A Parent‑Friendly Guide to Airport Security

Airport security with kids: A parent’s guide to smoother screening in Canada

Travelling with kids can feel like a full contact sport, snacks flying, strollers folding, someone always needing the bathroom at the worst possible moment. And just when you think you’ve got everything under control, you reach the security checkpoint.

But here’s the thing: security screening in Canada doesn’t have to be stressful. When you know what to expect and what you can bring, the whole experience becomes a lot easier for you and your little travellers. This guide walks you through the Canadian rules, step by step, so you can focus on the fun parts of your trip.

Before you leave home: Small steps that make a big difference

Imagine arriving at the airport and breezing through security because everything is exactly where you need it. That’s not luck, it’s preparation.

A few parent-tested tips:

• Keep baby food, formula and medications in an easy-to-reach spot
• Charge tablets, handheld games and phones the night before
• Empty reusable water bottles before heading out
• Pack comfort items and toys at the top of your carry-on
• Double-check for liquids over 100 ml that aren’t exempted

These small steps help you move through security screening with confidence.

Powders and baby formula: What’s allowed at Canadian security checkpoints

If you’re travelling with powdered baby formula or baby powder, you can bring them in your carry-on. Just keep the 350 ml/g limit in mind, roughly the size of a pop can. Anything larger can go in your checked baggage.

Weighted toys or blankets containing granular materials fall under the same rule. It’s a small detail but knowing it ahead of time helps avoid delays.

Baby food, breast milk and liquids: What parents can bring through Canadian security

This is one of the biggest questions parents have, and one of the easiest to answer once you know the Canadian rules.

Exempted liquids for infants and children

These items are allowed in quantities greater than 100 ml and do not need to fit in a 1L plastic bag:

• Liquid formula
• Breast milk
• Baby food and purées
• Medications

To help screening go smoothly:

• Pack exempted liquids where they can be removed quickly
• Label medications with the manufacturer or pharmacy label
• Use gel or ice packs only if they keep these items cold

Toys and electronics: What your kids can bring through Canadian security

Toys for the flight

A favourite toy can make a long journey a lot easier. Most toys are allowed in carry-on bags, with one important exception: Anything that looks like a weapon, even a toy version, must stay home.

Electronics for entertainment

Tablets, handheld games and smartphones are all allowed in your carry-on. Keep them charged and easy to reach; you may be asked to power them on during screening.

What to expect at the Canadian security checkpoint

This is where a little knowledge can make the whole experience smoother.

Look for the Family and Accessible line

Many Canadian airports offer a Family and Accessible line. If it’s available, it’s designed to give you and your family a bit more time and support when going through security screening. Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, it’s a great option.

Walking through the metal detector

• Children who can walk steadily should go through on their own
• If your child isn’t steady yet, you can carry them through

Strollers, car seats and infant carriers

These items are allowed; they just have their own screening steps.

Strollers and car seats:

• These items are allowed.
• Your child can be screened while in the stroller or car seat if needed.

Infant carriers:

• Soft carriers are also allowed.
• You’ll be asked to remove your child from the carrier so the carrier itself can be visually inspected.

Airlines decide whether these items can be brought onboard or must be checked, so check with your airline before travelling.

Not sure what you can bring?

If you’re ever unsure about an item, from snacks to liquids, CATSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool gives quick, reliable answers so you can pack with confidence.

Safe travels and here’s to smoother, easier family adventures across Canada.

---

---