How Does the Air Canada Baggage Policy Work

Planning a trip with Air Canada? Let's talk about their Air Canada baggage policy because getting this right can save you time, money, and stress at the airport. Air Canada, one of North America's largest airlines, handles over 50 million passengers each year and transports millions of bags with a strong track record for efficiency. In fact, their Air Canada baggage policy is designed to keep things safe and organized, with updates like the 2025 changes for Economy Basic fares ensuring fair access for everyone. Whether you're jetting off on a quick domestic hop or an international adventure, knowing the ins and outs of the Air Canada baggage policy will help you pack smart. I'll walk you through it all, from carry-on rules to checked bags and beyond.

Understanding Carry-On Baggage with Air Canada baggage policy

Let’s start with what you can take into the cabin. Under the Air Canada baggage policy, most passengers are allowed one standard carry-on bag plus one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag under the air canada carry on size guidelines.

However, if you’re flying on an Economy Basic fare purchased after January 3, 2025, and your trip is within Canada or to/from the U.S., Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Central America, or the Caribbean, only one personal item is included under the air canada personal item size. Any additional bag must be checked and may incur fees.

Carry-On Size Limits

• Standard carry-on bag: Up to 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm, including wheels and handles per the air canada carry on size

• Personal item: Up to 43 cm x 33 cm x 16 cm under the air canada personal item size

There’s no fixed weight limit, but you must be able to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin on your own. If your bag doesn’t fit, it will need to be checked and could result in extra charges under the Air Canada baggage policy.

Extra Allowances and Helpful Tips

• Aeroplan Elite members, Star Alliance Gold members, and eligible Aeroplan credit card holders receive the full carry-on allowance, even on Basic fares.

• Traveling with an infant? You’re allowed one additional standard item for baby essentials.

• Liquids must follow security rules: containers of 100 ml or less, packed in a 1-liter clear bag.

For international trips, Economy Basic fares may include the full carry-on allowance on longer routes. Since rules can vary, it’s always best to double-check your ticket details before you pack under the Air Canada baggage policy.

Avoid airport delays by checking in early Learn all Air Canada check in methods including online mobile and airport check in options.

Checked Baggage Rules and Allowances

Now let’s talk about the bags you check in at the airport under the Air Canada baggage policy. Air Canada’s checked baggage rules depend on your fare type, route, and travel class, so it’s best to use the airline’s online baggage calculator for exact details. In general, Basic fares may include no free checked bags, while higher fares and premium cabins offer more generous allowances under the air canada baggage allowance.

Size and Weight Limits:

• Maximum checked baggage size: Up to 158 cm total linear dimensions (length + width + height) per the air canada checked baggage size

• Bags measuring 159-292 cm are considered oversized and incur extra fees

• Standard weight limit: Up to 23 kg per bag for most fares under the air canada checked baggage weight

• Higher limit: Up to 32 kg for Business Class and eligible military travelers

• Bags weighing more than 32 kg are not accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped separately as cargo.

Make your journey more enjoyable Discover what movies shows music and Wi Fi services are available through Air Canada in flight entertainment.

Allowances by Class and Route

• Business Class: Usually includes 2-3 checked bags, each weighing up to 32 kg, especially on international routes under the air canada business class baggage allowance

• Economy fares: May include 1 or 2 checked bags, depending on whether the flight is domestic, transborder, or international under the air canada baggage allowance

• Some routes have special rules. For example, flights from Delhi to Canada follow standard allowances, while seasonal routes like Kingston, Jamaica, allow only one bag per passenger from September to January

Children receive the same baggage allowance as adults when traveling with elite status holders. For infants, strollers and car seats are checked free of charge, with up to two items accepted at the counter or gate.

Quick Overview of Common Limits

Keep in mind, these are general guidelines. Your ticket always has the final say. If you exceed your Air Canada baggage allowance, additional fees will apply, which we’ll explain next.

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Baggage Fees and Extra Charges

No one likes unexpected costs at the airport, so here’s a simple breakdown of Air Canada’s baggage fees under the Air Canada baggage policy. Charges apply per direction and are usually paid in CAD or the local currency.

When Fees Apply

• Extra checked bags: A first additional bag typically costs $75-$100

• Overweight bags (24-32 kg): Fees usually range from $100-$200 under the air canada checked baggage weight

• Oversized bags: Similar fees apply based on route per the air canada checked bag size

• If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you’re charged only one fee, not both

Who May Get Fee Waivers

• Most fares include one free checked bag

• Aeroplan Elite members, military personnel, and Business Class passengers often receive fee waivers or extra allowance under the air canada business class baggage allowance

Payment Tips

• Paying online in advance can save time at the airport

• Many airports do not accept cash, so use a credit card, debit card, or self-service kiosk

Bags weighing over 32 kg or measuring more than 292 cm are not accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped separately through cargo services.

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Booked your ticket with the wrong name Read our detailed Air Canada name change policy guide to understand correction rules fees and eligibility.

Handling Special Items and Restrictions

Traveling with special items? Air Canada allows many of them, but there are specific rules to follow under the Air Canada baggage policy.

Sports Equipment

Sports gear like golf bags or skis counts as one checked bag if it weighs under 23 kg. Oversized items such as bikes or surfboards may incur fees of $50-$100. Using a hard case is recommended to prevent damage under the air canada checked baggage.

Musical Instruments and Hunting Gear

Musical instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit standard size limits or if you purchase an extra seat.

Hunting equipment, including firearms, must be declared, unloaded, and securely packed. A maximum of three firearms per person is allowed, with fees ranging from $50-$150.

Traveling with Pets

Small pets may travel in the cabin or as checked cargo, depending on size and route. Fees apply, so always review Air Canada’s pet policy before booking.Restricted and Prohibited Items

Some items are restricted or not allowed at all:

• Not allowed: Include hoverboards, alcohol with more than 70% content, and specific powders exceeding 350 ml.

• Lithium batteries: Must be carried in the cabin and properly protected

• Prohibited items: Corrosives, explosives, fuel, bear spray, radioactive materials

Item placement rules:

• Carry-on only: Liquids under 100 ml, unused e-cigarettes, spare batteries

• Checked only: Ammunition (up to 5 kg), dry ice (up to 2.5 kg for perishables)

Always double-check restrictions before packing to avoid delays or confiscation at the airport under the Air Canada baggage policy.

Planning to book or manage your flight Read our Air Canada reservations guide for booking changes seat selection and customer support information.

What If Your Baggage Is Delayed or Damaged?

Stuff happens, but Air Canada has processes. For delays, report at the airport or online within hours, get a file number, and track via their app. They'll deliver when found, and reimburse essentials like toiletries (keep receipts, claim within 21 days).

Damaged? Report within 7 days, submit photos and details online. They repair or replace, excluding minor wear. For lost bags, file after 5 days.

Master Air Canada Baggage Rules Today With Flightsquest

Travel smart by checking your Air Canada carry-on size before heading to the airport. Don’t forget the Air Canada personal item size for small essentials. Knowing your Air Canada baggage allowance helps prevent unexpected fees. Business travelers should be aware of the Air Canada Business Class baggage allowance. Pay attention to the Air Canada checked baggage weight limits to avoid extra charges. Ensure your Air Canada checked bag size fits the airline’s requirements. Keep in mind the Air Canada check-in baggage size for smooth processing. Following these tips ensures your Air Canada checked baggage complies with rules and makes your trip easier.

Why wait? Choose Flightsquest for your next Air Canada booking. We take care of the details, so you can focus on enjoying the journey ahead.

FAQs About Air Canada Baggage Policy

Q1. How big can a personal item be on Air Canada?

A personal item may be up to 43 cm wide, 33 cm high, and 16 cm deep, including items like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack.

Q2. How much does it cost for 2 checked bags on Air Canada?

Fees depend on the route and fare. Typically, the first extra bag costs $75-$100 CAD, and the second may cost the same or slightly more.

Q3. How much baggage is allowed in Business Class?

Business Class passengers usually get 2-3 checked bags, each up to 32 kg, with full-size limits, depending on the route.

Q4. What is the Air Canada checked baggage allowance?

Economy travelers can check bags up to 23 kg each; Business and premium classes can check up to 32 kg per bag.

Q5. What is the maximum checked bag size on Air Canada?

The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) can be up to 158 cm. Oversized bags incur additional fees.

Q6. Are liquids allowed in Air Canada carry-on bags?

Yes, liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, all placed in a clear 1-liter bag for security check