Packing for a trip is stressful enough without having to worry about hidden airline fees or whether your carry-on will fit in the sizer.
If you’re flying with WestJet soon, you might have noticed some changes. From the introduction of the restrictive “UltraBasic” fare to recent fee hikes, knowing the rules before you go is essential.
WestJet Baggage Policy at a Glance
Before you start packing, here are the critical numbers you need to know.
| Bag Type | Max Weight | Max Dimensions | Allowance |
| Personal Item | No limit (must be liftable) | 41 x 33 x 15 cm (16 x 13 x 6 in) | 1 Free (All Fares) |
| Carry-On | No limit (must be liftable) | 53 x 38 x 23 cm (21 x 15 x 9 in) | 1 Free (Econo & above) 0 for UltraBasic |
| Checked Bag | 23 kg (50 lbs) | 157 cm (62 in) total (L + W + H) | Fees apply (unless Flex/Premium) |
Carry-On & Personal Items: What’s Free?
Unlike some international carriers, WestJet does not have a weight limit for cabin bags. However, you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead bin without assistance.
Personal Item (Free for Everyone)
Every passenger, regardless of ticket type, is allowed one personal item free of charge.
- Examples: Purse, laptop bag, small backpack, briefcase.
- Rule: It must fit underneath the seat in front of you.
Carry-On Bag (Fare Dependent)
Econo, EconoFlex, Premium, Business
You get 1 free carry-on bag in addition to your personal item.
UltraBasic Fare
You get zero carry-on bags. You are restricted to one personal item only. If you bring a carry-on to the gate, you will be forced to check it and pay a gate-check fee.
Exceptions: UltraBasic passengers flying to/from Europe or Asia, or those who purchase “Extended Comfort,” are allowed one carry-on.
Additional Allowed Items
In addition to your standard allowance, you can bring the following on board for free:
- Diaper bags (if traveling with an infant)
- Strollers (checked at the gate)
- Medical devices (like CPAP machines)
- Mobility aids (canes, walkers)
- Duty-free merchandise
Checked Baggage Fees
WestJet uses a dynamic pricing model for baggage fees. This means the price you pay depends on when you pay for it.
Important Update: As of September 16, 2025, WestJet increased checked bag fees by approximately $5-6 for most fares.
Standard Fee Structure
- 1st Bag: ~$40 – $59 CAD (Prepaid)
- 2nd Bag: ~$55 – $77 CAD (Prepaid)
- 3rd/4th Bag: ~$100+ CAD
Overweight and Oversized Fees
If your bag exceeds standard limits, be prepared to pay extra. These fees are stackable, meaning if your bag is both overweight and oversized, you pay both fees.
- Overweight (51–100 lbs): $100 – $118 CAD
- Oversized (63–80 linear inches): $100 – $118 CAD
- Note: Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) will not be accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as cargo.
Exceptions & Special Items
Military Personnel
WestJet offers one of the most generous military baggage policies in Canada.
- Active/Veteran Canadian Military: Up to 4 free checked bags on WestJet flights (3 on Encore).
- Benefit: Overweight and oversized fees are generally waived for these bags, provided they don’t exceed the absolute maximum safety limits.
Sports Equipment
Most sporting equipment counts as one piece of checked baggage.
- Golf Clubs, Skis, Snowboards: Standard bag fee applies. Oversize fees are usually waived for these specific items.
- Bicycles: Count as a checked bag plus a $50 handling fee.
- Firearms: Subject to a $50-$59 handling fee and strict packing regulations.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments (violins, flutes) can be your carry-on item if they fit in the overhead bin. For larger instruments (guitars, cellos), you should check them in a hard-sided case.
Note that you generally cannot buy a seat for an instrument on WestJet.
5 Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees
Avoid the “UltraBasic” Trap
While the ticket price looks low, adding a carry-on or a checked bag later often makes it more expensive than a standard Econo fare.
Only book UltraBasic if you can travel with a backpack that fits under the seat.
Get the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
This is the easiest hack for frequent flyers. The primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same reservation get their first checked bag free.
Join WestJet Rewards
- Silver/Gold Members: 2 free checked bags.
- Platinum Members: 3 free checked bags.
Prepay
Never pay for bags at the airport. Adding your bag online 24+ hours before departure can save you up to $20 per bag, per direction.
Pack a “Special” Bag
Traveling with a child? Car seats and playpens can be checked for free.
Need to bring medical equipment? It generally flies free and doesn’t count toward your baggage limit (call ahead to confirm).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does WestJet enforce carry-on sizing?
Yes, strictly. WestJet has metal sizers at check-in counters and boarding gates. If your wheels or handle stick out of the sizer, you will be forced to check the bag and pay a fee.
What is the “UltraBasic” carry-on rule?
UltraBasic fares do not include a carry-on bag or use of the overhead bin. You are allowed one small personal item (purse/laptop bag) that must go under the seat.
If you bring a roller bag to the gate, you will be charged.
Can I pool my baggage allowance with my family?
Generally, no. Baggage allowances apply to the individual. However, if you are traveling on the same reservation, agents are often lenient if one bag is 48 lbs and the other is 52 lbs, but this is not guaranteed policy.
How much does it cost to check a bag at the airport?
Fees vary by route, but expect to pay between $50 and $70 CAD for your first bag if you pay at the airport counter. It is always cheaper to pay online in advance.
What happens if my bag is lost or damaged?
WestJet’s liability for domestic flights is approximately $2,800 CAD. For international flights, it is governed by the Montreal Convention (~1,288 SDR). Always file a report immediately at the airport before you leave the terminal.
Final thought
To save money in 2026, check your specific fare type, measure your bags before you leave home, and always prepay for luggage online.
Ready to fly? Double-check your specific allowance by logging into the “Manage Trips” section on the WestJet website before you head to the airport.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
