Trailways Baggage Policy

Trailways allows passengers to travel with carry-on, checked, and special baggage. Find a detailed guide on the luggage policy, including size limits, fees, restricted items, and helpful links for further assistance.

Carry-On Baggage

Each passenger is allowed one (1) complimentary carry-on bag that must fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat.

Carry-On Size and Weight Limits

  • Maximum dimensions:16 x 12 x 7 inches (42 x 30 x 18 cm)
  • Maximum weight:25 lbs (7 kg)
  • Storage location: Overhead compartment or under the seat

Restricted Carry-On Items

The following items cannot be placed in carry-on luggage:

  • Firearms, explosives, or other dangerous materials
  • Large electronics that do not fit within the size restrictions
  • Perishable foods or items with strong odours

For a complete list of prohibited items, visit the Trailways Baggage Policy.

Checked Baggage

Each passenger is allowed up to two (2) pieces of checked baggage for free.

Checked Baggage Size and Weight Limits

  • Maximum dimensions per bag: 62 inches (length + width + height)
  • Maximum weight per bag: 50 lbs
  • Total weight limit per passenger: 100 lbs (for two bags)
  • Labeling requirement: Passenger's name and phone number must be attached to each bag

Additional Checked Baggage Fees

  • Excess baggage fee: If a passenger checks more than two bags, additional fees apply.
  • Oversized baggage fee: Bags exceeding 62 inches in combined dimensions may incur extra fees.
  • Overweight baggage fee: Bags over 50 lbs may require an additional fee.

For detailed fee structures and baggage regulations, visit the Trailways Baggage Policy.

Special and Oversized Baggage

Trailways allows certain types of oversized baggage, such as bicycles, skis, and musical instruments, under specific conditions.

Bicycles

  • Must be packed in a bike box or securely wrapped
  • Maximum dimensions: 8 x 32 x 60 inches
  • Additional fees apply based on space availability

Skis and Snowboards

  • Must be properly packed in a ski bag or case
  • No extra fee if it replaces one piece of checked baggage

Musical Instruments

  • Small instruments (violins, guitars) can be carried on if they fit within carry-on dimensions
  • Large instruments must be checked and securely packed
  • Additional baggage fees may apply if exceeding weight or size limits

Other Oversized Items

  • Strollers and car seats can be checked for free with a child’s ticket
  • Playpens, cots, and wagons count as standard baggage and may be subject to fees

For further details, check the Baggage Rules.

Lost or Damaged Baggage

If your baggage is lost or damaged while travelling with Trailways, follow these steps:

  1. Report the issue immediately to the station agent or bus driver.
  2. Submit a lost baggage claim at the nearest Trailways terminal.
  3. Contact Customer Care if your baggage has not been located within 24 hours.

Lost and Found Policy

  • Lost baggage is held for up to 60 days before being donated or disposed of.
  • Government-issued documents, such as passports, will be sent to the appropriate authorities.

For lost baggage claims, visit the Trailways Lost & Found Page.
For assistance, contact Trailways Customer Care at Customer Service.

Restricted Items

Passengers are not allowed to carry the following items in checked or carry-on baggage:

  • Firearms, ammunition, explosives
  • Flammable liquids and hazardous chemicals
  • Live animals (except service animals and pets on select routes)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Perishable food items that could spoil during travel

For the full list of prohibited items, visit Trailways' Prohibited Baggage Policy.

International Travel and Baggage Rules

When travelling between the United States and Canada, special baggage rules apply.

Border Regulations

  • Passengers must declare all baggage items at customs.
  • Food, alcohol, and agricultural products may be restricted or prohibited.
  • Proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate) is required for border crossings.

Restricted Items for International Travel

  • Passengers cannot carry perishable food across the border.
  • Firearms, ammunition, and certain medications require special clearance.

For complete details on cross-border baggage policies, visit Trailways International Travel.

Customer Support

For additional information, policies, and assistance regarding baggage, refer to the official Trailways resources below:

For direct help regarding baggage inquiries, submit a request through the Trailways Customer Service Portal.

Still need help? Check out these articles

Here are some articles that may help you find what you're looking for.

Chat Assistant

Chat with our assistant to get answers to your questions.