WestJet's New Carry-On Size Requirements: Everything You Need To Know

WestJet's New Carry-On Size Requirements: Everything You Need To Know

U.N. Luggage |

What's Changing: WestJet's New Carry-On Dimensions

Previously, WestJet allowed a maximum carry-on baggage size of 21” x 15” x 9”. Effective May 6th, 2025, WestJet’s new maximum carry-on baggage size will be 22” x 14” x 9”. The effective volume of the baggage allowed remains the same; the maximum height is being increased by 1 inch, while the maximum width is being decreased by 1 inch.

Why This Change Matters For Canadian Travellers

WestJet had a unique carry-on baggage allowance for airlines. Internationally, the standard size for carry-on baggage is usually 22” x 14” x 9”. By changing the maximum carry-on baggage size to more closely align with other airlines, WestJet travellers will have a more seamless experience transferring carry-on baggage from one airplane to another.

 

Here is a list of airlines that accept 22” x 14” x 9” or larger carry-ons:

Airline

Maximum Carry-on Size

American Airlines

22” x 14” x 9”

Delta Air Lines

22” x 14” x 9”

United Airlines

22” x 14” x 9”

JetBlue Airways

22” x 14” x 9”

British Airways

22” x 18” x 9.8”

China Airlines

22” x 14” x 9”

Qantas

22” x 14” x 9”


This list is not comprehensive, but it gives you an idea of why the more standard 22” x 14” x 9” sizes are preferable for some international travel. 

How To Ensure Your Luggage Complies

The easiest way to tell if your luggage complies with carry-on size restrictions is to check with the luggage manufacturer or the store that sold you your luggage; most luggage manufacturers and luggage stores will list the size of their luggage online.

At U.N. Luggage, we have several West Jet carry-on approved bags and luggage. We highly recommend browsing our selection if you’re looking for a new carry-on bag; you can view the dimensions of each product to ensure that it meets your needs for your next trip. 

You can also simply measure your luggage with a measuring tape. We recommend doing so after your luggage is packed, especially for soft bags, as they may expand beyond the allowable maximum baggage sizing. 

What This Means for Your Next WestJet Flight

In WestJet’s announcement of the new maximum carry-on baggage sizing, Colleen Tynan, Vice President of Experience Management, said that: “Introducing a new standard size ensures more bags will fit on more flights, so we expect this to have a big impact on the overall experience on board.”

Ideally, this means that the change will mean more room for carry-ons, and less waiting time as people place their carry-ons into the overhead compartments. The change goes into effect on May 6th; prior to that, WestJet will accept both the old maximum size and the new maximum size for carry-ons. 

WestJet has delivered new baggage sizing devices to all airports where WestJet has service. This means you will be able to measure your carry-on as normal for WestJet flights.

 

Jon Thiessen of U.N. Luggage

About the author

Jon Thiessen

U.N. Luggage

Jon Thiessen is a lifelong Winnipegger with deep experience in travel gear, luggage, and repair. He has travelled to every province in Canada, most major cities and provincial capitals, toured Europe extensively, returned to Germany twice, visited Italy, and spent time in Southeast Asia.

He usually travels carry-on only and has hands-on experience with gear like the Matador Seg28, Briggs carry-on luggage, Tumi 19 Degree carry-on luggage, and the Bellroy Lite 30L. He also recommends practical travel accessories like laundry lines and laundry bags for longer trips.

Having grown up around U.N. Luggage and managed the U.N. Repair shop for more than 15 years, Jon has a strong eye for quality construction and a practical understanding of what travellers need for different types of trips. He has personally used Secrid wallets for over a decade and sees Bellroy as one of the most exciting emerging luggage brands.

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