Airlines restrict the weight, size, and contents of the baggage that you may take with you on your flight.  Not all airlines have the same baggage restrictions.  Before you start packing your luggage, check the baggage restrictions for each airline that you will use to ensure that the weight, size, and contents of your baggage meet each airline’s  requirements/restrictions. 

If your baggage exceeds the airline’s weight and/or size limits, you may be charged extra money or you may be required to ship some of your baggage separately.  It can often be less expensive to forward your non-essential belongings by sea or surface mail. 

Regardless of whether you bring your personal items with you or have them sent separately by sea or surface mail, be sure to make a list of all items being shipped (including the item name, description, approximate value, and serial numbers) and retain all waybills of belongings sent in this manner.  You may be required to show this list to a Canada Customs official when entering Canada.

Keep your travel documents, money, credit cards, and other important items with you at all times.  Do not pack them in your check luggage or leave them unattended in your carry-on baggage.