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Canada’s flagship carrier implemented significant changes starting January 3, 2025 that caught many travelers off guard. The Air Canada baggage policy now restricts Economy Basic passengers to personal items only on domestic and U.S. routes, while standard fares maintain traditional carry-on privileges. Understanding these distinctions prevents gate surprises and helps you pack appropriately for your flight.
Air Canada Carry-On Baggage Policy Changes
The Air Canada carry-on baggage policy diverges dramatically by fare type. Economy Basic tickets purchased after January 3, 2025 for travel within Canada, to/from the U.S., or to/from Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean exclude carry-on bags entirely, only personal items measuring 43 x 33 x 16 cm (17 x 13 x 6 inches) are permitted.
Standard, Flex, and Premium fares maintain full carry-on privileges: one cabin bag up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches) plus one personal item. Passengers must lift carry-on bags into overhead bins unassisted.
Economy Basic passengers traveling internationally beyond North America and the Caribbean can bring standard carry-ons; the restriction applies only to shorter-haul routes.
Air Canada Personal Item Size
The Air Canada personal item size allows maximum dimensions of 43 x 33 x 16 cm (17 x 13 x 6 inches). Acceptable items include laptop bags, purses, small backpacks, and briefcases that fit under the seat ahead of you.
For Economy Basic passengers on restricted routes, this personal item becomes your only free cabin allowance. Strategic packing becomes essential, compression bags help maximize the limited space.
Air Canada Baggage Policy Economy: Checked Bags
The Air Canada baggage policy economy charges for most checked luggage. Standard economy passengers pay $35 CAD for their first checked bag and $50-55 CAD for the second on domestic and transborder routes.
All checked bags must weigh 50 lbs (23 kg) or less and measure maximum 158 cm (62 inches) in total linear dimensions. Bags exceeding these limits trigger $100-120 CAD overweight or oversized fees.
| Route | First Bag | Second Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Within Canada / Canada-U.S. | $35 CAD | $50-55 CAD |
| International (most routes) | Often included | $100-120 CAD |
Premium Economy and Business Class passengers receive two free checked bags at 70 lbs (32 kg) each.
Air Canada Checked Baggage Fee Exceptions
The Air Canada checked baggage fee doesn’t apply to everyone. Aeroplan Elite Status members, Star Alliance Gold members, and certain credit cardholders receive free checked bags based on tier level.
Canadian and U.S. military personnel with valid ID check three bags up to 70 lbs each free of charge, a valuable benefit for service members traveling on orders or personal trips.
Air Canada Baggage Policy International Routes
The Air Canada baggage policy international often includes at least one free checked bag on longer routes, particularly flights to Europe, Asia, and South America. Economy passengers typically receive one complimentary 23 kg bag, while premium cabins get two bags at 32 kg each.
Verify your specific route using Air Canada’s baggage calculator; allowances vary based on origin, destination, and fare purchased.
Gate-Check Fees for Economy Basic
Economy Basic passengers arriving at boarding gates with ineligible carry-on items face mandatory gate-checking at $65 CAD per item, substantially higher than prepaying $35 CAD for checked bags during booking.
This policy encourages compliance with fare restrictions while penalizing travelers who ignore carry-on limitations.
Avoiding Baggage Fees
Smart strategies minimize Air Canada costs:
- Book Standard or Flex fares when the price difference is less than checked bag fees
- Get an Aeroplan credit card for first bag free (cardholder + up to 8 companions)
- Achieve Aeroplan Elite Status through frequent flying for ongoing free bag benefits
- Prepay bags online rather than at airport counters for lower rates
- Pack carry-on only when traveling on Standard or higher fares
Compression cubes, strategic clothing choices, and wearing bulky items during travel extend carry-on-only trips considerably.
Store Bags During Connections
Exploring Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver during long connections works better without dragging luggage. Radical Storage provides secure locations near major Air Canada hubs for flat daily rates with comprehensive insurance.
FAQs
No, tickets purchased after January 3, 2025, for North America/Caribbean routes include only personal items; carry-ons require checking for fees.
55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches) for Standard fares and above.
$35 CAD first bag, $50-55 CAD second bag on domestic/U.S. routes; international often includes one free bag.
50 lbs (23 kg) in Economy, 70 lbs (32 kg) in Premium Economy/Business Class.
Final Thoughts
The Air Canada baggage policy created distinct passenger experiences through the January 2025 changes. Economy Basic passengers face carry-on restrictions on North American routes, while Standard and premium fares maintain traditional allowances. Understanding fare-specific rules, prepaying bags when necessary, and leveraging credit card or elite status benefits keep costs manageable on Canada’s largest carrier.