Flying Between Canada and the US in 2026? Baggage Rules Explained, Plus the Champs Luggage That Fits
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Quick Answer
Between Canada and the US, Air Canada allows carry-ons up to 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in, while WestJet, Delta and American allow 22 x 14 x 9 in.
Also, liquids must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less, and power banks stay in your carry-on. The Champs Luggage Onyx II Carry-on ($250 USD or CAD) fits all four airlines.
The Sunset Weekly Connection Reality: Choosing compliant luggage simplifies cross-border travel between Canada and the US across major carriers like Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, and American. Selecting a versatile option like the Champs Luggage Onyx II ensures your carry-on meets all dimensional limits while adhering to essential liquid and power bank rules.
BUY NOWCanada–US Baggage Rules at a Glance
| Rule | Flying from the US | Flying from Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Security agency | TSA | CATSA |
| Liquids in carry-on | 3.4 oz (100 ml) containers in one quart-size bag | 100 ml (3.4 oz) containers in one 1 L bag |
| Power banks | Carry-on only (FAA) | Pack in your carry-on (CATSA) |
| Customs agency on arrival | CBSA, when you land in Canada | CBP, often before you board (preclearance) |
| Cash to declare | CAD $10,000 or more (CBSA) | More than $10,000 (CBP) |
| Food, plants and animal products | Declare all of them to CBSA | Declare them to CBP |
Sources: TSA, CATSA, FAA, CBP and CBSA official websites, checked October 13, 2026.
A Weekend in Toronto, a Week in New York
Picture it. Perhaps you’re flying from New York to Toronto for a long weekend, or from Toronto to New York for a week of meetings. It’s a short flight, so you assume packing will be simple.
Then the questions start. First, will my carry-on fit this airline’s sizer? Then, is my moisturizer too big? Also, can my power bank go in my checked bag? And what do I need to declare when I land?
Fortunately, the rules on both sides of the border are very similar. However, the small differences can still cost you time at the gate. So I checked every rule on the official airline and government websites, then matched each one with luggage from Champs Luggage that’s built to fit.
Carry-On and Personal Item Size Limits by Airline
First, here’s what each airline publishes on its own website. In every case, the sizes include wheels and handles.
| Airline | Carry-on bag | Personal item |
|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in (55 x 40 x 23 cm) | 17 x 13 x 6 in (43 x 33 x 16 cm) |
| WestJet | 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm) | 16 x 13 x 6 in (41 x 33 x 14 cm) |
| Delta | 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 35 x 23 cm), and 45 in combined | Must fit under the seat in front |
| American Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm) | 18 x 14 x 8 in (45 x 35 x 20 cm) |
Sources: aircanada.com, westjet.com, delta.com and aa.com, checked October 13, 2026.
Air Canada also says that “no weight limit applies to carry-on baggage,” as long as you can lift your bag into the overhead bin without help. Similarly, WestJet asks that your bag be light enough to place in the bin unaided.
Sunset Weekly tip: check your fare before you pack. For example, Air Canada Economy Basic tickets for flights between Canada and the US, bought on or after January 3, 2025, generally allow only one personal item on board. Likewise, WestJet UltraBasic guests on Canada–US flights can bring one personal item.
Checked Bag Limits
Meanwhile, if you’re checking a bag, the standard limits are almost identical across these airlines.
| Airline | Maximum weight | Maximum size (length + width + height) |
|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | 50 lb (23 kg) | 62 in (158 cm) |
| Delta | 50 lb (23 kg) | 62 in (157 cm) |
| American Airlines | 50 lb (23 kg) | 62 in (158 cm) |
Sources: aircanada.com, delta.com and aa.com, checked October 13, 2026.
However, fees vary by airline and fare. For instance, American lists a first checked bag fee of $50, or $45 if you pay online, for travel between the US and Canada. So always check your own booking before you fly.
Liquids: The Same Idea, Slightly Different Wording
Both countries follow the same basic rule, so one toiletry bag works in both directions.
- TSA rules (US): the TSA allows liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters, in one quart-size bag per passenger.
- CATSA rules (Canada): similarly, CATSA allows containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less, which must fit in one clear, resealable plastic bag of no more than 1 L.
In addition, CATSA exempts some items from the limit, such as infant formula, breast milk and prescription medicines. However, you must declare them to the screening officer.
Power Banks and Spare Batteries
This rule catches many travelers out, so it’s worth getting right. For example, according to the FAA, spare lithium batteries, including power banks, “must be carried in carry-on baggage only.” Standard batteries are limited to 100 watt hours each. However, with airline approval, you can also carry up to two larger spares rated between 101 and 160 watt hours.
Similarly, CATSA advises keeping power banks and spare batteries in your carry-on. So if your carry-on gets checked at the gate, take the power bank out first.
Customs: What to Declare on Each Side of the Border
Flying from Canada to the US
Many flights from Canada clear US customs before departure. In fact, CBP runs preclearance at nine Canadian airports: Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria and Winnipeg. As a result, you can skip US arrival inspection and head straight to your connection or destination.
- Food: first, CBP says all travelers must declare meats, fruits, vegetables and plants. Moreover, fines for first-time offenses can reach $1,000 for non-commercial quantities.
- Cash: if you carry more than $10,000, you must report it to CBP on FinCEN Form 105.
Flying from the US to Canada
- Food: similarly, CBSA says you’re “required by law to declare all food, plant and animal products” you bring into Canada. Failing to do so can lead to a penalty of up to $1,300.
- Cash: also, you must declare currency or monetary instruments worth CAD $10,000 or more.
The Champs Luggage That Fits These Rules
Now for the luggage. Champs Luggage sells luggage, backpacks and bags in both US and Canadian dollars, with free shipping to the contiguous US and Canada. Interestingly, the prices I checked show the same figure in both currencies. So here are the pieces that fit the rules above best.
Onyx II Carry-on: The Best All-Round Fit
At 21 x 14 x 9 in including wheels, the Onyx II Carry-on sits within the published carry-on limits of all four airlines in this guide. It also has a water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell, 360° dual spinner wheels and recessed TSA-approved locks.
Better still, it costs $250 USD or $250 CAD, and it holds 38 L while weighing just 2.7 kg (about 6 lb). It comes in Black, Ivory and Sand, so it’s ideal for travelers who fly different airlines on each trip.
Onyx Carry-on: A Roomier Pick for Air Canada
The Onyx Carry-on measures 21.5 x 15 x 9 in, so it fits Air Canada’s slightly wider limit. However, at 15 in wide it’s an inch wider than the 14 in limit used by WestJet, Delta and American, so it suits Air Canada flyers best.
In addition, it costs $325 USD or $325 CAD, holds 39 L and weighs 3.4 kg. It also comes in Black, Brown and Ivory.
Onyx Leather Business Tote (24 L): The Smart Business Carry-On
Meanwhile, for short business trips, the Onyx Leather Business Tote is made from top-grain cowhide leather and holds 24 L. Because it measures 19 x 13.5 x 7 in, it fits within all four airlines’ carry-on limits. It also has a 15.6-inch laptop compartment, an 11-inch tablet compartment and an RFID pocket.
Overall, it costs $215 USD or $215 CAD, and it comes in Black, Brown and Khaki.
Onyx Laptop Bag: A True Personal Item
However, if your fare only allows a personal item, size really matters. The Onyx Laptop Bag measures 16.5 x 5 x 12.5 in, so it fits Air Canada’s and American’s personal item limits. It also holds a 15.6-inch laptop, and a trolley strap attaches it to your suitcase.
Plus, it holds 13 L and costs $145 USD or $145 CAD.
Onyx Travel Backpack: A Slim Personal Item for American
Similarly, at 17.5 x 11 x 5 in, the Onyx Travel Backpack fits American’s personal item limit. It also holds a 15.6-inch laptop and has a trolley strap for your suitcase.
In addition, it holds 20 L and costs $170 USD or $170 CAD.
Two Bigger Bags to Check Before You Fly
Two popular Champs pieces are a little larger than these airlines’ published carry-on sizes. So measure them against your airline’s rules before you go, or plan to check them.
- Elite Aluminum Carry-on: an aluminum case with dual TSA-approved combination locks and eight 360-degree spinner wheels. However, it measures 23 x 14 x 9 in including wheels, which is taller than the 21.5 to 22 in limits above. It costs $430 USD or $430 CAD.
- Onyx Carry-on Backpack: a 41 L backpack with a USB-C port and a 17-inch laptop compartment. Still, at 20.5 x 13 x 9.4 in, it’s slightly deeper than the 9 in limits above. It also costs $215 USD or $215 CAD.
Will It Fit? Champs Luggage vs Airline Limits
| Champs bag | Size (in) | Fits as carry-on | Fits as personal item |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onyx II Carry-on | 21 x 14 x 9 | Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, American | No |
| Onyx Carry-on | 21.5 x 15 x 9 | Air Canada | No |
| Onyx Leather Business Tote | 19 x 13.5 x 7 | Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, American | No |
| Onyx Laptop Bag | 16.5 x 5 x 12.5 | Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, American | Air Canada, American |
| Onyx Travel Backpack | 17.5 x 11 x 5 | Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, American | American |
Sizes from each product page on champsluggage.com, including wheels and fixed handles on suitcases; airline limits from each airline’s website, checked October 13, 2026. Also, Delta’s carry-on page doesn’t list personal item dimensions.
Why You Can Trust Champs Luggage
- 10-year limited warranty: Champs warrants its products against defects in material and workmanship for 10 years from the original purchase. However, it doesn’t cover damage caused by airlines, so file a claim with your airline straight away.
- Free shipping: in addition, Champs offers fast and free shipping to the contiguous US and Canada.
- 30-day returns: also, you can return items in new condition and original packaging within 30 days of delivery. Returns for store credit are free, while refunds to your original payment method mean you pay the return shipping.
- Clear specs: each product page I checked lists its exterior dimensions and capacity, so you can check the fit before you buy.
Sunset Weekly tip: register your Champs product to activate the warranty, and keep your proof of purchase.
Your Canada–US Packing Checklist
| Before you fly | Done? |
|---|---|
| Check your airline’s carry-on size and your fare type | ☑️ |
| Pack liquids in 3.4 oz (100 ml) containers in one bag | ☑️ |
| Keep power banks and spare batteries in your carry-on | ☑️ |
| Declare food, plants and animal products | ☑️ |
| Report or declare cash at the $10,000 threshold | ☑️ |
| Bring your proof of citizenship and travel documents | ☑️ |
Final Verdict
Flying between Canada and the US is easy once you know the rules. First, keep your carry-on to about 22 x 14 x 9 in, or 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in on Air Canada. Then pack your liquids in one small bag, keep power banks in the cabin and declare food at the border. So for a carry-on that fits all four airlines in this guide, the Champs Onyx II Carry-on is my top pick. Finally, add the Onyx Laptop Bag as your personal item, and you’re ready to fly.
Official Sources for Canada–US Travelers
Bookmark these official government and airline pages before you fly:
United States
- What Can I Bring? (TSA)
- The 3-1-1 Liquids Rule (TSA)
- Lithium Batteries (FAA PackSafe)
- Bringing Agricultural Products Into the United States (CBP)
- Money and Monetary Instruments (CBP)
- Preclearance Locations (CBP)
Canada
- What Can I Bring? (CATSA)
- Liquids, Non-Solid Food and Personal Items (CATSA)
- Guidelines for Batteries (CATSA)
- Be Aware and Declare (CBSA)
- Declaring Currency and Goods (CBSA)
Airlines
- Carry-On Baggage (Air Canada)
- Carry-On Bags (WestJet)
- Checked Baggage (Air Canada)
- Carry-On Baggage (Delta)
- Carry-On Bags (American Airlines)
- Checked Bag Policy (American Airlines)
FAQs
What is the carry-on size limit for flights between Canada and the US?
It depends on the airline. Air Canada allows 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in (55 x 40 x 23 cm), while WestJet, Delta and American allow 22 x 14 x 9 in, including wheels and handles.
Can I bring a power bank on a flight between Canada and the US?
Yes, but only in your carry-on. In fact, the FAA says spare lithium batteries, including power banks, must be carried in carry-on baggage only.
Are the liquid rules the same in Canada and the US?
Almost. Indeed, both limit containers to 3.4 oz (100 ml). However, the TSA asks for one quart-size bag, while CATSA asks for one clear, resealable bag of no more than 1 L.
Do I go through US customs in Canada?
Often, yes. Specifically, CBP runs preclearance at nine Canadian airports, including Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary.
Do I need to declare food when flying between Canada and the US?
Yes. First, CBP requires travelers to declare meats, fruits, vegetables and plants, and CBSA requires you to declare all food, plant and animal products.
What is the Champs Elite Aluminum carry-on price?
Currently, the Elite Aluminum Carry-on costs $430 USD or $430 CAD. However, it measures 23 x 14 x 9 in including wheels, so check your airline’s carry-on limit before you fly.
Which Champs carry-on fits Air Canada, WestJet, Delta and American?
The Onyx II Carry-on, at 21 x 14 x 9 in including wheels, fits the published carry-on limits of all four airlines.
Does the Champs warranty cover airline damage?
No. Instead, Champs’ 10-year limited warranty covers defects in material and workmanship. However, it doesn’t cover damage caused by airlines, so file a claim with your airline right away.
Editorial & Accuracy Standards
- Expert Review:
Ammara Azmat,
Senior Travel Mobility Analyst (12+ years experience) - Status: Verified for accuracy against official 2026 service data and real-time traveller reports.
- Our Process: This content follows our Fact-Checking Policy.