Air Canada Baggage Policy +1-888-839-0502

When preparing for a trip, understanding your airline’s baggage policy is crucial to avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smooth travel experience. If you’re flying with Air Canada, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Air Canada Baggage Policy before you pack your bags. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, in economy or business class, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Air Canada’s baggage rules, fees, allowances, and more.

Overview of Air Canada Baggage Policy

The Air Canada Baggage Policy outlines the rules regarding both carry-on and checked baggage for passengers. It includes dimensions, weight limits, fees, special item handling, and exceptions based on routes and fare types. The policy is designed to streamline the boarding process, ensure safety, and maintain comfort for all passengers onboard.

1. Carry-On Baggage Allowance

According to the Air Canada Baggage Policy, each passenger is allowed one standard carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge. These items must fit within specific size and weight limitations:

Carry-On Bag:

• Maximum dimensions: 55 cm x 23 cm x 40 cm (21.5 in x 9 in x 15.5 in)
  
• Must fit in the overhead bin
  
• No specific weight limit, but you must be able to lift it without assistance
  

Personal Item:

• Maximum dimensions: 33 cm x 16 cm x 43 cm (13 in x 6 in x 17 in)
  
• Examples include a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack
  
• Must fit under the seat in front of you
  

Both items must comply with security regulations, including liquid restrictions. Travelers with infants, medical conditions, or mobility aids may be permitted additional items as part of their carry-on allowance.

2. Checked Baggage Allowance

The Air Canada Baggage Policy varies based on your destination, fare class, and loyalty status. Here’s a general breakdown:

Economy Class (Standard Fare):

• Typically includes 0-1 free checked bags depending on the route
  
• Additional bags incur a fee (usually starting at $30-$50 for the first bag)
  

Premium Economy:

• Usually includes 2 free checked bags
  

Business Class:

• 2 free checked bags are standard
  

Maximum Weight and Size for Checked Bags:

• Maximum dimensions: 158 cm (62 in) linear (L + W + H)
  
• Weight limit: 23 kg (50 lb) for Economy and Premium Economy
  
• Business Class and certain loyalty tiers: Up to 32 kg (70 lb)
  

Always check your booking details or use Air Canada’s online baggage calculator to confirm your allowance.

3. Baggage Fees

If your fare doesn’t include checked baggage, or if you exceed your baggage allowance, fees will apply. The outlines these charges based on:

• Route (domestic, transborder, or international)
  
• Fare class
  
• Loyalty status
  
• Number of bags
  

Sample Fees:

• 1st checked bag: $30 – $50 CAD/USD
  
• 2nd checked bag: $50 – $100 CAD/USD
  
• Overweight bags (23–32 kg): Additional $100 CAD/USD
  
• Oversized bags (158–292 cm): Additional $100 CAD/USD
  

Note: Fees may vary and are non-refundable. Taxes may apply based on the point of purchase.

4. Excess and Oversize Baggage

If your luggage exceeds the standard weight or size limits, you will incur additional charges. As per the Air Canada Baggage Policy, the maximum allowable weight for any one piece of baggage is 32 kg (70 lb), and the maximum dimensions must not exceed 292 cm (115 in) linear.

Not Permitted:

• Items over 32 kg or 292 cm cannot be checked and must be shipped via Air Canada Cargo.
  

5. Special and Fragile Items

Air Canada accommodates a variety of special items, including sports equipment, musical instruments, strollers, and medical devices. The Air Canada Baggage Policy provides specific instructions and requirements for these items:

Sports Equipment:

• Most gear (skis, golf clubs, bicycles) is accepted with size and weight restrictions
  
• May count as one piece of checked baggage
  
• Oversize/overweight fees may apply
  

Musical Instruments:

• Can be carried onboard if they meet carry-on size limits
  
• Larger instruments must be checked or may require a separate seat purchase
  

Mobility Aids and Medical Devices:

• Wheelchairs and mobility aids are carried free of charge
  
• Must notify Air Canada 48 hours before travel for assistance
  

6. Infant and Child Baggage

Air Canada is family-friendly and provides baggage allowances for those traveling with infants or young children.

Infants (under 2 years old, no seat):

• One standard item (stroller, car seat) can be checked for free
  
• A diaper bag is permitted as an additional carry-on item
  

Children (with their own seat):

• Entitled to the same baggage allowance as adult fare
  

The Air Canada Baggage Policy also encourages parents to gate-check strollers for ease of access at arrival.

7. Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage

Despite best efforts, baggage sometimes goes missing. The Air Canada Baggage Policy offers a structured process for reporting and tracking lost or damaged bags.

Steps to Take:

1. Report the issue immediately at the airport’s baggage service desk.
   
2. Complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
   
3. Use the online baggage tracing tool to monitor the status.
   
4. Claims for expenses incurred due to delayed baggage can be submitted within 21 days.
   

Compensation is available for documented losses, subject to limits defined by the Montreal Convention and Air Canada’s conditions of carriage.

8. Tips for Smooth Baggage Handling

To make your travel easier and avoid issues under the Air Canada Baggage Policy, keep these tips in mind:

• Always label your bags inside and out
  
• Use TSA-approved locks
  
• Check in early and confirm baggage fees online in advance
  
• Keep valuables and essentials in your carry-on
  

9. Baggage Policy for Aeroplan Members

Frequent flyers benefit from enhanced allowances. Under the Air Canada Baggage Policy, Aeroplan Elite Status members and Star Alliance Gold members may receive:

• Additional free checked bags
  
• Higher weight limits
  
• Priority baggage handling
  

Your benefits depend on your tier level (25K, 35K, 50K, etc.), so it’s worth checking your member perks before flying.

Final Thoughts on Air Canada Baggage Policy

The is comprehensive and designed to accommodate a wide range of travel needs. Understanding your entitlements based on fare type, route, and loyalty status can save you money and time at the airport. Before heading to the airport, use Air Canada’s website or mobile app to double-check your baggage allowance, pay any fees, and ensure your items comply with the policy.

Whether you’re a casual traveler or a seasoned frequent flyer, knowing the ins and outs of Air Canada’s baggage rules will help make your journey smoother from start to finish.