Officials have issued new travel advice for Canadians going abroad during March break

If you're jetting off for March break, get ready — airports across Canada are about to be packed with travellers. But don't worry, a little planning can save you from long delays and last-minute stress!

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has issued fresh travel advice to help Canadians get through security smoothly, and you'll want to listen up if you've got a flight booked.

Firstly, don't be that traveller stuck at security, pulling apart their suitcase because they packed something they shouldn't have. The easiest way to avoid this is to check CATSA's "What Can I Bring?" tool before you pack. It'll tell you exactly what's allowed in your carry-on, what needs to be checked, and what's a definite no-go.

For liquids, aerosols, and gels — basically anything you can pour, spread, or spray — each container must be 100 ml or less and fit into a single 1L clear, resealable plastic bag. If it's bigger than 100 ml, it has to go in your checked luggage.

Travelling with family? Each person is allowed their own 1L bag. There are a few exceptions to the 100 ml rule, though. If you're bringing essential medications, whether prescribed or not, or items for a child under two years old, you can pack them in your carry-on — but make sure to declare them at security.

Airports during busy periods like March break can be unpredictable, so CATSA suggests giving yourself as much time as possible to get on that plane. Some days, security lines move fast. On other days, you might feel like you've aged a year by the time you get through. To be safe, arrive early.

Most airlines recommend getting to the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before U.S. and international flights. But during peak times like March break, giving yourself an extra hour or so is a smart move if you want your trip to get off to a stress-free start.

Remember, security isn't the only thing that can slow you down. Traffic, parking, check-in, and even finding your gate can all take longer than expected. Rushing through the airport is not a fun way to start your vacation, so plan accordingly.

When you get to the security checkpoint, have your boarding pass ready to present for verification. If you're juggling a bunch of small items like keys, coins, or jewellery, stash them in a jacket pocket or inside your carry-on to avoid losing them in the bins.

If you're picking up any duty-free goodies, make sure you follow the rules, especially if you have a connecting flight in Canada.
Your duty-free purchases must be sealed in an official security bag and include an itemized receipt. To avoid any issues, check that your bag has these required security features: a checkmark, a circular arrow, and a red border.

If your items aren't packed properly, they could be confiscated at security, and that's not the kind of souvenir you want from your trip.

Last month, the Government of Canada shared their own set of important travel tips for anyone heading abroad this winter, and if you're travelling for March break, you'll definitely want to take note.

One of the biggest reminders? Check your passport's expiration date well before your trip. Some countries won't let you in if it's set to expire within six months of your travel date, and the last thing you want is to be turned away at the airport.

It's also a good idea to sign up for flight alerts from your airline so you're aware of any delays or changes.

If you're heading out of the country, consider registering your trip with the Government of Canada to receive important safety updates while you're away. Make sure to check the latest travel advisories for your destination, too, since they provide key information on safety, health risks, and entry requirements.

And, just in case, keep both digital and paper copies of your travel documents, including your passport, travel insurance, and itinerary. You never know when you might need them.

Safe travels, Canada!

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