Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines are the main carriers that offer free luggage when flying to Hawaii.
Hawaiian Airlines allows passengers one free checked bag for their inter-island flights and two free checked bags for transpacific flights.
Southwest Airlines also provides two free checked bags on its flights to Hawaii, which is a standout feature in the industry.
Other airlines, such as United, Alaska, and Delta, typically charge for checked luggage, making Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest attractive options for travelers looking to save on baggage fees.
Here’s a quick comparison of luggage policies for major airlines flying to Hawaii:
| Airline | Free Checked Bags | Carry-On Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Airlines | 1-2 bags (depending on route) | 1 bag + 1 personal item |
| Southwest Airlines | 2 bags | 1 bag + 1 personal item |
| United Airlines | None (fees apply) | 1 bag + 1 personal item |
| Alaska Airlines | None (fees apply) | 1 bag + 1 personal item |
| Delta Airlines | None (fees apply) | 1 bag + 1 personal item |
Travelers should note that Hawaiian Airlines also offers unique perks like complimentary meals on many flights, which adds to the overall value of flying with them.
Southwest Airlines has a flexible cancellation policy and no change fees, which can be a huge advantage for travelers with uncertain plans.
Hawaiian Airlines vs. Competitors
Hawaiian Airlines stands out because of its focus on the Hawaiian experience, featuring in-flight entertainment that highlights local culture and hospitality.
Other airlines, like United and Alaska, may not offer this level of customer service or cultural immersion.
Hawaiian Airlines often has unique promotional deals, especially for residents of Hawaii, making their pricing competitive.
Southwest Airlines, on the other hand, is known for its no-frills approach and efficiency, plus its free baggage policy is a significant draw.
For travelers looking to calculate potential luggage fees or compare costs between airlines, here’s a handy tool:
Luggage Fee Calculator
Pro Tip: If you’re a frequent traveler, consider signing up for a loyalty program with Hawaiian Airlines. It can unlock additional benefits, such as bonus miles and priority boarding, which can enhance your travel experience.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only.
What is the luggage policy for Hawaiian Airlines?
Hawaiian Airlines allows one free checked bag on inter-island flights and two free checked bags on transpacific flights.
Does Southwest Airlines charge for checked luggage?
No, Southwest Airlines allows two free checked bags on all flights, including those to Hawaii.
Which airlines charge for checked luggage to Hawaii?
Airlines like United, Alaska, and Delta typically charge for checked luggage on flights to Hawaii.
Are there any additional fees for oversized luggage?
Yes, most airlines, including Hawaiian and Southwest, charge additional fees for oversized luggage, typically around $75-$100 depending on the airline.
How can I avoid baggage fees when flying to Hawaii?
Consider flying with Hawaiian Airlines or Southwest Airlines, as they offer free checked luggage. Additionally, joining frequent flyer programs can provide more baggage allowances.
🌺 Hawaiian Airlines · Route Network
Interactive map · Click markers for airport details · Routes color-coded by region
🌴 Neighbor Island
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Kahului (OGG)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Lihue (LIH)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Kona (KOA)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Hilo (ITO)
🗽 North America
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Los Angeles (LAX)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ San Francisco (SFO)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Seattle (SEA)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ New York (JFK)
- Maui (OGG) ⇔ San Francisco (SFO)
🌏 International / Polynesia
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Tokyo (HND/NRT)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Seoul (ICN)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Sydney (SYD)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Auckland (AKL)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Papeete (PPT)