Traveling with carry-on luggage made easy

In times where we are almost constantly on the go, travelling light can be both something of an art form and a necessity. For many business travellers, being able to travel with just carry-on luggage is critical. It can also make life a lot easier for leisure travel as well. In both cases, travelling with carry-on luggage means you have immediate access to all of your luggage and that losses and delays are much less likely.

If travelling with carry-on luggage is new for you, make sure to review the regulations closely or your souvenir boomerang could end up in the trash bin at airport security. It’s worth remembering that the usual banned items such as flammables, firearms, flares and fireworks are among the items banned in carry-on luggage, so be sure to pack with attention and finesse. Government of Canada and airline websites are great places to start when embarking on any type of travel.

Before deciding what to pack, it’s important to know the dimensions for carry-on luggage and hand luggage as outlined by your airline carrier. Air Canada, WestJet and other airlines provide carry-on sizing details on their websites, so know the limitations, otherwise, you may wind up having to do a lot of shuffling when you get to the airport. Don’t forget that handles and wheels are included in the measurements.

A small suitcase that fits within the carry-on dimensions needs to be able to hold both clothing and footwear. To help maximize space, compress or roll your clothes tightly and tuck smaller items into your shoes. Travellers are also permitted an additional hand item such as a purse, small knapsack, briefcase or computer bag. These items are also subject to size restrictions, so be sure to check the details for hand luggage of your chosen airline. Beware that you may be asked to skycheck carry-on luggage if your flight is very full or your luggage exceeds size limits. So, it’s best to carry any valuables you may be travelling with in your hand luggage for safekeeping.

In addition to packing wisely by taking only what you truly need, be aware that carry-on liquids are the downfall of many well-intended travellers. Nothing is more discouraging than having brand new bottles of cologne or luxury shampoo and conditioner be confiscated at security because they are over the allowance. Double-check with the airline as most only allow 100ml or less for liquids. If you are bringing liquids, help make the process go more quickly and smoothly by putting no more than a few items in a clear plastic bag and having them readily accessible for inspection.

Baggage losses or delays are far less likely with carry-on luggage. Just remember where your pieces are stowed in case they aren’t directly overhead or stored as underseat luggage. It’s always a good idea to put an identifying ribbon or belt on your carry-on luggage. Small black suitcases look alike and it’s easy to mistake yours for someone else’s after a long red-eye flight. Travel insurance is a great safeguard for this type of situation that can help travellers get sorted if their luggage is lost or misplaced. Just keep in mind that there are coverage limitations around valuables that are put into checked luggage, so it’s best to keep those items close at hand.

Carry-on luggage is an excellent way to travel if you can make it work. Just be sure to follow the Canadian government and airline instructions closely and you’ll be flying high in no time.

Learn more about travel insurance or get a travel insurance quote online.

The Public Health Agency of Canada still advises against travelling for non-essential reasons. If you are still planning to travel, make sure that you are fully aware of all requirements, before leaving.