If you fly within Canada or between Canada and the US, chances are you have compared Air Canada and WestJet at some point. The ticket prices are often close — but the baggage fees can make a huge difference in what you actually pay.
In this guide we break down every baggage fee for both airlines in 2026, including carry-on rules, checked bag costs, overweight fees, and which fare classes give you the best value. By the end, you will know exactly which airline saves you more money for your next trip.
This is where your fare class makes the biggest difference. Both airlines restrict carry-on access on their cheapest fares.
Here is a full side-by-side comparison of checked bag fees for both airlines. All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD).
| Fee Type | Air Canada | WestJet | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Bag (prepaid online) | $38 CAD | $35 CAD | WestJet ✓ |
| 1st Bag (at airport) | $55 CAD | $50 CAD | WestJet ✓ |
| 2nd Bag (prepaid online) | $68 CAD | $60 CAD | WestJet ✓ |
| 2nd Bag (at airport) | $85 CAD | $75 CAD | WestJet ✓ |
| 3rd Bag | $120 CAD | $100 CAD | WestJet ✓ |
| Overweight Fee (23-32kg) | $100 CAD | $75 CAD | WestJet ✓ |
| Overweight Fee (32-45kg) | $200 CAD | $150 CAD | WestJet ✓ |
| Weight Limit | 23 kg (50 lbs) | 23 kg (50 lbs) | Tie |
Both airlines charge significantly more at the airport than online. Here is how much you save by prepaying:
Both Basic fares work fine. Just make sure your bag fits under the seat — Air Canada allows up to 43x33x16cm and WestJet allows up to 41x15x33cm.
Avoid Basic fares on both airlines. Book at least Standard (Air Canada) or Econo (WestJet) to get overhead bin access included. Upgrading your fare is almost always cheaper than paying a gate fee.
WestJet is cheaper across the board. If you are checking one bag, you save $3 prepaid or $5 at the airport. For two or more bags the savings add up quickly.
| Bag Type | Air Canada | WestJet |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-On (overhead) | 55 x 40 x 23 cm | 53 x 38 x 24 cm |
| Personal Item (under seat) | 43 x 33 x 16 cm | 41 x 15 x 33 cm |
The size limits are very similar. Most standard carry-on bags fit both airlines. Use our Size Checker tool to confirm your exact bag dimensions before you fly.
Both Air Canada Business and WestJet Business include 2 free checked bags and full carry-on access. If you fly business class regularly, the baggage fee difference between the two airlines is zero — focus instead on route availability, seat comfort, and lounge access when choosing.
WestJet is the winner on baggage fees in 2026, consistently coming in $3–$20 cheaper per bag than Air Canada across all fare classes and bag counts. For frequent travellers or families checking multiple bags, that difference adds up to significant savings over the course of a year.
That said, Air Canada may still be the better choice if you fly routes WestJet does not serve, need more flight time options, or prefer Air Canada's Aeroplan loyalty program. Always compare the total cost — ticket price plus baggage fees — before booking.
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