WestJet has a pretty clear-cut baggage policy that makes life easy when planning your travels.
Checked luggage is included with some fares, and where this is not included, the first checked bag is a reasonable $30-$35.40 regardless of your destination.
WestJet Carry-On Allowance
1 personal item: FREE
1 standard carry-on bag: FREE
Size Restrictions
- Personal: 16 x 13 x 6 inches (41 x 33 x 15 cm)
- Carry-On: 21 x 15 x 9 inches (53 x 38 x 23 cm)
WestJet does not disclose any weight restrictions and states that the item must be light enough for the passenger to lift into the overhead compartment without assistance.
Lap Infant Carry-On Policy
Stroller Check Policy
- Passengers may check a stroller and/or car seat at the gate.
WestJet Checked Baggage Allowance
Checked bags must adhere to a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) and must not exceed maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (157 cm).
Some fare types include the first or second bag for free, while others will incur a fee:
Fare Type | First Bag | Second Bag | Third Bag | Fourth Bag |
Basic, Econo, or Member Exclusive | $30-$35.40 | $50-$59 | $100-$118 | $100-$118 |
EconoFlex | No fee | $50-$59 | $100-$118 | $100-$118 |
Premium | No fee | No fee | $100-$118 | $100-$118 |
Business | No fee | No fee | $100-$118 | $100-$118 |
Depending on the departure country, fees are charged in either CAD or USD and the additional goods and service tax is applied on all itineraries that originate in Canada.
Excess Baggage Fees
- Oversized bags 62-80 inches (158-203 cm): $100-$118
- Overweight bags 50-100 pounds (23-45 kg): $100-$118*
*To transport bags exceeding this weight, passengers can call WestJet Cargo at 866-952-2746.
For baggage fees related to special luggage (sporting equipment, musical instruments, etc.) please refer to WestJet’s policy here. WestJet also charges a $50 (CAD/USD) handling fee for transporting select sporting equipment and firearms.
Can I Pre-Pay for Baggage?
WestJet allows passengers to pay for baggage when checking in online 24 hours to 60 minutes before a flight.
Here are the ways you can pre-pay:
- Log in to your booking from the “Check-in” tab on the WestJet website
- Use one of the airport kiosks
WestJet does not allow passengers to add baggage by calling their contact center.
Exclusions and Waivers
The following passengers receive free checked bag benefits:
- WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard holders: 1 free bag
- WestJet Rewards Members:
- Silver tier: 2 free bags
- Gold tier: 2 free bags
- Platinum tier: 3 free bags
The free bag benefit applies to the eligible passenger and up to 8 companions on the same reservation (excluding WestJet groups and WestJet Vacations group bookings). The WestJet Rewards ID must be on the reservation at the time of check-in.
Active or Veteran Military Personnel
WestJet permits active or veteran military personnel to bring 4 bags for free if traveling for business or pleasure. When traveling on WestJet Encore the limit is 3 bags. Overweight and oversize charges are also waived, provided they do not exceed the maximum excess allowance.
This applies to Canadian military and active military personnel from other countries who present valid military identification. Some restrictions apply as to who the benefit extends to.
Humanitarian Aid
1 free bag is permitted per passenger carrying humanitarian aid, provided it does not exceed the standard size and weight allowances.
To see more airline baggage fees and policies, click here.
Featured Image Credit:
Shutterstock and WestJet