Ready to travel? Make sure you’ve packed right and have everything you need for a smooth security experience.
Review CATSA’s Travel Checklist – from liquids and electronics to gifts and batteries – to be ready for your next flight.
My travel checklist
Holiday travel tips for a stress-free security screening
Avoid surprises at the checkpoint with these quick reminders from CATSA. Every small preparation helps keep lines moving – and your trip on schedule.
- Liquids & gels: Pack liquids in containers ≤100 ml and place them all in a 1 L clear, resealable bag. Larger containers go in checked baggage.
- Gifts: Leave gifts unwrapped for easier screening.
- Food: Some foods may be restricted in your carry-on. Check before you pack.
- Medications and medical items: Ensure they are properly labeled and accessible for inspection.
- Electronics: Keep laptops and large electronics accessible and remove them from your bag for screening. CT X-ray exception: Large electronics may stay in your carry-on.
- Batteries: Review guidelines for batteries and power banks before packing.
- Duty-free purchases: Confirm what items can be carried through security.
- Prohibited items: Know what’s not allowed in your carry-on.
- Packing your carry-on: Organize items for quick inspection.
- How screening works: Familiarize yourself with the process to avoid delays.
- What goes in the bins: Place laptops, large electronics and your liquids bag in the bins. Remove jackets, belts, and shoes if required. At CT equipped screening lines, some items may stay in your carry-on.
- Family and accessible lines: Dedicated lines are available for families and travellers requiring assistance.
- Arrive early: Airports are busy – allow extra time to check in and reach security.
- Wait times: Check estimated wait times before you travel.
Plan ahead and arrive early – it’s the best gift you can give yourself this holiday season.
Find out what you can bring through security
Type any item below to see if it’s allowed in your carry-on or checked bag. Our « What Can I Bring?” tool tells you instantly whether it’s permitted, restricted, or prohibited.