If you’re used to travelling light with Air Transat’s cheapest fares, you might need to rethink your packing strategy. The Montreal-based airline has announced a new policy that eliminates free carry-on baggage for its lowest-priced tickets, bringing it in line with other major Canadian carriers.
Starting Tuesday, February 11, travellers booking the Eco Budget fare will only be allowed one personal item—think a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag. Anything beyond that, including traditional carry-on suitcases, will have to be checked for a fee. If you opt for the Eco Standard fare, you’ll still get one carry-on bag in addition to a personal item, but checked luggage will come at an additional cost.
These changes affect flights within Canada, as well as those heading to and from the U.S. and sunny vacation destinations. However, if you’re travelling to Europe, Morocco, or Peru, or if you’ve booked a Transat all-inclusive package, you won’t be impacted by the new rules.
Air Transat says 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, and one checked bag with them.
This shift isn’t unique to Air Transat—Air Canada and WestJet have already made similar moves, stripping away perks that used to be standard. As airlines search for new ways to manage costs, fees for checked baggage, seat selection, and even in-flight snacks have become the norm.
For travellers who love a deal, this means making strategic choices. Pack efficiently, consider whether paying for a slightly higher fare is worth the perks, and always double-check the latest airline policies before heading to the airport. A little planning can go a long way in avoiding surprise fees and keeping your trip smooth and stress-free.
Passengers booking with Air Transat are encouraged to review the airline’s updated baggage policies to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
