To the point
Air Canada and WestJet, Canada's two major airlines, are increasing baggage check-in fees for their flights by around $5.
A trend is emerging among airlines regarding baggage check-in fees. After American Airlines, United and JetBlue raised their fares in the U.S., Air Canada and WestJet are following suit by also increasing the cost of a checked bag.
Increase in checked baggage fees with Air Canada
For tickets purchased on or after February 28, 2024, the new checked baggage policy applies. This affects tickets in basic or standard economy class for flights within North and Central America (Canada, USA, Mexico, Caribbean, Belize, Costa Rica, Panama).
Fees increase from $30 to $35 for a first checked bag per one-way trip, while fees for a second bag remain unchanged at $50.
Checked baggage fees with Air Canada vary according to fare class, destination and Aeroplan Elite status. A baggage allowance calculator is available here. Here is a table summarizing the various prices and the changes made on February 28, 2024:
| Trip | Basic and Standard Rates | Comfort and Flex | Latitude |
| In Canada |
1st bag: 2nd bag: $50 to $60 |
1st baggage : Free 2nd bag: $50 to $60 |
Two bags free |
| Between Canada and the United States |
1st bag: 2nd bag: $50 to $60 |
1st baggage : Free 2nd bag: $50 to $60 |
Two bags free |
| Between Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean |
1st bag: 2nd bag: $50 |
1st baggage : Free 2nd bag: $50 |
Two bags free |
| Other international flights |
1st bag: $75 (Economy basic fare or Aeroplan standard rewards only) 2nd bag: $100 maximum |
At least one piece of free baggage allowed on all international flights 2nd bag: $100 maximum |
|
How to get a free checked bag with Air Canada
A good way to save on checked baggage fees is to travel light with a carry-on suitcase only. However, this is not possible for everyone or for every type of trip.
In this sense, holding an Aeroplan co-branded credit card is the best way to get a free checked bag on board Air Canada flights. Find all the details and explanations in our guide :
Checked baggage fees increase with WestJet
WestJet’s price increase is almost identical: the cost of a first checked bag is raised from $30 to $35 for travel in North America and the Caribbean.
The new checked baggage policy applies to tickets purchased on or after February 15, 2024. Full details and fees can be found on this page of the WestJet website.
How to get a free checked bag with WestJet
As with Air Canada, WestJet also offers a free first checked bag for WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard holders and up to eight passengers traveling on the same reservation.
Bottom Line
At Air Canada and WestJet, the cost of a first checked bag has been raised from $30 to $35 for most Economy class flights. To avoid these fees when you travel, consider applying for an Aeroplan or WestJet credit card.
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