Last Updated: April 2026

WestJet Baggage Fees: What You Pay and What to Expect

Quick Answer

WestJet baggage fees vary based on your fare bundle, route, and how many bags you check. Some travelers get checked baggage included, while others incur a fee per bag. 

This guide explains WestJet baggage allowance, checked baggage fees, extra baggage cost, and how to avoid paying more at the airport.

How WestJet Baggage Fees Work

WestJet uses a fare bundle system — Basic, Econo, EconoFlex, and Premium. What you pay for checked baggage depends almost entirely on which bundle you purchased.

• Basic — Usually no free checked bag; checked baggage usually incurs a fee
• Econo — Checked baggage allowance varies by route and fare conditions
• EconoFlex — Checked baggage may be included on some routes
• Premium — More generous checked baggage allowance, often with two bags included

Checking your fare conditions at the time of booking is the most reliable way to know exactly what is covered on your specific route.

WestJet Baggage Allowance by Fare

• Basic → No checked bag included
• Econo / EconoFlex → Typically 1 checked bag on most routes
• Premium → Usually 2 checked bags with a higher weight limit

If you plan to check multiple bags, Premium fares can work out cheaper than paying for each bag separately on a lower fare.

How Much Does WestJet Charge for Checked Bags?

WestJet does not use fixed baggage pricing. Fees depend on your route, how many bags you check, and when you pay.

• First bag → lowest cost
• Second bag → higher
• Extra bags → most expensive

Adding bags at the airport is almost always the costliest option. Booking online in advance keeps costs lower.

WestJet Baggage Fees on International Flights

WestJet baggage fees on international routes may differ from domestic Canadian and US flights. On transatlantic routes and select international destinations:

• Higher fare bundles are more likely to include checked bags
• Weight limits vary on certain international routes

Domestic vs International Baggage on WestJet

• Domestic flights → fees are more predictable
• International routes → more variation in rules and costs
• Long-haul flights → higher fares more likely to include checked baggage

Always check your fare conditions before booking an international route.

For a broader comparison, see baggage fees for other airlines.

Hidden Costs Travelers Miss  

Most people don’t realise:

Basic fares do not include checked baggage — many travelers assume they do

• Extra bag fees increase with each additional bag you add
• Overweight charges can sometimes cost more than the bag fee itself
• International routes often carry higher baggage fees than domestic flights

Checking your fare conditions before travel avoids all of these surprises.

WestJet Baggage Size and Weight Limits

Standard Checked Baggage

• Weight: up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
• Size: up to 158 cm (total dimensions)

Premium Cabin

• Weight limit may increase up to 32 kg (70 lbs)

If your baggage exceeds these limits, you may incur overweight or oversized baggage fees 

How WestJet Baggage Pricing Actually Works

WestJet operates on a fare-bundle model where the base ticket price reflects what is included:

• Basic fares → lower price, fewer inclusions
• Higher fares → more baggage and flexibility built in
• Add-ons like extra bags and seat selection → purchased separately

This is why two passengers on the same flight can end up paying very different totals.

WestJet Excess Baggage Charges

Best Baggage Strategy for WestJet Travelers

A few simple ways to keep baggage costs lower:

• Add baggage during booking for the lowest price
• Travel with carry-on only if possible
• Compare fare bundles before booking
• Weigh bags at home to avoid overweight fees

Planning ahead is the easiest way to save money.

When do extra charges apply?

You may incur additional fees if:

• Your bag exceeds weight limits
• Your bag exceeds size limits
• You bring more bags than allowed

Common situations

• Overweight baggage (23–32 kg) → extra fee
• Oversized baggage → additional cost
• Extra bags → increasing excess baggage charges

 Bags above the allowed limits may not be accepted as checked baggage.

WestJet Extra Baggage Cost

If you travel with more checked bags than your fare includes:

• Each extra bag can incur a higher fee
• Third and fourth bags usually cost more than the first and second
• International routes have higher baggage fees

What Affects WestJet Baggage Fees?

WestJet baggage fees are not fixed. Four things determine what you pay:

• Fare bundle — Basic fares rarely include baggage; higher fares often do
• Route — International and long-haul routes may carry different fee structures
• Number of bags — Each additional bag costs more than the last
• Timing — Adding bags at booking is cheapest; airport payment is the most expensive option

Fees are shown in real time during booking on westjet.com.

How WestJet Compares to Other Airlines on Baggage

WestJet Basic fares include fewer baggage perks than airlines like Air Canada or Delta Air Lines.

But higher WestJet fares often include baggage upfront, which can sometimes cost less than paying for bags separately later.

How to Add Baggage on WestJet

Can I add baggage after booking?

Yes, you can add baggage at different stages:

• During booking
• After booking via “My trips”
• During online check-in
• At the airport (usually higher cost)

Adding baggage early is more cost-effective.

WestJet Carry-On Rules (Quick Overview)

WestJet allows:

• 1 carry-on bag
• 1 personal item

Carry-on baggage is separate from checked baggage.

 For full details, see WestJet cabin baggage allowance and carry-on size limits.

WestJet Special Items and Sports Equipment

WestJet also accepts some special items and sports equipment, including golf clubs, skis, bicycles, musical instruments, strollers, and car seats. Some items follow the standard WestJet baggage policy, while others may incur a separate fee or require special packaging. Always confirm special-item rules directly with WestJet before travel 

Tips to Avoid WestJet Baggage Fees

• Add baggage online before arriving at the airport
• Use your carry-on allowance effectively
• Weigh your bags at home
• Check if your fare includes baggage
• Compare your fare options before booking

In some cases, a higher fare bundle may include baggage and cost less overall than paying separate bag fees. 

WestJet Baggage Policy: Key Points

• Baggage rules depend on fare bundle and route
• Fees vary and are shown during booking
• International flights can follow different rules
• Policies can change, so always verify before travel

This guide is based on the publicly available WestJet baggage policy and general airline practices. Because WestJet baggage fees and allowance rules can change, always check the official WestJet website before travel 

Before You Check In with WestJet

Knowing your fare bundle and what is included saves time and money at the airport. Basic fares are the most common source of unexpected baggage fees — passengers sometimes assume a checked bag is included when it is not on their specific route. Reviewing your booking confirmation before travel clearly shows what is and is not covered.

For WestJet seat selection and upgrade options, see our WestJet seat selection guide.

Final Takeaway

WestJet baggage fees come down to your fare bundle. Basic fares rarely include checked baggage, while higher fares often do. Choose the right fare and add bags early, that is the simplest way to keep costs down.

Common Questions About WestJet Baggage Fees

What is WestJet baggage allowance for Economy?
Econo and EconoFlex fares typically include one free checked bag up to 23 kg on most routes. Basic fare passengers pay separately. Always confirm at booking.

How much are WestJet baggage fees?
Fees vary by fare bundle, route, and timing. Paying at booking is cheapest. Exact pricing shown on westjet.com during booking.

Does WestJet charge for checked baggage?

Yes. Basic fares usually require payment for checked baggage, while Econo, EconoFlex, and Premium fares often include one or more bags.

Can I add baggage after booking WestJet?
Yes through Manage Trips on westJet.com or the app. Earlier is always cheaper.

What is the WestJet baggage weight limit?

Most economy fares allow up to 23 kg per bag. Premium fares can allow up to 32 kg. Overweight bags incur additional fees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Flytripinfo.com provides independent travel guidance and is not affiliated with WestJet Airlines.

Disclaimer: All information on Flytripinfo.com is provided for general travel guidance only. Airline policies, baggage rules, and fees can change at any time without prior notice. While we strive to keep our content accurate and updated, travelers should always verify details directly with the airline before their journey. Flytripinfo.com is not responsible for any errors, delays, or decisions made based on the information provided.