Carry-on baggage: Practical guide for travellers

What is considered carry-on baggage?

A carry-on bag, also called cabin baggage or hand baggage, is the type of luggage you can bring with you on the plane. During the flight, it must be stored in the overhead bin above the seats or sometimes fit under the seat in front of you. Carry-on luggage is different from checked baggage, which is placed in the cargo hold and collected at the baggage carousel upon arrival. 

How to measure the size and weight of a carry-on bag

When measuring your baggage, account for height, width, and depth—including the handle and wheels. For example, measure the suitcase from the ground up to the top of the handle. 

To check the weight, use a baggage scale (several travel accessories are available at the CAA-Quebec Boutique). Weigh your bag before departure and again before your return after adding any purchases or souvenirs. This prevents your baggage from being refused in the cabin. 

Maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage sizes

Each airline sets its own rules for the size and weight of carry-on baggage. These rules may change without notice, so it’s important to check the allowed dimensions with your airline before you fly. If your bag exceeds the limits, it may have to be checked in, and extra fees apply. 

Here are the airline carry-on size limits for the airlines most popular among CAA-Quebec Travel clients: 

Can I bring a personal item along with my carry-on?

Yes, most airlines allow you to bring one personal item in addition to your carry-on bag. 

Examples of personal items include: 

• Purse or handbag 

• Backpack 

• Shoulder bag 

• Laptop bag or briefcase 

Each airline sets its own rules regarding size and weight. Always check these details on your airline’s website before your flight to avoid boarding issues. 

What items are allowed or prohibited in carry-on baggage?

In Canada, the rules about prohibited and permitted items in baggage are established by CATSA (Canadian Air Transport Security Authority). Airlines may apply stricter rules. 

Liquids, aerosols, and gels 
These must be in containers of 100 ml or less. All containers must fit in a clear, resealable plastic bag of 1 L or less. Items that exceed this limit, such as drinks, perfumes, or liquid souvenirs, must be checked in or shipped separately. 

Food – liquid or solid 
The same restrictions apply to liquid foods as to liquids and gels: they must be in containers of 100 ml or less and packed in a clear plastic bag of 1 L or less. 
Solid foods are allowed. However, please note that any food not consumed before arrival will be subject to the regulations of your destination country. 

Medications 
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are allowed in carry-on baggage. Keep them in their original packaging with the label. 

Electronic devices 
Electronic devices are permitted in the cabin, but some rules may apply. 

Examples of permitted devices include: 

• Mobile phones 

• Tablets 

• Laptops 

• Cameras 

• Headphones 

• Portable gaming consoles 

• Smartwatches 

• Charging cables 

You will likely be asked to remove electronic devices from your bag during security screening (customs). In addition, you must turn them off or switch them to airplane mode during the flight. 

Visit the CATSA website to check if a specific item is allowed. 

What are the fees for carry-on baggage?

The cost of carry-on baggage depends on several factors: 

• Airline 
  Regular carriers often include one carry-on bag for free, while charter or low-cost airlines may charge fees for checked luggage or restrict dimensions. 

• Fare class or ticket type 
  Basic economy fares usually do not include carry-on baggage. In these cases, only a personal item is permitted. Standard or higher economy fares typically include both a carry-on bag and a personal item. 

• Credit card used for booking 
  Some travel credit cards offer benefits like free carry-on baggage, regardless of the ticket type. 

• Frequent flyer program membership 
  Loyalty program members may benefit from exemptions on carry-on fees and other travel perks. 

Important: Always check your ticket conditions for applicable carry-on baggage fees. 

What to pack in your carry-on bag

According to our travel experts, here are the essential items to pack in carry-on baggage: 

• Identification and travel documents 

• Prescription and non-prescription medications 

• Jewellery or other valuables 

• Personal care kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hand cream, lip balm, sanitizing wipes, etc.) 

• Neck pillow, earplugs, light jacket, or blanket 

• Reusable water bottle (fill it after security) 

• Dry snacks 

• Book or e-reader 

• Headphones with an in-flight adapter 

• Change of clothes 

• Swimsuit and sunscreen (for sunny destinations) 

• Packing cubes for organization and space-saving 

To find the perfect carry-on suitcase, shop the collection of carry-on suitcases at the CAA-Quebec Boutique. You can also visit one of our CAA-Quebec Travel Centres for personalized advice.