Packing for a trip should be exciting, but the thought of unexpected baggage fees can add stress.
Air Canada’s baggage policy can seem complex, with rules that vary based on your destination, ticket type, and loyalty status. Getting it wrong could lead to costly surprises at the check-in counter.
Air Canada Baggage Policy Summary
This table provides a quick overview of Air Canada’s standard baggage rules. Since allowances can vary, always use the official Air Canada baggage calculator for your specific flight.
| Baggage Type | Allowance & Limits | Typical Fees (CAD/USD) |
| Carry-On | 1 standard item + 1 personal item. Standard: 55x40x23 cm (21.5×15.5×9 in). Personal: 43x33x16 cm (17x13x6 in). | Free for all passengers. |
| 1st Checked Bag | Weight: Max 23 kg (50 lb). Size: Max 158 cm (62 in) linear. Free with Flex, Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, & Business Class fares. | $35 – $42 for Basic & Standard fares on domestic/transborder flights. |
| 2nd Checked Bag | Same weight/size limits. Free with Latitude, Premium Economy, & Business Class fares. | $50 – $60 for most Economy fares on domestic/transborder flights. |
| Overweight Bag | 23-32 kg (51-70 lb). | $100 – $120. Bags over 32 kg (70 lb) are not accepted. |
| Oversized Bag | 159-292 cm (63-115 in) linear. | $100 – $120. |
| Special Items | Varies. Sporting gear (skis, golf clubs) may count as a standard bag. Bicycles incur a special handling fee. | Standard checked bag fees apply unless a special handling fee is noted. Oversize/overweight fees may also apply. |
Free Baggage Allowance: Carry-On & Personal Items
Air Canada’s carry-on policy is generous and applies to all passengers, regardless of their destination or ticket type.
You are permitted to bring two items on board:
One standard article
This is your main carry-on bag, like a roller suitcase or a large backpack. It must fit in the overhead bin.
One personal article
This is a smaller item, such as a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack, which must fit under the seat in front of you.
There are no weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, but you must be able to lift your bags into the overhead bin without assistance.
Checked Baggage: Allowances and Fees
Your checked baggage allowance depends on your fare and destination.
Fees are typically charged for the first and second bags on Economy Basic and Standard fares, while premium fares often include one or two free checked bags.
Standard Checked Bags
A standard checked bag must weigh no more than 23 kg (50 lb) and have maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) of 158 cm (62 inches).
For most domestic and U.S. flights on an Economy fare, expect to pay:
- First Bag: $35–$42
- Second Bag: $50–$60
For many international flights to Europe, Asia, and South America, the first checked bag is often included free of charge, even on Standard fares.
Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
If your luggage exceeds the standard limits, additional fees will apply. These fees are charged on top of any standard bag fees.
- Overweight Fee: A flat fee of approximately $100–$120 applies to bags weighing between 23 kg and 32 kg (51-70 lb).
- Oversized Fee: A flat fee of $100–$120 applies to bags with linear dimensions between 159 cm and 292 cm (63-115 in).
Note that a single bag that is both overweight and oversized will only be charged one fee (the higher of the two, if different).
Bags exceeding 32 kg (70 lb) or 292 cm (115 in) are not accepted as checked baggage.
Exceptions and Special Allowances
Certain travelers and items qualify for special baggage considerations, often providing a more generous allowance.
Military Personnel
Active and retired members of the Canadian and U.S. military are entitled to check up to three bags free of charge, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lb).
Families with Infants
If you are traveling with an infant on your lap, you can check two of the following items for free: a stroller, a car seat, or a playpen.
You can also bring one extra standard article on board for the infant’s belongings.
Sporting Equipment and Special Items
Air Canada allows a wide range of special items, though specific rules apply.
Skis, Snowboards, and Golf Clubs
These often count as one standard checked bag. If they are within the weight limit, no extra oversize fee is charged.
Bicycles
A special handling fee of around $50–$60 usually applies. The bike must be properly packaged in a rigid case.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments can be brought as a carry-on. Larger instruments must be checked and will count toward your baggage allowance.
Always pre-register special items with Air Canada before your flight to ensure they are accepted.
Tips to Avoid or Reduce Baggage Fees
With a little planning, you can minimize or even eliminate baggage costs.
Prepay for Bags Online
If you know you need to check a bag, pay for it on Air Canada’s website or app during check-in. It’s often cheaper than paying at the airport.
Weigh Your Bags at Home
Use a luggage scale to ensure your bags are under the 23 kg (50 lb) limit to avoid expensive overweight fees.
Use an Aeroplan Co-branded Credit Card
Many Air Canada credit cards (like the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card) offer the first checked bag free for the primary cardholder and up to eight companions on the same booking.
Leverage Elite Status
Aeroplan Elite Status members (and Star Alliance Gold members) receive a generous complimentary checked baggage allowance, often including multiple bags with increased weight limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a backpack considered a personal item on Air Canada?
A small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you can be considered a personal item. A larger hiking or travel backpack is your standard carry-on item.
What happens if my carry-on is too big at the gate?
If your carry-on bag exceeds the size limits, you will be required to check it at the gate. This may incur additional fees, especially if you have already used your free checked baggage allowance.
Can I pool my baggage allowance with a travel companion?
No, baggage allowances are individual and cannot be combined or shared between passengers. Each traveler must adhere to their own ticketed allowance.
Plan Ahead for a Smoother Journey
Understanding the Air Canada baggage policy is key to a stress-free start to your trip.
By knowing your allowances, weighing your bags, and taking advantage of loyalty perks, you can avoid unnecessary fees and focus on the adventure ahead.
For the most accurate and personalized baggage information, always consult the Air Canada baggage calculator on their website before you fly.
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.
