WestJet Baggage Fees (2026)
Quick summary
WestJet is Canada's second-largest carrier, offering tiered fares from the no-frills UltraBasic up to fully flexible Business. Most fares still include a free carry-on and personal item, but WestJet raised checked-bag fees twice in 2026 (most recently April 23, 2026). Checked-bag prices now vary by fare: the first prepaid bag is roughly CA$40 on Econo and CA$50 on UltraBasic, with higher fees if you wait until the airport. Fees are billed in CAD when booking from the Canadian site and USD from the US site.
At a glance
π Personal item
Free on every fare. One personal item up to 41 x 15 x 33 cm (16 x 6 x 13 in) that fits under the seat in front of you β e.g. a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag.
π§³ Carry-on
Free on every fare except UltraBasic. One carry-on up to 56 x 23 x 36 cm (22 x 9 x 14 in), max 10 kg (22 lb), for the overhead bin. UltraBasic fares on Canada/US routes include only the personal item β a carry-on must be added for a fee.
WestJet checked bag fees
| 1st checked bag β Econo (prepaid) | CA$40 / US$40 |
| 1st checked bag β UltraBasic (prepaid) | CA$50 / US$50 |
| 1st checked bag β at airport | CA$70 / US$70 |
| 2nd checked bag (prepaid) | CA$60 / US$60 |
| 2nd checked bag β at airport | CA$85 / US$85 |
| EconoFlex / Business & up | 1st bag free (varies by fare/status) |
π Change & cancellation
UltraBasic is the most restrictive (changes/cancellations heavily limited or not allowed). Higher fares (EconoFlex, Premium, Business) add free or low-cost changes. All bookings can be cancelled for a full refund within 24 hours of purchase. Always confirm your specific fare's rules at checkout.
Other common fees
| Seat selection | From ~CA$10+ (varies by fare, route, seat type) |
| Overweight bag (23β32 kg) | Additional fee per bag |
How to avoid extra fees
- Prepay your checked bags online via Manage Trips up to 24 hours before departure β airport fees are significantly higher.
- Skip UltraBasic if you need a carry-on; once you add a bag, a higher Econo fare is often cheaper overall.
- The WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard and elite status can waive the first checked-bag fee.
- Book from the site matching your wallet currency β Canadian site charges CAD, US site charges USD.
WestJet baggage β FAQ
Does WestJet include a free carry-on?
Yes, on every fare except UltraBasic. UltraBasic on Canada/US routes includes only a free personal item; a carry-on costs extra.
How much is the first checked bag on WestJet?
As of April 23, 2026, roughly CA$40 prepaid on an Econo fare and CA$50 on UltraBasic, rising to about CA$70 if checked at the airport. Fees are in CAD (Canadian site) or USD (US site).
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
All fares are fully refundable within 24 hours of booking. After that, refundability depends on your fare β UltraBasic and Econo are largely non-refundable, while higher fares offer more flexibility.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with WestJet. Baggage fees and policies change often and vary by route, fare type, and date β always confirm on the airline's official website before booking or flying.