If you travel frequently, you’ve likely grown tired of the airlines constantly changing their baggage rules and fees—and it seems like Alaska Airlines has some of the most complicated rules out there. But with these seven hacks, it doesn’t have to be so hard! Whether you’re flying with Alaska or taking an international trip, you can save money on checked baggage and make things easier on yourself by following these tips. And if you ever need help understanding the Alaska Airlines Baggage policy, we’re happy to answer any questions you have!
What is an airline's baggage policy?
Like many major airlines like Alaska airlines baggage rules has a fairly complex set of rules for checked and carry-on baggage. These rules can also change at any time, so it's important to check before your flight (and especially after you book your ticket), especially if you're trying to limit your baggage costs. As you prepare for your trip, keep in mind about Alaska airlines baggage fees that more bags mean higher fees — up to $200 per bag — depending on when and how you book. If you pay at booking and have no change fee, first bags are free; second bag is $25; third bag is $75; fourth or subsequent bags are a flat rate of $150 each.
How does Alaska Airline's baggage policy differ from other airlines?
Alaska Airlines is unique in that it lets you add things to your ticket for free. Depending on how much weight you have and where you're going, Alaska air baggage fees can cost significantly less than other airlines, so paying $25 or $50 for an extra bag could be a good deal. Keep in mind, though, that Alaska airlines doesn't offer checked bags for its Basic fares--only carry-ons and personal items--so if you have a Basic fare (or a Flexible one without checked bags), then plan carefully. It's best not to over-pack just because you're covered. Otherwise, your luggage will be heavier and it'll cost more per bag to check it since most Basic tickets are charged by weight. Get our full list of tips here!
What happens if you carry more than 50 pounds of baggage?
Well, if you’re flying Alaska Airlines and you’re in one of their Basic Economy seats, it could cost you. Alaska has several different kinds of fares and Basic Economy is only available when booking a ticket directly with them—it’s not sold by third-party sites like Expedia or Orbitz. The carrier has more restrictions than other airlines and one that most travelers don't realize is in place relates to excess Alaska air baggage fees. If your bags are overweight at check-in, up to $150 may be tacked on per bag.
Can I fit my luggage in the overhead compartment?
If you’re worried about not fitting your bag in an overhead compartment, don’t. The first two questions Alaska Airlines will ask you when confirming your Alaska Airlines reservations are if you have an oversized item and how much it weighs. If your bag exceeds 62 inches (length + width + height) and/or 150 pounds, it's considered oversized, regardless of whether or not it fits into an overhead compartment. Alaska will waive additional fees for checking oversized luggage—this is a rare perk that helps make flying on Alaska worthwhile! Some baggage providers like Samsonite sell oversize bags for a fraction of what an airline might charge; these typically exceed 90 inches by 50 inches by 40 inches.
Are there any extra fees I should be aware of when checking my bags?
Alaska Airlines flights doesn't charge an extra fee for overweight or oversized bags but charges $100 per bag if your bag is both overweight and oversized. To avoid paying that fee, weigh your bags at home on a scale or measure them with a tape measure and then compare them to Alaska's limits. For example, standard checked bags must be no larger than 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and may not weigh more than 50 pounds; suitcases must be no larger than 45 linear inches (length + width + height) and may not weigh more than 40 pounds. If you don't have a scale at home, you can use weight scales at FedEx Kinkos locations around town; they're free, open 24 hours, and it'll only take a few minutes of your time.
Are there other fees that I should be aware of before I fly with Alaska Airlines?
In addition to checking in at least two hours before your scheduled departure, Alaska Airlines allows you to pre-purchase baggage on flights that are within 50 miles of your destination. In order for your bag to be considered pre-purchased, it has to be tagged and either presented at curbside check-in or checked through. If you use an Alaska Air or Virgin America Visa credit card, you can also receive a free checked bag for travel between any of those carriers. And finally, if you choose to fly with Alaska or Virgin America airlines out of Seattle/Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac), you're allowed up to six bags per person (three per trip) and one personal item, as long as each bag weighs less than 50 pounds.
Does one size really fit all for these flight tricks?
One free checked bag Alaska Airlines allow (up to 50 pounds) per passenger and charges $25 for any additional bags. Their reasoning is that it's convenient for customers if they only have to check a single bag. But some flyers aren't satisfied with being limited; they want to avoid paying extra fees whenever possible. With their Alaska Airlines new checked baggage policy, Alaska Air baggage allowance has set a standard weight allowance of 50 pounds per bag, with dimensions up to 62 inches combined length + width + height. It may seem like there's nothing you can do if you're constantly exceeding these dimensions, but there are a few hacks that can help keep your carry-on baggage lighter without sacrificing space or safety.
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