Porter Airlines Baggage Fees (2026)
Quick summary
Porter is a Toronto-based carrier known for its elevated economy experience (free snacks and beer/wine, no middle seats on Embraer jets). It sells tiered fares from Basic up to Freedom. The Basic fare is stripped down — only a free personal item, no carry-on — while Standard adds a carry-on and higher fares include free checked bags. New baggage prices took effect for bookings made on or after May 7, 2026, with the first checked bag starting around CA$40–52 prepaid. Fees are in CAD on the Canadian site, USD on the US site.
At a glance
🎒 Personal item
Free on all fares, including Basic. One personal item (e.g. a small backpack or laptop bag) that fits under the seat in front of you.
🧳 Carry-on
Not included on the Basic fare — Basic allows only a personal item, and all other bags must be checked (or add the Basic Express add-on from ~CA$50 for a carry-on). Standard and higher fares include a full-size carry-on up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in).
Porter Airlines checked bag fees
| 1st checked bag — Basic/Standard (prepaid) | from ~CA$40–52 / US$ |
| 1st checked bag — post-purchase | ~CA$45–63 |
| 1st checked bag — at airport | ~CA$50–69 |
| Flexible fare | 1 checked bag free |
| Freedom fare | 2 checked bags free |
🔁 Change & cancellation
Basic fares do not allow changes or refunds (changes only possible at the airport in limited cases, for a fee). The optional Flight Change + Refund add-on lets Basic passengers change or cancel up to 24 hours before departure (fare difference applies). All bookings are fully refundable within 24 hours of purchase. Standard and higher fares include more flexibility.
Other common fees
| Seat selection | From ~CA$10+, per direction, per passenger (non-refundable) |
| Basic Express add-on (adds carry-on) | from ~CA$50 (non-refundable) |
How to avoid extra fees
- Don't book Basic if you need a carry-on — once you add the Basic Express add-on or a bag, a Standard fare is often cheaper overall.
- Prepay checked bags at booking; fees rise post-purchase and again at the airport.
- Flexible and Freedom fares bundle in free checked bags — worth it if you'd otherwise pay for two bags.
- Book from the site matching your currency — Canadian site charges CAD, US site charges USD.
Porter Airlines baggage — FAQ
Does Porter's Basic fare include a carry-on?
No. Basic includes only a free personal item; all other bags must be checked. You can add the Basic Express add-on (from about CA$50) to bring a carry-on.
How much is the first checked bag on Porter?
For bookings on or after May 7, 2026, the first checked bag starts around CA$40–52 when prepaid at booking on Basic/Standard fares, rising to roughly CA$50–69 at the airport. Flexible and Freedom fares include free checked bags.
Can I change or cancel a Porter Basic fare?
Basic fares normally aren't changeable or refundable, but all bookings can be cancelled within 24 hours of purchase. The optional Flight Change + Refund add-on lets you change or cancel up to 24 hours before departure.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with Porter Airlines. Baggage fees and policies change often and vary by route, fare type, and date — always confirm on the airline's official website before booking or flying.