Checked In Baggage Information

Checked In Baggage
Information

Understanding Check-In Baggage regulations is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Adequate knowledge of the rules ensures that you can pack your belongings efficiently, avoid unexpected fees, and eliminate unnecessary stress at the airport. 

Furthermore, it reduces the risk of complications due to oversized, overweight, or prohibited items in your luggage.

This page aims to empower Canadian travelers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the often complex landscape of check-in baggage rules, enabling you to enjoy a more seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Check-In Baggage Rules for Major Canadian Airlines

Air Canada

Baggage allowance: one checked bag is allowed. Size restrictions: 62 inches (158 cm) Weight restrictions: Economy Class: 50 lbs (23 kg) Business and Premium: 70 lbs (32 kg) Excess baggage fees: $30 to $225, based on the route and the number of extra bags.

WestJet

Baggage allowance: One checked bag on domestic flights Size restrictions:62 inches (157 cm). Weight restrictions: Economy class: 50 lbs (23 kg). Business class: 70 lbs (32 kg) Excess baggage fees: $100 (between 51 and 100 lbs/23-45 kg)

Porter Airlines

Baggage allowance: one free checked bag on domestic flights Size restrictions: checked bags with a maximum combined size of 62 inches (158 cm) Weight restrictions: Economy class: 50 lbs (23 kg). Business class: 70 lbs (32 kg) Excess baggage fees: $75.

Air Transat

Baggage allowance: Normally, one checked bag is allowed. Size restrictions: 62 inches (158 cm) Weight restrictions: Economy class: 44 lbs (20 kg). Business class: 66 lbs (30 kg) Excess baggage fees: Each extra bag costs $100.

Restricted or Prohibited Items

To avoid complications at the airport, consult your airline's website or contact their customer service to clarify any doubts about restricted or prohibited items before packing.

Sharp Objects

Airports prohibit sharp objects to ensure safety and security, preventing potential harm to passengers and staff during travel.

Certain Liquids or Gels

Airports restrict certain liquids and gels in carry-on luggage due to security regulations, to ensure passenger safety on flights.

Firearms

Firearms are strictly prohibited at airports to ensure passenger safety, adhering to regulations and maintaining a secure environment.

Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are prohibited at airports due to potential fire hazards, ensuring passenger safety during flights and ground operations.

Flammable Materials

Flammable materials are prohibited at airports due to the potential risk of fire, ensuring passenger safety and airport security.

Explosive Materials

Explosive materials are strictly prohibited at airports due to significant safety risks and potential devastating consequences.

Check-In Process

Most airlines offer both online check-in and airport check-in options. Online check-in is typically available 24 to 48 hours before departure and allows passengers to confirm their presence, choose their seats, and sometimes pay for additional services like extra baggage.


Online check-in can save time and streamline the airport experience since passengers can often proceed directly to the baggage drop-off area. Airport check-in usually begins a few hours before the scheduled departure time.


Passengers who have not checked in online must do so at the airport, either at a check-in counter or a self-service kiosk. Airport check-in may require extra time, especially during peak travel, due to potential lines and waiting.

Most airlines offer both online check-in and airport check-in options. Online check-in is typically available 24 to 48 hours before departure and allows passengers to confirm their presence, choose their seats, and sometimes pay for additional services like extra baggage. Online check-in can save time and streamline the airport experience since passengers can often proceed directly to the baggage drop-off area. Airport check-in usually begins a few hours before the scheduled departure time.


Passengers who have not checked in online must do so at the airport, either at a check-in counter or a self-service kiosk. Airport check-in may require extra time, especially during peak travel, due to potential lines and waiting.

Baggage Drop-Off Procedure

After checking in, passengers with checked baggage must proceed to the baggage drop-off area. At some airports, this may involve going to a dedicated counter, while others may have self-service baggage drop-off kiosks. 

 

Be sure to have your identification, boarding pass, and any necessary travel documents ready, as airline staff may need to verify them during this process. Once your bags are tagged and accepted, they will be sent to the aircraft.

Security Screening

After checking in and dropping off your baggage, you must undergo security screening. To expedite this process, ensure your carry-on baggage complies with the airline and security regulations regarding size, weight, and contents.


Prepare by removing any liquids or gels in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less from your carry-on bag and placing them in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. Remove any electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, from their cases and place them in a separate bin.


Additionally, be prepared to remove your shoes, belts, and any metal items like jewelry, keys, or coins. Follow the instructions given by security personnel to ensure a smooth and efficient screening process.

After checking in and dropping off your baggage, you must undergo security screening. To expedite this process, ensure your carry-on baggage complies with the airline and security regulations regarding size, weight, and contents.


Prepare by removing any liquids or gels in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less from your carry-on bag and placing them in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. Remove any electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, from their cases and place them in a separate bin.


Additionally, be prepared to remove your shoes, belts, and any metal items like jewelry, keys, or coins. Follow the instructions given by security personnel to ensure a smooth and efficient screening process.