Last month, one of our team members got caught off guard flying Porter Airlines from Toronto to Montreal. She booked the Basic fare, thinking, “It’s a short hop — I’ll travel light.” Except… her small roller bag didn’t make the cut. Surprise fee at the gate: $60. Not a great way to start a weekend getaway.
So if you’re flying Porter in 2025 — whether it’s a weekend escape or a work trip — knowing what bags are included (and what’ll cost you) is key. This guide breaks it all down, fare by fare, no guesswork.
Porter Airlines Carry-On Policy (2025)
Porter has two types of carry-on bags:
- A personal item (always free)
- A standard carry-on (only included with certain fares)
What Counts as a Personal Item?
- Size: Max 33 x 43 x 16 cm (13 x 17 x 6 in)
- Weight: Up to 9 kg (20 lb)
- Examples: Small backpack, purse, laptop bag, diaper bag
👉 Every passenger can bring one personal item for free, even on the cheapest fare.
What About a Standard Carry-On Bag?
- Size: Max 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in)
- Weight: Up to 9 kg (20 lb)
- Overhead bin space required
| Fare Type | Personal Item | Carry-On Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | ✅ Included | ❌ Not included |
| Standard | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Flexible | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Freedom | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Navigate | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Ultimate | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
Heads-up: If you booked a Basic fare, you’ll either need to:
- Travel with just a personal item, or
- Add carry-on by purchasing a bundle (Basic Express or Plus Pak)
Checked Baggage Policy on Porter Airlines (2025)
Checked baggage is not included on all fares. Here’s the breakdown:
✔️ Checked Bag Allowance by Fare Type
| Fare Type | Free Checked Bags | Bag Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | ❌ None | — |
| Standard | ❌ None | — |
| Flexible | ❌ None | — |
| Freedom | ✅ 1 or 2 bags | 23 kg (50 lb) each |
| Navigate | ✅ 2 bags | 23 kg (50 lb) each |
| Ultimate | ✅ 2 bags | 23 kg (50 lb) each |
Each bag must be ≤ 158 cm (62 in) in total dimensions (length + width + height).
Checked Baggage Fees (If Not Included)
If your fare doesn’t include checked bags (most don’t), here’s what you’ll pay:
| Bag # | Online | Airport Kiosk | At Gate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Bag | $30–$36 CAD/USD | $35–$50 | $70–$100+ |
| 2nd Bag | $50–$65 CAD/USD | $65–$80 | $100+ |
💡 Pro tip: Pay for bags online when booking to save money. Airport and gate fees are significantly higher.
Overweight or Oversized Bag Fees
| Issue | Fee |
|---|---|
| Overweight (23–32 kg) | $100–$115 CAD/USD |
| Oversized (158–203 cm) | $100–$115 CAD/USD |
| Over 32 kg / 203 cm | ❌ Not accepted |
You’ll only be charged one fee if a bag is both overweight and oversized.
Traveling with Kids or Strollers?
Good news:
- You can bring 1 stroller + 1 car seat free of charge for every child under 2
- These don’t count toward your checked or carry-on allowance
- You can check them at the gate or counter
Real Talk: What Travelers Say About Porter’s Baggage Policy
We’ve heard from dozens of passengers, and here’s what keeps coming up:
- Gate agents are strict on Basic fare carry-ons. If your backpack’s even a bit bulky? Expect a fee.
- Soft backpacks often slide through — as long as they fit under the seat.
- Bundles (like Basic Express) are a smart way to add carry-on + seat selection without breaking the bank.
- No pooling baggage — each traveler’s allowance is separate.
Final Packing Tips from the Jupiter Team
- Flying Basic? Think ultralight. Your personal item needs to carry it all.
- Booked Standard or higher? You’re safe with a roller bag + backpack combo.
- Adding a bag last-minute at the airport? Expect to pay more — sometimes double.
If you’re still unsure, hit us up! The Jupiter team’s helped hundreds of travelers avoid surprise fees and pack smart for Porter flights.
Porter Airlines Contact
| Issue | Best Way to Contact |
|---|---|
| Flight change or urgent booking | Call 1‑888‑619‑8622 (early morning recommended) |
| Porter Escapes vacation bookings | Call 1‑855‑372‑1100 (business hours only) |
| Baggage claim or damaged item | Call 416‑619‑8584 or email ytz.baggage@flyporter.com |
| Lost items | Call 647‑826‑7094 or email lost.found@flyporter.com |
| Accessibility or medical needs | Call 1‑855‑542‑3707 or email disabilityassistance@flyporter.com |
| Quick questions, credits, feedback | Live chat or online form via Porter’s website |
| Public complaints or visibility | DM on Twitter/X or Facebook |
FAQs: Porter Airlines Baggage Policy (2025)
Q: Can I bring a backpack as my personal item?
Yes — as long as it fits under the seat and meets size/weight limits.
Q: What happens if I bring a carry-on with a Basic fare?
You’ll be charged at the gate, often $70–$100+. Avoid this by buying a bundle or upgrading your fare.
Q: Can I pool baggage allowance with my partner or family?
Nope. Porter doesn’t allow baggage sharing across passengers.
Q: Do I get free checked baggage on long-haul or connecting flights?
Only if your fare includes it. For partner/interline flights, follow the rules of the airline operating the first leg of your trip.
Related Links
How to Contact Porter Airlines, Porter Airlines Toronto Office, Porter Airlines Ottawa Office
Need Help With Your Porter Booking?
We’re real travelers at FlightDeskFinder (aka the Jupiter team), and we know Porter’s fare system can be a little tricky. If you want help finding the cheapest baggage bundle before you book — or if you’re staring at your suitcase wondering if it’ll pass — just reach out.
