Types of Baggage

Checked

Checked baggage: the luggage delivered to the airline during check-in to be stored in an inaccessible area for the passenger during the flight.  

The total dimensions (length + width + height) of checked baggage must not add up to more than 157 total centimeters or 62 and cannot weigh more than 23 kilograms or 50 pounds.

checked - When it describes a type of baggage: “Our checked baggage policies” “Checked baggage fees.”

check - When it describes what you can do with the baggage: “You are allowed to check 2 to 4 bags.”

Carry on

Carry-on baggage: a piece of luggage that can be brought on board the plane and stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat.

Carry-on allowances
----In effect May 6, 2025----
56 cm x 23 cm x 36 cm
(22 in. x 9 in. x 14 in.)

Examples include but are not limited to a:

• Backpack
• Bag
• Suitcase
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carry-on - When it describes the type of baggage you have: “You must check this carry-on bag.” “This bag is carry-on.”

carry on - When it describes what you will do with the baggage: “I will carry on this bag.”

Personal item

41 cm x 15 cm x 33  cm
(16 in. x 6 in. x 13 in.)

Examples include but are not limited to a:

• Briefcase or purse

• Camera

• Garment, diplomatic, consular or camera bag

• Kennel

• Laptop computer

• Small musical instrument

• Sports ball

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Bag vs baggage

bag - When referring to a specific quantity: “How much does a bag cost?” “You have paid for 2 checked bags.”

bag(s) - Avoid bag(s). Instead use baggage or bags: “Number of bags” “Select your baggage”

baggage - When referring to types of baggage: “checked baggage rules apply” “

luggage - Always use baggage instead of luggage

piece - Moving forward, do not use ‘piece’ when referring to baggage (with the exception of legal, terms and conditions). Replace statements such as “Count as one piece of baggage.” with “Count as one bag.”

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✅ Prepay for checked bags

To be used when explaining to a guest that they can pay in advance for their bags. Include ‘checked’ bags so guest is not confused between carry-on and checked baggage.  

❌ pre-pay/pre-paid

❌ pre pay/pre paid

❌ Prepay baggage  

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✅ Paid for

Examples:  
Save $10 per checked bag when you prepay more than 24 hours before your flight.
Prepay for your checked bags and save.

You have paid for 2 checked bags.  

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✅ Included checked bag

To be used when explaining to a guest that they have a checked bag with their fare. Include ‘checked’ bags so guest is not confused between carry-on and checked baggage.  

❌ free or complimentary  

Examples:  

Your Business fare includes two checked bags.

Take advantage of the benefits included with Premium: 2 checked bags, priority check-in, baggage, security screening and boarding.

✅ Free checked bags

To be used when explaining to a guest that they have a complimentary checked bag (ie WestJet World Elite Mastercard holders or tier status). Include ‘checked’ bags so guest is not confused between carry-on and checked baggage. Be sure to not to use in place of ‘included’.  

❌ complimentary checked bag

❌ included checked bag

Examples:  

As a WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard holder, the first checked bag is free for the primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same booking.

First, second and third checked bags are free upon achieving Platinum status.

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