Several airlines do not charge baggage fees for flights to Hawaii, including Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.
When planning a trip to Hawaii, knowing which airlines offer free baggage can save you a significant amount of money. Hawaiian Airlines is often the go-to for many travelers, but it’s worth exploring other options as well.
Hawaiian Airlines typically allows one free carry-on bag and one personal item. They also offer the first checked bag free for most fare classes, which is a fantastic perk for those traveling with more luggage.
Southwest Airlines stands out with their generous baggage policy, permitting two free checked bags per passenger. This makes them a strong contender for budget-conscious travelers heading to Hawaii.
United Airlines has varying policies depending on the fare class. They offer free baggage allowances for certain classes, while others may incur charges. However, they do offer a competitive baggage policy compared to some other major carriers.
Alaska Airlines allows one free carry-on and one personal item, but checked baggage fees apply unless you hold specific elite status or travel on certain fare types.
To sum up, if you’re looking to avoid baggage fees while flying to Hawaii, consider these airlines and their respective policies.
Hawaiian Airlines vs. Competitors
Hawaiian Airlines distinguishes itself from competitors like United and Alaska Airlines by focusing on a unique customer experience and authentic Hawaiian hospitality. Their inflight services are tailored to reflect Hawaiian culture, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your flight.
Unlike Southwest Airlines, which offers free checked baggage, Hawaiian Airlines typically includes the first checked bag free for standard fare classes. This can make a significant difference for travelers needing to pack extra items for their trip, like beach gear or gifts.
Hawaiian Airlines also has loyalty programs that reward frequent flyers with benefits that may not be found on other airlines. For instance, their HawaiianMiles program allows members to earn miles for travel on both Hawaiian and partner airlines, which can lead to further savings on future trips.
Pro Tip:
If you’re planning to fly with Hawaiian Airlines, check for seasonal promotions that may include additional baggage allowances or discounts. Signing up for their newsletter can also keep you informed about exclusive offers.
To assist travelers in comparing baggage policies easily, here’s a simple tool that allows you to see the baggage fees for various airlines flying to Hawaii.
Baggage Fee Comparison Tool
| Airline | Free Carry-On | Free Checked Bag | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Airlines | Yes | 1st bag free | Fees apply for 2nd checked bag |
| Southwest Airlines | Yes | 2 bags free | No fees for additional bags |
| United Airlines | Yes | Fees apply unless in higher fare classes | Fees apply for additional bags |
| Alaska Airlines | Yes | Fees apply unless in higher fare classes | Fees apply for additional bags |
Travelers should always check the airlines’ official websites for the most current baggage policies, as they can frequently change.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only.
What is the baggage policy for Hawaiian Airlines?
Hawaiian Airlines allows one free carry-on and one personal item, along with the first checked bag free for most fare classes.
Does Southwest Airlines charge for checked bags?
No, Southwest Airlines allows two checked bags for free, which is a rare benefit among U.S. airlines.
Are there any fees for United Airlines checked baggage?
United Airlines has varying fees for checked baggage, depending on the fare class purchased. Some classes may offer free checked bags.
Can I take a surfboard on Hawaiian Airlines?
Hawaiian Airlines allows surfboards for an additional fee, but they have specific size and weight restrictions. It’s best to check their guidelines before traveling.
What should I know about Alaska Airlines’ baggage fees?
Alaska Airlines allows one free carry-on and one personal item, but checked baggage fees apply unless you have elite status or are traveling on specific fare types.
🌺 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)