Stress-free Airport Security Travel Tips for Seniors

Written by Travel, Trek & Tour Contributor, February 22, 2018

For many seniors, the arrival of winter means a departure for warmer climates or visits to see family. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) offers some helpful to help you breeze through security at the airport as you start on your trip to the sun.

Keep the 100 mL restrictions in mind. Containers of non-solid food, beverages or personal care products that are 100 mL or less can be brought in carry-on baggage. They must be placed in a one-litre clear and resealable plastic bag. The bag needs to be taken out and placed in a bin for screening. Containers that are more than 100 mL should be packed in checked baggage.

Pack medication in your carry-on baggage. Prescription and essential non-prescription medications are exempt from the 100 mL limit. This includes cough syrup, decongestant spray and contact lens solution. Pills and vitamins can be kept in a day-by-day pill separator. Although not necessary, passengers may also bring supporting documentation like a doctor’s note to present to the screening officer during the inspection.

Wear easy-to-remove outerwear. Outerwear that can be removed and placed in the bins quickly will save you time. To prevent setting off the metal detector, avoid wearing belts with large buckles, clothing with metal snaps, buttons or studs, and limit jewellery to small earrings, watches and rings.

Leave gifts unwrapped. If you’re travelling with gifts, leave them unwrapped in case they need to be inspected.

Look for the family/special needs lane. If you need assistance, look for this special lane, which has larger screening equipment to accommodate items like mobility aids. Screening officers are also available to assist passengers who need more time or help during screening.

You can check CATSA’s website or mobile app for additional information.