CATSA Archives - Listen to Lena

My family is no stranger to airports. In fact, I think of myself as somewhat of an expert on the subject of family travel. Yes, we’ve survived plane delays. Yes, I’ve prepared for mid-flight meltdowns. No, I haven’t figured out how to ditch the kids for a glass of champagne in business class *still working on it*.

Are you travelling over the next few months?

The weather outside may be frightful, but travelling this winter can be delightful! Whether you’re packing for a winter wonderland with the kids or escaping the cold, these tips from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will make airport security a breeze.

Before the Airport

Snowy weather can make getting to the airport a challenge, so make sure to arrive with plenty of time to check in and go through screening. Wait times for major airports are listed on CATSA’s website or CATSA’s app for your convenience.

Remember to put all liquids, aerosols and gels over 100 millilitres in your checked baggage ― only amounts less than 100 ml in a 1-litre clear, re-sealable plastic bag are allowed on-board.

Dress for Success

Though you’ll likely be bundled up for winter weather, remember to put your coat in a bin at the screening checkpoint. Same goes for boots and belts with large buckles.

Bringing the Kids?

Keep them happy by packing their favourite snacks – solid foods like fruit and chocolate are allowed in your carry-on bag. If you are travelling with an infant younger than two years of age (0-24 months), you can bring baby food, milk, formula, water, juice and other baby items in your carry-on bag.

And, look for the Family/Special Needs lane. There is extra space to accommodate larger items like strollers and car seats, and screening officers who offer additional assistance. …

Are you gearing up for a family trip? Flying with family is no simple task. Getting everyone packed, organized and ready to go through security with little fuss can present quite a challenge! Thankfully, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has a few pointers to help make your summer travel experience run smoothly.

Know How to Carry-on: Children get hungry for snacks. You know this and you want to be prepared. Solid foods such as apples, granola bars or sandwiches can be packed in your carry-on for the plane ride, and any liquid food – such as yogurt, pudding or peanut butter – must be in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear, closed, resealable one-litre plastic bag.

catsa_family_1 However, if you’re traveling with a baby (under the age of two), items such as baby food, breast milk, formula, water and juice are exempt from the 100 ml limit and do not have to be placed in a plastic bag. Still, you must present these items to the screening officer for inspection.

Other personal items to keep the kids entertained, like iPods, tablets and toys, can go in your child’s carry-on baggage. Always be sure to leave toys that look like weapons (e.g. water guns, toy grenades, etc.) at home.

Check Wait Times: Preparing for your departure is easier with CATSA’s online wait time indicator. Wait times for security screening checkpoints major airports provide extra convenience when planning your trip. (I check it obsessively before travel! Super convenient.) …

Make Screening a Breeze this Winter

Planning the Perfect Trip: Summer Travel Tips