Airport security measures are meant to ensure the safety and well-being of all travelers. Yet it often does not always work out that way. According to a report published in the Journal of Air Transport Management, if people perceive a screening measure to be offensive or bothersome, they will invalidate its inherent safety value. Perhaps, then, the best way to prevent just that is to mitigate the chances of someone becoming bothered or offended. To that extent, there are plenty of tips and tricks to make the security process a breeze while maintaining safety as a priority: Stick to the basics Airport security across the nation is handled by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority. To fully expedite the screening process, CATSA suggests the following guidelines:

  • Give yourself plenty of time - As a rule, try to arrive to most airports at least two hours before your flight. Of course, not all airports have the same level of passenger traffic. According to Canadian Geographic, the busiest airports in Canada include Calgary International, Toronto International and Vancouver International.
  • Liquids and gels - Passengers can only carry 100 millilitres or less of each in clear, 1-litre bags.
  • Check bigger items - Whether bulky clothing items, oversized luggage or sporting equipment, these items must always be checked.
  • Think about what you wear - When heading to the airport, it's a good idea to dress lightly. Avoid bulky items and those with cumbersome buttons or snaps.

The CATSA also offers a smartphone app to aid with the screening process. Be aware of travel times Often it's when you travel that effects how long it takes to get through security. According to USA Today, the busiest travel days include:

  • Fridays in June, July and August.
  • New Year's Eve.
  • Easter weekend.
  • Spring break.

According to CTV News, the busiest single day for Canadians is often the Friday before Christmas. In 2014, some 120,000 travelers made their way through Toronto's Pearson International Airport. Go across the border In an effort to save time and money, many Canadians are flying out of U.S. airports, The Globe and Mail reported. In fact, one resident of Ontario bypassed Pearson International Airport, a mere 30 minutes from his house, in order to drive three hours to the less crowded Buffalo Niagara International Airport. And he's not alone: In 2011, a record-breaking 2.3 million Canadians used U.S. airports as their main hub. According to CTV News, heavy government taxation has made Ontario's landing fees, which airports pay, some of the most expensive in the world, and the buck is usually passed on to Canadian fliers. By opting for U.S. airports, Canadians can avoid costly security fees, as much as $17 per international flight, and higher airfare in general. Explore the express options Why it's mostly mandatory to pass through security, there are other options for Canadian fliers. CATSA offers the Trusted Traveler program: Following extensive background checks, fliers that have been deemed low risk can use specially designated security checkpoints. Similarly, the Canada Border Services Agency offers the NEXUS Card, which allows low-risk travelers to jump to the head of the customs line. Even certain airlines are getting involved. According to The Toronto Star, Air Canada was one of the first international providers to offer the expedited screening program PreCheck, which can be used to fly to select U.S. cities.