Flying This March Break? Airport Security Tips

If you’re like the thousands of Canadians who will take to the air
for a vacation this spring break, the Canadian Air Transport Security (CATSA)
has advice that will help you go through security in no time! So no matter what age or stage your family may be in, follow these helpful tips to help you pack and breeze through airport security to get your trip off to a great, stress-free start!

Family Friendly Tips

Good news! When you’re travelling with children under the age of
two, you can bring liquids such as milk, breast milk and juice that exceed the
100ml restrictions in carry-on baggage. Just have the containers ready to present
to screening officers for a quick inspection.
For older kids, solid foods such as apples, granola bars and sandwiches
can go in your carry-on without restrictions.

Before you leave for the airport, make
sure everyone is wearing easy-to-remove outerwear and avoid clothes with metal
clasps or snaps that may trigger the metal detector.

At the airport, get boarding passes
ready and check for a Family/Special Needs lane. They offer extra space to
accommodate larger items like strollers and car seats.

Pack Your Sunscreen Properly

Whether you’re heading
for the Caribbean or staying in Canada, sunscreen is a popular must-bring item.
Just don’t get burned at security with an over-sized bottle in your carry-on
bag Small bottles under 100ml are fine,
but bigger bottles need to be packed in your checked baggage.

Check Your Large Sports Gear

Planning to race down a mountain,
brave the waves or challenge the pins? You can bring large sports equipment
like surfboards, snowboards, skis and golf clubs with you on your trip. Just
make sure you check these items in with your airline. If you have questions
about checked baggage restrictions or extra charges, contact your airline before
you travel.

Know The Rules For Duty-Free

Parting with duty-free purchases is no fun. All duty-free liquids,
aerosols and gels (e.g., alcohol, perfume) in your carry-on bags are subject to
screening and must be properly sealed in an official security bag, accompanied
by a receipt. These bags should be provided by duty-free retailers. If you have
a connecting flight in Canada on your return trip, make sure your bag is the
real deal. Even better – place your
duty-free items in your checked baggage.

For more tips to help you breeze through security this spring
break, visit CATSA at catsa.gc.ca, on
Twitter (@catsa_gc) or Pinterest (CATSAGC).

Disclosure: This post was generously sponsored by CASTSA. However, all opinions are 100% mine.