Pack smart

Person packing a suitcase on a bed cluttered with clothes and travel essentials in a bright bedroom.

 

Abhishek and Patsie were gearing up for their summer getaway – excited for beach days and family dinners. In the past, travel prep felt like a whirlwind, but this year, they tried something new: CATSA’s travel tools.

They looked up what could go in carry-on and what needed to be checked. They measured liquids, prepped snacks and even had a packing checklist ready. The result? A smooth, stress-free experience that left them wondering why they hadn’t done it sooner.

We’ve all been there—frantically digging through carry-on luggage to remove an oversized bottle of sunscreen or a forgotten half-filled water bottle. Summer travel is meant to be relaxing - and a little prep can make all the difference. Here’s how to pack smart and enjoy your holiday from the moment you arrive at the airport.

Carry-on vs checked baggage

The first thing Abhishek and Patsie did differently? They didn’t just throw things in a suitcase and hope for the best. They asked: What belongs in carry-on and what doesn’t? 

  • Carry-on must haves: Essentials like medication, ID, electronics and power banks, valuables and anything else you may need in advance of your checked bags being available at your destination.
  • Checked baggage: Liquids over 100 ml, sharp objects, sporting equipment and other items that you can wait to access.

Abhishek packed a change of clothes for everyone, a laptop, chargers and some of their kids’ favourite toys in their carry-on bags – just in case. Patsie placed some scissors and a family-sized bottle of sunscreen in their checked bag.

Tip: If you are not sure what should go where, use CATSA’s “What can I bring?” tool before you zip up your bag. It takes seconds and can save you time at security screening when you get to the airport.

CATSA tools in action

In addition to using CATSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool, Abhishek and Patsie created a custom travel checklist, which offered more packing tips and confirmed screening expectations at their departure airport. When they come back, they’ll be sure to check out where to pack any souvenirs and gifts for the flight home.

Tip: Search for specific items instead of categories. For example, type in “sunscreen” or “scissors” – not just “toiletries”. 


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