When planning your next trip, one of the first things travelers ask is: How much does Alaska Airlines charge for baggage? Baggage fees can quickly increase your total travel budget, especially if you’re traveling with family or carrying sports equipment. That’s why understanding the Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy—including domestic rules, international allowances, First Class benefits, military perks, and carry-on limits—is essential.
This guide explains all baggage fees in a clear and easy-to-understand way so you know exactly what to expect before you head to the airport.
👉 Quick Overview: Alaska Airlines Baggage Costs (2025)
✈ Essential Snapshot: Alaska Airlines gives every traveler one free carry-on and one personal item, while checked bags come with standard charges unless you qualify for exemptions.
✔ Carry-On:
– Follow Alaska Airlines carry-on baggage rules, including the 22” x 14” x 9” size limit.
– No fee for carry-on unless oversized.
✔ Checked Bag Fees:
– First checked bag typically costs $35
– Second checked bag is $45
– Third and additional bags cost $150 each
✔ Special Allowances:
– Alaska Airlines first class baggage allowance includes two free checked bags.
– Alaska Airlines military baggage fees allow active-duty members to check up to five bags for free.
– International routes may offer free checked bags, depending on destination and fare type.
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Understanding the Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy
The Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy is traveler-friendly and straightforward, but it varies depending on whether you’re flying within the United States, internationally, in First Class, or as a military passenger. The policy is divided into:
Carry-on rules
Checked baggage fees
International allowances
First Class benefits
Military baggage fee waivers
Oversized/overweight policies
Whether you’re taking a short domestic trip or traveling abroad, knowing these rules will help you pack strategically and save money.
Alaska Airlines Carry-On Baggage Rules
One of the biggest advantages for travelers is that Alaska Airlines carry-on baggage rules allow every passenger to bring:
1 full-sized carry-on bag
1 personal item
Carry-On Bag Size
Your carry-on must measure 22” x 14” x 9” or smaller. This includes wheels and handles. Personal items—such as small backpacks, laptop cases, or tote bags—must fit under the seat in front of you.
Carry-On Fees
Carry-on bags are free, as long as they fit the airline’s size requirements. If the bag is too large, a gate agent may check it in, and standard Alaska Airlines baggage fees will apply.
How Much Does Alaska Airlines Charge for Checked Baggage?
The most common question travelers ask is:
How much does Alaska Airlines charge for baggage when checking standard bags?
For most domestic flights, these are the standard checked baggage fees:
First bag: $35
Second bag: $45
Third and additional bags: $150 each
These fees apply to passengers traveling on Saver, Main, or Premium Class tickets.
Alaska Airlines Checked Baggage Size
Alaska Airlines follows standard industry sizing:
Max size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
Max weight: 50 lbs (22.6 kg)
If your bag exceeds either dimension, overweight or oversized baggage fees will apply.
Overweight & Oversized Alaska Airlines Baggage Fees
To avoid unexpected charges, pay attention to both weight and dimensions.
Overweight Fees
If your checked bag weighs:
51–100 lbs: $100 per bag
Over 100 lbs: Not accepted
Oversized Fees
If your bag measures:
63–115 linear inches: $100
Over 115 linear inches: Not accepted
Keeping your luggage within limits is one of the easiest ways to avoid high Alaska Airlines baggage fees.
Alaska Airlines First Class Baggage Allowance
Passengers flying First Class receive one of the best baggage benefits in the U.S. airline industry.
The Alaska Airlines first class baggage allowance includes:
Two free checked bags
Priority handling
Larger carry-on storage space (based on overhead bin availability)
If you typically travel with multiple bags, upgrading to First Class might save you money overall, especially if you're paying for two or more checked bags.
Alaska Airlines Military Baggage Fees
The airline offers exceptional benefits to active-duty service members.
Military Members on Orders or Personal Travel
Up to five checked bags free of charge
Standard size and weight rules apply
Military Dependents
If traveling on orders, dependents also receive the same five free bag benefit.
This makes Alaska Airlines military baggage fees some of the most generous in the U.S.
Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy International
The Alaska Airlines baggage policy international varies depending on the country you're traveling to. Some destinations—especially in Canada, Mexico, Belize, and Costa Rica—may include one free checked bag, while others follow standard domestic rates.
Key Factors Affecting International Baggage Fees
Fare type
Elite status
Route/destination
Partner airline rules (if codeshare)
For example, Premium Class may still require checked bag fees, while certain international Main Cabin fares may include free baggage.
If in doubt, contacting a travel expert is helpful. You can always call Tours N Travel Pro at +1-866-679-5070 for personalized support regarding international baggage allowances.
Ways to Avoid Alaska Airlines Baggage Fees
You can reduce or completely eliminate baggage charges by using the right strategies.
1. Pay for Bags Online
Alaska Airlines often encourages prepayment during online check-in. While it may not always discount the price, it helps avoid airport delays.
2. Use the Alaska Airlines Credit Card
The airline's credit card offers:
1 free checked bag
Applies to up to six guests on the same reservation
This is one of the easiest ways to avoid standard Alaska Airlines baggage fees entirely.
3. Follow Carry-On Rules
Travelers who pack smart and follow Alaska Airlines carry-on baggage rules can avoid checking bags altogether.
4. Upgrade to First Class
If you're planning to check multiple bags, First Class provides significant value with two bags free.
5. Take Advantage of Military Benefits
Service members always save the most on baggage.
Examples of Alaska Airlines Baggage Costs
Example 1: Domestic Round Trip (Seattle → Los Angeles)
First bag: $35
Second bag: $45
Third bag: $150
Total: $230 round-trip for three bags
Example 2: International Economy Class (U.S. → Mexico)
Many fares include one free checked bag
Additional bags follow standard pricing
Example 3: Military Traveler (Seattle → Anchorage)
All first five bags are free, no matter the fare type
These examples show how how much Alaska Airlines charges for baggage depends entirely on your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much does Alaska Airlines charge for baggage?
Standard checked baggage fees are $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for each additional bag.
2. What is the Alaska Airlines checked baggage size limit?
Bags must not exceed 62 linear inches or 50 lbs.
3. Does Alaska Airlines allow a free carry-on?
Yes. Every ticket includes one free carry-on and one personal item.
4. What is the Alaska Airlines baggage policy international?
Many international routes include one free checked bag, though it varies by destination.
5. What about military baggage?
Active-duty military members get up to five bags free.
6. What is the First Class baggage allowance?
First Class includes two free checked bags per passenger.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy ensures you always know exactly how much you'll spend on luggage. Whether you're curious about alaska airlines baggage policy international, want clarity on Alaska Airlines baggage fees, or just want to avoid extra costs, planning ahead is the key to a smooth trip.
Whenever you're unsure about baggage charges, flight upgrades, or travel rules, you can always get human assistance.
📲 Call Tours N Travel Pro at +1-866-679-5070 for quick, expert help planning your Alaska Airlines trip.
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