WestJet Carry-On Size & Baggage Rules: 2026 Guide

Flying with WestJet soon? Before you pack, check both the dimensions of your luggage and the fare you purchased.

WestJet’s standard fares generally allow one carry-on bag and one personal item, but the airline’s lowest UltraBasic fare has much stricter cabin baggage rules. That means the suitcase itself may fit perfectly while your ticket still does not include it.

Here is a practical overview of the current WestJet carry-on and baggage rules.

WestJet Carry-On Size

WestJet’s maximum dimensions for a standard carry-on bag are:

56 × 23 × 36 cm
22 × 9 × 14 in

WestJet introduced this size standard in 2025 to better align its cabin baggage dimensions with common North American luggage sizing.

The dimensions apply to the full exterior of the suitcase, including the wheels.

When measuring your luggage, check:

• the total height from the bottom of the wheels to the highest point;
• the widest point of the case;
• the full depth of the bag.

If your suitcase has an expansion zipper, measure it in the configuration you intend to bring on board.

WestJet Personal Item Size

WestJet’s Canadian baggage page currently lists the maximum personal item dimensions as:

41 × 14 × 33 cm
16 × 6 × 13 in

A personal item should fit underneath the seat in front of you.

Typical examples can include a compact backpack, purse, laptop bag or similar small item.

Because WestJet’s own regional pages currently show a small variation in the listed depth for personal items, it is a good idea to verify the dimensions shown for your itinerary shortly before departure.

Does WestJet Have a Carry-On Weight Limit?

WestJet does not publish a fixed numerical carry-on weight limit on its current baggage page.

Instead, your carry-on must be light enough that you can place it into the overhead bin without assistance.

That makes the empty weight of the suitcase worth considering.

A lighter carry-on gives you more flexibility when packing and is easier to manage through airports, connections and public transportation.

Do Wheels Count in WestJet Carry-On Size?

Yes.

WestJet specifically states that carry-on items must fit into its sizing device and that the measurement includes wheels where applicable.

This matters especially with spinner luggage.

A suitcase may be marketed as a “21-inch” or “22-inch” carry-on, but the marketing size does not always tell you whether the wheels and handles are included.

Always compare the actual external product dimensions against the airline limit.

Is Carry-On Included with WestJet UltraBasic?

Usually, no.

WestJet’s UltraBasic fare generally includes only one personal item.

A standard carry-on bag is not included and cannot normally be purchased separately.

There are two major exceptions.

UltraBasic passengers may bring one carry-on bag and one personal item when:

• travelling to or from Europe or Asia;
• or when Extended Comfort has been purchased for all flights in one direction, including connections.

If you arrive at the gate with a standard carry-on that is not permitted under your UltraBasic fare, WestJet may require the bag to be checked and may charge both a checked baggage fee and a service fee.

So if you booked UltraBasic, check your exact itinerary before deciding which suitcase to bring.

Which WestJet Fares Include Carry-On?

WestJet currently includes one standard carry-on and one personal item with fares such as:

• Econo;
• Member Exclusive;
• EconoFlex;
• Premium;
• PremiumFlex;
• Business;
• BusinessFlex.

UltraBasic is the main exception.

Because fare products can change over time, always confirm the allowance attached to your booking before departure.

What Happens If Your Carry-On Is Too Large?

WestJet requires cabin baggage to fit within its sizing device.

Items that do not fit may be treated as checked baggage, and applicable baggage fees can be charged.

That is why a suitcase that is slightly below the maximum size can be more practical than one that reaches every dimension exactly.

Overpacking can also change the shape of softer luggage, while an expandable suitcase can become too deep when opened.

WestJet Checked Baggage Size

For standard checked baggage, WestJet currently allows a maximum of:

157 cm / 62 in total linear dimensions

The linear measurement is calculated by adding:

length + width + height.

Bags above the standard allowance may be accepted as oversized baggage, subject to additional restrictions and fees.

WestJet lists oversized baggage as approximately 158–203 cm in combined dimensions.

WestJet Checked Baggage Weight

The standard checked baggage weight limit is:

23 kg / 50 lb per bag.

WestJet may accept heavier baggage for an additional fee, although maximum permitted weights can vary by route.

For example, the airline lists a lower maximum overweight threshold on some flights to and from Europe.

For this reason, it is better to check your route-specific baggage rules before packing close to the limit.

Does WestJet Include Checked Baggage?

The number of checked bags included depends on the fare you purchase.

WestJet’s current fare table shows that:

• UltraBasic generally charges for checked baggage;
• Econo generally charges for checked baggage;
• EconoFlex includes one checked bag;
• Premium, PremiumFlex, Business and BusinessFlex include two checked bags.

Fees can vary by route and fare, so check your reservation rather than relying on a fixed price.

Choosing a Carry-On for WestJet

When choosing a suitcase for a WestJet flight, start with the standard maximum size:

56 × 23 × 36 cm

Then confirm whether your fare includes a standard carry-on.

A good cabin suitcase should:

• remain within the maximum external dimensions;
• include wheels within those measurements;
• be easy for you to lift into the overhead bin;
• provide efficient interior organization;
• avoid becoming oversized when expanded.

Current ÉVORA carry-on options include the Bugatti Oslo Carry-On and Bugatti Hamburg Carry-On.

Before buying luggage specifically for an upcoming flight, compare the product’s listed external measurements against the latest WestJet rules.

Carry-On or Checked Bag for WestJet?

A carry-on may make sense if you:

• are travelling for a short period;
• prefer to avoid baggage claim;
• are making multiple airport connections;
• want to keep your belongings with you.

Checked luggage may be more practical if:

• you need bulky clothing;
• you are travelling for longer;
• you need more shoes or equipment;
• your fare does not permit a standard carry-on;
• you expect to bring purchases home.

For UltraBasic passengers in particular, checked baggage may sometimes be the more realistic option depending on the route.

Before You Fly: WestJet Checklist

Before leaving for the airport:

1. Measure your carry-on.
Include wheels and the full exterior dimensions.

2. Check your fare.
UltraBasic has much stricter carry-on rules.

3. Confirm your personal item dimensions.
Check the current allowance shown for your itinerary.

4. Check your checked baggage allowance.
The number of included bags varies by fare.

5. Recheck WestJet’s rules shortly before departure.
Airline baggage policies can change.

Final Takeaway

WestJet’s standard carry-on limit is:

56 × 23 × 36 cm

and its Canadian baggage page currently lists a personal item limit of:

41 × 14 × 33 cm.

The standard checked baggage limits are:

23 kg / 50 lb

and

157 cm / 62 in total linear dimensions.

But the most important rule to remember is that UltraBasic usually does not include a standard carry-on, except in certain situations such as travel to or from Europe or Asia or when eligible Extended Comfort has been purchased.

Always check both the size of your luggage and the baggage allowance attached to your WestJet ticket before travelling.

Explore ÉVORA Carry-On Luggage →