Section 1: The 2026 Carry-On Revolution — What You Need to Know

The biggest shift in the Air Canada baggage policy recently involves the “Basic Economy” experience. If you are looking to travel light, you must pay close attention to these 2026 regulations.

1.1 The “Personal Item Only” Rule for Basic Fares

Under the updated Air Canada baggage policy, passengers who purchase an Economy Basic ticket for travel within Canada, to the U.S., or to Sun destinations (Mexico/Caribbean) are restricted to one personal item only.

• Personal Item Dimensions: 33 x 43 x 16 cm (13 x 17 x 6 in).
• The Catch: A standard carry-on bag is not included in this fare. If you show up at the gate with a standard roller bag, the Air Canada baggage policy mandates a gate-checking fee that can reach up to $75.

1.2 Standard Carry-On Allowances

For all other fare classes—including Flex, Comfort, Latitude, and Business—the Air Canada baggage policy allows for one standard article and one personal article.

• Standard Article Dimensions: 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in).
• Weight Limit: While Air Canada does not officially enforce a weight limit for carry-on items, their policy states you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead bin unassisted.

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Section 2: Checked Baggage Breakdown by Fare Class

The core of the Air Canada baggage policy revolves around your ticket type. In 2026, the “piece concept” is strictly enforced.

Fare Class	1st Bag Fee	2nd Bag Fee	Max Weight per Bag
Economy Basic	$35 – $42	$50 – $60	23 kg (50 lb)
Economy Standard	$35 – $42	$50 – $60	23 kg (50 lb)
Flex / Comfort	FREE	$50 – $60	23 kg (50 lb)
Latitude	FREE	FREE	23 kg (50 lb)
Premium Economy	FREE	FREE	23 kg (50 lb)
Business Class	FREE	FREE	32 kg (70 lb)

2.1 International Variations

The Air Canada baggage policy for trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights often includes the first bag for free, even in Standard Economy. However, always check your specific itinerary, as “Basic” international fares may still charge $75–$90 for the first checked item.

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Section 3: Elite Status and Credit Card Perks (The “Black-Hat Mix”)

If you want to bypass the standard costs of the Air Canada baggage policy, you need to leverage the Aeroplan ecosystem.

3.1 Aeroplan Elite 25K Update (Feb 2026)

Effective February 1, 2026, the Air Canada baggage policy for 25K members has shifted.

• New Rule: 25K members now receive one additional free bag on top of their fare’s allowance (capped at 2 bags total).
• Strategy: If you are a 25K member flying on a Basic fare, you now get one bag free instead of two. To get that second bag back, you must hold a premium Aeroplan credit card.

3.2 The Credit Card “Cheat Code”

Holding a co-branded Aeroplan credit card (like those from TD, CIBC, or Amex) is the most powerful way to hack the Air Canada baggage policy. Most of these cards provide the first checked bag free for the cardholder and up to eight companions on the same reservation—potentially saving a family of four over $300 on a round-trip flight.

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Section 4: Special Items — Sports, Music, and Infants

The Air Canada baggage policy is surprisingly accommodating for specialized gear, provided you follow the 2026 registration rules.

• Infant Equipment: If traveling with an infant on your lap, the Air Canada baggage policy allows you to check two items (e.g., a stroller and a car seat) free of charge.
• Sporting Goods: Bicycles, skis, and golf clubs usually count as one “piece” toward your allowance. Note that bicycles often incur a $50 handling fee.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin. For larger instruments, the Air Canada baggage policy offers a 50% discount on a second seat to “occupy” the instrument.

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Section 5: 10 Essential FAQs — Air Canada Baggage Policy

1. What happens if my bag is overweight in 2026?

According to the Air Canada baggage policy, bags between 23kg and 32kg incur an overweight fee of $100–$120 per direction.

2. Can I pay for my bags in advance?

Yes. You can settle your fees via the Air Canada app or website during check-in. This is often $5–$10 cheaper than paying at the airport kiosk.

3. Does the Air Canada baggage policy apply to Air Canada Rouge?

Yes, the policies are identical across Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and Air Canada Express.

4. Are there “Oversize” fees?

Yes. Items with linear dimensions (L+W+H) exceeding 158 cm (62 in) but less than 292 cm (115 in) will be charged an oversize fee of $100–$120.

5. Does Air Canada accept cash for baggage fees at the airport?

No. As of 2026, the Air Canada baggage policy specifies that all airports are cashless for baggage transactions. Credit, debit, and gift cards only.

6. Is there a “Military Discount” for baggage?

Yes. Active and retired members of the Canadian and U.S. military are entitled to up to three free bags (up to 32kg each) under the Air Canada baggage policy.

7. What is the policy for “Gate Checking” bags?

If a flight is full, agents may ask you to gate-check your carry-on for free. However, if you are on a Basic fare and were not supposed to have a carry-on, you will be charged.

8. Can I bring a drone on Air Canada?

Yes, but the batteries must be in your carry-on baggage. The Air Canada baggage policy prohibits lithium batteries in the cargo hold.

9. How does the policy handle connecting flights?

Your baggage allowance is typically determined by the “Most Significant Carrier” or the rules of the first airline you check in with, but on all-Air Canada itineraries, the 2026 rules remain consistent.

10. What if Air Canada loses my bag?

Under the Montreal Convention, you may be entitled to compensation. Always report delayed bags at the “Baggage Service” counter before leaving the airport to trigger the protection under the Air Canada baggage policy.

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Section 6: Conclusion — Pack Smarter for 2026

The Air Canada baggage policy doesn’t have to be a source of stress. By choosing the right fare class, utilizing Aeroplan credit cards, and measuring your bags before you head to the terminal, you can navigate the 2026 landscape with confidence. Remember, the “cheapest” ticket often becomes the most expensive once you add a single suitcase at the airport. Plan ahead, pack light when possible, and always double-check the latest Air Canada baggage policy updates for your specific route.

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