Alaska Airlines baggage allowance and fees

Alaska includes a full carry-on and personal item on every fare, even its cheapest Saver tickets — and backs up its checked-bag service with a guarantee most airlines don't bother offering.

Carry-on: included on every fare, even Saver

One carry-on (22 x 14 x 9 in) and one personal item are free regardless of fare, including the basic Saver tier. Check your specific bag against this and 52 other airlines with our carry-on checker.

Checked bag fees: no more online discount

First bag: $45 per person, each way. Second bag: $55. Third and beyond: $200 each. Since April 2026, Alaska removed its online prepayment discount — the price is the same whether you pay in advance or at the airport, which is unusual; most airlines still charge a meaningful premium for paying at the counter.

Overweight fees: $100 for 51–70 lb, $200 for 71–100 lb. Oversized bags (63–115 in) add $200. Anything over 100 lb or 115 in needs to go as cargo instead of checked baggage.

Free bag perks

The Atmos Rewards Visa card waives the first checked bag fee for the cardholder and up to 6 guests on the same reservation — a notably generous companion allowance compared to most co-branded airline cards. Elite status also unlocks free bags starting at the first tier, with more at higher tiers; First Class includes two free bags at a 70 lb limit. Active-duty military get up to 5 free bags at 70 lb each.

The 20-minute baggage guarantee

If your checked bag doesn't reach the carousel within 20 minutes of the aircraft parking at the gate, Alaska credits you 2,500 rewards points or $25 — a concrete service guarantee that's rare in the industry.

Bottom line

If you fly Alaska with a group, the Atmos Rewards Visa's 6-guest free-bag perk is worth checking before everyone pays individually. See our checked luggage guide for what to look for once you know your weight budget.

Sources

• Deep Arrival — Alaska Airlines Baggage Fees 2026
• Official baggage policy — check current rules directly onalaskaair.combefore flying, since fares and allowances change. Last verified: 9 September 2026.