Air Canada Baggage Fees (2026)
Quick summary
Air Canada is Canada's full-service flag carrier with a fare-based baggage system. Following an April 13, 2026 increase, the first checked bag costs CA/US $45 and the second CA/US $60 on domestic and transborder (Canada–U.S.) routes for Economy Basic and Standard fares (taxes can push these to about $54 and $72). A carry-on plus personal item is included on most fares, but Economy Basic tickets on North American routes only include a personal item — no full-size carry-on. Higher fare brands (Flex, Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, Business) bundle one or two free checked bags.
At a glance
🎒 Personal item
One free personal item (small backpack, briefcase, or purse) on all fares, max 43 x 33 x 16 cm (16 x 13 x 6 in). It must fit under the seat in front of you.
🧳 Carry-on
One free standard carry-on (max 55 x 40 x 23 cm / 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in) on most fares, in addition to the personal item. Note: Economy Basic fares booked for travel within Canada and to/from the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean include only the personal item — no full-size carry-on.
Air Canada checked bag fees
| 1st checked bag (Economy Basic/Standard, domestic & transborder) | CA/US $45 |
| 2nd checked bag (Economy Basic/Standard) | CA/US $60 |
| Economy Flex | 1st bag free |
| Comfort / Latitude / Premium Economy / Business | 2 bags free |
| Overweight (23–32 kg / 51–70 lbs) | From CA/US $100 per bag |
🔁 Change & cancellation
Change/cancellation rules depend on the fare brand: Economy Basic is the most restrictive (typically non-changeable/non-refundable), while Flex, Comfort, and Latitude allow more flexibility. All tickets can be canceled for a full refund within 24 hours of booking when booked at least 24 hours before departure. International baggage allowances and fees differ — Air Canada updated international economy bag rules for tickets purchased on or after May 14, 2026.
Other common fees
| 3rd checked bag (each) | From CA/US $100 |
| Preferred / extra-legroom seat selection | Varies by route |
| Pet in cabin | CA/US $50–$59 (domestic/transborder) |
How to avoid extra fees
- Check your fare brand before flying — Economy Basic on North American routes gives you only a personal item, so a full-size carry-on or any checked bag will cost extra.
- An Air Canada / Aeroplan co-branded credit card (e.g., the Aeroplan Visa) typically gives the first checked bag free for you and companions, offsetting the annual fee quickly.
- Aeroplan Elite Status members receive free checked bags based on their tier.
- If you only need one checked bag, compare an Economy Flex fare (1st bag free) against an Economy Standard fare plus the $45 bag fee — Flex is sometimes cheaper overall.
Air Canada baggage — FAQ
How much is a checked bag on Air Canada?
As of April 13, 2026, on Economy Basic/Standard fares for domestic and Canada–U.S. routes the first checked bag is CA/US $45 and the second is CA/US $60 (taxes can raise these to roughly $54 and $72).
Does Air Canada Economy Basic include a carry-on bag?
On flights within Canada and to/from the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, Economy Basic includes only a personal item — not a full-size carry-on. Other fare brands include both.
Which Air Canada fares include free checked bags?
Economy Flex includes the first bag free, and Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, and Business each include two free checked bags. Economy Basic and Standard include none.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with Air Canada. Baggage fees and policies change often and vary by route, fare type, and date — always confirm on the airline's official website before booking or flying.