Westjets Baggage Policy
The WestJet baggage allowance and fees depend on your fare type, whether you’re flying within Canada or internationally. This guide covers westjet baggage rules, westjet airlines baggage policy by cabin class, carry-on size limits, checked bag fees, and overweight or oversize surcharges.
If you’re flying with WestJet soon, you might have noticed some changes. From the introduction of the restrictive “UltraBasic” fare to recent fee hikes, knowing the rules before you go is essential.
Westjets Carry-On Size
Allowed size and weight limits for Westjets carry on baggage.
| Measurement | Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 22" | 56 cm |
| Width | 14" | 36 cm |
| Depth | 9" | 23 cm |
| Weight | 7 kg - 10 kg (15 lbs - 22 lbs) | |
WestJet Baggage Policy at a Glance
Before you start packing, here are the critical numbers you need to know.
| Bag Type | Max Weight | Max Dimensions | Allowance |
| Personal Item | No limit (must be liftable) | 41 x 33 x 15 cm (16 x 13 x 6 in) | 1 Free (All Fares) |
| Carry-On | No limit (must be liftable) | 53 x 38 x 23 cm (21 x 15 x 9 in) | 1 Free (Econo & above) 0 for UltraBasic |
| Checked Bag | 23 kg (50 lbs) | 157 cm (62 in) total (L + W + H) | Fees apply (unless Flex/Premium) |
Connecting Flights & Multi-Airline Trips: If your itinerary involves connecting flights or partner airlines, make sure to check and compare their specific baggage allowances: Vueling Baggage Policy and Wizz Air Baggage Policy.
Carry-On & Personal Items: What's Free?
Unlike some international carriers, WestJet does not have a weight limit for cabin bags. However, you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead bin without assistance.
Personal Item (Free for Everyone)
Every passenger, regardless of ticket type, is allowed one personal item free of charge.
- Examples: Purse, laptop bag, small backpack, briefcase.
- Rule: It must fit underneath the seat in front of you.
Carry-On Bag (Fare Dependent)
Econo, EconoFlex, Premium, Business
You get 1 free carry-on bag in addition to your personal item.
UltraBasic Fare
You get zero carry-on bags. You are restricted to one personal item only. If you bring a carry-on to the gate, you will be forced to check it and pay a gate-check fee.
Exceptions: UltraBasic passengers flying to/from Europe or Asia, or those who purchase “Extended Comfort,” are allowed one carry-on.
Additional Allowed Items
In addition to your standard allowance, you can bring the following on board for free:
- Diaper bags (if traveling with an infant)
- Strollers (checked at the gate)
- Medical devices (like CPAP machines)
- Mobility aids (canes, walkers)
- Duty-free merchandise
Checked Baggage Fees
WestJet uses a dynamic pricing model for baggage fees. This means the price you pay depends on when you pay for it.
Important Update: As of September 16, 2026, WestJet increased checked bag fees by approximately $5-6 for most fares.
Standard Fee Structure
- 1st Bag: ~$40 – $59 CAD (Prepaid)
- 2nd Bag: ~$55 – $77 CAD (Prepaid)
- 3rd/4th Bag: ~$100+ CAD
Overweight and Oversized Fees
If your bag exceeds standard limits, be prepared to pay extra. These fees are stackable, meaning if your bag is both overweight and oversized, you pay both fees.
- Overweight (51-100 lbs): $100 – $118 CAD
- Oversized (63-80 linear inches): $100 – $118 CAD
- Note: Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) will not be accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as cargo.
Exceptions & Special Items
Military Personnel
WestJet offers one of the most generous military baggage policies in Canada.
- Active/Veteran Canadian Military: Up to 4 free checked bags on WestJet flights (3 on Encore).
- Benefit: Overweight and oversized fees are generally waived for these bags, provided they don’t exceed the absolute maximum safety limits.
Sports Equipment
Most sporting equipment counts as one piece of checked baggage.
- Golf Clubs, Skis, Snowboards: Standard bag fee applies. Oversize fees are usually waived for these specific items.
- Bicycles: Count as a checked bag plus a $50 handling fee.
- Firearms: Subject to a $50-$59 handling fee and strict packing regulations.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments (violins, flutes) can be your carry-on item if they fit in the overhead bin. For larger instruments (guitars, cellos), you should check them in a hard-sided case.
Note that you generally cannot buy a seat for an instrument on WestJet.
5 Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees
Avoid the “UltraBasic” Trap
While the ticket price looks low, adding a carry-on or a checked bag later often makes it more expensive than a standard Econo fare.
Only book UltraBasic if you can travel with a backpack that fits under the seat.
Get the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
This is the easiest hack for frequent flyers. The primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same reservation get their first checked bag free.
Join WestJet Rewards
- Silver/Gold Members: 2 free checked bags.
- Platinum Members: 3 free checked bags.
Prepay
Never pay for bags at the airport. Adding your bag online 24+ hours before departure can save you up to $20 per bag, per direction.
Pack a “Special” Bag
Traveling with a child? Car seats and playpens can be checked for free.
Need to bring medical equipment? It generally flies free and doesn’t count toward your baggage limit (call ahead to confirm).
Similar Baggage Guides
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Delta Baggage Policy
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United Baggage Policy
Avoid fees on your flight with United Airlines. View carry-on sizes, checked bag weight limits, and rules.
A stress-free journey begins by reviewing the Westjets Baggage Policy to ensure all carry-on and checked items meet compliance standards. He specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. His work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
