Packing for a getaway can be overwhelming. If you aren’t sure about what you can take on a plane, you can check the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority website or mobile app. Both feature a “What Can I Bring?” tool to help you identify if an item is permitted in your carry-on, checked bag or what doesn’t fly.
When it comes to packing your must-have electronic devices, the following tips can help you get through airport security screening like a pro.
Check the case
Before you pack your electronic devices make sure they can be easily removed from their cases. If you are asked at security screening to remove the case from your phone or laptop and you can’t, it won’t be permitted through the checkpoint.
Charge your device
You may be asked to show that your device can be powered up. If it cannot be turned on when requested at the security checkpoint, it won’t be permitted in your carry-on.
Leave small electronics in your carry-on
You don’t need to take small electronics out of your bag unless you are asked. Save time and hassle by leaving smart phones, tablets, e-readers and handheld video games in your carry-on bag.
Place large electronics in a separate bin
Larger electronics such as laptops, video game consoles and respiratory devices like CPAP machines need to be removed from your carry-on and placed in a separate bin. Nothing should be placed on top of these items to avoid the need for additional screening.
If you are heading out of the country, seeking some sunshine, or both, here are a few more tips:
Don’t get burned at security. Sunscreen is a popular must-bring item. Like other liquids, aerosols and gels, you can pack your sunscreen in your carry-on luggage as long as it meets the 100 ml rule and can fit into a one-litre plastic bag with your other travel-sized items. Anything larger must go into your checked bag.
Do your due diligence with duty-free. Parting with duty-free purchases is no fun. If you have a connecting flight in Canada on your return trip, all duty-free liquids, aerosols and gels (such as alcohol or perfume) in your carry-on bags are subject to screening and must be properly sealed in an official security bag, accompanied by a receipt. If you can, place your duty-free items in your checked baggage before security. If you can’t, make sure your bag is the real deal when you make your purchase:
Official security bags include these features:
- a checkmark;
- a circular arrow; and
- a red border.
No matter what you plan to pack in your bags before heading to the airport, remember that not everything can fly so it’s always best to know before you go.
