Swoop is a low-cost Canadian airline that has been gaining popularity among budget travelers in recent years.
But one of the most important things to consider before flying with Swoop is their personal item policy.
So how strict is Swoop with its personal item, and what should you expect at the airport if you show up with a large personal item?
This post, covers how strict Swoop is with its luggage policies in general and its personal item policy specifically, so you won’t need to worry about any surprises at the airport.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
- Swoop allows 1 personal item (41 × 15 × 33 cm) for free and 1 carry-on (52 × 23 × 38 cm) for a fee.
- Personal items must fit under the seat — like a laptop bag, small backpack, purse, or briefcase.
- On busy flights, carry-ons may be gate-checked, so keep essentials in your personal item.
- Slightly oversized personal items may pass, but larger ones will count as carry-ons and may incur fees.
- Best strategy: use a compliant personal item or pay for a carry-on in advance to avoid extra charges.
Please note that Swoop ceased its operations in October 28, 2023, and re-integrated into WestJet.
How Strict Is Swoop’s Personal Item Policy?
What to Carry on Board the Airplane?
I have already covered all the airline baggage allowances here, but here is an overview of Swoop’s carry-on baggage policy.
Swoop Airlines guests are allowed to take on board one personal item and one piece of carry-on baggage, with applicable fees for the carry-on bag.
Please note that the carry-on must fit into the luggage sizer device and must not exceed the maximum dimensions of 52 cm x 23 cm x 38 cm (21” x 9” x 15”).
Bag charges increase the closer you get to your departure date. An additional $10 will be added to all bag prices at check-in, and $20 will be added to all bag fees if purchased at the airport.
The best prices are always available at initial booking.
Personal Item
In addition to your carry-on baggage, you are also allowed to bring on board one personal item free of charge, with maximum dimensions of 41 cm x 15 cm x 33 cm (16” x 6” x 13”).
The personal item can be one of the following:
- Purses
- Laptop bags
- Briefcases
- Small backpacks
- Tote bags
How Strict Is Swoop With Personal Items?
Swoop’s personal item policy is straightforward, but enforcement can vary. There is a higher chance that the airline staff will be strict with luggage on busy flights.
Some passengers claim to have brought slightly oversized personal items without issue, while others have had to pay additional fees or even check their bags.
You will have a better chance of getting away with a slightly larger bag if it is a soft-sided bag or a duffle bag that can be squished into the luggage sizer.
That being said, I recommend using a fully compliant personal item. If you need more room, you can pay for a carry-on bag that fits in the overhead compartment.
Swoop Carry-On Bag Fees
| Flights | Online | Check-In | At the Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Distance (less than 1000 km) | $36.75 | $47.25 | $57.75 |
| Medium Distance (1000–3000 km) | $40–$46 | $50–$57.50 | $60–$69 |
| Long Distance (over 3000 km) | $50–$56.50 | $60–$67.80 | $70–$79.10 |
What Happens if Your Personal Item Is Too Big?
If your personal item doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you or exceeds Swoop’s size limits, it will be counted as your main carry-on bag.
And you might need to pay a standard carry-on fee, which increases the more you get to your departure time .
Is a Backpack a Personal Item on Swoop?
All Swoop passengers are allowed to bring one free personal item. Examples include a purse, a small backpack, a laptop bag, or briefcase.
So yes, a backpack can also be considered a personal item if it is within Swoop’s maximum personal item size: 41 cm x 15 cm x 33 cm (16” x 6” x 13”).
Final Thoughts
Whether you are traveling with Swoop or any other airline, it is important to follow their luggage allowance rules.
While Swoop may not always strictly enforce their personal item policy, it is always best to comply with their rules to avoid additional fees and delays at the airport.
Use a personal item that is within the size and weight restrictions, and you will enjoy a stress-free flight.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
You might also like:
- How strict is air Canada carry on luggage?
- How Strict Is Flair Air With Baggage?
- How strict is WestJet with carry-on size?
- How Strict Is Sunwing With Carry on Size?
