Air Canada Baggage Policy: Carry-On Size, Weight & Hidden Rules

Air Canada used to be among the most lenient airlines when it came to baggage policy. But this has changed over the years, and now, in 2026, airlines have strict baggage allowance rules. These rules are especially stricter for the basic economy flights. If you want to know more about the Air Canada baggage policy, we are here with the perfect guide for you.

The baggage policy or rules might seem simple. But they have many complexities. There are several hidden conditions, especially when it comes to varying fare types. Travellers often overlook it. This is what causes many inconveniences at the airport, and travellers end up paying the excess baggage fee. In the worst cases, some passengers also have to leave their stuff behind. No one would want that.

Therefore, knowing how strict Air Canada is with carry-on size is one of the most crucial steps of your pre-flight or pre-packing time. In this guide, we will tell you everything that you must know about the Air Canada baggage policy.

Author Bio: This is a guest post from Della Arther, who writes about travel tips and airline policies. Della Arther has a keen interest in helping travelers understand important details before they fly. Through her writing, she shares useful insights on topics like the Air Canada Baggage Policy, including carry-on size, weight limits, and hidden rules, making travel easier and stress-free.

A Quick Overview of the Checked Baggage

Before we discuss the carry-on size baggage in detail, let’s have a quick overview of the checked baggage. The size requirements for a standard checked bag for Air Canada are as follows;

• Max size: 158 cm (62 inches)

• Max weight: 23 kg (50 lbs) 

  
  

For flights within Canada, you don’t get any free bags. You will have to pay a small fee per bag. Only two bags are allowed of the above-mentioned weight and size limits. On international flights, the first bag is usually free. But you will have to pay for the second bag. This rule and the bag cost vary by region, too. 

Air Canada Carry-On Allowance (2026)

As of 2026, most Air Canada passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item on board. This can vary depending on the fare type. Let’s talk about the size limit of both the carry-on bag and the personal item below. 

Carry-On Size Limits

Make sure that your carry-on doesn’t exceed the following dimensions. 

• 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches)

  
  

Many travellers don’t know that these size dimensions also include wheels, handles, and side pockets. 

Personal Item Size

One personal item, such as a laptop, a handbag, or a small bag for essentials, is also allowed for passengers. This personal item must fit in the following size requirements. 

• 33 cm x 43 cm x 16 cm (13 x 17 x 6 inches)

  
  

One thing to keep in mind is that it should fit beneath your seat. In any other case, it will be considered a part of the carry-on baggage. 

Is There a Weight Limit?

One of the most commonly asked questions about Air Canada is whether there is a weight limit. You will be surprised to know that Air Canada doesn’t have a strict weight limit for carry-on bags. If your carry-on bag meets the size requirements and you can lift it into the overhead bin, you are good to go. 

In case your bag is too heavy, the staff will ask you to check it. And one thing that you must keep in mind is that even though there is no specific weight limit, if your bag is too heavy or bulky, it will be flagged at the gate. 

Economy Basic Fare Rule 

At the start of 2025, Air Canada introduced a new rule for the economy basic fare. It is an important rule that travellers often overlook, and it can be very confusing for them afterwards. According to this rule, no carry-on bag is included in the basic economy flight. Only a personal item is allowed. This rule applies to the following routes;

• Canada domestic flights

• U.S. routes

• Mexico, Caribbean, Central America

  
  

You can only bring one carry-on and one personal item if your flight has an international connection. However, if you show up with a carry-on on a basic fare, you will have to pay a hefty gate handling fee.

Hidden Rules Most Travellers Miss

Here are some hidden rules about carry-on baggage that most travellers miss when travelling with Air Canada.

Size Enforcement is Strict 

The airline uses automated baggage sizers at all the major airports. If your bag doesn’t meet the specified size requirements, it will be checked at the gate, and an extra fee will be applied. 

Liquids Rule Still Apply

There has always been a liquid rule that Air Canada and many other airlines follow. According to this rule, no more than 100 ml of liquid per container is allowed on board. It must fit in a clear bag. If it doesn’t fit this rule, it will be confiscated at the airport. 

Extra Items You Can Bring

Some items that you can bring and which don’t count toward your allowance include;

• Jacket or coat

• Duty-free shopping

• Diaper bags

• Mobility aids

• Medical devices 

  
  

Smart Bags and Electronics Rules

You can only carry smart bags if the batteries are removable. And if you have electronic devices like power banks, you cannot put them in the checked baggage. You will have to put it in the carry-on. 

Final Words

Air Canada's baggage policy might look simple, but it has many small rules and requirements that might catch you off guard. It all depends on the fare type and the route. Always ensure that your bag fits in the required size and is not too heavy. It will make your journey much easier and more comfortable. You can also write for us and share your experience to help other Air Canada passengers.