Before you put your suitcase on the table and start packing, it is wise to check out how strict is Alaska Airlines with carry-on size and weight, to avoid any hefty charges at the airport.
Alaska Airlines is slightly strict with its carry-on sizes 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (61 x 43 x 25 cm), especially on full flights, and small airplanes, where oversized bags get gate-checked, However; sometimes you will get away with it if your isn’t obviously too large.
You can also bring a personal item (like a backpack or laptop bag) for free, even on basic economy fares.
This post covers everything you need to know about Alaska Airlines carry-on size and weight rules, checked, and excess baggage policies.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
Alaska Airlines is slightly strict with its carry-on size: 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (45 linear inches), especially on full flights and small planes.
Slightly oversized soft-sided bags may pass, but oversized bags can be gate-checked, depending on the gate agent and flight load.
You can bring one carry-on and one personal item (backpack, laptop bag, purse) for free, even on Basic Economy.
There’s no official carry-on weight limit, as long as you can lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
Checked bags cost extra, and oversized or overweight bags come with hefty fees, so measuring your bag in advance is key.
Nothing surprising here, your carry-on need to stay with Alaska Airlines’ carry-on limits.
One main carry-on bag with maximum dimensions of 45 linear inches (22″ x 14″ x 9″) or 115 centimeters (61 x 43 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels. This size will fit perfectly in the overhead compartment.
One personal item (e.g., purse, briefcase, laptop bag) per passenger, free of charge. There is no specific size, but it must fit under the seat in front of you.
Alaska Airlines is slightly strict about carry-on luggage size.
But what will happen if your suitcase is slightly oversized?
Sometimes it depends on the gate agent and if the flight is full, but always measure your bag (including wheels / handles) to avoid your bag gate checked.
So if you have a slightly larger suitcase, ensure that you place any essential medications, valuables, and in-flight necessities in your personal item.
For weight, Alaska Airlines does not have a specific carry-on weight limit, as long as you can lift your bag and place it in the overhead compartment by yourself.
Soft-sided carry-ons are more flexible and less likely to be gate-checked, especially when overhead bins are full.
What Other Additional Items You Can Bring?
In addition to your main carry-on and personal item, you can also bring a few small items free of charge:
A jacket or umbrella
Books to read
Duty-free items
Assistive devices (wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, strollers, child restraint seats, etc.) these items will not be counted toward your carry-on.
Most diaper bags are counted as one personal item, because of their size.
Please note: Bulkhead seats do not have under-seat storage. All carry-on baggage must be stowed in the overhead bin during takeoff and landing.
Courtesy of Alaska Airlines
What Is Alaska Airlines Liquid Limits?
Like all U.S. airlines, Alaska Airlines follows the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule for carry-on baggage.
Liquids, aerosols, pastes, creams, and gels must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
Alaska Airlines (AS) will charge $100 USD for bags measuring between 63 and 115 linear inches (160 to 292 cm).
Bags over 115 linear inches (292 cm) are not accepted as checked baggage.
What Is Alaska Airlines’ Overweight Baggage Policy?
Alaska Airlines will charge the following for overweight bags:
51 to 100 pounds (24 to 46 kg): $100 USD per bag
Bags over 100 pounds (46 kg) are not accepted as checked baggage.
Alaska Airlines Musical And Sports Equipment
Alaska Airlines lets you bring small musical instruments as a carry-on if they can fit safely in the cabin.
If your instrument is large, you may need to buy an extra seat for it.
You can also check musical instruments or sports gear as baggage if they are packed safely in a proper case.
Extra fees may apply if they are heavy or oversized.
Prohibited Items
Just like any other airline, there is a list of items that you can and can’t take on board airplanes or place in checked baggage.
As a general rule, you can’t bring any hazardous or flammable liquids in either carry-on or checked bags.
For more information on what you can bring, we have already covered almost any item on what you can bring section, or you can visit the TSA official website or use the “What Can I Bring?” search tool on their website.
Final Thoughts
Alaska Airlines has a bit of a rule about carry-on size, especially on busy flights
Be prepared to place your suitcase in the luggage sizer at the airport.
Overweight or oversized bags can cause boarding delays and disrupt the cabin environment, something the airline wants to avoid.
However, if your bag exceeds the dimensions by just an inch or two, you likely won’t have a problem with staff, especially when traveling with a soft-sided bag.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
Alaska Airlines Carry-On Size FAQs
Will Alaska Airlines measure my carry-on or just eyeball it?
Gate agents may ask you to place your bag at a bag sizer to check its dimensions. If your bag fits or only slightly exceeds the limit, you can often still bring it on board, especially a soft-sided bag. But on busy flights, bags that don’t fit in the overhead bin or under the seat may be gate-checked.
What about personal items?
Each passenger is allowed one personal item (backpack, purse, or laptop bag) in addition to their main carry-on. Personal items need to fit under the seat in front of you.
Can I get away with a slightly oversized carry-on?
Yes, sometimes you might get aways with a slightly oversized soft-sided bags they are often treated more leniently.
Does the flight load affect carry-on strictness?
Yes. On full flights or when overhead bins are nearly full, gate agents are more likely to check bags that goes over the size limit. If you board early you are more likely to find space for your carry-on.
Are there fees for gate-checked bags?
Gate-checked bags are usually free if your carry-on doesn’t fit in the overhead bin, but Alaska Airlines may charge if it exceeds standard checked baggage limits.
How early should I arrive to avoid carry-on issues?
It’s advised to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. This gives you enough time to check in your bags, clear the security and resolve any gate-check issues.
Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist
passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.
