Rules for Carrying Liquids Aboard Flights

What You Can and Can’t Bring

Savvy travellers know that the fastest way to get through airport security is to travel light and to remember the rules on carrying liquids.

The 3-1-1 rule

Travellers are allowed to bring on board liquids with a capacity of 100ml /100 grams or less, which can fit into one clear resealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre. One bag per passenger is permitted. Ditch the drink if there is more than 100ml in the container.

At the screening point

Take your plastic bag out of your carry-on luggage and place it in one of the provided trays.

There are exceptions…

You are allowed to bring more than 100ml of the following: baby formula, baby food, milk or juice (as long as you have an infant under two years of age with you), prescription and essential non-prescription medicines You must declare all such items at security screening and additional screening may be required.

Taking food for the flight?

Solid food is permitted in both checked and carry-on baggage. All liquid food in your carry-on (for example, yogurt, pudding or jam) must be in containers of 100ml or less. All containers must fit in the same clear, closed, resealable 1 litre plastic bag as all other containers of liquids, aerosols or gels you are carrying. Any containers over 100ml should be placed in checked baggage.

Can I bring dry ice? A snow globe? Or Piñatas?

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority website (www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca) has an extensive list of what is allowed and what is not. Dry ice and snow globes get a yes. Piñatas, sadly, are a no. See the list for advice on distress flares, Cheese Whiz or knitting needles.

Featured images: Christian Newtown and Josh Hallett, Atlanta Security Line via Flickr CC BY 2.0