Nobody likes paying extra fees—especially those pesky surprise charges at the airport when you realize your bag is just a few pounds over the limit. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or someone booking a weekend getaway, understanding the ins and outs of the Allegiant Baggage Policy can help you avoid these additional costs. Allegiant is known for its budget-friendly fares, but with those savings comes a more a la carte approach to fees. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how you can sidestep unnecessary charges and make the most of your next trip.
Why the Allegiant Baggage Policy Matters
Unlike some major airlines that bundle in baggage with ticket prices, Allegiant operates on a low-cost model where almost everything beyond your seat has an additional fee. This includes carry-ons, checked luggage, and even seat selection. By getting familiar with the Allegiant Baggage Policy, you can plan accordingly and keep your total travel costs within your budget.
The Basics of Allegiant Baggage Policy
So, what exactly does the Allegiant Baggage Policy entail? Here’s a simple breakdown:
1. Personal Item
Every passenger is allowed one free personal item. This could be a purse, backpack, or laptop bag that fits under the seat in front of you.
Dimensions: Must not exceed 7 x 15 x 16 inches.
2. Carry-On Bag
Unlike many airlines, Allegiant charges for carry-on bags.
Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead compartment and should not exceed 9 x 14 x 22 inches.
Pro tip: The earlier you book and add your carry-on online, the cheaper it will be. Airport and gate prices are often much higher.
3. Checked Bags
Allegiant allows you to pre-purchase up to 4 checked bags per passenger.
Each bag must weigh 50 lbs or less and not exceed 80 linear inches (L+W+H).
Overweight fees apply if your bag weighs between 51-70 lbs or 71-100 lbs. Bags over 100 lbs won’t be accepted.
4. Additional Fees
Checked bag fees vary based on when you purchase them: online at booking, post-booking, or at the airport. Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50+ per bag, depending on timing and route.
Overweight fees: $50 for bags over 50 lbs and additional fees for exceeding 70 lbs.
How to Save on Allegiant Baggage Fees
Book Early
The golden rule with Allegiant: the earlier, the cheaper. Booking baggage during your initial ticket purchase can save you up to 50% compared to paying at the airport.
Weigh Your Bags Beforehand
Invest in a portable luggage scale and weigh your bags at home. This simple step can help you avoid overweight fees, which can quickly add up.
Pack Smart
Think like a minimalist! Prioritize lightweight and versatile items. Use packing cubes to maximize space and stay organized. Keep in mind that your free personal item can store essentials like snacks, electronics, and travel documents.
Consider Allegiant Bundles
Allegiant offers “bundle” options at checkout that may include baggage, seat selection, and priority boarding. While not always necessary, it can be cost-effective for certain travelers, especially those checking multiple bags.
Special Perks for Military Travelers
Military personnel can take advantage of Allegiant Air Military Benefits, which offer extra perks compared to the standard Allegiant Bag Policy:
Up to three free checked bags, each up to 100 lbs.
One free carry-on bag and one personal item.
Free cancellation and change fees.
Early boarding access.
For active-duty service members and their dependents traveling on the same itinerary, these benefits can lead to significant savings. According to Airlines for America, the average passenger spends around $75 on baggage fees per trip, so military members using Allegiant Air Military Benefits can pocket that money instead.
Expert Insight – The Hidden Cost of Convenience
“Low-cost airlines like Allegiant can be a fantastic deal, but only if travelers read the fine print,” says travel industry analyst Laura Mitchell. “The most common pitfall is assuming the airfare includes the same baggage perks as legacy carriers, but with a little preparation, passengers can avoid those last-minute airport fees.”
Real-Life Example
Take Sarah, for instance. She booked a roundtrip with Allegiant from Chicago to Las Vegas. At booking, she only selected a personal item but added a carry-on at the airport, costing her $50 extra each way. Had she included the carry-on during initial booking, she would have only paid $25 each way, saving $50 total. Understanding and using the Allegiant Baggage Policy proactively can easily translate into similar savings for you.
Additional Baggage Tips for Allegiant Flyers
Travel Light: If you can, stick to the free personal item allowance.
Split Packing: If traveling with family, share one checked bag instead of paying for individual carry-ons.
Airport Early Arrival: Make sure to arrive early if you plan on paying at the airport to avoid higher gate fees and long lines.
Where Flightaura Comes In
While it’s crucial to understand the Allegiant Baggage Policy, pairing your knowledge with expert travel services can streamline your booking process. Flightaura specializes in helping travelers find the best deals and navigate tricky airline policies like Allegiant’s. For guidance on optimizing your baggage choices or managing changes to your itinerary, Flightaura is your go-to resource.
Final Thoughts on Mastering the Allegiant Baggage Policy
To sum it up, the Allegiant Baggage Policy is straightforward but requires careful planning to avoid unnecessary charges. From booking early to weighing your bags in advance, a bit of preparation can make your Allegiant experience smooth and budget-friendly.
And for those in the military, don’t forget to take full advantage of the generous Allegiant Air Military Benefits offered to you.
Have questions about your upcoming Allegiant flight or need more travel tips? Drop a comment below or share this guide with a friend who could use a little help planning their next trip!