages that use hemp-derived THC can be sold in any state, and can be shipped to your door.
As with all hemp-derived THC, the manufacturers of these products are operating in a bit of a legal gray area. But tbh, that’s their issue, not yours.
As an of-age consumer, you will not get in trouble for buying a THC drink.
Will THC drinks show up on a drug test?
Yes, THC drinks can definitely show up on a drug test. Just like any other cannabis product, THC drinks contain THC, the compound that drug tests are designed to detect. So if you have an upcoming drug test, it’s best to avoid all cannabis products, including THC drinks.
How long THC stays in your system can vary depending on a number factors, like how much you consume, your body weight, and your metabolism. But generally, THC can be detected in urine for up to 30 days, in saliva for up to 72 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days. So, keep that in mind as you consume THC products.
What Is Cali Sober?
If you’ve heard the phrase “Cali Sober” lately, it means alcohol is out, weed is in. Cali Sober does not mean truly “sober,” it just means being sober from alcohol, and using cannabis where you would normally use alcohol.
With a huge range of THC beverages hitting the market all the time, it’s easier than ever to life the Cali Sober lifestyle.
Conclusion
Cheers to your journey into the world of THC drinks! We hope this beginner’s guide has given you the knowledge and confidence to explore this exciting new way to enjoy cannabis.
Remember, start low and go slow, and always prioritize responsible consumption. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, pain relief, or just a fun new way to unwind, there’s a THC drink out there for you. So raise your glass, and happy sipping!