Planning a trip with Air Canada in 2025? Understanding their baggage policy is crucial for a smooth and budget-friendly journey. This comprehensive guide breaks down all the essential information about Air Canada’s checked baggage fees and allowances, effective January 2025.
Key Changes in 2025
Air Canada’s 2025 baggage policy introduces significant changes, particularly for Basic Economy travelers. Here’s a summary:
- Basic Economy Carry-On Restrictions: For flights within Canada, to/from the US (including Hawaii and Puerto Rico), and to/from Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, Basic Economy passengers will no longer have a free carry-on allowance. Only one personal item (like a purse or laptop bag) will be permitted free of charge. This change does not apply to Basic Economy passengers connecting to international flights.
- Economy Comfort Checked Baggage Perks: Passengers flying Economy Comfort will now enjoy two free checked bags on all worldwide flights.
Understanding Basic Economy Baggage
Starting January 3, 2025, Basic Economy passengers on flights within North America (excluding connecting international flights) will need to pay for carry-on bags. This may likely influence travelers to pack lighter or consider upgrading to a higher fare class.
- Personal Item: One personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag) is permitted free of charge. Air Canada specifies dimensions for personal items, typically around 17 x 13 x 6 inches (43 x 33 x 16 cm), but it’s always best to verify on their official website.
- Carry-on Bag Fee: If you need to bring a carry-on bag, the fee is $35 CAD/USD for the first bag and $50 CAD/USD for each additional bag.
- Checked Baggage Fees: Costs for checked bags may vary depending on the destination. It’s best to consult Air Canada’s baggage calculator on their website for the most up-to-date pricing specific to your itinerary.
Economy Comfort: Baggage Included
For a more convenient travel experience, Economy Comfort now includes two free checked bags on all flights worldwide. This makes Economy Comfort more appealing for travelers who prefer not to deal with carry-on restrictions or prefer to have more luggage with them.
Adding Baggage to Your Booking
Need to add a bag after booking your flight? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Go to AirCanada.com: Visit the official Air Canada website.
- Find “Manage My Bookings”: This section is typically located on the homepage or under a main menu.
- Enter Booking Information: Input your booking reference number (or confirmation code) and last name.
- Select Flight & Add Baggage: Choose the specific flight and click the “Add Baggage” option. Follow the prompts to select the number of bags and make the payment.
Alternatively, you can add baggage at an airport kiosk or the check-in counter, though online is often the most efficient and may offer better pricing.
Tips for Managing Baggage Fees
- Pack Light: The most effective way to avoid checked baggage fees is to pack only essential items. Consider versatile clothing options and travel-sized toiletries.
- Ship Your Luggage: For longer trips or when traveling with bulky items, shipping your luggage directly to your destination may be a cost-effective alternative to checked baggage fees. Compare shipping rates with Air Canada’s fees to determine the best option.
- Evaluate Fare Classes: If you typically travel with checked bags, upgrading to a higher fare class like Economy Comfort, with its included baggage allowance, could be more economical than booking Basic Economy and paying for bags separately.
Aeroplan and Star Alliance Benefits
Aeroplan Elite Status and Star Alliance Gold members likely retain their existing baggage benefits. While these benefits are usually unaffected by general policy changes, it’s always recommended to check the specific terms of your membership program.
Overweight and Oversized Baggage
Expect additional fees for overweight and oversized items. Check Air Canada’s website for specific size and weight restrictions and associated costs, as these can vary and are subject to change.
Staying Up-to-Date
Airline policies can change, so it’s essential to keep yourself informed. Refer to Air Canada’s official baggage policy page (replace with the actual link) for the most current and accurate information before your flight. This guide is intended to provide helpful information, but always defer to the official airline policy in case of discrepancies.
