Knowing the Alaska Airlines baggage policy before arriving at the airport can help you avoid unexpected baggage charges and packing problems. Alaska Airlines has specific rules covering carry-on bags, personal items, checked luggage, overweight and oversized baggage, infants, First Class passengers, military travelers, loyalty members, and travelers with eligible credit cards.
Alaska Airlines also changed several checked-baggage fees in April 2026, so passengers should be careful when relying on older baggage guides. This article explains the current baggage rules and the fees travelers should know before flying.
Last Updated: September 2026
Disclaimer: Clear Flight Policy is an independent travel-information and assistance website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by Alaska Airlines. Baggage fees and restrictions may change. Always verify the latest rules directly with Alaska Airlines before traveling.
Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy at a Glance
The baggage allowance available to a passenger depends on factors such as fare type, cabin, route, loyalty status, credit-card eligibility, and whether the bag exceeds standard size or weight limits.
For most travelers, the main baggage categories are:
- Carry-on baggage
- Personal items
- Checked baggage
- Oversized baggage
- Overweight baggage
- Special items
- Infant equipment
- Pet travel
Alaska Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag plus one smaller personal item. The maximum carry-on dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including the wheels and handles.
Alaska Airlines official travel and carry-on guidance
Alaska Airlines Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Under the current Alaska Airlines baggage policy, each passenger can bring:
- 1 carry-on bag
- 1 personal item
The carry-on bag must measure no more than:
22 x 14 x 9 inches
These measurements include handles and wheels. Anything larger may need to be checked.
A personal item may include something such as:
- Purse
- Laptop bag
- Briefcase
- Small backpack
The personal item should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
Does Saver Fare Include a Carry-On Bag?
Yes.
Alaska Airlines states that Saver passengers receive the same carry-on allowance as Main Cabin passengers. Saver passengers can therefore bring one qualifying carry-on bag and one personal item.
One thing to remember is that Saver passengers generally board later, so overhead-bin space may be more limited.
Alaska Airlines Checked Baggage Fees 2026
This is one of the most important updates to the article.
For North American Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines flights ticketed on or after April 10, 2026, Alaska announced the following checked-baggage prices:
| Checked Bag | Current Fee |
|---|---|
| First checked bag | $45 |
| Second checked bag | $55 |
| Third and additional bags | $200 each |
These new prices replaced the previous $40 first-bag and $45 second-bag charges. Alaska also eliminated its previous online prepayment bag discount.
Alaska Airlines official 2026 baggage fee update
Important: These prices apply to the North American travel conditions specified by Alaska. Baggage pricing for some international itineraries, partner-airline trips, or special routes can differ, so check the baggage rules attached to your specific reservation.
Alaska Airlines Checked Baggage Size and Weight
Standard checked luggage is generally subject to baggage size and weight restrictions.
A typical standard checked bag should remain within:
Maximum weight: 50 pounds
Maximum size: 62 linear inches
Linear dimensions are calculated by adding:
Length + Width + Height
Bags exceeding the standard limits may be classified as overweight, oversized, or both.
First Class has a higher weight allowance under Alaska’s current 2026 baggage structure: qualifying First Class checked bags can weigh up to 70 pounds.
Passengers should review Alaska’s official checked-baggage page before travel because special items and certain routes can have different requirements.
Alaska Airlines official checked baggage rules
Alaska Airlines Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Baggage that exceeds standard dimensions or weight limits can attract substantially higher charges.
According to Alaska’s April 2026 baggage update:
| Baggage Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Oversized bag | $200 |
| Oversized + overweight, up to 70 lb | $300 |
| Oversized + overweight, 71–100 lb | $400 |
Because excess-baggage charges can be significant, travelers should measure and weigh their luggage before going to the airport.
For particularly heavy or unusual items, check the exact restrictions on Alaska Airlines’ website because not every type or size of baggage will be accepted.
Alaska Airlines First Class Baggage Allowance
First Class passengers receive additional baggage benefits.
Alaska Airlines currently states that qualifying First Class passengers receive two free checked bags.
The airline’s 2026 baggage update also confirms a 70-pound checked-bag allowance for First Class.
Therefore, eligible First Class travelers generally benefit from:
- Two free checked bags
- Up to 70 pounds per qualifying checked bag
- Standard baggage size restrictions unless another exception applies
Passengers should confirm the allowance shown on their individual reservation, particularly on international or partner-operated itineraries.
Alaska Airlines Baggage Rules for Infants
Passengers traveling with infants should pay particular attention to carry-on rules.
Alaska Airlines states that a lap infant does not receive a separate carry-on allowance.
A diaper bag for the infant counts toward the ticketed adult passenger’s normal carry-on allowance.
Do Strollers and Car Seats Fly Free?
Yes.
Alaska Airlines currently transports a child’s:
- Car seat
- Stroller
free of charge as checked baggage.
These items can be checked with regular luggage or at the gate.
Certain qualifying stroller-wagons can also be accepted free when they meet Alaska’s applicable size and weight conditions.
Alaska Airlines infant and child travel information
Alaska Airlines Baggage Policy for Pets
Pet travel is handled separately from normal passenger baggage.
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines currently provide options for eligible pets to travel either:
- In the cabin in an approved under-seat carrier
- In the climate-controlled baggage compartment
Pet travel starts from $100, with fees ranging from $100 to $200 each way depending on the type of travel and route.
For dogs traveling in the cabin, current Alaska guidance states that they must fit inside an eligible under-seat carrier. The airline also has separate rules for animals traveling in the baggage compartment, including health, carrier, breed, route, and temperature restrictions.
Do not treat pets as ordinary checked luggage. Reservations and eligibility should be confirmed before departure.
Alaska Airlines official pet travel policy
Alaska Airlines Baggage Benefits for Atmos Rewards Members
Older Alaska baggage articles may still refer to:
- MVP
- MVP Gold
- MVP Gold 75K
Alaska’s loyalty program now uses Atmos Rewards status tiers.
For 2026, the tiers include:
- Atmos Silver
- Atmos Gold
- Atmos Platinum
- Atmos Titanium
Alaska says Atmos Silver, reached at 20,000 status points, includes one free checked bag, while higher tiers provide additional baggage benefits.
Alaska’s 2026 baggage-fee announcement also confirms that qualifying Atmos Rewards members continue to receive their applicable baggage benefits despite the general fee increases.
Passengers should check their current status benefits before paying for baggage.
Alaska Airlines Military Baggage Allowance
Alaska continues to provide checked-baggage benefits for eligible active-duty U.S. military travelers.
According to Alaska’s 2026 baggage update, active-duty military travelers can receive up to five free checked bags, weighing up to 70 pounds each, subject to eligibility requirements.
Travelers should carry the appropriate military identification and any required travel documentation to establish eligibility.
Alaska Airlines Credit Card Free Checked Bag Benefit
Certain eligible Atmos Rewards credit-card holders can also receive a checked-baggage benefit.
For example, Alaska states that eligible Atmos Rewards cardholders can receive one free checked bag for themselves and up to six additional guests traveling on the same reservation, provided the applicable card and booking conditions are satisfied.
This benefit can significantly reduce baggage costs for families or groups traveling together.
Always review the specific card terms because eligibility and purchase requirements can vary between card products.
How to Avoid Alaska Airlines Baggage Fees
There are several legitimate ways some travelers may reduce or avoid baggage charges:
- Travel using only a carry-on and personal item.
- Book an eligible First Class ticket that includes checked baggage.
- Use qualifying Atmos Rewards status benefits.
- Use an eligible Atmos Rewards credit card when the applicable conditions are met.
- Use qualifying active-duty military baggage benefits.
- Take advantage of applicable Club 49 benefits when eligible.
Avoid packing a bag over the applicable weight or size limit, since excess baggage charges can be much higher than standard checked-bag prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Alaska Airlines charge for checked baggage in 2026?
For applicable North American flights ticketed on or after April 10, 2026, Alaska charges $45 for the first checked bag, $55 for the second bag, and $200 for each third or additional checked bag.
What is the Alaska Airlines carry-on size limit?
The maximum carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles. Passengers are also allowed one smaller personal item.
Does Alaska Airlines Saver fare include a carry-on?
Yes. Alaska states that Saver travelers receive the same standard carry-on allowance as Main Cabin travelers.
Does Alaska Airlines First Class include checked bags?
Yes. Qualifying First Class travel includes two free checked bags, and Alaska’s current baggage policy provides a 70-pound allowance for First Class checked luggage.
Does Alaska Airlines charge for strollers?
Alaska states that children’s car seats and strollers can be transported free as checked baggage.
Can military passengers check bags for free?
Eligible active-duty U.S. military travelers can receive up to five free checked bags weighing up to 70 pounds each, according to Alaska’s current baggage information.
Does an Alaska Airlines credit card include free baggage?
Certain eligible Atmos Rewards credit cards provide one free checked bag for the cardholder and qualifying companions on the same reservation when the applicable requirements are satisfied.
Need Help Understanding Your Baggage Options?
If you’re unsure which baggage allowance or fee applies to your booking, Clear Flight Policy can provide independent assistance to help you understand the available information and next steps.
Clear Flight Policy Independent Travel Assistance:
1-888-351-1997
For baggage purchases, baggage claims, special baggage approval, or changes directly associated with an Alaska Airlines reservation, passengers should also use Alaska Airlines’ official website, app, airport representatives, or official service channels.
Conclusion
The Alaska Airlines baggage policy covers everything from carry-on luggage and checked bags to oversized baggage, infant equipment, pets, military benefits, and loyalty-member allowances.
The most important 2026 change is the updated checked-baggage pricing for applicable North American tickets booked on or after April 10: $45 for the first checked bag, $55 for the second, and $200 for each additional checked bag.
Passengers can still bring one carry-on bag measuring up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches plus one personal item, while certain First Class passengers, Atmos Rewards members, military travelers, and qualifying cardholders may receive baggage-fee waivers or additional allowances.
Because baggage rules can vary by route and itinerary, always review the conditions attached to your specific booking before traveling.
Official Sources
Add these at the bottom of the WordPress article:
Alaska Airlines — Checked Baggage Rules
Alaska Airlines — Carry-On & Travel Guidance
Alaska Airlines — 2026 Checked Baggage Fee Update
Alaska Airlines — Traveling With Pets
