(NC) -- The long awaited March Break is upon us. Whether you are escaping the freezing cold or heading for the slopes, it is best to start your trek on the right foot.

Since this is one of the peak times to travel, fleeing from avoidable predicaments of airport security is crucial to get you on your way. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has these tips to ensure security screening is a breeze:

At home

• Put on comfortable clothes for the big travel day. Avoid large metallic accessories such as metal buckles or shoes with metal arches.

• Pack all liquids, aerosols and gels that exceed 100 ml into your checked baggage. If you are packing liquids 100 ml or less in your carry-on, place them together in a clear and re-sealable 1-litre plastic bag.

• Note that it is acceptable to carry essential non-prescription medications such as cough syrup, eye drops, and contact lens solutions in containers larger than 100ml in your carry-on. Please give these to the screening officer to check separately.

At the airport

• Be prepared and have your boarding pass out and ready to show to the screening officer.

• Transfer the content of your pants pockets in your jacket or carry-on bag.

• Place your jacket in a bin.

• Place your laptop into a bin. Make sure it is removed from its carry-case. All other electronic equipment may be kept in your carry-on.

• Advise the screening officer if any assistance is required throughout the security screening.

Additional travel tips can be found online at catsa.gc.ca, or mobile at m.catsa.gc.ca. You can also follow the organization on Twitter, @catsa_gc.

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