Air Canada Baggage Policy Explained (2025)

Fees, Carry-On Rules & Checked Bag Tips Travelers Should Know

Let’s face it — nothing messes up your travel vibes faster than unexpected baggage fees or confusion at the check-in counter. If you’re flying Air Canada in 2025, knowing exactly what you can (and can’t) bring on board can save you money, time, and stress.

As someone who flies often — and not always light — I’ve learned the ins and outs of Air Canada baggage rules the hard way. So, here’s a breakdown of what to expect with carry-on, checked bags, and those sneaky little fees, all in plain English.

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✈️ What’s Included for Free?

✔️ Carry-On Allowance

All passengers, regardless of fare class, are allowed the following for free:

Item	Size Limit	Weight Limit
Personal Item	17 x 13 x 6 inches (43 x 33 x 16 cm)	No official limit, must fit under seat
Carry-On Bag	21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm)	Must be light enough to lift into overhead bin

✅ Examples: Laptop bags, purses, small backpacks, totes (personal item) + a small roller bag or duffel (carry-on)

📌 Tip: Gate agents do enforce size rules — especially on full flights — so use a compact bag if you’re cutting it close.

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💼 Checked Baggage Allowance & Fees

Your checked bag allowance depends on your fare type and destination.

Domestic Flights (within Canada)

Fare Type	1st Bag Fee	2nd Bag Fee
Basic	$35 CAD	$50 CAD
Standard	$35 CAD	$50 CAD
Flex	1st bag included	$50 CAD
Comfort	1st bag included	$50 CAD
Latitude / Premium / Business	2 bags included	N/A

U.S. & International Flights

Route	Economy (Basic/Standard)	Flex+ / Premium / Business
U.S. to Canada	$35–$70 CAD	1–2 bags included
Europe / Asia / South America	Varies by route	Often 2 bags included

📌 Tip: Always double-check baggage inclusion on your specific route before booking — even Economy fares vary by destination.

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⚠️ Oversized, Overweight & Extra Bags

Let’s say you’re over the limit — what then?

Situation	Fee (approx.)
Overweight (51–70 lbs)	+$100 CAD
Oversize (max 115 in/292 cm combined)	+$100 CAD
Third Checked Bag	+$100–$225 CAD

⛔ Bags over 70 lbs (32 kg) or 115 linear inches may be refused at check-in, so pack smart.

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🧠 Baggage Tips from a Frequent Flyer

Here’s some hard-earned wisdom to keep your travel smooth:

• Weigh your bag at home — Airport scales don’t lie.
• Print or screenshot your baggage allowance when booking.
• Use Air Canada Baggage Calculator Tool: Link Here
• If traveling with sports gear or musical instruments, Air Canada has special rules — always declare in advance.
• Consider bundling bags at booking — cheaper than adding later.

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🎒 What About Special Items?

Air Canada does allow:

• Strollers & car seats – Free if traveling with a child
• Mobility aids – Always free
• CPAP machines / medical devices – Must fit under seat or be declared
• Pets – Small pets allowed in cabin (fee: ~$50–$100 CAD) or as cargo

🐾 Pet travel is limited, so reserve space early!

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📍 Toronto Pearson Baggage Support (if you need help)

Flying out of or into Toronto? Here’s who to contact for baggage claims or issues:

Contact Option	Info
Baggage Services Desk	Terminal 1, Arrivals Area
Lost Baggage Hotline	1-888-689-2247
Online Claims Form	Submit Here

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🔗 Related Posts You’ll Find Useful

• How to Talk to a Real Person at Air Canada (2025)
• Air Canada Toronto Office – Address & Phone (2025)
• Swoop Airlines Baggage Policy (2025)
• How to Avoid Airline Baggage Fees in 2025

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✈️ Final Thoughts

Air Canada baggage policy is honestly not the worst — as long as you read the fine print and plan ahead. If you’re traveling light, you can often avoid extra fees completely. But if you’re packing heavy or flying long-haul, it pays to check your fare class and prepay if needed.

Hope this post saves you some money (and headaches). Got any packing horror stories or questions? Drop a comment below — I read them all. 👇

🧳 Safe travels — and may your bags always arrive on time.