WestJet is a Canadian airline, and they’re all about making air travel easy and fun. It doesn’t matter if you’re going places in Canada or hopping globally; many people love picking WestJet for their flights. Going on a trip is super cool, but getting ready right is important, especially when packing your stuff. If you’re thinking about flying with WestJet, you’ve got to know the rules for bringing your bags.
In this awesome guide, we’re gonna explain everything about WestJet’s baggage rules. We’ll talk about how much stuff you can bring and what it’ll cost you, and we’ll make it all easy to understand! Cool, right? Now, let’s get into the baggage details!
Different Types of Baggage
When you’re on the go, you’ll have different kinds of bags with you. WestJet splits them up into categories to explain their baggage rules. Let’s check out the main ones:
1) Carry-On Baggage
This is the bag you can take onto the plane with you. It’s usually your purse, backpack, or a small suitcase. But there are some rules:
- You get one regular carry-on bag and a personal item, like your purse or laptop bag.
- Ensure your carry-on fits in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. It can’t be bigger than 53 cm x 23 cm x 38 cm (21 in x 9 in x 15 in).
- There’s a weight limit too. Your carry-on bag can’t be heavier than 10 kg (22 lbs). This is important for safety on the plane and keeping things running smoothly.
2) Checked Baggage
Now, let’s talk about the bigger bags you give to the airline when you check-in. These go in the aeroplane’s cargo area. If your stuff can’t fit in your carry-on, you’ve got to check your baggage.
But here’s the deal with WestJet’s checked baggage: it depends on a few things like the type of ticket you bought, where you’re going, and when you booked your flight. Let’s break it down even more:
a) Econo Fare
If you’re flying with an Econo Fare, you usually have to pay extra for checked baggage. The cost depends on where you’re going and when you buy the baggage allowance.
b) Premium and Business Fares
But hey, if you’ve got a Premium or Business Fare ticket, you often get checked baggage included.
c) Destinations
For flights within Canada, your checked bags can’t be heavier than 23 kg (50 lbs) each. But if you’re flying internationally, those rules might change. So, you must occasionally peek at our official website for the exact info.
d) Overweight and Oversized Bags
If your checked bags are too heavy or too big, you’ll have to cough up extra cash. So, weighing and measuring your bags before you get to the airport is super smart.
e) Special Items
Now, some things like sports gear or musical instruments might have their own rules and fees. Remember, knowing the baggage rules can save you from surprises and make your journey smoother. And don’t forget to inform WestJet beforehand about your special items!
Keep rolling with us for more luggage lowdown!
3) Excess Baggage
Now, let’s talk about what happens when you’ve got more baggage than you’re allowed or your bags weigh too much. This is called “excess baggage,” and it can lead to extra charges. Uh-oh! If you exceed your baggage limit, WestJet will ask for more money. These extra costs can add up, so it’s important to pack wisely and stay within the rules. Let’s dive into some examples:
- On domestic flights in Canada, you might need to pay between £17.50 to £29.20 ($30 to $50 CAD) for an extra checked bag.
- If your checked bag is too heavy, you might be charged an extra charge ranging from £44.00 to £51.50 ($75 to $88 CAD).
- Oversized bags can also cost you between £44.00 to £51.50 or more. To avoid these fees, planning your packing and checking the baggage policy for your specific flight is smart.
Tips for Stress-Free Packing
Alright, let’s dive into some tips to make packing for your trip super easy and stress-free.
1) Make a Packing List
First things first, make a list of all the things you’ll need. Write down your clothes, toiletries, and any special items. This helps you avoid the classic mistake of packing way too much stuff. But hey, here’s a cool twist: organise your list by days. Write down what you’ll wear each day. It makes getting dressed on your trip super easy!
2) Check the Weather
It’s all about being weather-wise. Before tossing things into your suitcase, check the weather forecast at your destination. Is it gonna be sunny, rainy, or chilly? Knowing this helps you pack the right clothes. For instance, you’ll want to bring your shades and sunscreen if it’s sunny. If it’s rainy, don’t forget your umbrella and raincoat. And if it’s chilly, pack those cosy sweaters.
3) Roll Your Clothes
Here’s a nifty trick: roll your clothes instead of folding them. Rolling takes up less space to fit more in your bag. Plus, it reduces wrinkles, so you won’t have to spend precious vacation time ironing your clothes. Oh, and don’t forget to use packing cubes. These are like magic organisers for your suitcase. They keep your stuff neat and make finding things a breeze.
4) Use Travel-Sized Toiletries
You can bring liquids, gels, and creams, but they can’t be more than 100ml (3.4 oz) each. So, get some travel-sized containers to pour your shampoo, conditioner, and other stuff into. This way, you won’t have any trouble at the security checkpoint.
5) Weigh Your Bags
Here’s a pro tip: use a luggage scale to check how heavy your checked bags are. Why? Well, airlines have weight limits for your checked baggage. If you go over, they might charge you extra. Nobody wants surprise fees! So, before you head to the airport, weigh your bags and make sure they’re within the limit.
6) Plan for Souvenirs
Think about all the cool stuff you might want to bring back from your trip. Maybe it’s a t-shirt with the name of the place you visited or a little trinket that reminds you of your adventure. Leave some extra space in your bags for these souvenirs. It’s like making room for a piece of your journey to return home with you.
7) Pack a Day’s Worth in Your Carry-On
Imagine this: your checked bag takes a detour while you’re on a layover. It happens! To be prepared, pack a change of clothes, some essentials like toothpaste and a toothbrush, and anything else you might need for a day in your carry-on. That way, even if your checked bag has its own adventure, you’ll still have what you need to stay comfy and fresh.
8) Keep Important Documents Handy
Don’t let important documents like your passport, boarding pass, and ID get lost in the bag shuffle. Keep them in a secure, easily accessible spot, like a travel wallet or a dedicated pocket in your carry-on. This saves you from frantically searching when you need them at the airport.
Special Considerations
Alright, now that you’ve got the basics of WestJet’s baggage rules down, let’s talk about some special situations you might run into:
1) Infants
If you’re travelling with a little one under 2 years old (we call them infants), they often get special treatment. They usually get a free checked bag and can bring a carry-on item. But things can change, so it’s a good idea to always stay updated on the latest information.
2) Pets
If you’re taking your furry friend on your adventure, there are some specific rules and fees for pet travel. Make sure you know all about these rules and get your pet ready for the trip.
3) Medical Equipment
If you need medical stuff like a wheelchair or oxygen, WestJet has rules to help you. But here’s the important part: You have to inform the airline in advance so they can be prepared to assist you.
4) Frequent Flyer Programs
And hey, if you’re part of WestJet’s frequent flyer club, you might get some extra perks regarding baggage. This can mean more stuff you can bring along. But the details can change, so it’s best to double-check with the airline.
Long Story Short
Getting a grip on WestJet’s baggage rules is a must for a hassle-free trip. Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a longer journey, having the lowdown on what you can carry on the plane and what you should check in, plus being aware of possible charges, will keep airport surprises at bay.
Remember, policies can change, so it’s super important to stay up to date. Wishing you fantastic travels, and may your bags always make it safely to your destination!
