Alaska Checked Baggage Fees and Policy Guide

Getting ready to fly with Alaska Airlines? Understanding their Alaska baggage policy is a must last-minute fee at the airport. Know the checked bag fees,
size limits, and smart ways to avoid paying extra in 2025.

First Checked Bag

For most standard fares, the Alaska Airlines first checked bag cost is a flat $35. This fee applies to flights within North America. Remember that your bag must follow the standard rules. It cannot weigh more than 50 pounds (23 kg). The total size (length + width + height) must be 62 linear inches or less. Going beyond these measurements may result in supplementary charges that are avoidable with basic attention.

Second Checked Bag

The Alaska Airlines second bag fee is $45. This price is still competitive with many other major carriers. Just like the first bag, the second piece of Alaska Airlines luggage must also be under 50 lbs and 62 inches.

Third Checked Bag

Bringing three or more bags drastically increases your cost. Each additional bag (third, fourth, and so on) will cost $150. Alaska Airlines does this to encourage lighter travel and manage cargo space. If you think you need this many bags, consider shipping large items separately.

Exceptions to Alaska Airlines’ Checked Baggage Fee

Many travelers can actually get a free checked bag benefit. Alaska Airlines rewards its frequent flyers and those who hold their co-branded credit cards; see below.

Passenger Type	Free Bag Allowance	Important Notes
Active U.S. Military & Dependents	Up to five (5) free checked bags.	Must present ID and be traveling on official government orders. Bags can weigh up to 70 lbs. (32 kg) for active duty personnel.
First Class Passengers	Two (2) free checked bags.	Applies to passengers confirmed in First Class at the time of check-in. Bags can weigh up to 70 lbs. (32 kg).
Atmos™ Rewards (Mileage Plan) Elite Status	MVP Gold 100K & MVP Gold 75K: Three (3) free checked bags.MVP: Two (2) free checked bags. (Note: May change to 1 bag in 2026).	The free bag count varies based on your elite tier. Benefits generally apply to the member and their companions on the same reservation.
Alaska Airlines Credit Card Holders	One (1) free checked bag.	Applies to the primary cardholder and up to six (6) guests traveling on the same reservation. Must use the card to book the flight.
Club 49 Members (Alaska Residents)	Two (2) free checked bags.	For flights to or from the state of Alaska. Club 49 is a special program for Alaska residents with a valid Alaska mailing address.

Tips to Reduce Alaska Airlines Baggage Fees

Measure and Weigh Everything: The easiest way to get hit with a charge is by having an overweight or oversized bag. Make sure your suitcase is under 50 pounds. Follow this on your next Alaska Airlines and you may avoid the expensive overweight baggage fee of $100.

Pre-Pay Online: If you know you will check a bag, pay for it when you check in online. Alaska Airlines sometimes offers a small discount, saving you a few dollars and time in the queue.

Get the Card: Consider applying for the Alaska Airlines co-branded credit card. For many travelers, the annual fee is cheaper than paying the checked bag fee just one time.

Max Out Your Carry-on: Alaska Airlines allows one free carry-on bag and one personal item. Use this wisely to fit all your essentials and heavier items in it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much is a checked bag on Alaska Airlines?

A: The standard Alaska Airlines checked bag fee for your first piece of luggage is $35. The second bag will cost you $45. Additional bags are much more expensive, costing $150 apiece.

Q: How can I avoid Alaska Airlines baggage fees?

A: You can avoid the fees by having elite status, flying First Class, or using the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card. Active-duty military personnel also get a large number of free bags.

Q: What is the weight limit for a checked bag on Alaska Airlines?

A: The standard Alaska Airlines checked bag weight limit for an economy ticket is 50 pounds (23 kg). If your bag weighs 51–100 pounds, then it is considered overweight and you’ll have to pay the required fee.

Q: Are the Alaska Airlines baggage fees 2025 different from last year?

A: Yes. Alaska Airlines updated its Alaska Airlines baggage fees 2025 on January 2, 2025. The cost for the first and second checked bags increased by $5 from the previous price.