For many travellers, essential items aren’t optional – they’re part of daily life. Maybe it’s a mobility aid that helps you move comfortably, a pump or monitor you rely on, or supplies you need to manage a medical condition. Whatever you travel with, it’s normal to want clarity before you fly. Will your device be allowed? What will screening look like? Who can help if you need support?
CATSA’s job is to keep air travel secure, but we also want your screening experience to feel clear, respectful, and manageable. Here’s what you can expect when you arrive at the checkpoint – and where to find more information before you fly.
Support when you arrive at the checkpoint
When you reach the checkpoint, you’re not on your own. Screening officers are trained to help, and you can let them know at any time if you need more time, extra guidance, or assistance with your bags.
At Canada’s busiest airports, you may also see bilingual Facilitators in blue “Need Help/Besoin d’aide” vests. They can guide you through the process, answer questions, or help you communicate your needs to screening officers.
Travellers who are blind or have low vision can request an Accessible Regulatory Information Booklet in braille, large print, or raised text. Screening officers can also read it aloud if that’s easier.
If you prefer privacy, you can always request a private screening room.
More details about these services are available at Accessibility and medical needs.
What you can bring through security
You can bring the essential items you rely on – medications, medically necessary liquids, mobility aids, assistive devices, pumps, monitors, and more. These items are part of your daily life, and screening officers are trained to handle them safely.
This is not a complete list – many other essential items can also go through security. CATSA’s What Can I Bring? tool is the best place to check specific items before you travel.
Weighted blankets, stuffies and powder-filled items
Some travellers use weighted blankets or weighted stuffed animals for comfort, regulation, or accessibility needs.
Items containing more than 350 mL of inorganic powder or granular material – such as glass beads, poly‑pellets, sand, or pebbles – cannot be brought in your carry‑on. Certain powders and granular materials – including the fillings used in some items – may require additional screening. Depending on the results of screening, the item may not be permitted in carry‑on baggage.
CATSA recommends placing items containing powders or granular materials in your checked baggage. Exemptions may apply for:
- Baby food or formula
- Life‑sustaining medication
- Sacred or spiritual items
What can I bring?
Does your item go in your carry-on or
checked baggage?
My CATSA Travel Checklist
Answer a few quick questions and get a personalized packing list that meets airport security rules.
What screening may look like
Screening looks a little different depending on your needs and the items you bring. Screening officers will guide you through the process and offer alternative screening options when needed.
- Mobility aids and assistive devices are screened with you whenever possible. If a device needs to be screened separately, it will be returned without delay, and you’ll be offered a chair if you prefer to sit.
- Insulin pumps, CGMs, and implanted devices stay attached to your body.
- Wheelchairs and scooters can be screened while you remain seated.
- Children and travellers with cognitive, developmental, or intellectual disabilities are screened with their parent, guardian, or companion.
- Service animals and guide dogs stay with you throughout screening.
Moving into the checkpoint can sometimes feel like stepping on a stage you didn’t audition for – lights, bins, belts and beeps. But screening with a medical device isn’t about doing everything differently, it’s a few small changes designed to keep you comfortable and your device safe.
For more detailed guidance – including CPAPs, feeding pumps, ostomy supplies, prosthetics, hearing devices, and more, visit Accessibility and medical needs.
Need help before you travel?
If you’re unsure about a specific item or need, you can:
- Check CATSA’s What Can I Bring? tool
- Send us a message on X/Twitter or Facebook
- Call our customer service line at 1-888-294-2202, or if you prefer teletype communication, use our TTY service at 1-833-339-1021
We’re here to help you confirm before you travel.
Supporting Your Journey
Travelling with medical or accessibility needs shouldn’t add stress to your trip. You bring the essential items you rely on every day, and CATSA’s screening procedures are designed to ensure you can travel with them safely. With a bit of preparation and the right information, you can move through the checkpoint with confidence.