What to take out at airport security

You’re inching toward the security screening area, watching the person ahead of you unload keys, chargers, snacks, and mystery pocket items into a bin. You wonder if you’re about to do the same juggling act.

The good news? Airport security doesn’t have to feel like a surprise performance. With a quick sense of what goes in the bin, what can stay in your bag, and how the screening process works, you can move through airport security smoothly and confidently.

This guide breaks down exactly what to expect – step by step – so your travel day starts off right.

What to expect when you reach security screening

When you reach the front of the line, everything you’re traveling with will likely require X-ray screening, yes, there are a few exceptions. In some cases, you’ll need to remove specific items from your carry-on or personal bag so the screening officer can get a clear view. Knowing the basics ahead of time makes everything feel easier.

• Outerwear: Jackets, coats, and bulky sweaters come off and go into a bin.
• Pocket items: Keys, coins, and small metal objects can trigger alarms, so empty your pockets before you step forward. Tuck these items into your carry‑on to keep things simple.
• Carry‑on bags: Place your carry‑on and any personal bags directly in a bin. It will go through the X‑ray just like your other items.

These quick steps help keep the line moving and make your screening experience smoother.

What goes in the bin (and why it sometimes changes)

All bags go through screening, no matter the machine. Whether you’re in a line with newer screening technology or one that requires a bit more unpacking, every carry‑on and personal bag still needs to go through the X‑ray. The difference isn’t whether your items are screened, but how they’re screened.

Across Canadian airports, you may notice that security screening looks a little different from one checkpoint to another. That’s because not all screening lines use the same X‑ray machines. Some use newer CT technology that gives screening officers a more detailed view of your bag, while others use standard screening machines that require certain items to be removed.

You don’t need to know the machine type – just follow the signs at the checkpoint or the directions from screening officers. They’ll tell you exactly what needs to come out of your bag.

Here’s how the steps may differ depending on the technology in use.

CT X-ray screening lines – these machines look like large croissants

• Approved liquids, aerosols and gels can stay in your carry-on bag.
• Laptops and large electronics can stay in your bags
• Medical devices may stay in your bag

Non-CT X-ray screening lines

• Approved liquids, aerosols and gels will need to be removed from your carry-on and placed in a bin.
• Remove laptops and large electronics from their cases and place them flat in a bin, with nothing above or underneath.
• Remove the main unit and place it in a bin. Tubing and accessories can usually stay in the case.

Exempted liquids need a separate check

Not everything follows the 100 ml rule, and that’s where exempted liquids come in. These are the items travellers often worry about – medications, breast milk, baby formula, or distilled water for a CPAP machine. The good news is they’re allowed in quantities greater than 100 ml.

They do, however, need a moment in the bin so screening officers can verify them. Simply remove these items from your carry‑on and place them in a bin for separate screening. It’s routine, fast, and ensures you can travel with what you need.

A smooth start to your trip

Understanding what needs to come out of your bag, what can stay put, and why the process sometimes varies helps take the guesswork out of airport security. With a little preparation, you’ll move through screening with confidence and start your travel day feeling calm and ready.

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