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

Alaska vs United: baggage rules compared

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

The short version

AlaskaUnited
Carry-on size22 x 14 x 9 in / about 56 x 36 x 23 cm22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 35 x 23 cm
Carry-on weightNo published limitNo published limit
Carry-on on the cheapest fareIncludedIncluded (Not included in Basic Economy on most routes)
Personal itemNo size published, must fit under the seat17 x 10 x 9 in / 43 x 25 x 22 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 beforeNot published
At the gate byNot publishedNot published
Power banksStandard 100 Wh / 160 Wh rulesStandard 100 Wh / 160 Wh rules
Carry-on that fits both
22 x 13.8 x 9.1 in (56 x 35 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 United?

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

What carry-on size fits both Alaska and United?

A bag no bigger than 22 x 13.8 x 9.1 in (56 x 35 x 23 cm) fits both carry-on limits. Check weight limits too.

More comparisons