Carry on luggage size Alaska

Most major airlines that fly within Alaska and to/from Alaska have specific size requirements for carry-on luggage to ensure it fits properly in the overhead bins or under seats. Generally, the luggage should not exceed 45 linear inches (the length + the width + the height), which is about the size of a standard roller bag.

Many airlines are strict on this sizing, especially during busy travel times, so it’s important to double-check the exact specifications for your specific airline if flying within Alaska. The compact Alaskan bush planes that fly to smaller rural communities sometimes have even smaller size limits, so checking a bag may be necessary.

It’s always better to travel lightly with a carry-on that fits the requirements to avoid checked bag fees and the risk of lost luggage when flying within Alaska’s vast and diverse scenery.

What is Alaska Airlines’ carry-on policy?

Alaska Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item like a laptop bag or purse onto the aircraft free of charge. The standard carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches and cannot exceed 40 linear inches. A personal item must be small enough to fit under the seat or in the overhead bin and cannot exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches or 25 linear inches.

Both the carry-on and personal items combined cannot exceed a total of 45 linear inches. Checked bags are assessed fees starting at $30 each way for the first bag. Carry-on bags that exceed these limits may require checking at the gate for a fee, so it’s important travelers understand Alaska’s limits to avoid extra charges and ensure their hand luggage fits properly on the plane.

What is Alaska Airlines’ policy on carry-on liquid?

All carry-on liquids, gels, aerosols and creams must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag. This includes items like shampoo, lotion, hair gel and mouthwash. Customers are allowed one quart-sized bag of liquids per person in their carry-on luggage when traveling. Any containers larger than 3.4 ounces must be placed in checked bags. This policy follows Transportation Security Administration regulations for aviation security.

Size Rules Details

When measuring carry-on bags for Alaska Airlines, travelers should use the maximum dimensions which include all aspects of the bag such as zippers, handles and wheels. Bags cannot exceed the stated linear inch maximums and also must fit securely in the overhead bin without protruding into the aisle. This ensures bags meet size restrictions and don’t cause issues for crew or other passengers onboard. Suitably sized carry-ons help flights take off on time.

What extra items can you bring on board?

Mobility devices like wheelchairs and walkers can be brought free of charge when pre-arranged.
Children under two can each bring one car seat or stroller as their item without charge.
Breast milk, formula, and juice are permitted in liquid form for infants.
Unloaded firearms are accepted as checked bags if declared ahead of time and stored in a locked, hard-sided case.
Musical instruments smaller than a standard carry-on can be brought onboard as a secondary item if space permits.
Portable cribs or playpens are allowed for infants and small children.
Photography, video, or audio equipment for professional use.
Camping gear like tents, backpacks, and small coolers under 6 quarts.
Sporting equipment such as fishing poles, surfboards, skis, snowboards, and golf clubs.
Service animals are permitted for passengers with disabilities.

Alaska Airlines carry-on baggage rules

Alaska Airlines has specific size limits and regulations for carry-on bags to ensure as many passenger items as possible can fit safely in overhead bins and under seats. Passengers are permitted one standard carry-on bag that must measure no larger than 22″ x 14″ x 9″ along with one personal item like a purse or laptop case that can be no bigger than 18″ x 14″ x 8″. Both items combined cannot exceed a 45 linear inch limit.

This allows travelers to bring onboard essentials while keeping overhead and under-seat spaces optimized for everyone. Checking a bag is recommended for bulky or excess luggage that won’t comply with restrictions to avoid ticketing at the gate. Adhering to Alaska’s rules helps flights depart on schedule with all passenger property accounted for.

Additional Alaska Luggage Policies

Alaska Airlines has some other policies regarding checked baggage that travelers should be aware of. For the first checked bag on domestic itineraries, fees are $30 each way when booked through Alaska’s website. Additional checked items on the same reservation cost more, with the second bag running $40 each way. There is also a maximum of up to 3 checked bags or 325 total pounds of luggage allowed per passenger.

Overweight or excess checked items will incur extra fees. Oversized sporting equipment like skis, surfboards and bikes may have separate charges as well. For international flights, checked baggage fees vary by destination but are typically higher. Proper understanding of Alaska’s full baggage allowance and pricing rules helps flyers budget for trips and avoid unpleasant surprises at check-in.

Tips for Packing Within Size Limits

Use soft-sided luggage that can collapse to maximize space.
Roll clothes tightly instead of folding them to fit more in your bag.
Pack heavier items at the bottom and light items on top.
Use packing cubes to organize clothing and other items.
Leave extra space at the top for souvenirs on the return trip.
Carry essential items like a book or laptop in your item.
Don’t overload your bag – it needs to close securely.
Weigh your bags at home to avoid overweight checked bags fees.
Consider checking a bag if you have sports equipment or other bulky items.
Use every nook and cranny like pockets and straps to store smaller items.

FAQ’s

What is the general size limit for carry-on luggage on most major airlines in Alaska?

45 linear inches

How are linear inches calculated for luggage sizing?

The length + width + height of the bag.

Are airline size restrictions for carry-on baggage strictly enforced?

Yes, especially during busy travel periods. Checking sizes is recommended.

Do rural Alaska bush plane services have more restrictive carry-on limits?

Yes, some bush planes may have even smaller size limits so checking a bag may be necessary for these small aircraft.

Why is it recommended to travel lightly with carry-on luggage only when possible in Alaska?

To avoid checked bag fees, risk of lost luggage, and ensure bags fit on all planes when traveling to varied destinations across Alaska’s vast scenery.

Conclusion

Being aware of Alaska Airlines’ specific carry-on baggage rules and restrictions is important for any traveler flying with the airline. Following their size guidelines and allowance of one standard carry-on plus personal item prevents surprises at ticket counters or airport security. This ensures smooth travel without unnecessary fees.

The measurements are in place not only to keep overhead compartments and under-seat storage practical for each flier but also to maintain safety standards and allow the crew to securely load and unload all luggage within scheduled turnaround times. Abiding by limitations on dimensions and total linear inches permits Alaska pilots and staff to efficiently manage onboard logistics that benefit fliers and operations. Proper planning when packing carry-ons according to the details of Alaska’s policies goes a long way in making trips with this airline stress-free.