Travelers who prefer to fly with only a carry-on may soon face stricter limits when flying Alaska Airlines. Beginning in June 2018, the airline reduced its maximum allowable carry-on size to less than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches deep.
Alaska Airlines says the change is intended to align its carry-on dimensions with those of its codeshare partners and other major U.S. carriers, making transfers between airlines smoother and reducing the chance that a bag will be rejected during a connection.
Previously, Alaska permitted carry-on bags up to 24 inches long, 17 inches wide and 10 inches deep. The new policy brings Alaska closer to competitors such as United Airlines and American Airlines, which employ smaller size limits. By contrast, Southwest Airlines still allows carry-ons up to 24 inches by 16 inches by 10 inches.
On its website, Alaska Airlines explained that its former carry-on allowance was larger than what many domestic and international carriers permit. The revised dimensions are intended to ensure a single carry-on will be accepted on all segments of a passenger’s itinerary, reduce conflicts over bag sizes, simplify connections, and increase the number of bags that can fit in overhead bins.
For travelers, this change means checking bag dimensions before flying or confirming whether a favorite personal item will meet the new standard. While many suitcases marketed as “carry-on” may still fit, those near the previous 24‑inch limit are likely to require checking. Passengers who often travel on itineraries that include multiple airlines should pay particular attention to individual carrier policies to avoid delays or unexpected fees at the gate.
Ultimately, the adjustment aims to create a more consistent experience across partnered airlines and to improve storage efficiency aboard Alaska flights. Travelers should review Alaska Airlines’ current baggage rules before packing to ensure compliance with the updated size limits and to plan for any potential additional costs if a bag must be checked.