Comprehensive Guide to Carrying Allowed and Prohibited Items in Airplane Cabins

For Passengers Flying in Canada and the United States

Guide to Flight Security Rules in Canada and the U.S.

Flight security regulations in Canada and the United States are regularly updated. This guide summarizes the latest official rules and international aviation standards, explaining which items you can bring into the cabin, what is prohibited, and what exceptions exist.

Quick Overview for Travelers:

Most personal items and electronics are allowed in the cabin.
Liquids, gels, and sprays have volume restrictions.
Lithium batteries and power banks are only allowed in carry-on bags.
Firearms, pepper spray, and explosives are strictly prohibited.
Airlines may have separate limits for carry-on size and weight.

Liquids, Gels, and Sprays (100 ml Rule):

Each container must be ≤100 ml.
All containers must fit in a clear, resealable 1-liter bag (provided at airports).
Only one bag per passenger is allowed.
The bag must be screened separately at security.

Exceptions to the Liquid Rule:

Baby formula, breast milk, and baby juice
Essential medications with a prescription
Liquids purchased at duty-free stores

Electronics and Batteries:

Phones, laptops, tablets, cameras are allowed in the cabin.
Large electronics may need to be removed during screening.
Lithium batteries and power banks must stay in carry-on bags.
Damaged or unprotected batteries are prohibited.

Sharp Objects, Tools, and Sports Equipment:

Knives, large scissors, cutting tools, and heavy metal tools are banned.
Sports equipment like baseball bats, hockey sticks, and spears are prohibited.
Small cosmetic scissors may be allowed at the discretion of security.

Firearms, Ammunition, and Self-Defense Sprays:

Firearms and ammunition are strictly prohibited in the cabin.
Self-defense sprays (pepper spray, bear spray, tear gas) are banned in both cabin and checked luggage.
Toy weapons resembling real firearms may also be confiscated.

Medications and Medical Devices:

Prescription medications are allowed in the cabin and exempt from the 100 ml rule.
Keep medications in original packaging with a doctor’s prescription.
Portable oxygen and special medical devices may require airline coordination.

Food Items in the Cabin:

Solid foods are allowed.
Liquids or semi-liquids (soups, yogurt, honey, jams) follow the 100 ml rule unless for infants or medical use.
Certain foods, plants, or animal products may be restricted or prohibited when entering Canada or the U.S.

Differences Between Airlines and Airports:

Airlines may have specific rules for carry-on quantity, weight, or battery/power bank usage.
For connecting flights, third-country rules may also apply.

Items That May Trigger Extra Screening or Confiscation:

Liquids over 100 ml
Damaged or swollen batteries
Items resembling weapons
Unprotected batteries
Any illegal items under Canada/U.S. law

Tips for Faster Security Screening:

Keep liquids bag accessible.
Keep batteries and power banks in carry-on.
Have medications and prescriptions ready.
Prepare electronics for removal.
Pack children’s items separately.

Quick Pre-Flight Checklist:

Check airline rules.
Pack liquids in 1-liter bags.
Keep batteries in carry-on.
Carry medications and medical documents.
Ensure no prohibited items are included.

Exceptions for Infants and Patients:

Infants and patients may carry essential liquids exceeding 100 ml.
Examples: baby formula, breast milk, juice, medical syrups, IV fluids, diabetes solutions.
Quantities must be reasonable for the duration of the flight.
Declare these items at security; they do not need to be in a 1-liter bag.
Concealing these liquids may cause delays or confiscation.

Summary:

Infants and patients are exempt from the 100 ml liquid rule.
Quantities must be reasonable and essential.
Declare all liquids at security.
Carry prescriptions or medical certificates to avoid issues.

This guide helps travelers enter the airport fully prepared, pass security smoothly, and enjoy a stress-free flight.