Alaska Airlines Checked Bag Charges: Everything You Need to Know

Alaska Airlines Checked Bag Charges: Everything You Need to Know

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When planning a trip with Alaska Airlines, understanding the airline’s checked baggage policy can help avoid unexpected fees at the airport. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate Alaska Airlines' checked baggage charges, including free allowances, pricing, and tips for saving on baggage fees.

Free Checked Bags on Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines offers different baggage allowances based on your ticket type, frequent flyer status, and class of service. Here’s what you need to know about free checked bags:

1. Alaska Airlines Credit Card Holders:
   
   
   
   • Cardholders of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card or the Alaska Airlines Business Credit Card are eligible for one free checked bag on Alaska Airlines flights.
   
   
   • The free checked bag allowance is valid for the primary cardholder and up to 6 companions on the same reservation.
   
   
   
   


2. Frequent Flyer Program (Mileage Plan Members):
   
   
   
   • MVP, MVP Gold, and MVP Gold 75K members are allowed one free checked bag. Gold and higher-tier members enjoy additional baggage privileges, including priority handling.
   
   
   • MVP members are eligible for two free checked bags when flying on qualifying fares.
   
   
   
   


3. First-Class and Premium Class Passengers:
   
   
   
   • First-class passengers are eligible for two free checked bags.
   
   
   • Premium Class passengers (who purchase an upgraded seat) may also get one or more checked bags included, depending on the route.
   
   
   
   

Standard Checked Bag Fees

If you do not qualify for any of the free checked bag allowances mentioned above, you will need to pay for checked luggage. Here are the standard checked bag fees on Alaska Airlines:

• First Checked Bag: $30 (per direction)


• Second Checked Bag: $40 (per direction)


• Third Checked Bag: $100 (per direction)


• Additional Bags: $100 each (per direction)

Alaska Airlines allows up to 10 checked bags per passenger, but fees apply for each additional bag after the second.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees

If your checked bags exceed the airline’s size or weight limits, additional fees will apply. Here’s what you should know:

1. Weight Limits:
   
   
   
   • The maximum weight for a checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kg). If your bag weighs between 51–70 pounds, you'll incur an additional $100 fee.
   
   
   • Baggage over 70 pounds (32 kg) will not be accepted as checked luggage, but you can arrange to ship it as cargo through Alaska Air Cargo.
   
   
   
   


2. Size Limits:
   
   
   
   • The maximum allowed size for a checked bag is 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions (length + width + height).
   
   
   • If your checked bag exceeds 62 inches, you will be charged an oversized bag fee of $100 per direction.
   
   
   • Bags larger than 115 inches are not allowed.
   
   
   
   

How to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees

Here are some helpful tips for avoiding or minimizing baggage charges when flying with Alaska Airlines:

• Sign Up for Mileage Plan: Consider signing up for the airline’s Mileage Plan frequent flyer program if you fly frequently. Higher-tier members can enjoy one or two free checked bags.


• Use Alaska Airlines Credit Card: If you travel often, applying for an Alaska Airlines Visa card can help you earn one free checked bag and enjoy other perks.


• Pay for Bags in Advance: Alaska Airlines allows you to pay for checked bags online during booking or in advance via the airline’s website or mobile app, which can save you time and avoid the hassle of paying at the airport.


• Pack Light: Stick to carry-on luggage if possible to avoid checked baggage fees. Alaska Airlines allows one free carry-on bag, which can be a great option for short trips.

International Flights:

If you're flying internationally with Alaska Airlines, you may face higher checked bag fees, as international fares typically have different baggage policies. The general guidelines for international flights are as follows:

• For most international routes, the first checked bag is free. However, this may vary by route, so be sure to check the specific policies for your destination.


• Second checked bags typically incur a fee of $100 or more, depending on the route.

Conclusion

Alaska Airlines’ checked bag charges are fairly standard, but there are ways to avoid fees or minimize costs by being aware of baggage allowances. If you qualify for free checked bags through your Mileage Plan status, Alaska Airlines credit card, or class of service, make sure to take advantage of those benefits. Otherwise, prepare to pay for additional checked bags, and be mindful of weight and size limits to avoid extra fees.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on baggage fees, it’s always a good idea to review the airline's website or contact customer service before your flight.

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