Free tool · No sign-up
Carry-On Size Checker
Enter your bag's dimensions — wheels and handles included — and see which airlines accept it as a carry-on or free personal item.
Your bag
How to avoid bag fees on Canadian flights
Bag fees are where cheap fares stop being cheap. Checked bags commonly cost a meaningful amount each way on North American and sun routes, and a carry-on may not be included on the lowest fare. Travelling with a bag that fits the personal item limit is the single most reliable way to fly any airline at the advertised price.
- Measure the packed bag, including wheels and handles.
- Choose soft-sided bags for personal items — they compress to fit sizers.
- Prepay online if you need a bag; gate fees are usually higher.
- Wear your bulkiest items on travel day.
Airline limits change often and can differ by route and fare. This checker uses published limits we reviewed recently, but always confirm on your airline's website before you fly.
Packing tips that make carry-on only easy are in our carry-on-only packing guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do wheels and handles count?
Yes. Airlines measure the outside dimensions including wheels, handles and side pockets. Measure your bag packed, because soft bags bulge.
Do basic fares include a carry-on?
Often not. On many North American and sun routes, the cheapest fares on Canadian airlines include only a personal item that fits under the seat. Check your fare rules before you pack.
What happens if my bag is too big at the gate?
It may be checked at the gate, often with a fee that is higher than prepaying online. Measuring at home is the cheapest insurance.