It's the most wonderful time of the year and CATSA is gearing up for the busiest travel period yet! Here are some of our tips to help you breeze through security during the holidays, so you can get on your way, spend time with the ones you love and have a holly, holly holiday!
Have a cup o' cheer
This time of the year wouldn’t be complete without lots of eggnog. However, if you plan to sip a little on the plane, don’t forget about the liquids restriction in carry-on baggage. All liquids, aerosols and gels must be in containers of 100 ml or less and fit comfortably in a clear, resealable 1-litre bag. Lugging home a family-size bottle of holiday cheer? That will have to go in your checked baggage.
Note: The same rule applies to other festive foods such as gravy, cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes.
Spice it up
Have a secret spice blend for your turkey or a dry rub for the pot roast? Perhaps you’re planning on doing some baking and are bringing essentials like baking soda with you. While we’d be absolutely delighted to hear about your secret recipe (we promise we won’t tell anyone), remember that certain inorganic powders are limited to a total combined quantity of 350 ml in carry-on baggage. That’s roughly the size of a soda can.
Don't get wrapped up
Just like you, our screening officers love presents. They just don’t like unwrapping presents that aren’t theirs! But that’s what will happen if they need to take a closer look at your gifts at security. It would be Grinch-like if they had to undo all your hard work.
Pro tip: Bring some wrapping paper with you and wrap the presents after you pass security.
Dress for the occasion
What would this season be without an ugly sweater? Jackets and bulky winter boots have to be removed at security, but the ugly sweater stays on! Toques come off too, but don’t worry – your hair looks swell.
Make a list, check it twice
When it comes to holiday travel, there's no such thing as being over-prepared.
- Search through our What Can I Bring list to see which items you can take with you.
- Create a travel checklist to make sure you've packed everything.
- Check the current security wait times at major Canadian airports and give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, check in and go through security.
- Last, but not least, remember that we are also available on Facebook and Twitter to help make your days merry and bright!