2026 airline guide

Alaska Airlines: check-in, bags & seats

Check-in & Cutoffs

Online window, airport check-in cutoffs, and bag-drop deadlines

Baggage Fees & Size Limits

Carry-on rules, checked bag fees, oversize and sports equipment

Seats & Upgrades

Economy seat pitch and width, upgrade options, seats to avoid

Routes & hubs

Top routes, hub airports, and where this airline flies

Fees & policies

Seat selection, change, cancel, pet, and phone booking fees.

Miles & loyalty

Earn rates, elite tiers, best redemptions, and partner airlines.

Upgrades

How to get upgraded — elite status, miles, bid upgrades, and gate upgrades.

International

International routes, baggage fees, passport requirements, and check-in rules.

Alaska Airlines quick facts

Online check-in opens24 hours before departure

Domestic bag drop closes50 minutes before departure

First checked bag (main cabin)$45

Carry-on fee (base fare)free

Saver fare (lowest tier) includes a free full-size carry-on bag unlike most airlines' basic economy — same carry-on and checked bag fees as Main Cabin; however, Saver passengers board last (Group F) so overhead bin space is first-come, first-served.
Baggage fee increase effective April 10, 2026: first checked bag rose to $45 (from $40) and second to $55 (from $45) for North America flights ticketed on or after that date.
Atmos Rewards Visa cardholders and Atmos Silver+ elite members receive 1+ free checked bags; First Class passengers receive 2 free checked bags up to 70 lbs.; bags can be checked no more than 4 hours before departure.

Know exactly when to leave home

The Leave-By calculator factors in your drive time, parking, check-in, bag drop, and security — so you hit the gate with time to spare.

Data verified 2026-06-28. Always confirm times and fees on the Alaska Airlines website before you fly.