The maximum dimensions of the carry-on bag must be 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x23 cm). Note that this includes the wheels and handles of the bag. Furthermore, Air Canada does not impose any specific weight limit on your carry-on baggage. As long as it's light enough to be stored in the overhead bin, you're good.

Air Canada is known for being relatively strict with carry-on baggage enforcement, particularly for passengers traveling on "Economy Basic" fares. As of 2026, many Basic fares within North America and the Caribbean allow for only one "personal item" and no standard carry-on bag in the overhead bin. For other fare classes, the standard limit is one carry-on bag (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches) and one personal item (17 x 13 x 6 inches). Ground agents frequently use metal "sizers" at the gate, and if a bag—including wheels and handles—does not fit perfectly, it is often mandatorily gate-checked for a fee. This strictness has increased as overhead bin space has become more congested. To avoid issues, travelers are encouraged to ensure their bags are within the published limits and to take advantage of the airline's "self-tagging" kiosks. If you are flying on a regional jet (like a CRJ), expect even more scrutiny, as the bins on these smaller aircraft are significantly tighter than on wide-body planes.