Nature Escapes

Planning ahead is the first step to a smooth and enjoyable journey outdoors. Follow these quick tips:

• Know what gets packed where: If you aren’t sure what is permitted in your carry-on or checked bag, you can consult our "What can I bring?” tool; a helpful reference when packing. Enter the name of your item in the search box and the results will tell you if the item is permitted, permitted with limits on the quantity you can bring, or not allowed in your carry-on or checked bag. If you cannot find the item, you can contact us with questions through X (Twitter) or Facebook.
• Security procedures: Familiarize yourself with security screening requirements, including regulations for liquids and personal belongings.
• Guidelines for batteries: Most batteries are generally safe for air travel. Infrequently, batteries can short-circuit, overheat and, in some cases, cause sparks or a fire. Our Guidelines for Batteries page is a great source to reference when travelling with batteries, including how to properly pack spare batteries.
• Follow the 100 ml rule for liquids in your carry-on: Pack liquids in containers of 100 ml or less and place them in a 1 L clear, resealable bag. This includes items like perfume, hand sanitizer and small toiletries.
• Create a travel checklist: Our online travel checklist tool (see below) can help you create a personalized list based on your needs and the current security screening regulations.

A little preparation can save time at security. Here's how to get ready: 

• Know the rules: Avoid delays at security checkpoints by packing your carry-on like a pro. Make sure all liquids, aerosols and gels, including sunscreen, vape juice and liquid make-up, are in containers of 100 ml or less and fit in one clear, resealable, 1L plastic bag. Certain items are exempt from these restrictions, but most larger liquids, aerosols and gels need to be packed in your checked baggage.
• Solid food: Solid food items, such as sandwiches and fruit, are permitted in both your carry-on and checked baggage when travelling within Canada. If your destination is outside of Canada, any food not consumed, including food in checked baggage, will be subject to the regulations of the country you are visiting.
• Organize electronics: Pack laptops and other large electronics in an accessible spot for easy removal during security screening.
• Avoid metal items: Limit jewellery to small earrings, watches, wedding bands/engagement rings, eyeglasses and avoid wearing belts with large metal buckles.

Pack light and smart! Items in carry-on baggage that can be spread, sprayed or poured must be in containers of 100ml or less. Pack these items in a 1L transparent, resealable bag.

• Limit inorganic powders to 350 ml in your carry-on: Keep in mind that the total combined quantity should be 350 ml or less/passenger (roughly the size of a soda can). This includes items like sand, bath salts and baby powder. Additionally, CATSA recommends avoiding metal-lined containers when travelling with powdered baby formula in your carry-on. If you need to bring more than 350 ml of inorganic powders and granular materials, you will need to pack it in your checked baggage.
• 1L LAGs bag: Ensure that liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) are in containers no larger than 100 ml when packed in your carry-on. This includes sunscreen, shampoo and hand sanitizer. All containers must fit in one clear, resealable plastic bag no more than 1L in capacity. The bag must be transparent so screening officers can easily see the contents. Each passenger is allowed a single 1L bag. The approximate dimensions of a 1L bag are 15.24 cm by 22.86 cm (6 in. by 9 in.) or 20 cm by 17.5 cm (8 in. by 7 in.). You will need to take the bag out of your carry-on and place it in a bin for inspection.
• Pack a power bank: Many adventures often involve frequent phone use for navigation, photos and staying connected. A power bank is a great device while on the go, but it should be packed in your carry-on, as there are restrictions on carrying it in your checked baggage.
• Medication: Passengers with medical needs are allowed to bring prescription and essential non-prescription medication through the security checkpoint, including day-by-day pill separators and blister packs.
• Keep essentials handy: Pack travel documents in an easily accessible spot.

When you arrive at the airport, being prepared and aware of security screening procedures can make the experience stress-free.

• Have boarding pass ready: Keep this item easily accessible for quick check-ins at security checkpoints. If you have your boarding pass on your cell phone, make sure your phone is fully charged.
• Empty your pockets: Before arriving at the checkpoint, put your wallet, keys, coins, watch and other small items in your carry-on bag.
• Avoid metal items: Limit jewellery to small earrings, wedding bands/engagement rings, eyeglasses and avoid wearing belts with large metal buckles.
• Your water bottle: If you are travelling with a reusable bottle, make sure it’s empty before going through security.
• Your laptop: Remove your laptop from its carrying case and place it in a bin with nothing on top or underneath. Many laptops look alike, so we recommend personalizing yours by putting a sticker on it or placing another item, like your liquids bag, beside it so you can quickly recognize yours after you are cleared through the security checkpoint.
• Additional screening: If you or your carry-on bag alarm during screening, you may be asked to undergo additional screening. Screening officers are trained to conduct these procedures in the most professional and respectful manner possible. If you have privacy concerns, you can request a private screening room.