The Savvy Packer
Airline vs airline · Checked October 29, 2026

Alaska vs American: baggage rules compared

Carry-on, personal item, checked bag and check-in deadlines for Alaska Airlines and American Airlines, from each airline's own website.

The short version

AlaskaAmerican
Carry-on size22 x 14 x 9 in / about 56 x 36 x 23 cm22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 36 x 23 cm
Carry-on weightNo published limitNo published limit
Carry-on on the cheapest fareIncludedIncluded
Personal itemNo size published, must fit under the seat18 x 14 x 8 in / 45 x 35 x 20 cm
Checked bag size62 in (157 cm) in total158 cm (62 in) in total
Checked bag weight23 kg (50 lb) per bag in economy23 kg (50 lb) per bag in economy, 45 kg (100 lb) max for any bag
Online check-in opens24 hours before24 hours before
Bag drop closes40 min before45 min before (domestic / short-haul), 60 min before (international / long-haul)
At the gate byNot published15 min before
Power banksStandard 100 Wh / 160 Wh rulesStandard 100 Wh / 160 Wh rules
Carry-on that fits both
22 x 14.2 x 9.1 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
The smallest limit on each side
Personal item that fits both
Under the seat
One airline doesn't publish a size

Flying both on one trip? The trip checker shows which airline sets each limit, and the gate card keeps the rules on your phone.

Will your bag fit?

Measure with wheels, handles and pockets included. The order of the sides doesn't matter.

Questions people ask

Is the Alaska carry-on bigger than American?

The carry-on limits are about the same size on Alaska and American.

What carry-on size fits both Alaska and American?

A bag no bigger than 22 x 14.2 x 9.1 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm) fits both carry-on limits. Check weight limits too.

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