When it comes to keeping your baggage on hand while flying, there are several requirements around how much you can bring on board. The trickiest requirements and carry-on standards to understand often involve travelling with liquids in your hand luggage. As airlines continue to raise their rates for checking in luggage, more and more travellers are opting to go carry-on only.

The below dimensions apply for most Canadian airlines where you can typically take two items of carry-on luggage on board. The dimension restrictions include wheels and handles, and your carry-on bag must be light enough that you can place it in the overhead bin without the need of assistance. Your personal item must be stored under the seat in front of you.

Now you know what counts as a carry-on bag, it’s time to talk about liquids. Let’s look at what counts as a liquid when flying as well as some other important questions.

‘Gels’ include non-solid food items and personal care products such as jam, pudding, yogurt, deodorants, and hair gels. ‘Aerosols’ include any hairspray or shaving creams in a spray container. But be sure none of the items fall into the restricted or prohibited items category.

You are only allowed liquids in containers that are 100ml (100grams / 3.4oz) or less. Otherwise, they should be packed with your checked luggage. You are only allowed one quart/litre-sized bag (single, clear, closed and resealable) containing your liquids.

Clear bags are distributed at the security area. If you are packing at home, note that the approximate dimensions of a one litre/quart bag are 15.24cm by 22.86cm (6in. by 9in.) or 20cm by 17.5cm (8in. by 7in.).

Yes - consult the local regulations of the country you are travelling to or from to ensure you follow their carry-on liquid limit. There are often rules that restrict the quantity and type of carry-on liquids. For example, many countries have regulations for food and alcohol.

You can bring solid food items when travelling through airport security in Canada without restrictions, such as fruit, snack bars, and sandwiches. Be sure to double check the rules of the country you are visiting as they may differ.

Prescription and essential non-prescription medicines are allowed on board Canadian flights, as well as liquids and gels for diabetes or other medical conditions. Distilled water for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices are also allowed on board.

If you’re travelling on a Canadian flight with an infant under two years of age (0-24 months), you are allowed to bring more than 100ml of baby food, milk, formula water, and juice (within reason). Breast milk is allowed on board if you’re flying with or without your child.

Gels and ice packs are also permitted to treat an injury, preserve medication or refrigerate baby food and do not count towards your carry-on liquids. Be sure to declare these items at airport security so that your baggage is not flagged.

Duty-free items purchased at the airport that are properly sealed in official security bags and accompanied by a receipt are allowed on board the plane. Duty-free items that have been purchased more than 48 hours before your trip may be confiscated.

You can bring back any number of beverages with 24% alcohol by volume (ABV) or less, or five litres per person of alcoholic beverages between 24% and 70% alcohol by volume (ABV). However, if you’re flying within Canada, all alcohol must be in your checked baggage. Rules vary by country.