What You Can and Can’t Take With You
We’ve compiled all the baggage information you need to know before packing, from dimension requirements to fees.The listed prices and allowances apply to economy class fares for major airlines. For excess baggage restrictions and fares, visit individual airlines’ websites.
| Airline | Checked baggage allowance | Max. dimensions (cm) | Weight (kg) | Carry-on allowance(L x W x H in cm) |
| Air Canada | Use their calculator as prices vary | 158 (linear) | 23 | 1 standard (23 x 40 x 55), 1 personal |
| Air Transat | No limit; total must not exceed 20kg | 158 (linear) | 20 | 1 standard (23 x 40 x 51), 1 personal |
| Alaska Airlines | First, $25; Second, $25 | 158 (linear) | 23 | 1 standard (25 x 43 x 61),1 personal |
| American Airlines | First, $25; Second, $35 | 158 (linear) | 23 | 1 standard (23 x 35 x 56),1 personal |
| Delta Air Lines | First, $25; Second, $35 | 157 (linear) | 23 | 1 standard (23 x 36 x 56),1 personal |
| Porter Airlines | First, $25-$35; Second, $35-$45 | 158 (linear) | 23 | 1 standard (23 x 40 x 55),1 personal |
| United Airlines | First, $25; Second, $35 | 157 (linear) | 32 | 1 standard (23 x 35 x 56),1 personal |
| WestJet | First, $25-$29.50; Second, $25-$29.50 | 157 (linear) | 23 | 1 standard (23 x 40 x 55),1 personal |
What is a “personal item”?
Airlines list different objects as examples of personal items, but the general consensus includes:
- Purse
- Briefcase
- Laptop
- Small book-bag style backpack
- Other similar items that do not exceed 91cm (length + width + height) such as a small tote bag or shoulder bag.
Additional items that will be allowed above and beyond the restrictions listed above include:
- Outer garments such as coats/wraps/hats
- Approved safety seat for lap or ticketed child
- Umbrella stroller for lap or ticketed child
- Diaper bag for lap or ticketed child
- Book or newspaper
- Small bag of food that is consumable
- Pillow or blanket
- Assistive devices for passengers such as wheelchairs, walkers and CPAP machines
- Therapeutic oxygen provided by the airline
Featured Image: Jean-Etienne Minh-Duy Poirrier, Multicolor suitcases via Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0
