Alaska Airlines Carry-On & Personal Item Size Policy

Planning a trip with Alaska Airlines? Then understanding the airline’s carry-on policy is crucial for a smooth journey. This article offers a comprehensive guide to Alaska Airlines’ carry-on and personal item size policy, giving you the information you need to breeze through the boarding process.

Alaska Airlines Carry-On Policy

Like most airlines, Alaska Airlines has clear guidelines on the size and weight of carry-on luggage that passengers can bring on board. These policies exist primarily to ensure passenger safety, maximize space utilization, and maintain efficient boarding and deboarding processes.

Compared to other airlines, Alaska Airlines offers relatively generous carry-on allowances, although it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specifics to avoid any potential issues at the airport.

Alaska Airlines Carry-On Size & Weight Limits

Alaska Airlines allows each passenger one carry-on bag and one personal item. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 22″ x 14″ x 9″ or 56 x 36 x 23 cm, including wheels and handles. There are no set weight restrictions for carry-on bags, but you should be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin without assistance.

Please note that items like umbrellas, duty-free items, and assistive devices do not count toward your carry-on allowance. However, all carry-on items must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Alaska Airlines Personal Item Size & Weight Limits

In addition to your carry-on bag, you may also bring one personal item onboard. Personal items include purses, briefcases, laptop bags, and backpacks. While Alaska Airlines does not specify a weight limit or size limit for personal items, they must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

Horizon and SkyWest Carry-On Policies

When flying on Horizon Air or SkyWest, operated as Bombardier Q400 or CRJ aircraft, the carry-on policy changes slightly due to the smaller aircraft size. The maximum dimensions for planeside baggage service are 9″ H x 14″ W x 22″ L (23 x 36 x 56 cm), including wheels and handles.

Larger carry-on items will be placed on a planeside cart before boarding and tagged for retrieval at a designated area on the ramp or jet bridge upon arrival. Your bags will be there within 5 minutes of deplaning, marked by a red and white stop sign.

Alaska Airlines Special Carry-On Items

Alaska Airlines has provisions for special items such as musical instruments, medical equipment, firearms, sports equipment, etc. Some of these items may need to be checked or require advance notice or approval. It’s advisable to check the specific policy section on Alaska Airlines’ website for detailed information.

Alaska Airlines Carry-on Electronics Policy

Electronic devices are allowed onboard but must be turned off or set to airplane mode during takeoff and landing. Larger electronics like laptops must be stored in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you during these times.

Alaska Airlines Carry-on Liquids Policy

Alaska Airlines adheres to the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule. This means each passenger may carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. These items should be packed in a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag.

Alaska Airlines Carry-on Food Policy

You can bring your own food on board. However, it’s crucial to note that any liquid or gel-like food items must comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule. So if you’re bringing snacks for your journey, pack them properly to avoid spills or mess.

Alaska Airlines Carry-On Pet Policy

Pets are allowed in the cabin on most Alaska Airlines flights, but advance notice and additional fees apply. The pet carrier is considered a carry-on item and must meet specific size requirements to fit under the seat in front of you. Check the Alaska Airlines’ pet policy for more details.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Certain items are prohibited or restricted from being carried on board. These include weapons, explosives, flammable substances, and certain types of batteries. For a complete list of prohibited and restricted items, refer to the Alaska Airlines’ website.

Tips and Tricks for Traveling with Carry-On Luggage on Alaska Airlines

To ensure you comply with Alaska Airlines’ carry-on policy, here are a few practical tips:

1. Double-check the dimensions of your carry-on luggage before your trip.
2. Avoid overpacking your bag to prevent it from exceeding the allowed dimensions.
3. Use luggage with built-in compartments for better organization and space utilization.

Additionally, holders of the Alaska Airlines credit card or members of the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan can enjoy certain benefits, such as priority boarding and free checked bags.

How to Measure Your Carry-On

Follow these steps to measure your carry-on luggage:

1. Use a measuring tape to measure your bag’s length, width, and height, including any wheels or handles.
2. Add these three numbers together. The total should not exceed 45 linear inches (or 115 cm) to comply with Alaska Airlines’ policy.

If your luggage exceeds the allowed dimensions, consider checking it in or redistributing some items into your personal bag if space permits.

Using a Luggage Size Checker

Many airports provide luggage size-checkers near the check-in counters or at the gate. These box-like structures allow you to test whether your carry-on bag fits within the airline’s size restrictions. If your bag fits comfortably within the checker, it should fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.

FAQs

Bottom Line

Understanding and adhering to Alaska Airlines’ carry-on policy is essential to ensure a hassle-free travel experience. Be mindful of the size and weight limits, special item regulations, and policies for specific items like electronics, liquids, and pets.

For the most up-to-date information or to book your next flight, visit Alaska Airlines’ official website. Safe travels!