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WestJet and Air Canada both charge for some features that travelers may expect to be included in an economy ticket—but neither airline has one rule for every route and fare. WestJet UltraBasic excludes a standard overhead carry-on on many listed markets while including a personal item; Air Canada Basic restricts carry-ons on select destinations for tickets bought from January 3, 2025, subject to a temporary exception through November 30, 2026. Check the precise fare, itinerary and travel date before comparing prices.
What WestJet UltraBasic includes—and what it charges for
WestJet’s published fare comparison distinguishes a personal item from a standard carry-on bag. Personal items are included across the listed fare families. On the listed markets, UltraBasic does not include a standard carry-on; the comparison shows an exception for travel to and from Europe or Asia. Do not assume the exception applies to every itinerary or fare condition: confirm the rules for the specific booking. WestJet’s fare comparison also marks seat selection as fee-based on UltraBasic and Econo, while inclusions for baggage, changes, cancellation and other services vary across its fare families.
WestJet describes Basic as a restricted subset of economy services in its Domestic Tariff: “Passengers that have purchased a Basic fare type will be entitled to a restricted subset of economy class products and services.” That tariff wording is a general definition; the consumer-facing fare comparison and the conditions displayed for an actual booking are the practical places to check what is included.
Personal item versus overhead carry-on
A personal item is the smaller item intended to fit beneath the seat; it is not the same as a standard carry-on intended for the overhead bin. If you are considering a personal item travel backpack, check its dimensions against the allowance for your itinerary. Bringing a bag that does not qualify as an included personal item does not make it an included carry-on.
#1 Best Overall
- CARRY-ON DESIGN: Best for 1-5 day trips without the hassle of checking luggage; measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches, including wheels
- DURABLE AND RELIABLE: Extra-thick hard shell with scratch-resistant finish guards against impact and rough handling
- EXPANDABLE: Increase packing space up to 25% for added flexibility and organization
- ORGANIZED INTERIOR: Keep essentials organized with an interior divider and three zippered pockets
- EFFORTLESS TRAVEL: Navigate with ease thanks to four multi-directional wheels, telescoping handle, and short lift handle
Checked bags and gate charges
WestJet says checked-baggage fees can depend on when the fee is paid, ticket purchase date, fare, origin, destination, flight duration, offers and travel dates. It also says an UltraBasic guest who brings a non-exempt carry-on to the gate must check it and pay the applicable checked-bag and service fees. The amount is therefore not a single universal add-on price; check the current amount and exceptions against your booking. WestJet’s checked-baggage information provides its current baggage guidance.
How Air Canada Basic compares
Air Canada’s carry-on restriction is also conditional. The airline says Basic tickets purchased on or after January 3, 2025 do not include a carry-on for select destinations. Its page describes a temporary exception through November 30, 2026. The restriction is not a blanket rule for every Air Canada Basic itinerary, and the exception has an end date; verify the applicable destination and ticket conditions on Air Canada’s carry-on page.
Rank #2
- Airline-approved Luggage: This 20-inch carry-on Luggage meets the overhead compartment size requirements of most airlines. The durable hardside luggage features TSA-approved locks and smooth double-ended zippers for secure and convenient travel. It has a volume of 35 liters and weighs only 6.83 lbs
- 20% Expandable, Packing More: Maximize travel luggage storage space with expandable features. Simply unzip the expandable zipper to increase capacity from 35L to 42L, adding 20% more packing space when you need it. Dual main compartments feature a secure buckle compression system to keep clothes neatly organized, while convenient storage pockets hold small items
- Excellent Craftsmanship: Crafted from high-quality ABS composite materials, this lightweight carry-on luggage offers exceptional strength and flexibility. Its scratch-resistant surface maintains a like-new appearance trip after trip. Rigorously tested for impact resistance, it's built to protect your belongings under tough travel conditions
- Superior Maneuverability: Equipped with silent 360 spinner wheels, this travel luggage glides effortlessly through crowded airports and uneven streets. The 4-level adjustable aluminum handle offers a comfortable grip, while top and side silicone handles make lifting this carry-on suitcase easy and ergonomic
- Durable Construction and Support: Designed with durability in mind, our carry on luggage features reliable construction for all essential components, including the shell, handles, wheels, locks, and zippers. Travel confidently with quality materials and craftsmanship built to last
Air Canada also charges for some optional services. Its advance standard seat-selection price is listed as $20–$249 CAD/USD per one-way flight segment, depending on itinerary—not a quote for any particular route. Baggage allowance can depend on fare, destination, ticket purchase date and loyalty status. See Air Canada’s optional-services page and check the booking for the applicable amount.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Compare the ticket you need, not just the advertised fare
The headline contrast between the airlines is incomplete: both have economy fares where some extras cost more, and their carry-on rules vary by route and ticket conditions. The relevant comparison is the specific WestJet or Air Canada fare for your itinerary and purchase date.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Carry-On Approved Size: 22 in. hardside spinner measuring 22" x 14" x 9.5" overall, sized to meet most major airline carry-on requirements
- Smooth 360° 4-Wheel Spinner System: Four quiet, EZ-glide in-line blade spinner wheels roll effortlessly in any direction
- Lightweight Hardshell: Durable 100% ABS shell weighs just 6.4 lbs empty
- Easy-Grip Handles & Locking Trolley: Push-button recessed telescoping handle locks at your preferred height, plus padded top and side carry handles for lifting into overhead bins
- Fully-Lined Interior with Compression Straps: Adjustable straps hold clothing flat and secure
Rank #4
- Luggage Set with Backpack : UKEIN luggage set includes 20 inch carry on luggage, a 18 inch travel backpack and a toiletry bag. The Carry On Suitcase with wheels is sized to fit in overhead bins or underseat. The travel backpack is designed with a back sleeve that attaches to a retractable luggage handle. Large capacity and fully equipped to meet your different travel needs.
- Easy to Maneuver : Silent Dual Spinner wheels rotate 360°, providing superior maneuverability and a smooth glide in every direction. Thanks to the smooth-rolling wheels of suitcase, even when fully loaded, it's a breeze to maneuver through crowded airports and busy streets without feeling fatigued or strained.
- TSA Lock and Alloy Zipper ：The Built-in TSA lock does not have to be forced open and damaged during inspection. It ensures the safety of your valuables and facilitates your passage through security. The alloy zippers allow travelers to effortlessly open and close their luggage, which adds a safety and convenience to the entire trip.
- Magic Large Space : Interior zippered divider panels keep contents separated and secure. One compartment of this carry on luggage with cross straps to keep your things in place and one fully enclosed with a zippered panel, mesh bags and dry&wet separation bag for easy organization,and the travel bag has multiple functional pockets to meet different travel needs.
- Hardshell Suitcase : This Carry on luggage set is crafted from Polycarbonate (PC) exterior offers extreme durability with a texture that reduces the visibility of scratches. Details such as the ergonomic 3-level retractable easy-grip top handle, and the double soft rubber carry handles bring maximum comfort and an easy carrying experience.
Rank #3
- Expandable Airline Approved Suitcase: 21 Inch Carry on Luggage Best carry on suitcase for plane on 3-5 day trips.Opening the smooth and durable expandable zipper can expand its capacity by 20% for bringing back souvenirs and additional items.
- Durable ABS+PC Hardshell Carryon Luggage: The hardshell suitcase is impact-resistant, scratch-resistant and water-resistant while remaining lightweight. Our luggage has passed the high standard impact resistance test and can remain intact even if dropped from a height.
- TSA Lock and YKK Zipper: Travel Suitcase with TSA-approved dual locking system keeps luggage secured. Authentic YKK zippers come with superior durability and smooth operation.
- 3-Level Aluminum Handle & Dual Spinner Wheels: A sturdy, lightweight, smooth 3-level Aluminum handle allows easy control in tight spaces. 360° Silent Dual Spinner wheels allow you to move quietly and smoothly on the journey.
- Confirm the fare family. Compare WestJet UltraBasic with the fare you would actually buy, and Air Canada Basic with the relevant Air Canada fare. Higher fare families may include services that the lowest fare charges separately.
- Check each bag category. Confirm whether a personal item, overhead carry-on and checked bag are included. Do not treat one category as a substitute for another.
- Check seat selection. Determine whether choosing a seat costs extra on your fare and itinerary. Air Canada’s published range is itinerary-dependent, and WestJet marks seat selection as fee-based on UltraBasic and Econo.
- Add only the extras you will use. Include the fare, needed baggage, seat choice and any other required services. A low base fare may not be the least expensive option for a traveler who needs an overhead bag or an assigned seat.
- Review the final booking conditions. Fees and allowances can depend on route, purchase date and payment timing. Use the airline’s current rules for the exact trip before purchasing.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
