WestJet Airlines Baggage Policy

We understand that baggage is an important aspect of your journey and we strive to make it as simple and straightforward as possible.

In this article, we will provide an overview of WestJet airlines baggage policy, including the allowances and fees for checked and carry-on baggage. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, we want you to feel informed and prepared for your upcoming flight with us. 

What is the Carry-on Baggage Allowance with Westjet?

Westjet carry-on baggage policy applies to flights operated by Westjet and Westjet Encore. 

Allowance and Maximum Size

There is a total of one free carry-on bag and one personal item per confirmed seat-holder. In addition – 

• Any items that don’t fit in the size device or take up more space than the carry-on allowance will be put in checked baggage, and all associated fees may be charged.
• We urge passengers to independently place carry-on and/or personal items in the overhead bins when flying on WestJet or WestJet operated flights. 
• The size of the carry-on bag must be within 53 x 38 x 23 cm. The examples of the carry-on bag include backpack, bag and suitcase. 
• The dimension of the personal item must be within 41 x 33 x 15 cm. The examples of the carry-on baggage include briefcase, purse, camera, kennel, laptop computer, and small musical instrument. 
• Also, the carry-on must be lightweight enough for you to put the bag in the overhead bin without assistance. 
• Assistance is offered upon request if you are a person with a handicap or special needs.

Limitation

All carry-on and personal item must – 

• Fit into the size equipment at
• Be light enough for you to be able to put the bag in the overhead bin.
• Be permitted as carry-on in the nation you are visiting.
• Pass through security

Additional Item

In addition to the carry-on bag, the following items are permitted on board – 

What is the Checked Baggage Allowance with Westjet?

WestJet checked baggage allowance varies depending on the fare type and destination. Here are the general guidelines :

• For Economy fares within Canada, the US, and the Caribbean, the first checked bag is $35 CAD/USD and the second bag is $50 CAD/USD. The maximum weight for each bag is 23 kg (50 lb) and the maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) are 157 cm (62 in).

• For Premium and Business fares within Canada, the US, and the Caribbean, two checked bags are included with a maximum weight of 32 kg (70 lb) each and maximum linear dimensions of 157 cm (62 in) each.

• Westjet baggage allowance for international flights include flights to/from Mexico and Central America, the first checked bag is free for Economy fares, and two checked bags are included for Premium and Business fares. The maximum weight and dimensions are the same as for flights within Canada, the US, and the Caribbean.

• For flights to/from Europe, the first checked bag is free for all fare types, and the second bag is $100 CAD/USD. The maximum weight for each bag is 23 kg (50 lb) and the maximum linear dimensions are 158 cm (62 in).

• For flights to/from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia, two checked bags are included for all fare types with a maximum weight of 32 kg (70 lb) each and maximum linear dimensions of 158 cm (62 in) each.

Below is the overview of the Westjet baggage fees based on the travel route and the fare type – 

Travel within US and Canada

The Westjet baggage allowance for domestic flight includes – 

Travel to/from Europe

Westjet baggage allowance for international flights include – 

Travel to/from Asia

Travel to/from all other locations:

Travel to/from Europe

Can I carry Fishing and Hunting Equipment with Westjet Airlines?

WestJet airlines allows passengers to carry fishing and hunting equipment on their flights. However, there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure that the equipment is transported safely and legally.

Fishing Equipment

It includes fishing rods and reels, can be checked in as regular baggage as long as they are securely packed in a hard-shell container specifically designed for fishing equipment. The container must not exceed 109 inches in length, and there may be additional fees for oversized or overweight baggage.

Restriction for fishing equipments – Here are some of the Westjet policy baggage restrictions that apply:

• Fishing rods must be packed in a hard-shell case and must not exceed 115 inches (292 cm) in length.
• Fishing reels must be packed separately in either checked or carry-on baggage.
• Terminal tackle, such as hooks, lures, and weights, must be securely wrapped and packed in checked baggage only.
• Live bait is not permitted on board.
• A maximum of two fishing rods per case is allowed, and each case counts as one piece of checked baggage.
• The weight and size of the fishing equipment must comply with WestJet’s baggage allowance and fees.

Hunting Equipment

It includes firearms, must be declared at check-in and can only be transported as checked baggage. Passengers must have all necessary permits and documentation for transporting firearms, and the firearms must be unloaded and packed in a locked hard-sided container. Ammunition is allowed in checked baggage, but it must be packed separately from the firearm.

Restrictions for firearms and ammunition – There are guidelines in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members. The Westjet airlines baggage policy includes – 

• Firearms must be declared during check-in, and they must be unloaded and placed in a locked hard-sided container. 
• Firearms must be safely boxed and packed separately.
• Tasers and stun guns are prohibited from transport.
• Firearms must be carried in durable luggage with a maximum gross weight per passenger of 5 kg (11 lb) .
• Ammunition must also be declared, and it must be properly packaged in a secure container.
• Passengers are limited to a maximum of two firearms per container, and they are required to fill out a firearms declaration form before traveling. 
• The traveler must sign the document and hand it to the agent during WestJet flight check-in.
• Must be packaged in the original manufacturer’s container or a similar robust, long-lasting container that allows for adequate cartridge separation.
• Handguns, rifles, and shotguns are allowed, but automatic weapons, machine guns, and silencers are prohibited. 
• Ammunition must also be in its original packaging, and there are restrictions on the amount of ammunition that can be transported.
• Firearms are restricted on flights to or from

• Bermuda
• Post of Spain
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Mexico

• The airline will accept the following firearms: Shotguns, handguns, BB guns, starter pistols, air pistols, and paintball guns. 

What you need to know about bringing Sports Equipment with Westjet Airlines?

WestJet accepts a wide range of sports equipment, including skis, snowboards, golf clubs, bicycles, and hockey equipment, among others. 

However, certain restrictions and fees may apply based on the type of equipment and the destination as per Westjet baggage policy – 

• You must declare your sports equipment at the time of booking or before your flight’s departure. Failure to do so may result in additional fees or your equipment being refused.

• For travel on domestic, international, and chartered flights, WestJet allows sporting equipment that complies with the packing guidelines, weight limitations, and dimension constraints.

• WestJet offers special packaging options for certain sports equipment, such as golf bags and bicycles. These packages provide additional protection for your equipment and can be purchased for an additional fee.

• Make sure to pack your equipment properly to avoid damage during transport. You may want to consider using a hard-shell case or padding to protect your equipment.

• Some destinations may have specific regulations regarding the transportation of sports equipment. Check with WestJet or your destination’s customs and immigration office to ensure you are in compliance.

• Guns and some sporting goods will be subject to a handling fee of 50 CAD (65 USD)

• For all sports equipment, the maximum length permissible is 3 m (118 in), with the exception of vaulting poles.

Certain sports equipment are subject to restrictions. Those items include – 

Can I take Musical Instruments with Westjet?

WestJet Airlines allows musical instruments to be carried on board as a carry-on item or checked as baggage, subject to certain limitations and fees.

Carry-on musical instruments must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you and should not exceed the carry-on size limits. If the instrument cannot fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, it must be checked as baggage. In addition – 

• The carry-on baggage allowance Westjet flight includes the size must be within 21 in. x 9 in. x 15 in for a carry-on bag.
• Your instrument must stay stowed during the flight in an authorized position, such as under the seat or in the overhead compartment.

Checked musical instruments must be packed in a hard case and will count towards your checked baggage allowance. Oversized instruments, such as cellos and double basses, may require additional fees and arrangements.

It is recommended to inform WestJet in advance if you plan to travel with a musical instrument to ensure proper accommodations can be made.

What to do if the bag is Misplaced, delayed or damaged with Westjet Airlines?

If your bag is misplaced, delayed or damaged while traveling with WestJet Airlines, you should follow these steps:

Misplaced Baggage

Follow the steps – 

• Report the issue at the WestJet baggage desk before leaving the airport. Report the issue by simply visiting the WestJet Report page.
• Provide a detailed description of the lost item(s) and your contact information to the agent.
• WestJet will begin a search for your bag and keep you informed of their progress.

Compensation for the lost baggage – If you’ve lost your baggage while traveling with WestJet, you may be entitled to compensation.

• Reimburse the appropriate expenses for that baggage if it is determined to be lost, lost for longer than 21 days, or damaged. 
• WestJet’s liability for lost and damaged baggage is restricted to 2300 CAD per passenger. 

Delayed Baggage

All you need to do is – 

• Report the delay to a WestJet baggage agent before leaving the airport.
• Report within 12 hours of arriving at the destination.
• Provide  your contact information, a list of your belongings, and anything else that will help Westjet find your bag.
• WestJet will provide you with a baggage reference number and keep you updated on the status of your bag.
• WestJet may provide you with interim necessities like toiletries or clothing, if you’re eligible.

Compensation for the delayed baggage – If you have experienced a delay with your baggage while flying with Westjet Airlines, you may be eligible for compensation.

• For reasonable expenses incurred as a direct result of your delayed baggage, itemized receipts are necessary in order to be compensated.

• You may be eligible for compensation up to $100 CAD/USD for the first 48 hours that your baggage is delayed for trips within America.

• You might be eligible for an additional $150 after 48 hours, bringing your total to $250. 

• For flights to and from Europe, the compensation for the delayed baggage is 100 USD. 

Damaged Baggage

Do the following – 

• Report the damage to a WestJet baggage agent before leaving the airport.
• Create a report within 5 days of arrival. 
• Make sure to take pictures of the damage.
• WestJet may ask you to fill out a damaged baggage report to process your claim.
• Keep any receipts for repairs or replacements that you may have to submit to WestJet.
• To explore your choices for resolution, a member of the airline’s Central Baggage Services team will get in touch with you.

In all cases, make sure to keep your baggage claim tags, as they will be used to match you with your bag, and provide proof of ownership.

In conclusion, WestJet airlines baggage policy is designed to provide customers with a clear understanding of the fees, weight and size restrictions, and other important information regarding their baggage.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs