Understanding Air Canada Carry-On Size & Baggage Allowance: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Whether you're flying domestically within Canada or jetting off to an international destination, knowing the air canada carry on size requirements is essential for a smooth travel experience. Air Canada has specific regulations that all passengers must follow, and understanding these rules can help you avoid unexpected fees and delays at the airport. It's particularly important to note that Air Canada introduced a significant change to its carry-on policy in January 2025. Economy Basic fare tickets purchased on or after January 3, 2025, now only include one personal item when traveling within Canada, to and from the United States (including Hawaii and Puerto Rico), and to and from Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. 

Read our blog to know more about the Air Canada carry-on baggage allowance for a smooth journey. 

Standard Carry-On Baggage Allowance

When you travel with Air Canada, you're typically allowed to bring one standard carry-on bag plus one personal item into the cabin. The air canada carry-on baggage size limit is clearly defined to ensure consistency and safety across all flights.​

The carry-on size air canada permits for standard articles is 55 cm (21.5 inches) in height, 23 cm (9 inches) in depth, and 40 cm (15.5 inches) in width. These maximum dimensions include wheels and handles, so make sure to measure your luggage accordingly. Your carry-on bag must fit comfortably in the overhead bin, and importantly, you must be able to lift it into the compartment unassisted.​

In addition to your standard carry-on, the air canada carry on bag size policy allows for one personal item. This personal article can measure up to 33 cm (13 inches) in height, 16 cm (6 inches) in depth, and 43 cm (17 inches) in width. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you and can include items like a briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack, or camera bag.​

Weight Restrictions for Carry-On Luggage

Unlike checked baggage, there is no specific weight limit for air canada carry on luggage size items. However, the airline emphasizes that your bag must be light enough for you to store it in the overhead bin without assistance. This policy ensures passenger safety and helps maintain smooth boarding procedures.​

Additional Items Allowed Beyond Your Carry-On Allowance

Air Canada permits several items in addition to your carry on luggage size air canada allowance. You can bring a coat or other outer garment, a small purse measuring no more than 25 cm x 30 cm x 14 cm (10 inches x 12 inches x 5.5 inches), infant care items such as a diaper bag, and a collapsible stroller with a diameter not exceeding 25.5 cm (10 inches) and length not exceeding 92 cm (36 inches).​

If you're traveling with an infant on your lap, you're permitted to bring one additional standard article specifically for your child's belongings. Parents will also appreciate that child restraint devices are allowed on board if a seat has been purchased for the child.​

Automated Baggage Sizers at Major Airports

To help passengers ensure compliance with the air canada carry on size limit, the airline has introduced automated carry-on baggage sizes at major Canadian airports including Montreal (YUL), Toronto (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR). These touchless machines, located pre-security, provide a quick and easy way to verify that your luggage meets the required dimensions before you reach your gate.​

It's crucial to check your bag size before heading to the airport, as non-compliant baggage will be assessed and subject to applicable checked baggage fees. The airline strictly enforces these carry-on baggage rules to prevent flight delays and ensure everyone's luggage fits safely in the overhead compartments.​

International Flight Considerations

The air canada international carry on size follows the same dimensions as domestic flights, maintaining consistency across all routes. Whether you're flying within North America or to destinations across the Atlantic or Pacific, the standard carry-on dimensions of 55 x 23 x 40 cm (21.5 x 9 x 15.5 inches) apply universally.​

For Star Alliance Gold members traveling across two or more member carriers, you're entitled to two carry-on baggage items on Air Canada flights. However, if you're traveling with airline partners, you may be subject to the baggage policy of the airline operating the first flight in your itinerary.​

Tips for Packing Smart

To maximize your canada air carry on size allowance, consider investing in luggage specifically designed to meet airline dimensions. Many modern carry-on bags are built to fit Air Canada's specifications perfectly, often featuring compartments and organizational systems that help you pack efficiently.

Remember that all food brought on board must be wrapped or in a container. You can bring snacks and meals for your flight, but you cannot consume your own alcoholic beverages on Air Canada aircraft. Liquids and gels must follow the standard aviation security rules, with containers not exceeding 100 mL (3.4 ounces) if carried through security.​

What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Large?

Air Canada strictly enforces its carry-on baggage rules. If your bag exceeds the maximum dimensions, you'll be required to check it at the gate, and additional checked baggage charges will apply. To avoid this situation and any potential delays, always measure your luggage before leaving home and allow extra time at the airport for any necessary adjustments.​

Final Thoughts

Understanding Air Canada's carry-on baggage policy helps ensure a stress-free travel experience. By adhering to the air Canada carry-on size requirements of 55 x 23 x 40 cm for standard articles and 33 x 16 x 43 cm for personal items, you'll breeze through check-in and boarding. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Air Canada flights today with ExperianAirfare now!