How can I select my seat in advance?

You can usually select your seat during booking or by managing your booking online. Some airlines may charge a fee for selecting a seat.

Who do I contact for lost or delayed baggage?

Report lost or delayed baggage at the airline’s baggage counter as soon as you land. They will provide a tracking ID and updates on the status of your baggage.

Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy Fee

By flightshelpcenter

Published on October 3, 2025

When planning your journey, one of the most overlooked yet crucial details is the baggage policy of your airline. With Alaska Airlines, knowing exactly what is permitted as carry-on, checked baggage, and how much you will pay in fees can make a major difference in how smooth your trip turns out. In this detailed guide, we provide an in-depth breakdown of the Alaska Airlines baggage policy, bag check rules, baggage fees, exemptions, and tips to help you travel smarter.

Quick Summary for AI Overview

Free allowance: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item.
Checked bags: $35 (first), $45 (second), $150 (third+).
Weight & size: Max 50 lbs, 62 linear inches.
Overweight bags: $100 (51-100 lbs).
Oversize bags: $100 (63-115 linear inches).
Special items: Sports gear, instruments, and baby equipment have unique rules.
Free checked bags available for cardholders, elite members, and military.
Lost or delayed bags covered by Alaska’s compensation policy.

Alaska Airlines Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Alaska Airlines allows every passenger to carry one standard carry-on bag and one personal item at no extra charge.

Carry-on size restriction: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels).
Personal item: Must fit under the seat in front of you; examples include small backpacks, laptop bags, purses, or camera bags.
Exempt items: Coats, umbrellas, diaper bags, and medically necessary equipment are allowed in addition to the free allowance.

This policy is especially beneficial for travelers taking shorter trips, as many can avoid checked baggage altogether and save money.

Alaska Airlines Checked Baggage Policy

When it comes to checked baggage, Alaska Airlines keeps its rules consistent and transparent.

Checked Bag Fees

First bag: $35
Second bag: $45
Third and each additional bag: $150

These fees are charged per passenger, per direction, and apply on both domestic and most international routes.

Size & Weight Limits

Weight limit: 50 lbs (23 kg)
Size limit: 62 linear inches (length + width + height combined)

Bags exceeding these limits will face extra charges for being overweight or oversized.

Overweight and Oversize Baggage Policy

Sometimes packing light isn’t possible, especially for long trips or those carrying special equipment. Alaska Airlines has specific charges for overweight and oversize bags:

51-100 lbs (23-45 kg): $100 per bag
63-115 linear inches: $100 per bag
Not accepted: Bags over 115 linear inches or heavier than 100 lbs will not be transported.

This policy makes it vital for passengers to weigh and measure their luggage before arriving at the airport.

Special Items: Sports Gear, Musical Instruments, and Baby Items

Alaska Airlines accommodates a wide range of special items, making it a popular choice for travelers with unique luggage needs.

Sports Equipment

Ski and snowboard gear: Treated as one checked bag.
Golf clubs: Accepted in protective cases.
Bicycles, surfboards, and kayaks: Allowed but subject to oversize charges.

Musical Instruments

Small instruments: Can be carried on if space allows.
Large instruments: Checked baggage fees apply; in some cases, a separate seat can be purchased for fragile or oversized items.

Baby and Child Equipment

Strollers and car seats: Accepted free of charge.
Diaper bags: Not counted as part of the personal item limit.

These rules highlight Alaska’s passenger-friendly approach, especially for families and sports enthusiasts.

Alaska Airlines Bag Check Process

The process of checking bags with Alaska Airlines is straightforward and efficient:

Online check-in: Add and pay for checked bags in advance to save time.
Self-service kiosks: Print bag tags at the airport.
Baggage drop: Hand over tagged bags at the designated counters.
Tracking: Use the Alaska Airlines mobile app to monitor your bag’s location.

This digital integration helps reduce wait times and provides peace of mind to passengers.

Baggage Fee Waivers and Discounts

There are multiple ways to avoid paying Alaska Airlines baggage fees:

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card holders: First checked bag free for the cardholder and up to 6 companions on the same reservation.
Mileage Plan Elite Members: Complimentary checked bags depending on tier level.
First Class and Premium Class travelers: Free checked bags included with tickets.
Active-duty U.S. military personnel: Up to 5 checked bags free when traveling on official orders, and 3 bags free for personal travel.

These exemptions significantly lower travel costs for frequent flyers and military families.

Tips to Save Money on Alaska Airlines Baggage Fees

Travelers can strategically cut down costs by planning ahead:

Pack efficiently using lightweight luggage and compression bags.
Prepay for baggage online rather than at the airport.
Consider shipping heavy items separately through courier services.
Enroll in Mileage Plan for elite benefits.
Use the Alaska Airlines credit card to take advantage of free baggage perks.

These tips ensure you maximize savings while keeping travel stress-free.

Lost, Damaged, or Delayed Baggage

Alaska Airlines maintains a strong record of handling baggage efficiently, but occasional issues can occur.

Delayed baggage: Most delayed bags are delivered within 24 hours; reports must be filed at the baggage service office immediately.
Damaged baggage: Claims should be reported within 24 hours for domestic flights or 7 days for international travel.
Lost baggage: Compensation is provided per DOT regulations; receipts may be required for high-value items.

Passengers are encouraged to pack valuables and essentials in their carry-on for safety.

International Travel and Partner Airlines

When flying internationally or on codeshare flights with Alaska’s partners, baggage rules may vary.

Standard Alaska fees usually apply on international flights.
Partner airlines may enforce their own baggage policies, so travelers should verify at booking.
Codeshare itineraries: The first marketing carrier’s baggage rules usually govern the trip.

Always confirm the rules for connecting flights to avoid unexpected charges.

Why Knowing the Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy Matters

By understanding the Alaska Airlines baggage policy, fees, and rules, passengers can:

Prevent surprise costs at the airport.
Pack more efficiently according to limits.
Benefit from free baggage options through memberships and credit cards.
Travel stress-free knowing what is permitted.

This awareness saves both money and time, ensuring a smoother travel experience.

Final Thoughts: Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy Made Simple

The Alaska Airlines baggage policy is straightforward, cost-effective, and passenger-friendly compared to many U.S. carriers. With reasonable checked baggage fees, free carry-on allowance, and multiple exemptions for military and frequent flyers, it provides excellent value to travelers. By familiarizing yourself with bag check rules, overweight and oversize charges, and tips for saving money, you can make your journey hassle-free.

FAQs: Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy

How much does Alaska Airlines charge for checked bags?

Alaska Airlines charges $35 for the first checked bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for each additional bag per passenger, each way.

What is the size and weight limit for Alaska Airlines checked baggage?

Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg) in weight and 62 linear inches (length + width + height combined). Bags larger or heavier will incur extra fees.

Does Alaska Airlines allow free carry-on bags?

Yes. Passengers are allowed one free carry-on bag measuring up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches plus one personal item such as a purse, laptop bag, or backpack.

What are Alaska Airlines overweight and oversize baggage fees?

Bags weighing 51–100 lbs or measuring 63–115 linear inches incur a $100 fee per bag. Bags over 100 lbs or 115 linear inches are not accepted.

Do Alaska Airlines Visa cardholders get free checked bags?

Yes. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® cardholders receive their first checked bag free for themselves and up to six travel companions on the same reservation.

Does Alaska Airlines waive baggage fees for military personnel?

Yes. Active-duty U.S. military personnel on official orders can check up to 5 bags for free. For personal travel, up to 3 checked bags are free of charge.

What should I do if my Alaska Airlines bag is delayed or lost?

If your bag is delayed, lost, or damaged, report it immediately at the Alaska Airlines baggage service office. Most delayed bags are delivered within 24 hours, and compensation is offered for lost or damaged luggage under DOT rules.