Alaska Airlines Baggage Fees (2026)
Quick summary
Alaska Airlines is a full-service U.S. carrier where every fare includes a free carry-on and a free personal item — you only pay for checked bags. Following an April 10, 2026 increase, checked bags now cost $45 for the first and $55 for the second on North American routes, charged per person each way. There is no longer an online discount, so the price is the same whether you pay in advance or at the airport. Bag fees are waived for elite status members, Alaska Visa cardholders, Club 49 members, and active-duty military.
At a glance
🎒 Personal item
One free personal item (purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) on every fare. It must fit under the seat in front of you.
🧳 Carry-on
One free carry-on bag on every fare, in addition to your personal item. It must fit in the overhead bin and stay within 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
Alaska Airlines checked bag fees
| 1st checked bag | $45 |
| 2nd checked bag | $55 |
| 3rd+ checked bag (each, North America) | $200 |
| Overweight (51–100 lbs) | $100 extra per bag |
| Oversize (63–115 linear in) | $100 extra per bag |
🔁 Change & cancellation
Most fares (except Saver/basic economy) allow free changes and cancellations with the value returned as a credit. All tickets booked directly can be canceled for a full refund within 24 hours of purchase if booked at least 24 hours before departure. Saver fares are generally non-changeable.
Other common fees
| Carry-on pet (in cabin, each way) | $100 |
| Unaccompanied minor | $50 each way |
How to avoid extra fees
- Carry the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card to get your first checked bag free for you and up to 6 others on the same reservation — it easily pays for the annual fee.
- Pack within the free carry-on (22 x 14 x 9 in) and personal item to fly with no bag fees at all.
- Since April 2026 there is no online discount, but you still save time by adding bags during check-in instead of at the counter.
- Elite status, Club 49 (Alaska residents), and active-duty military all get free checked bags — check your eligibility before paying.
Alaska Airlines baggage — FAQ
How much is the first checked bag on Alaska Airlines?
As of April 10, 2026, the first checked bag is $45 and the second is $55 on North American routes, charged per person each way. International fees can differ.
Is the carry-on bag free on Alaska Airlines?
Yes. Every Alaska fare includes one free carry-on bag plus one free personal item. The carry-on must fit the overhead bin (22 x 14 x 9 inches).
How can I avoid checked bag fees on Alaska?
Pay nothing if you have elite status, an Alaska Airlines Visa card (first bag free), Club 49 membership, or are active-duty military. Otherwise, travel with only a carry-on and personal item.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with Alaska Airlines. Baggage fees and policies change often and vary by route, fare type, and date — always confirm on the airline's official website before booking or flying.