Allegiant Air Baggage Policy: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

Allegiant Air is a popular ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) in the United States, known for offering budget-friendly, no-frills travel options to a variety of leisure destinations. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Allegiant primarily serves secondary airports and smaller cities, making air travel affordable and accessible for budget-conscious travelers.

Unlike major airlines, Allegiant Air operates on an à la carte pricing model, meaning passengers pay extra for checked baggage, carry-ons, seat selection, and other add-ons. While this allows for lower base fares, it’s essential to understand the airline’s baggage fees, size restrictions, and carry-on policies to avoid unexpected charges at the airport.

This guide provides a detailed look at Allegiant Air’s baggage policies, fees, and allowances, helping you plan your next trip without breaking the bank.

Allegiant Air Overview

1. Allegiant Air Baggage Policy: What You Need to Know

Allegiant Air’s baggage policy differs significantly from traditional airlines. Unlike Southwest Airlines (which offers free checked bags), Allegiant charges for all carry-on and checked baggage except for one personal item.

Personal Item (Free Allowance)

• Each passenger is allowed one free personal item, such as a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag.
• Size Limit: The personal item must fit under the seat and cannot exceed 7” x 15” x 16” (17.8 cm x 38.1 cm x 40.6 cm).
• Fee: Free (included in ticket price).

Carry-On Bag (Paid Add-On)

• Size Limit: Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead bin and cannot exceed 9” x 14” x 22” (22.9 cm x 35.6 cm x 55.9 cm), including wheels and handles.
• Weight Limit: No specific weight limit, but it must be manageable for the passenger to lift into the overhead bin without assistance.
• Fee: Ranges from $15 to $45 per segment if purchased in advance, but $50+ at the airport.

Checked Baggage (Paid Add-On)

• Size Limit: Checked bags must not exceed 80 linear inches (203 cm) (length + width + height).
• Weight Limit: Maximum of 40 lbs (18 kg) per bag. Bags exceeding this weight will incur overweight fees.
• Number of Bags: Passengers may check up to 4 bags per person.
• Fee:
  • $20–$50 per bag (varies by route if purchased online in advance).
  • $50+ per bag if purchased at the airport.
  • Overweight Fee: Bags weighing 41–70 lbs incur an additional $50 fee, and bags weighing 71–100 lbs incur a $75 fee.

Oversized Baggage & Special Items

• Bags over 80 linear inches (203 cm) are subject to an additional $75 fee.
• Sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, surfboards) is subject to special handling fees starting at $50 per item.
• Musical instruments may be carried on if they fit within carry-on dimensions or checked with applicable fees.

2. Tips for Avoiding Extra Baggage Fees

Allegiant Air’s baggage fees can quickly add up, so consider these money-saving strategies:

• Purchase baggage online in advance – Fees at the airport are significantly higher.
• Pack light and use only a personal item – If possible, avoid carry-on and checked bags.
• Distribute weight efficiently – Keep checked bags under 40 lbs to avoid overweight charges.
• Weigh your bags before arriving at the airport – Use a portable luggage scale to prevent surprise fees.

3. Allegiant Air Seat Selection and Boarding Process

Allegiant Air operates a pay-for-what-you-need model, which includes optional seat selection for an additional fee.

• Seat selection fees range from $10 to $30 per segment, depending on location and demand.
• Passengers who do not pay for seat selection are assigned a random seat at check-in.
• Priority boarding is available for a fee, allowing early access to overhead bins and preferred seating.

4. Carry-On vs. Checked Bag: Which One Should You Choose?

To determine whether to purchase a carry-on or checked bag, consider the following:

• Choose a Carry-On If:
  • You prefer quicker access to your luggage after landing.
  • You’re traveling light and can keep the bag within size limits.
  • You don’t mind paying $15–$45 per segment (if purchased in advance).
• Choose Checked Baggage If:
  • You have larger items or need to pack over 40 lbs of luggage.
  • You don’t want to deal with lifting a heavy bag into the overhead bin.
  • You are traveling with liquids over 3.4 oz (which are restricted in carry-on bags).

5. Change & Cancellation Policies: Flexibility Comes at a Cost

Unlike traditional airlines, Allegiant Air has strict change and cancellation policies:

• All tickets are non-refundable, but passengers may receive a credit for future travel minus a fee.
• Trip Flex Protection (optional add-on) allows fee-free changes or cancellations before departure.

6. Allegiant Air Loyalty Program: Allways Rewards

Allegiant recently launched its Allways Rewards program, allowing frequent travelers to earn points toward future flights.

• Points are earned based on fare purchases and add-ons (like baggage fees).
• No blackout dates – Rewards can be used on any flight.
• Members receive exclusive fare discounts and priority booking options.

7. Allegiant Air Customer Satisfaction & Reputation

Allegiant Air is highly rated for affordability but receives mixed reviews for customer service and fees.

Pros of Flying Allegiant Air

✔ Ultra-low base fares – Great for budget travelers.
✔ Nonstop flights from smaller cities – Avoids major hub congestion.
✔ Option to customize services – Pay only for what you need.

Cons of Flying Allegiant Air

❌ High fees for add-ons – Checked bags, carry-ons, seat selection, and other services add up.
❌ No in-flight entertainment or Wi-Fi – Minimal amenities.
❌ Strict policies on changes and cancellations – Little flexibility without Trip Flex.

8. Why Choose Allegiant Air?

Allegiant Air is ideal for travelers looking for cheap, no-frills flights to vacation destinations. If you’re flexible and willing to pack light, Allegiant offers some of the cheapest fares in the U.S. However, understanding their baggage fees, size restrictions, and carry-on policies is key to avoiding unexpected costs.

Final Thoughts

Allegiant Air provides a cost-effective option for travelers who prioritize low fares over full-service airline perks. By purchasing baggage in advance, choosing only the services you need, and following baggage guidelines, you can maximize savings while enjoying convenient nonstop flights to vacation destinations.

Whether you’re traveling to Las Vegas, Florida beaches, or a mountain getaway, Allegiant Air is a great choice—as long as you plan ahead and understand their fee structure.