Alaska Airlines Announces Higher Fees for Checked Bags

Updated: August 31, 2025, 6:57am CDT

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Alaska Increases Checked Bag Fees
Checking Bags on Other Carriers
Final Thoughts

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If you fly Alaska Airlines, be aware that the airline soon will be instituting increased fees for checked baggage. While it’s common to pay for checked baggage on most U.S. airlines, it’s unfortunate to see them increase.

These higher fees will go into effect with the coming of the new year — let’s take a look at everything you need to know.

Alaska Increases Checked Bag Fees

When flying on Alaska Airlines, you’re allowed 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item that can be stored under the seat in front of you free of charge. For many travelers, this will be enough, but if you’re traveling with liquids, or have a larger bag, you’ll need to check it.

Alaska Airlines Bag Tag 4 — Image Credit: Alaska Airlines

Starting January 2, 2024, Alaska Airlines will implement its new baggage fees:

The first checked bag will be $35, compared with $30 before the change.
The second checked bag will be $45, compared with $40 before the change.
If you need to check an additional bag beyond 2, you’ll pay $150 per bag. These fees remain the same as they are now.

The $5 increase for the first and second checked bags isn’t enormous, but it certainly adds up, especially if you travel with a family and/or are checking bags often when you fly with the airline.

There are several ways you can receive a free checked bag if you’d prefer to not pay these ancillary fees. The easiest way is to hold elite status on Alaska Airlines or a Oneworld partner such as American Airlines or British Airways. Passengers who hold elite status can check either 1, 2, or 3 bags free of charge, depending on the status level.

Those who hold the Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature^® card or the Atmos™ Rewards Visa^® Business Card also receive a free checked bag.

Finally, those sitting in first class on an Alaska Airlines flight receive free checked bags. Remember that you can use miles to upgrade to first class, or you may receive a cash upgrade offer before your flight’s departure.

Hot Tip:

While Alaska is raising the cost of checking a bag, the airline has a generous bag guarantee policy. It states that your bag will arrive on the carousel within 20 minutes of arrival or compensation will be awarded.

Checking Bags on Other Carriers

Alaska’s closest partner, American Airlines, charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines also charge these rates, though it’s worth noting that United’s rates are contingent on pre-payment.

Now, it’s likely these carriers will at least consider raising their checked bag fees as well, so be sure to pay attention before your next flight.

Update:

Since this story was published in December 2023, American Airlines has increased its checked bag fee to $35 for the first bag (when paid online) and $45 for the second.

Final Thoughts

It’s always recommended to carry your bag on while traveling as there won’t be a risk of losing your luggage. But, if you need to check it, it’ll soon cost you more on Alaska Airlines. The $5 increase for checking a first and second bag goes into effect as of January 2, 2024.