New Air Canada Baggage Rules for Basic and Comfort Fares: What You Need to Know

Air Canada is shaking things up with new baggage and fare policies for Economy Basic and Economy Comfort, set to take effect in early 2025. These changes could reshape how you pack and plan, especially if you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone who prioritizes perks. Let’s dive into the details and how they could impact your next trip.

Economy Basic Baggage Changes

Economy Basic Fares: Key Changes

Starting January 3, 2025, Economy Basic fare tickets will no longer include carry-on baggage for flights within Canada, to/from the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Passengers traveling on these routes will only be allowed to bring one personal item, such as a small backpack, laptop bag, or purse.

If your journey includes an international connection, you’re in luck: you’ll still be permitted to bring one standard carry-on bag and a personal item.

What This Means for You

For domestic and regional travelers needing more than a personal item, this means you’ll have to pay a fee of $35 to check your first bag (or $50 for a second bag). These fees can quickly add up, particularly if you’re trying to travel on a tight budget.

How to Avoid Extra Fees

The good news? There are ways to sidestep these new restrictions:

1. Core Aeroplan Credit Card Holders: If you have a Core Aeroplan credit card, you can save the $35 fee as your first checked bag is free.

2. Premium Credit Card Holders: According to Air Canada’s FAQ, passengers with Aeroplan Premium Credit Cards (Infinite Privilege or Reserve) can still bring a carry-on bag, bypassing this new rule entirely.

3. Mobility and Child-Related Items: Essentials like mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers) and children’s items (strollers, car seats) are exempt, so these items won’t count against your allowance.

Economy Basic Seat Assignment Changes

Effective January 21, 2025, Economy Basic fares will still include complimentary seat assignments at check-in. However, if you want to change your automatically assigned seat to another option, you’ll need to pay a fee.

Air Canada has emphasized that families and passengers needing assistance will continue to be seated together, and traveling companions will also be prioritized where possible. You can make changes online, via the Air Canada app, or at airport kiosks.

Economy Comfort Fares: Enhanced Perks

For Economy Comfort travelers, there’s a perk on the horizon. Tickets purchased on or after January 3, 2025, will come with two free checked bags—an upgrade from the current allowance of one. This benefit applies to all destinations, including international routes, making Comfort fares even more attractive for those traveling with extra luggage.

Is This Good or Bad for Travelers?

The impact of these changes depends on your travel preferences and priorities:

• For Premium Travelers: If you frequently book higher fares or hold eligible Aeroplan credit cards, these updates could be a win. With fewer people traveling with carry-ons, overhead bin space might be less competitive, and premium benefits will continue to shield you from the new restrictions.

• For Budget Travelers: Those who rely on Economy Basic for its low costs may find the new carry-on limits and checked bag fees frustrating. Careful planning and strategic packing will be key to avoiding extra charges.

Final Thoughts

Air Canada’s updated policies aim to streamline fare benefits and encourage passengers to choose options that suit their needs. While these changes may benefit premium travelers and Comfort fare customers with increased allowances, they present challenges for those booking Basic fares on a budget.

If you’re a frequent traveler, consider investing in an Aeroplan credit card to offset fees and maintain flexibility. No matter your fare choice, always review ticket details carefully and plan ahead to avoid surprises at the airport.

Happy travels!