Goodbye free carry-ons: Air Transat announces new baggage fees policy

Thinking of leaving Quebec for a little getaway? You should probably pack light.

In a move that mirrors Air Canada's recent changes, Air Transat has made significant adjustments to its baggage fees policy.

Starting February 11, 2025, travellers flying with the Quebec airline on certain fares will no longer be entitled to free carry-on baggage. These changes apply to passengers booking Eco Budget (or Promo) and Eco Standard fares for flights to and from destinations down south, the United States, and even domestic flights within Canada.

Passengers on these fares will now only be allowed to bring one personal item, like a small handbag or laptop case on board. Carry-on baggage, once included in the fare, will now cost between $35 and $50, and it will be checked into the hold, regardless of its size.

With that in mind, Air Transat's new baggage policy does not affect vacation packages, as passengers booking all-inclusive vacation packages in Economy Class will not be subject to the new fees.

"Customers who have booked an all-inclusive vacation package in Economy Class will still be allowed to bring: One personal item, one carry-on bag, one checked bag," the airline's website notes.

For those flying on Eco Standard fares, one piece of carry-on baggage will be allowed, but checked baggage is no longer included. You can still add checked baggage for an additional fee.

Interestingly, if you're flying with a connection to Europe, Morocco, or Peru, Eco Budget and Promo passengers will still be allowed a carry-on bag. However, if you're connecting through Canada, the United States, or southern destinations like Cuba or the Dominican Republic, you won't be able to carry on a bag at any point during your journey.

In short, lighter packing is now a must for Air Transat travellers, particularly for those on lower-cost fares. If you're planning a trip soon, it's a good idea to check your baggage allowances and prepare for potential extra costs before you fly.

Looking to explore your options? Back in December, MTL Blog rounded up the baggage fees for every major airline in Montreal. While Transat's policy has since changed, the others still apply. Check out the full breakdown here.

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