Story: Flight in 2025
In January, I searched for domestic flights in Canada, aiming to find the lowest possible ticket price for February. However, finding a good deal wasn’t easy—it felt like my options were too limited.
I explored various alternatives, including flights with one-stop layovers instead of direct routes and considering airlines beyond Air Canada. Eventually, I realized that many low-priced tickets do not include carry-on luggage, allowing only personal items. This led me to wonder: could I truly manage to travel for an entire month with just a personal item—essentially, a single backpack?
To make this work, I’d need to pack with extreme efficiency, focusing solely on the essentials. This would mean minimal clothing changes, limited amenities, and prioritizing necessities like a laptop and related accessories, a few pieces of underwear, and the bare minimum of toiletries. That’s it.
Curious, I started researching whether such an approach is feasible for a vocational digital nomad.
Carry-On Restrictions for Domestic and Cross-Border Flights in Canada
In 2025, both Air Canada and WestJet have updated their carry-on baggage policies for flights within Canada and between Canada and the United States. Here’s a summary of the changes:
Air Canada’s Carry-On Policy Updates
Economy Basic Fare Adjustments: Effective January 3, 2025, Air Canada’s Economy Basic fare no longer includes a standard carry-on bag on certain itineraries. Passengers are permitted to bring one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, that fits under the seat in front of them. Larger items, like roller bags or large backpacks, must be checked, with fees of $35 for the first bag and $50 for the second.
Seat Selection Fees: Starting January 21, 2025, passengers traveling on Economy Basic fares will incur additional charges for seat selection. If no seat is selected, one will be automatically assigned at check-in.
Air Canada: Adjustments to Basic and comfort fares coming in January 2025
WestJet’s Carry-On Policy Updates
UltraBasic Fare Restrictions: WestJet’s UltraBasic fare now permits only one personal item per passenger, such as a small backpack or handbag. Carry-on bags are not included and cannot be purchased separately, except in specific cases:
- Passengers traveling to and from Europe and Asia are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item.
- Passengers who purchase Extended Comfort for all flights in a single direction, including connections, are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item.
- Duty-free alcohol purchased after security is allowed as carry-on baggage on direct flights operated by WestJet aircraft.
WestJet: Carry-on baggage
FLIGHTS AND VACATION PACKAGES
These policy changes align with broader industry trends, as airlines adjust their baggage policies to manage overhead space and offer more fare options. Travelers are encouraged to review the specific baggage allowances and fees associated with their fare class before booking to avoid unexpected charges.
New Air Canada carry-on baggage fees see rough landing with travellers, Transport Ministry
©CBC News
Last year, I used Zipair for the first time and learned how to navigate their policies. Essentially, I had to pay an extra fee for carry-on luggage and seat selection. Otherwise, it was impossible to fit all my digital nomad essentials within the 7-8 kg limit for the backpack.
At the time, I thought it was unusual, but now other carriers seem to be following suit. I have plans for domestic travel within Canada, so I can compromise on the seat though I prefer the window seat.
It will be a maximum of 5 hours, so it should be fine.
Essentials to Pack in Your Personal Item
1. Travel Documents
- Passport or government-issued ID ✓
- Boarding pass (digital copy on your phone or printed backup) ✓
- Travel itinerary or confirmation emails ✓
- Emergency contacts and hotel/hostel address ✓
- Small wallet with credit/debit cards, some cash (local currency if needed) ✓
*Smartphones can consolidate many of the items listed above, but having printed copies can still be helpful in certain situations.
2. Electronics and Accessories
- Laptop or tablet: Slim, lightweight models (MacBook Air, iPad, etc.) ✓
- Phone and charger: Compact USB cable and adapter ✓
- Power bank: Slim models (e.g., 10,000mAh capacity)
- Headphones/earbuds: Compact wired or wireless options ✓
- Universal adapter: If traveling internationally ✓
- Wireless mouse or stylus (optional, if you’ll be working) ✓
*These are reasonable. However, be cautious with the power bank. Some airlines do not accept high-capacity power banks. I assume that it is not cheap, so you don’t want to lose it at the airport.
3. Minimal Clothing
- Tops: 1-2 wrinkle-resistant, lightweight tops (e.g., t-shirts, button-ups) ✓
- Bottoms: 1 pair of versatile pants (like travel-friendly or quick-dry materials) ✓
- Underwear: 2-3 pairs (quick-drying for easy sink washing) ✓
- Socks: 2-3 pairs (consider compression socks for long flights) ✓
- Layer: 1 lightweight jacket, cardigan, or hoodie (wear heavier layers if needed) ✓
- Shoes: Wear a versatile pair, like sneakers, and pack flip-flops (if needed)
*Don’t forget to consider how you sleep. You may not need many outfits, but make sure to pack enough underwear.
4. Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste: Travel-sized versions ✓
- Skincare: Moisturizer, sunscreen, or travel-friendly cleanser (under 100 ml) ✓
- Razor (optional): Compact travel-friendly version ✓
- Comb or brush: Small foldable types ✓
- Medications: In labeled containers (include vitamins or daily prescriptions)
- Hand sanitizer: Small bottle or wipes
*If you can buy them at your destination, it’s better to leave them behind and purchase them there to avoid carrying extra weight.
5. Personal Comfort and Miscellaneous
- Refillable water bottle: Empty to pass security ✓
- Pen: For customs forms or jotting notes ✓
*Snack, travel pillow, eye mask, and earplug are all options.
6. Organization Tips
- Packing cubes: Use one small cube for clothes and another for toiletries. ✓
- Zippered pouch: For loose cables, chargers, and accessories.
- Flat tote bag: Collapsible for extra storage at your destination ✓
*These are useful for organizing your bag and convenient for use at your destination.
Look for the accommodation you can stay for a month
For digital nomads staying at a destination long-term (at least a month), staying in a hotel is often too expensive. However, staying in a hostel, which usually requires sharing a room with 4-8 people, may not be ideal depending on your priorities. I’ve stayed in hostels for short-term trips of a few days, and it was fun.
I searched for accommodation on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Airbnb.
Airbnb is a popular choice, but as Brian Chesky, the CEO of Airbnb, has acknowledged, prices have risen gradually. Because the city requires a license from the Airbnb host, they charge a tax. (Hotels complain to the city about it as it’s unfair.) The host then adds this cost to the price, and after all, the consumer is charged.
CBC British Columbia: B.C. launches short-term rental registry to ramp up enforcement
While it’s cheaper than a hotel, it tends to be more expensive than options on Facebook Marketplace. The main advantage of Airbnb is the added security, as you don’t have to worry about fraud.
I searched for places, and my impression was that the average price was $1,200+ for four weeks. There were a few options under $1,000, but they were limited and not close to downtown Montreal.
I recently discovered Facebook Marketplace. It has many categories and feels like Craigslist integrated into social media. I can find good deals sometimes. I don’t often use Facebook, but I use Facebook Marketplace. However, after reading some reviews, it’s clear you need to be cautious about fraud.
I contacted around five people and received responses from two. They mentioned preferring tenants for a few months but were willing to accept me. I needed a furnished room with a bed and desk and was okay with sharing the space, kitchen, and bathroom. The price was affordable at $750.
Someone mentioned that many businesses operate within Craigslist categories, with one category potentially representing an independent business. Craigslist is common in Canada and the United States, and I use it occasionally. Sometimes, I sell items I no longer need. When meeting a buyer, I’m cautious and often choose a public space. I haven’t encountered any issues so far, but it’s always important to be careful. While I can find accommodations on Craigslist, I feel Facebook Marketplace is much more competitive I find the wide range of pricing. Having choices is important for consumers.
I found a studio for $890, which would be impossible to find in Vancouver, BC. I messaged the owner, but I was rejected because s/he required a minimum 3-month contract. Ultimately, I needed a bed, desk, kitchenware, and, if possible, a towel, so I couldn’t choose an unfurnished studio where I could live independently. I could probably find the future room if I didn’t mind the room size. This is a normal situation, and Vancouver, BC, is quite an exception in comparison.
Conclusion: It was a truth I wasn’t aware of
I didn’t know about the new travel standard coming in 2025.
I can say the same about the real estate market in Vancouver, BC. I hadn’t thought about moving in a couple of years. I knew many people were moving out of the city, especially families. When I think about moving, I feel like I have no choice in this city. Over $1500/month, $2000/month for a studio or 1-bedroom is very common (rip-off). It’s a rather challenging situation. If you’ve been living in Vancouver for a long time, your rent might have been below $1000 for a studio or 1-bedroom, but in the current market, without connections, that won’t happen.
I’m worried about traveling without a carry-on, but I’ll try it. Where is your next destination in Canada or the United States?
*Updated: February 6, 2025
About carry-on baggage policies
I checked in online 24 hours before my flight. I received a QR code via email, so I didn’t need to use a kiosk or check in at YVR. It was convenient. During boarding, WestJet separated passengers, with carry-on luggage and without carry-on, which meant those in that group couldn’t bring one.
About accommodation
I searched for accommodation on Facebook Marketplace. The challenge was not just finding a short-term rental (one month) but also handling payment. I didn’t want to pay upfront, yet I needed to book before traveling. I didn’t receive many responses, though I did chat with some sellers. The process relied heavily on trust. This was for domestic travel within Canada, but I’m unsure if I could use the platform for international travel. After all, I chose Airbnb and it costs $1148/mo.
About the backpack for 1 month
First of all, WestJet was not strict about the size of personal items, even though my backpack was within the allowed dimensions: 41 cm × 15 cm × 33 cm (16 in × 6 in × 13 in). However, there wasn’t enough space to properly fit it under the seat in front of me—it was very tight. I bought room socks, a hanger, and shampoo. *The towel is provided. I only spent money on groceries as a necessity.
About Montreal in February
Since I arrived in Montreal, the temperature is generally -10 degrees. I try walking the local area every day, but it is very challenging. I cannot walk for over 1 hour. The face freezes with sharp pain. Keep your hand in the pocket after taking photos. Bare skin must be covered somehow. I wear HeatTech and a down jacket, and it works well. My body stays warm.
Related Blog: Digital Nomad 101 as a Freelance Web/Graphic Designer in Montreal, Canada
