Canadian North Baggage Policy

Canadian North Airlines is known for its dedication to safety, comfort, and efficiency, especially when it comes to baggage handling. Whether you are a frequent traveler or flying with the airline for the first time, understanding the Canadian North Baggage Policy is crucial for a seamless travel experience. This detailed guide will walk you through the policy, providing key insights into carry-on and checked baggage rules, fees, special considerations, and more.

Carry-On Baggage Rules for Canadian North

One of the most crucial aspects of air travel is the ability to bring essential items into the cabin. The Canadian North Baggage Policy includes specific guidelines for carry-on baggage, and failing to adhere to these rules could result in extra fees or the requirement to check the item at the gate.

Canadian North Carry-On Size

Each passenger is allowed to bring one carry-on item that must not exceed the dimensions of 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm (21.5 in x 15.5 in x 9 in), including handles and wheels. This ensures that the item fits in the overhead bin or under the seat.

Canadian North Carry-On Weight

The weight limit for carry-on items is 10 kg (22 lbs). Exceeding this limit will require you to check the bag at an additional cost.

In addition to the carry-on item, travelers can bring one personal item, like a laptop case, backpack, or handbag. This personal item must fit comfortably in the space below the seat right in front of you. These restrictions ensure that Canadian North maintains cabin safety and prevents overcrowding of overhead bins.

Canadian North Checked Baggage Policy

The Canadian North Baggage Policy outlines allowances for checked baggage based on fare classes and the route of travel. Understanding the free baggage allowance and fees for extra baggage is crucial for planning your trip efficiently.

Free Baggage Allowance

Passengers traveling in most fare classes are permitted two checked bags without additional charge. Each bag must not exceed 23 kg (50 lbs) in weight, and the total dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 in).

Additional Baggage Fees

If you need to check more than two bags, there will be a charge for extra baggage. The Canadian North Baggage fees for additional items depend on the route and the number of extra bags. On average, the fee for a third checked bag starts at CAD 100, though this can vary depending on the flight destination and the type of fare purchased.

If you are traveling with oversized or overweight luggage (exceeding 23 kg but under 32 kg), additional fees may apply. It’s recommended to review the specific fees associated with your destination on the Canadian North website before your flight.

How to Buy Extra Baggage: Complete Process

Purchasing extra baggage with Canadian North is simple and can be done online through the Canadian North airline’s website or at the airport. If you anticipate needing extra baggage, it’s more cost-effective to purchase this online in advance rather than waiting until check-in at the airport.

To purchase extra baggage online:

• Log into your Canadian North booking online or through the customer service portal.
• Select “Add Baggage” under your flight reservation.
• Follow the prompts to purchase additional baggage based on your needs.
• Make the payment, and you will receive an updated e-ticket with the extra baggage noted.

Doing this ahead of time helps you save money, as purchasing extra baggage at the airport may come with higher fees.

Read Also: Can You Bring Edibles On A Plane?

Special Considerations: Unique Travel Needs

Canadian North strives to accommodate all passengers, ensuring their diverse travel requirements are met through the Canadian North Baggage Policy. This includes families traveling with children, those with medical needs, passengers with pets, and individuals with special items like sporting equipment or musical instruments. Understanding these special considerations can help make your journey more comfortable and smooth.

Traveling with Infants and Children

Families flying with infants and children have specific baggage allowances designed to make their journey more manageable. Canadian North provides flexibility for essential items required for younger passengers.

Strollers and Car Seats

If you’re traveling with an infant or child, you can bring one stroller and one car seat without these counting towards your regular baggage allowance. These items can either be checked at the ticket counter or the gate, allowing for convenient use within the airport. There are no additional fees for these essential items, but they must meet size and weight limits, as strollers should be foldable, and car seats should be airline-approved.

Checked and Carry-On Baggage for Children

Children traveling on a separate seat are entitled to the same baggage allowance as adults. Infants flying on a parent’s lap (without a purchased seat) do not have a checked baggage allowance, but parents are allowed a diaper bag as part of their carry-on items. For longer flights, planning to check extra baggage, such as items for children, can be done in advance to avoid additional fees at the airport.

Medical Travel and Accessibility

Canadian North makes special accommodations for passengers traveling with medical devices or who have accessibility needs. These include allowances for mobility aids, medical equipment, and support for passengers requiring extra assistance during their journey.

Medical Devices

Devices such as portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), CPAP machines, or other necessary medical equipment can be brought onboard or checked as additional baggage. These items do not count towards your standard baggage allowance. However, passengers must inform Canadian North in advance about their medical needs, and the equipment must meet airline and aviation safety regulations.

Mobility Aids

For passengers who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids, these can be checked at no additional charge. If needed, Canadian North provides assistance with the boarding process, ensuring that passengers with disabilities have a smooth experience. It’s important to notify the airline about your mobility aid requirements when booking your flight, to ensure proper arrangements are made.

Special Dietary Requirements and Allergies

Canadian North provides options for passengers with specific dietary requirements or food allergies. While they do not offer a full range of special meals, the airline encourages passengers with severe food allergies to notify the airline prior to flying so that appropriate precautions can be taken. In the cabin, the crew can make announcements to inform fellow passengers of severe allergens, such as peanuts.

Traveling with Pets

Canadian North allows passengers to travel with pets, either in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on the size and type of the animal. Specific rules and fees apply to ensure the comfort and safety of all travelers, including pets.

Pets in Cabin

Small cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin till the time the weight of the carrier, and pet in combination is not more than 10 kg (22 lbs). The carrier must be airline-approved, well-ventilated, and able to fit under the seat in front of you. There is a fee for cabin pets, and it’s important to reserve space for your pet ahead of time, as there are limits on the number of pets allowed in the cabin on each flight.

Pets as Checked Baggage

For larger pets that cannot travel in the cabin, Canadian North allows animals to be transported as checked baggage. The pet must be in an airline-approved, secure crate, and additional fees apply. The airline ensures that pets are transported safely in a climate-controlled area of the cargo hold. As with cabin pets, it is advised to book your pet’s travel early, as space is limited.

Besides all of what is mentioned above here are certain restrictions imposed by the Canadian North regarding the carriage of pets: 

• Animals below eight weeks old won’t be permitted to travel in the cabin as they might be at risk of dehydration. 
• Pets omitting a foul odor, or are hostile or agitated might be denied entry. 
• Females who are in heat or have a suckling young won’t be allowed on board either. 
• Muzzled animals won’t be allowed access either. 
• Canadian North isn’t responsible for the loss, injury, delay, sickness, or demise of an animal that has been permitted for transportation. 

Transporting Special Items: Sporting Equipment and Musical Instruments

Passengers traveling with special items such as sporting equipment or musical instruments are subject to specific rules within the Canadian North Baggage Policy. Proper preparation and packing of these items ensure they are transported safely without damage.

Sporting Equipment

Items like skis, snowboards, bicycles, golf clubs, and fishing gear can be checked as part of your baggage allowance. Each piece of sporting equipment must adhere to the size and weight restrictions for checked baggage. If the item exceeds the allowed size, additional fees may apply. Canadian North recommends properly packing sporting equipment in protective cases to avoid damage during transport.

Musical Instruments

Musical instruments can be brought onboard as part of your carry-on or checked baggage allowance. Smaller instruments, such as violins or flutes, can be stored in the overhead bin if they meet the carry-on size limits. Larger instruments, such as cellos or guitars, must be checked or, in some cases, require a separate seat purchase to transport them safely in the cabin. Ensuring that instruments are properly packed in hard-shell cases is highly recommended to prevent damage.

Transporting Human Remains with Dignity

Canadian North offers respectful care and specific procedures for transporting human remains. The airline follows strict guidelines to ensure the safe and dignified handling of human remains during air travel.

Respectful Care for Transporting Human Remains

Canadian North is committed to maintaining respect and compliance with all legal requirements when transporting human remains. This service requires special documentation and arrangements, and it is recommended to contact the airline well in advance of the intended travel date to make the necessary preparations.

Miscellaneous Special Items

Other special items, such as fragile goods or high-value items, require particular care when packing and checking in.

Fragile Goods

Passengers transporting fragile goods, such as artwork, glassware, or electronic equipment, should ensure these items are properly packed to withstand travel. While Canadian North will take reasonable precautions to avoid damage, fragile items are accepted under limited liability. For added protection, passengers are encouraged to purchase travel insurance for valuable items.

High-Value Items

Items like jewelry, cash, and important documents should always be kept in carry-on luggage, as these are not covered under the airline’s liability for lost or damaged checked baggage.

Restricted/Prohibited Items in Canadian North Baggage Policy

Understanding the restricted and prohibited items in the Canadian North Baggage Policy is crucial for a hassle-free travel experience. These guidelines ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew members. Below, we outline the categories of restricted and prohibited items, along with specific examples, to help you prepare for your journey.

• Alcohol / Liquor 
• Avalanche rescue backpacks
• Cannabis 
• Camping equipment 
• Defense sprays, disabling devices 
• Drones 
• Matches and lighters 
• Heated clothing 
• Smart bags 
• Lithium batteries 
• Liquids, gels, and aerosols
• Smart bags 
• Sharp objects
• Electronic cigarettes or vaporizers
• Fireworks, sparklers, Christmas crackers
• Self-inflating, life jackets; safety vests 
• Fuel cell systems 
• Attache cases (security type)  

Dangerous Goods

Dangerous goods are items that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment. Transporting these goods on an aircraft is strictly regulated, and Canadian North follows Transport Canada regulations to identify what items fall into this category.

Examples of Dangerous Goods:

• Explosives: Fireworks, flares, and ammunition.
• Flammable Items: Gasoline, lighter fluid, and paint thinners.
• Oxidizers: Bleach, peroxides, and chlorine.
• Toxic Substances: Certain chemicals, pesticides, and radioactive materials.
• Corrosive Materials: Battery acid and certain cleaning agents.

Sharp Objects

To ensure passenger safety, sharp objects that could potentially be used as weapons are prohibited in carry-on baggage.

Examples of Sharp Objects:

• Knives of any length (including kitchen knives, pocket knives, and utility knives); moreover, lipstick knives, switchblade knives, credit card knives etc aren’t permitted 
• Scissors with blades longer than 6 cm (approximately 2.5 inches).
• Razor blades and box cutters.
• Ice picks and similar tools.
• Safety razors (they are permissible only if you remove the razor and place it in your checked baggage) 
• Nail clippers 
• Knitting needles
• Tweezers 

Sporting Equipment

While some sporting equipment is allowed, certain items are restricted or prohibited in carry-on baggage due to safety concerns.

Prohibited Sporting Equipment:

• Bats (baseball or cricket).
• Hockey sticks and other similar long items.

Passengers can check these items in their luggage, but it is recommended to pack them securely to avoid damage.

Weapons and Firearms

Canadian North has stringent rules regarding firearms and weapons. Passengers must comply with federal regulations and the airline’s specific requirements.

• Firearms: Firearms must be declared at check-in and transported as checked baggage. They must be unloaded and securely packed in a hard-sided container. Passengers should also carry any necessary permits and documentation.
• Prohibited Weapons: This includes any items designed to inflict harm, such as:
  • Firearms replicas and toy guns.
  • Knuckle dusters, throwing stars, and other martial arts weapons.

Tools

Certain tools that could potentially be used as weapons or cause harm are not permitted in carry-on luggage.

Prohibited Tools:

• Hammers, crowbars, and wrenches.
• Saws, drills, and other heavy construction tools.

These items can be checked in your baggage but should be packed securely to prevent injury to baggage handlers and other passengers.

Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols

Transport Canada regulations limit the amount of liquids, gels, and aerosols that passengers can carry in their hand luggage. The general rule is:

• 3-1-1 Rule: Each passenger is allowed to bring liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz). All containers must fit within a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag with a capacity not exceeding 1 liter (about 1 quart).

Prohibited Items:

1. Any container exceeding 100 ml.
2. Items that do not fit in the resealable bag.

Exceptions exist for certain medical and dietary liquids, but prior notification is required.

Miscellaneous Items

Other categories of items may also be restricted or prohibited, ensuring safety during air travel.

Prohibited Miscellaneous Items:

• Self-Defense Sprays: Such as pepper spray or mace.
• Personal Safety Alarms: These may resemble weapons.
• Any item that resembles a weapon: Including items that may be considered offensive or could potentially be misused.

Electronic Devices

Certain electronic devices are restricted or may have limitations based on regulations and safety guidelines.

Examples:

• Large lithium batteries are typically not permitted in checked baggage.
• Some electronic devices may need to be removed from carry-on bags during security screening.

Lost or Damaged Baggage Policy

Canadian North is committed to helping passengers resolve issues related to lost or damaged baggage. Should any of your items be delayed, damaged, or lost, the Canadian North Lost Baggage Policy offers clear steps for recourse. If your baggage has been lost in such cases you must submit your claim in 21 days post the day it was scheduled to arrive. 

Canadian North Lost Baggage Phone Number:

If your baggage is missing, you should report the issue immediately to the Canadian North baggage service desk at the airport. Alternatively, you can reach out via the Canadian North customer service number dedicated to lost baggage claims.

Once a claim is filed, the airline will initiate a search for your missing items. In cases where the baggage cannot be located, Canadian North offers compensation based on the value of the contents, subject to international liability limits.

Damaged Baggage:

For damaged baggage, it is essential to report the damage upon arrival at your destination. You must submit the claim within seven days of the receipt of your baggage. The airline will either repair the damage or compensate you for the repair costs. However, Canadian North’s liability does not extend to items of high value such as jewelry or electronics, which should always be carried in your hand luggage.

Regulations and Limitations of Liability

Canadian North follows national and international guidelines regarding baggage handling, loss, and damage. While the airline strives to care for each passenger’s belongings, there are limits to liability for lost or damaged items, particularly for valuables like electronics or jewelry.

Recently, Canadian North has implemented enhancements to its baggage policy, focusing on ensuring safer and more efficient luggage handling. This includes updated protocols for carry-on baggage to minimize onboard clutter and ensure smoother boarding procedures.

Conclusion 

Understanding the Canadian North Baggage Policy is essential for a stress-free trip, as it helps passengers avoid unexpected fees and delays. By adhering to the airline’s rules on carry-on and checked baggage sizes, weights, and fees, travelers can ensure they meet all requirements and enjoy a smooth travel experience. Whether you’re traveling with children, or pets, or carrying special items, Canadian North offers various options to accommodate unique needs.

For the most up-to-date information, travelers should consult Canadian North’s official website, where the latest details on baggage allowances, special considerations, and fees are outlined.

By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that your next trip with Canadian North goes off without a hitch.

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