Flying to School? Student Packing Tips

Alex’s Journey to University: A Student’s Guide to Smart Air Travel

Alex is 19 and headed to London, England for his first year of university. As he prepares to fly from a Canadian airport, he’s focused on making sure he follows airport security guidelines, so his journey is smooth and stress-free. From toiletries to electronics, Alex’s planning sets him up for success, and it can help other students too.

Packing Things You Can Pour, Spread, or Spray (Carry-On Only)

Alex needs to bring full-size toiletries to last through the semester and he puts them in his checked luggage. Because he knows the rules for what goes in his carry-on, he only brings smaller items that he needs during his flight, like hand sanitizer and lip balm. Every item that is considered a liquid, gel or aerosol in his carry-on:

• Is in a container of 100 ml or less
• Fits inside one clear, resealable 1-litre plastic bag

By following this rule, Alex avoids security delays and keeps his travel essentials within reach.

Electronics and Batteries: A Smart Approach

Alex is bringing his laptop, phone, charging cables, and a portable charger. He’s learned that:

• Lithium batteries must be packed in carry-on bags, not checked baggage
• Portable chargers under 100 watt-hours (Wh) are allowed in carry-on
• All electronic devices should be easy to remove for screening

He keeps his tech accessible and protected, and checks CATSA's battery guidelines to stay up to date on the rules.

Snacks and Comfort Food from Home

Alex’s mom packs him some cookies and a few casseroles. He’s excited to bring a taste of home, but he knows that food rules don’t stop at airport security; they also apply upon arrival in the UK.

Here’s how he prepares:

• Solid snacks like cookies and crackers are fine in carry-on
• Liquid or spreadable foods (like soup or yogurt) must follow the 100ml carry-on rule, or go in checked baggage
• Casseroles are best packed in checked luggage as they typically contain sauce (liquids) over 100 ml.

Before flying, Alex checks his destination’s import rules to make sure his food meets entry requirements. He learns that some foods may be restricted. By doing his homework, Alex avoids surprises at customs and gets to enjoy his mom’s cookies without a hitch.

Packing Powders and Granular Materials

From spices to instant coffee, Alex adds a few essentials, but he’s mindful about where they go. Powders and granular materials come with specific guidelines:

• Containers up to 350 ml (roughly the size of a soda can) are generally allowed in carry-on.
• Some powders may require additional screening, and a few could be restricted from carry-on entirely. For anything not needed during the flight, it’s best to place these items in checked luggage.

Customs rules differ by destination, so Alex makes a smart choice, checking ahead with CATSA and his arrival country's guidelines, to help avoid last-minute surprises.

Arrival Time: Don’t Cut It Close

Alex wants zero stress on departure day. His plan is simple and follows airline recommendations:

• Arrive three hours before an international flight
• Arrive two hours before a domestic flight

Getting there early means no racing through terminals or panicking in check-in lines. Alex has time to check in his luggage, navigate security and grab a snack before boarding. He finds a quiet spot at the gate and takes a breath. His university adventure is about to begin, and he’s already ahead of the game.

Confident Start to the Journey Ahead

Alex’s clear understanding of airport security rules allows him to board his flight with ease and excitement. From 100 ml containers to arrival times and battery tips, his planning gives him a confident send-off and offers a great example for other students travelling by air to campus for the upcoming school year.

Additional Resources

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