Decoding Allegiant’s Baggage Weight Limits: A Traveler’s Essential Guide

The maximum baggage weight on Allegiant Airlines is 40 pounds (18.1 kg). Any bag exceeding this weight will be subject to additional fees. Now, let’s dive deep and unravel the intricacies of Allegiant’s baggage policies to help you travel smarter and avoid those unexpected charges.

Mastering Allegiant’s Baggage Rules: Beyond the Weight Limit

Allegiant Air operates on an unbundled fare system, meaning that unlike legacy carriers, nearly everything beyond the seat itself comes with an extra cost. This includes checked bags, carry-on bags that don’t fit under the seat, seat selection, and even printing your boarding pass at the airport. Understanding this fundamental principle is key to navigating their baggage policies effectively.

Allegiant keeps prices low by charging separately for these extras, but this also requires diligent planning on the part of the traveler. Ignoring these rules can quickly lead to sticker shock at the airport. The key is knowing the specific limitations and how to optimize your packing.

Delving Into Checked Baggage Specifics

Understanding the weight limit is crucial, but there’s more to the story.

Dimensions Matter Too

While the weight is the primary concern for many, remember that Allegiant also enforces dimensional limits on checked bags. The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for a checked bag are 80 inches (203 cm). Exceeding these dimensions can lead to additional fees, even if your bag is under the weight limit.

The Price of Excess: Overweight and Oversized Fees

Here’s where things can get expensive. If your bag weighs between 41 and 70 pounds, you’ll face an overweight fee. If it’s over 70 pounds, it might not be accepted at all. Similarly, bags exceeding the dimensional limits will incur oversized baggage fees. These fees can often be more than the original checked bag fee, so it’s far better to be prepared.

Pre-Purchasing Baggage Allowance is Key

The cheapest way to bring luggage is to pre-purchase your baggage allowance online during the booking process or well in advance of your flight. The closer you get to your departure date, and especially if you wait until you’re at the airport, the higher the baggage fees will be.

Strategically Packing: Tips to Stay Under the Limit

• Use a luggage scale: Invest in a portable luggage scale to accurately weigh your bags before heading to the airport.
• Wear your heaviest items: Pack light clothing and wear heavier items like coats and boots on the plane.
• Ship items ahead: If you’re moving or traveling for an extended period, consider shipping some of your belongings to your destination.
• Consolidate: If traveling with others, see if you can consolidate your belongings into fewer, heavier bags (while staying within the limits, of course) and split the checked bag fees.

Carry-On Considerations: What You Can Bring Onboard

Allegiant allows one personal item free of charge, such as a purse, briefcase, or small backpack. This item must fit under the seat in front of you. However, if you want to bring a full-sized carry-on bag that goes in the overhead bin, you’ll need to pay an additional fee.

Carry-On Size and Weight Restrictions

Allegiant’s carry-on baggage size limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55.8 x 35.5 x 22.8 cm). Although there’s no explicitly stated weight limit for carry-on bags, you should be able to lift and store it in the overhead bin without assistance. Airport staff can refuse a carry-on if deemed too heavy or oversized.

Navigating the Personal Item Rule

Make the most of your personal item allowance. Use a backpack or large tote bag that can accommodate essentials like electronics, books, snacks, and medications. This can significantly reduce the weight and bulk of your checked bag or eliminate the need for a paid carry-on altogether.

Planning for a Smooth Journey: Avoiding Baggage Nightmares

Flying with Allegiant successfully requires foresight and meticulous planning. By understanding their specific baggage rules and proactively managing your luggage, you can avoid unexpected fees and enjoy a smoother, more cost-effective travel experience.

Remember, always check Allegiant’s website for the most up-to-date baggage policies, as they are subject to change. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your trip gets off to a flying start, without breaking the bank on baggage fees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Allegiant Baggage

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify Allegiant’s baggage policies:

1. What happens if my checked bag weighs more than 40 pounds on Allegiant?

You will be charged an overweight baggage fee, which can be substantial. It’s best to repack or remove items to get your bag below the 40-pound limit. Bags over 70lbs may not be accepted.

2. Can I pay for baggage fees at the airport?

Yes, you can pay for baggage fees at the airport, but it’s significantly more expensive than pre-purchasing them online.

3. Does Allegiant weigh carry-on bags?

Allegiant doesn’t typically weigh carry-on bags, but they may do so if the bag appears to be excessively large or heavy. It is crucial to ensure you can easily lift the bag into the overhead bin.

4. What are the dimensions of a personal item on Allegiant?

While Allegiant doesn’t specify exact dimensions for a personal item, it should be small enough to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. A purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack generally works well.

5. Can I bring liquids in my checked bag on Allegiant?

Yes, you can bring liquids in your checked bag, but they must comply with TSA regulations. Securely pack liquids to prevent leaks and avoid any prohibited items.

6. What items are prohibited in checked baggage on Allegiant?

Prohibited items include hazardous materials, such as explosives, flammable liquids, and compressed gases. Check the TSA website for a complete list of prohibited items.

7. How far in advance should I purchase my baggage allowance on Allegiant?

It’s recommended to purchase your baggage allowance as early as possible after booking your flight. The closer you get to your departure date, the higher the fees will likely be.

8. Does Allegiant offer any discounts on baggage fees?

Allegiant doesn’t generally offer discounts on baggage fees unless you have a specific promotional code or bundle package that includes baggage allowance.

9. What if my baggage is lost or damaged by Allegiant?

If your baggage is lost or damaged, report it to an Allegiant representative at the airport immediately. File a claim and keep all documentation related to your baggage.

10. Can I bring sporting equipment as checked baggage on Allegiant?

Yes, you can bring sporting equipment, but it may be subject to additional fees depending on the size and weight. Check Allegiant’s website for specific policies on sporting equipment.

11. What happens if my carry-on bag is too large at the gate?

If your carry-on bag is too large at the gate, you will be required to check it, and you will be charged the applicable checked baggage fee, which is often higher than pre-purchasing online.

12. Does Allegiant have different baggage rules for international flights?

Allegiant primarily operates domestic flights within the United States. If they operate international flights in the future, baggage rules would be displayed during the booking process.