Air Canada Baggage Policy (2026) — Fees, Limits & Rules
Air Canada allows 1 carry-on and 1 personal item for free on most fares, except Economy Basic which only allows 1 personal item. Checked bags start at $45 CAD/USD for the first bag in domestic and transborder economy.
Baggage Allowance Summary
| Airline | Air Canada (AC) |
|---|---|
| Carry-On | 55x40x23 cm (21.5x15.5x9 in). No weight limit, but must be light enough to store in overhead bin unassisted. |
| Personal Item | 1 personal item: 33x43x16 cm (13x17x6 in). Must fit under the seat in front of you. |
| Checked Bag Allowance | Economy Basic/Standard: 0 bags. Economy Flex: 1 bag (23 kg). Business Class/Premium Economy: 2 bags (32 kg each). |
| First Bag Fee | $45 CAD/USD for domestic/US/Mexico/Caribbean |
| Second Bag Fee | $60 CAD/USD for domestic/US/Mexico/Caribbean |
| Overweight Fee | $100–$120 CAD/USD per direction for bags 23-32 kg |
| Oversized Fee | $100–$120 CAD/USD per direction for bags 158-292 cm linear dimensions |
| Max Weight | 32 kg |
| Max Dimensions | 158 cm linear (L+W+H) |
| Free Bag in Economy | No |
Special Items
Sports Equipment
Most equipment (e.g., ski gear, golf clubs, hockey equipment) is accepted and is usually counted as one piece of the checked baggage allowance. Oversize charges are waived for some items (e.g., hockey/ski bags, golf bags), but overweight charges still apply if the weight limit is exceeded.
Musical Instruments
Can be brought on board as part of carry-on baggage if it meets size requirements. If checked, counts as one piece of baggage towards maximum number of checked bags. Must be properly packed in rigid/hard shell container.
International Rules
For international travel, the fee for a third bag or more increases to $225–$270; however, this higher international rate includes the cost for excess weight or size, meaning no further penalties are added to those specific items.
Tips to Avoid Fees
1. Hold an Aeroplan co-branded credit card to get a free first checked bag. 2. Gain Aeroplan Elite Status or Star Alliance Gold status for extra baggage allowances. 3. Book Economy Flex or higher fares instead of Economy Basic/Standard to get a free checked bag. 4. Check bags at the gate if overhead bins are full (often free).
Unique Nuances
If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you are only charged a single fee rather than two separate penalties. Eligible active and retired Canadian/U.S. military members are entitled to check up to three pieces of baggage (up to 32 kg each) free of charge. Economy Basic fares purchased on or after Jan 3, 2025 only allow 1 personal item (no carry-on) for flights within North America and the Caribbean.