In Air Canada, are basic economy carry-ons allowed?

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fareotrips

New Member

The answer is yes, but with some important details to consider. Air Canada offers a variety of fare options for travelers, each designed to suit different needs and preferences. Among these, the Basic Economy class provides a budget-friendly option for those looking to fly at a lower price.​


Basic Economy Carry-On Policy​

When you book a Basic Economy ticket with Air Canada, you are allowed to bring one carry-on bag. However, the key is understanding the size and weight limitations associated with it. Basic Economy passengers can bring:

  • One personal item
  • One standard carry-on bag
The carry-on bag must fit within the airline's dimensions for cabin luggage, which are 23 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (9 in x 15.5 in x 21.5 in). This is the same size limit for other fare classes, so there’s no need to worry about a size difference between Basic Economy and higher fare options. However, it’s crucial to make sure your carry-on is within these dimensions, as bags that exceed the limit may not be allowed in the cabin and could incur additional fees or need to be checked.

The personal item is typically smaller, such as a purse, backpack, or laptop bag, and should fit under the seat in front of you. This item cannot exceed 33 cm x 43 cm x 16 cm (13 in x 17 in x 6 in). Together, the carry-on and personal items offer enough space for travelers to pack their essentials.

What’s Not Included with Basic Economy​

While you can bring a carry-on, it’s important to note that Air Canada's Basic Economy ticket comes with some restrictions compared to other fare types. Besides limited carry-on allowances, here’s what else you should keep in mind when flying Basic Economy:

Checked baggage

Unlike other fare classes that include one or more checked bags, Basic Economy passengers do not have any checked baggage included. You will need to pay extra fees for checked baggage, and these fees can vary based on the route and destination.

Priority boarding

Basic Economy passengers do not have priority boarding privileges. You will board the flight after passengers in other fare classes.

Changes and refunds

Basic Economy tickets are non-refundable, and changes to the ticket are not allowed unless you purchase a more flexible fare. Be sure that your travel plans are set before booking this fare.

Seat selection

Basic Economy passengers are typically assigned a seat at check-in, so you won’t be able to select your seat in advance unless you pay for the upgrade. This can be a drawback for travelers who prefer specific seating arrangements.


3 Tips for Packing Smart​

Given the restrictions on checked luggage and the limited number of bags you can bring, packing strategically is essential when flying Basic Economy on Air Canada. Here are some tips:

  • Pack light: Make sure your carry-on fits within the size requirements. Since you’re only allowed one carry-on, pack efficiently by using packing cubes, rolling clothes, and minimizing bulky items.

  • Use your personal item wisely: Maximize your personal items by packing smaller but important items, such as electronics, medications, and important documents. This will help you avoid extra charges for additional carry-on bags.

  • Consider upgrades: If you need to bring more luggage or prefer extra flexibility, consider upgrading to a higher-fare class that includes checked bags and seat selection.

Conclusion​

Air Canada’s Basic Economy class offers an affordable travel option with the benefit of a carry-on allowance, but it’s important to be aware of the limitations and pack accordingly. By understanding the carry-on policy or can you take a carry-on with basic economy Air Canada? and making the most of the space, you can still travel comfortably without exceeding baggage allowances. Whether you're packing for a quick business trip or a short vacation, the key is to plan ahead and pack strategically to ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free. For more flexibility or if you're planning to bring additional luggage, consider exploring Air Canada's other fare options to suit your travel needs.
 
Yes, Air Canada's Basic Economy allows one personal item but not a standard carry-on. Additional carry-on fees apply if you want one.
 
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