Air Canada Baggage Policy: Complete Guide for Carry-On, Checked, Oversize, and Overweight Rules

Ever been told at the gate that your bag is too big? It’s an uncomfortable moment that can also cost you money. If you are flying with Air Canada, knowing the baggage policy before you pack is the easiest way to avoid last minute stress and unexpected fees. The airline’s rules are clear once you break them down, but they do change depending on your fare type, route, and ticket purchase date. 

This detailed guide answers the most common questions travelers ask about Air Canada baggage. You will learn the exact size and weight limits, how much fees are, what exceptions apply, and how to make sure your luggage passes inspection the first time. You will also see why Bugatti luggage is a perfect match for these requirements.

Air Canada Carry-On Luggage Policy

When traveling with Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, or Air Canada Express, the standard allowance for most passengers is one carry-on luggage item and one personal item.

Some items do not count toward your allowance, including:

• A jacket or coat
• Duty-free purchases
• A diaper bag
• Mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches

If you are seated in a bulkhead seat, you will not have under-seat storage. Both your carry on bag for airplane Air Canada and personal item must be stored in the overhead compartment during take-off and landing.

Air Canada Carry-On Luggage & Personal Item Size Limits 

• Carry-On Luggage Maximum Size: 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in (55 x 40 x 23 cm) — 46 linear inches / 118 cm, including handles and wheels
• Personal Item Maximum Size: 17 x 13 x 6 in (43 x 33 x 16 cm) — 36 linear inches / 92 cm
• Weight Limit: No official weight restriction, but you must be able to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin without assistance

Does Air Canada Have Special Carry-On Rules for Economy Basic Fares?

Yes and they are important to know. For Economy Basic fares purchased on or after January 3, 2025, the allowance changes for certain routes. If you are flying within Canada, to or from the United States (including Hawaii and Puerto Rico), or to or from Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, you are permitted only one personal item. In other words, you cannot bring a standard carry on bag for airplane Air Canada on board with these fares for these routes. Any extra bag will need to be checked in at the airport and the applicable checked baggage fee will be charged.

This rule does not apply to other destinations. On those flights Economy Basic passengers still have the standard allowance of one carry-on and one personal item. It is a rule that catches many travelers off guard so always double check your fare and route before you pack.

Air Canada Carry On Bag for Airplane Rules

An Air Canada carry on bag for airplane must fit within the stated size limits to avoid being checked at the gate. The airline is strict about compliance, and if your bag exceeds the limit, it will be checked with the applicable fee applied.

At major airports like Montreal (YUL), Toronto (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR), automated, touchless baggage sizers are installed before security. These make it quick to check if your bag fits but also increase the likelihood of enforcement.

Tip: Measure your bag at home including wheels and handles to ensure compliance.

What Is the Air Canada Checked In Bag Policy?

The standard checked in bag Air Canada allowance is a maximum of 158 cm (62 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lb).If your checked in bag is larger or heavier than these limits, additional oversize or overweight fees apply. Bags over 32 kg (70 lb) or 292 cm (115 inches) in total size will not be accepted as checked baggage

How Much Does Air Canada Charge for Checked Bags?

The fees for a checked in bag Air Canada vary by route and fare type. Flights within Canada or Canada–U.S. (excluding Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands)

• Basic & Standard: $35–$42 for the first bag, $50–$60 for the second
• Comfort & Flex: First bag free, second $50–$60
• Latitude: Two bags free

Flights between Canada and the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America

• Same pricing as above

Most Other International Routes

• Economy Basic & Aeroplan Standard Rewards: $75–$90 for the first bag, $100–$120 for the second

Note: Fees are for one-way travel and vary by booking country’s currency and tax rate. Aeroplan Elite, Star Alliance Gold, and military passengers may receive free checked bags.

What Are Air Canada’s Oversize and Overweight Baggage Fees?

If your checked in bag Air Canada is larger or heavier than the standard limit you will be charged additional fees. Bags weighing between 24 kg and 32 kg are considered overweight and will incur a fee of at least $100 CAD/USD per bag. Bags measuring between 160 cm and 292 cm in total dimensions are considered oversize and will also incur a fee of at least $100 CAD/USD. If your bag is both overweight and oversize you will need to pay both fees. Any bag over 32 kg or more than 292 cm will not be accepted as checked baggage.

How Does Air Canada Handle Sports Equipment and Special Items?

Sports equipment is generally accepted as part of your checked baggage allowance provided it meets the size and weight requirements. This includes items such as skis, golf clubs, fishing rods, hockey equipment, and lacrosse gear. If the equipment is oversize or overweight the relevant fees will apply. Musical instruments can be carried in the cabin if they meet the carry on bag for airplane Air Canada size restrictions or checked if larger.

Small pets may travel in the cabin in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you but space is limited and reservations must be made in advance. Medical oxygen can be brought on board if it meets safety requirements and is approved ahead of time but canned recreational oxygen is prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage

How Can You Avoid Extra Baggage Fees with Air Canada?

Avoiding extra fees starts with preparation.

• Measure and weigh your bags before leaving home. Always include wheels and handles in your measurement.
• Check your fare rules at the time of booking. Economy Basic has stricter carry-on rules for some routes.
• Prepay for checked bags online to save time at the airport.
• Pack light to ensure your carry on bag for airplane Air Canada and checked in bag Air Canada meet weight limits.
• Use Air Canada’s sizers at YUL, YYZ, and YVR before going through security.

Why Is Bugatti Luggage a Perfect Match for Air Canada Rules?

Choosing the right bag is one of the simplest ways to make sure your luggage meets airline requirements. Bugatti carry-on luggage is designed exactly meet the Air Canada’s maximum for a standard carry-on. This means your carry on bag for airplane Air Canada will fit the sizer every time. Bugatti bags are also lightweight, making it easier to lift them into the overhead compartment, and they come with spinner wheels and TSA-approved locks for added convenience and security.

For checked baggage, the Bugatti Berlin Check-In Medium is an excellent option. It measures 26 × 18 × 10.25 inches, with an additional 2 inches of expansion, and still stays within the 158 cm limit even when expanded. Weighing only 4 kg, it leaves plenty of room for packing before reaching the 23 kg weight cap. This makes it an ideal checked in bag Air Canada option for longer trips.

Travel Stress-Free with Air Canada Carry-On Luggage & Checked In Bag

Air Canada’s baggage policy is straightforward once you know the details. Selecting luggage that meets these requirements from the start, such as Bugatti carry-ons and the Bugatti Berlin Check-In Medium, makes sure your carry on bag for airplane Air Canada and checked in bag Air Canada are compliant every time you fly. Always check the latest policy on the Air Canada website before you travel, as fees and rules can change. A few minutes of preparation can save you money, reduce stress, and make your trip as smooth as possible.