How Strict Is Air Canada With Personal Item 2024?

So how strict is Air Canada with personal items? and Is a backpack a personal item Air Canada?

From our research Air Canada is a bit strict about the personal item size and weight, so it can be placed perfectly under the seat in front of you.

We always recommend to carefully double check the airline luggage allowance and regulations before booking your flight, also it is important to have picking a compliant carry on luggage and a personal item that fits within your airline dimensions. 

but!! If you are looking for some tricks to beat air canada carry on luggage and personal item rules in addition to having a personal item that fits the airline regulations, we will provide some tips, so you can take more, even if Air Canada is strict on their personal item or carry on luggage.

Let’s find out.

LET’S FIND OUT HOW STRICT IS AIR CANADA WITH PERSONAL ITEMS?

How strict is air canada with personal item

we may receive a small commision (with no additional cost to you) if you purchase an item from the links in this page, we really appreciate it!

Tip: Check out this Travelpro Platinum Elite 21” Carry-On Spinner, a sleek and versatile carry-on that is designed to fit within the limits of most airlines, to save you from the hassle of the airports and the pesky airline fees.

Air Canada Personal Item Policy

Air Canada Standard carry on luggage allowance is 1 carry on bag + 1 personal item.

  • For carry on bag the allowed dimensions is as follows : 21.5in 55cm in height / 9in 23 cm in width /15.5in 40cm length
  • For the personal item the allowed dimensions is as follows : 13in 33cm in height / 6in 16 cm in width /17in 43cm length

Additional items

In addition to your personal item, you are allowed to bring other day to day necessities such as:

  • Coat or other outer garment
  • Small purse measuring no more than 25cm x 30cm x 14cm (10in x 12in x 5.5 in)
    • Larger purses will be included in your carry-on allowance.
  • Infant care item (e.g. diaper bag)
  • Stroller – collapsed diameter can’t exceed 25.5 cm (10 in) and length can’t exceed 92 cm (36 in)
  • Child restraint device (if a seat has been purchased for your child)
  • Snacks or food to eat on board:
    • All food must be wrapped or in a container.

For more information please visit this page on their website.

How Strict Is Air Canada With Personal Item Size And Weight?

The main defining characteristic of a personal item is that it should be able to fit under the seat in front; so Air Canada will let you take your free personal item on board if it is within the allowed size.

However, with Air Canada not asking passengers to pay for carry-on luggage, they are more likely to be strict with your personal item at the gate.

Besides, if you did bring large items and the airline staff noticed that they are larger than the allowed size , your item will be subject for checked in baggage.

Although no weight limit applies to carry-on baggage, your bag must be light enough that you can store it in the overhead bin unassisted.

My Personal Item Is Slightly Oversized, What Will Happen?

Personal items come in lots of different sizes. in order to qualify as a personal item it must fit under the seat in front of you.

Sometimes you can bring a personal item that is a bit oversized or only an inch or so bigger than that of the limits stated.

If you have a soft bag or item that is soft sided can be a good way to make the most of it because it can be placed under the seat even if it is a bit large.

How do I make the most of my personal item space?

Please Keep in mind that a personal item in Air Canada, can be if one of the following

  • Garment bag (size and weight restrictions apply)
  • Sport racquet (e.g. tennis, squash, badminton), musical instrument
  • Cat or small dog in its carrier
  • Camera bag, diplomatic or consular bag
  • Airport shopping and duty-free purchases

The best thing to do to make the most of your free baggage allowance is to wear some of your heavier / bulky clothing as you go through the gate.

Think coat with deep pockets if you’re really looking to make the most of your hard-earned cash!

This will give you more room to pack essentials for your trip.

What Is The Best Personal Item For Air Canada Flights?

We love to provide the best and the new products for you, to have a comfortable flight with Air Canada we have found this amazing small backpack item that will fit perfectly the airline personal item size.

So, if you’re looking for a bag which is a great fit and superb value we recommend one of these bags on Amazon.

The small backpack dimensions are: 30.48 x 15.24 x 43.18 cm.

and the air canada personal item dimensions is : 33cm height / 16 cm width / 43 cm length

This item is made from and will ease your boarding processing, in addition that it is well designed and stylish.

How strict is air canada with personal item
Image courtesy / Air Canada

Is A Backpack Considered A Personal Item With Air Canada?

If your backpack is small enough it will count as a personal item. So yes a backpack can be a personal item on Air Canada but depending on how big the backpack is, also if the flights are so busy there must be some restrictions

If you’re traveling with a larger multiday bag or a massive personal item , it might technically be a backpack — but it’s definitely not going to fit under the seat, making it a carry-on item. And if it doesn’t fit in the overhead bin, well, it’s a checked bag.

How Strict Is Air Canada With Personal Item?

To avoid any inconvenience and any hassle at the airport, we advise to invest in a compliant Air Canada personal item size and weight.

because, you won’t know just How strict air Canada will be with personal items on the day of your travel.

Generally airlines will permit it as a personal item if it fits under the seat but if you try to walk on with an oversized bag, you will be required to hand it over for a quick check.

We hope this helps

Happy travels

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