Navigate Canadian airports like a pro from check-in to boarding, including CATSA security tips
Everything you need to know for a smooth Canadian airport experience
Save time at Canadian airports
Check in online 24 hours before your flight and download your boarding pass to your phone or print it at home.
Navigate security efficiently with complete preparation
CATSA (Canadian Air Transport Security Authority) handles security screening at Canadian airports. Understanding what to expect will help you breeze through the checkpoint.
Document Check
Present your ID and boarding pass to the CATSA officer
Prepare Your Belongings
Remove items from pockets, take off jacket/belt/shoes, place items in bins
Electronics & Liquids
Remove laptops, tablets, and liquids bag from carry-on
Body Scan
Walk through metal detector or stand in full-body scanner
Collect Your Items
Retrieve belongings from X-ray belt and repack at end tables
All liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must follow the 100ml (3.4oz) rule:
Common Liquids/Gels:
Pro Tip: Liquid Exceptions
Prescription medications, baby formula/milk, and breast milk are exempt from the 100ml rule. Notify the screening officer and be prepared to present these items separately.
The following items are NOT allowed in your carry-on baggage:
Sharp Objects
Tools
Sports Equipment
Flammable Items
Important Note
These items can be packed in checked baggage (with restrictions). Visit catsa.gc.ca for a complete list.
Must be removed from carry-on and placed in separate bins:
Can Stay in Bag
Smartphones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, portable chargers, and cables can remain in your carry-on bag.
Allowed
Must Follow Liquid Rule
International Flights
Some countries prohibit bringing certain foods. Check destination country restrictions before packing food items.
Special considerations for families at CATSA security:
Baby Formula & Breast Milk
Exempt from 100ml rule. Notify officer and present separately for inspection. Reasonable quantities allowed.
Strollers
Must be collapsed and sent through X-ray. Children can remain with parent during screening.
Car Seats
Can be carried through security and used on aircraft if child has a reserved seat.
Baby Food & Snacks
Reasonable quantities allowed. Pouches, jars, and containers will be screened.
Prescription Medications
Allowed in reasonable quantities. Keep in original containers with prescription labels. Liquid medications exempt from 100ml rule.
Needles & Syringes
Allowed with supporting medical documentation. Insulin and other injectable medications permitted.
Mobility Aids
Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches can go through security. Screening officers will assist.
Pacemakers & Medical Implants
Inform screening officer before going through metal detector. Alternative screening available.
Carry Documentation
Bring a doctor's note or medical certificate for any medical devices, implants, or large quantities of medication. This speeds up screening.
Skip the regular security lines with expedited screening
NEXUS is a joint Canada-US program that provides expedited processing at airports and land borders:
NEXUS Benefits:
Navigate Canadian terminals easily
Canadian airports like Toronto Pearson and Vancouver have large terminals. Allow extra time to reach your gate.
Board efficiently
Canadian airlines follow zone boarding systems. Be ready when your zone is called.
Stay comfortable at Canadian airports
Canadian airports offer excellent facilities to keep you comfortable during your wait.
Arrive
2 Hours
before departure
Arrive
3 Hours
before departure
Add
30-60 min
during holidays
Bring an empty water bottle through CATSA security and fill it at a water fountain after. Airport water bottles can be expensive, and staying hydrated is crucial for comfortable travel.
Download movies, shows, books, or podcasts before you arrive. Airport WiFi can be slow, and you'll want entertainment ready if there are delays or you're waiting at the gate.