Ukuleles Fly Free On Alaska Airlines

If you're planning to travel with your ukulele on Alaska Airlines, you're in luck! Small musical instruments like ukuleles are typically allowed as carry-on items and can exceed the standard carry-on dimensions, as long as they can be safely accommodated in the aircraft's storage compartments. This means you can bring your uke in addition to your regular carry-on bag and personal item. However, it's always a good idea to check with the airline and ensure your instrument meets their size requirements.

If you have a larger instrument, you can purchase an extra seat for it, or check it in as baggage, provided it's packed in a case designed specifically for musical equipment. Keep in mind that checking your instrument may incur additional fees and increase the risk of damage, so it's recommended to bring it as a carry-on if possible.

Carry-on or checked?

Alaska Airlines allows small musical instruments as carry-on baggage, even if they exceed standard carry-on dimensions, as long as they can be safely accommodated in a proper stowage compartment in the aircraft cabin. This means that you can bring your ukulele as a carry-on item in addition to your regular carry-on baggage and personal item allowance. However, if your ukulele case is considerably larger than the maximum allowed size, you may be asked to check it in.

If you want to bring a larger musical instrument, such as a guitar, on board, you can purchase a seat for it. Alternatively, you can check it in as baggage, provided it is packed in a case designed specifically for musical instruments. Keep in mind that if you choose to check your instrument, it will be subject to checked baggage service fees and overweight/oversize fees.

When travelling with a ukulele or any other musical instrument, it is recommended that you board early to ensure there is space in the overhead compartments. You can also ask the flight attendants if they can store your instrument in their coat closet.

To avoid any issues, it is always a good idea to check with the airline before your flight to ensure that your instrument meets their size requirements. Additionally, if you have a valuable or sentimental instrument, it may be preferable to carry it on rather than checking it, as the reimbursement for lost or damaged checked baggage is usually based on the weight of the item rather than its actual value.

What are the size requirements?

Alaska Airlines' policy states that small musical instruments may count as your one carry-on bag and may exceed the standard carry-on dimensions, as long as they can be safely accommodated in a proper stowage compartment in the cabin of the aircraft. This means that your ukulele can be brought on board as long as it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

If your ukulele is larger and you would prefer to have it travel with you in the cabin, you can purchase an extra seat for it. However, this option may be costly and may not be worth it unless your instrument is particularly valuable.

When flying with a ukulele, it is important to consider the size of the case you will be using. While the ukulele itself may be small enough to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, a hard case can add several inches to its dimensions. Some airlines have specific size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so it is important to check the policies of the specific airline you are flying with. Additionally, consider using a strap on your case, as this may make it less conspicuous to gate agents.

If you decide to check your ukulele, it is important to pack it in a case designed specifically for musical instruments. Alaska Airlines accepts musical instruments as checked baggage, but they are subject to checked-baggage service fees and overweight/oversize fees. On Alaska Airlines flights 1-1999, the maximum combined linear dimensions of a checked musical instrument may not exceed 150 inches (length + height + width). On Alaska Airlines flights 2000-2999 and 3300-3499, the maximum combined linear dimensions may not exceed 115 inches.

To summarise, the size requirements for bringing a ukulele on Alaska Airlines depend on whether you plan to carry it on or check it. If carrying it on, ensure it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat, and consider the size of the case. If checking it, use a case designed for musical instruments and be aware of the size restrictions to avoid additional fees.

What are the fees?

Alaska Airlines does not specify fees for carrying a ukulele on board. However, they do outline fees for checked baggage, which may apply depending on the size of your ukulele and its case.

If your ukulele is small and can be safely accommodated in a proper stowage compartment in the cabin of the aircraft, it may be considered a carry-on item and will not incur any additional fees.

If your ukulele is larger and you prefer to have it travel with you in the cabin, you can purchase a seat for it. The cost of this option will depend on the current price of a seat on your flight.

If you choose to check your ukulele as baggage, standard checked baggage fees will apply. These fees vary depending on the number of bags checked and your specific flight. For example, Alaska Airlines charges $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second.

Additionally, if your checked ukulele exceeds the maximum allowed dimensions, you may be subject to overweight/oversize fees. On Alaska Airlines flights 1-1999, the maximum combined linear dimensions (length + height + width) for a checked musical instrument are 150 inches, and an oversize bag fee of $150 (USD) applies if your instrument exceeds this limit. On Alaska Airlines flights 2000-2999 and 3420-3499, the maximum combined linear dimensions are 115 inches, and the same oversize bag fee applies if your instrument exceeds this limit.

It is important to note that if your travel includes multiple airlines, other restrictions may apply. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check with the specific airline before your flight to understand their policies and any associated fees for carrying a ukulele on board or checking it as baggage.

What about humidity?

Humidity is a big concern for ukulele owners, as it can damage the instrument over time. The ideal humidity for a ukulele is between 40% and 60% relative humidity. If the humidity is too high, the wood in your ukulele can swell, resulting in higher action, quick corrosion of the frets, and even a loosened bridge. However, most humidity issues come from excessive dryness. When the humidity falls below 40%, the wood will shrink, causing cracks, sunken tops or backs, loose braces, and protruding frets.

If you live in a humid climate, you may not need to worry as much about humidity. However, if you live in a dry area or use heating during the winter, you should consider investing in a humidifier to maintain the ideal humidity level for your ukulele. On the other hand, if you live in an area with high humidity, you may need to invest in a dehumidifier to prevent mould and wood swelling.

It's important to note that rapid changes in temperature can also be harmful to your ukulele, regardless of humidity levels. To protect your instrument, always store it in its case and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, extreme heat or cold, or rapid temperature changes.

When travelling with your ukulele, be mindful of the humidity levels in your destination and take appropriate steps to protect your instrument. You can purchase disposable packets with two-way humidity control that can be placed in your case or between the strings of your ukulele. These packets can help regulate humidity levels during travel and are also useful for storing your ukulele when you're not playing it.

What about connecting flights?

When it comes to connecting flights, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, if your travel includes multiple airlines, other restrictions may apply. Therefore, it is essential to check the policies of all the airlines involved in your journey. Each airline may have different rules regarding the size and weight restrictions for carry-on and checked baggage, including musical instruments. Make sure you are familiar with the policies of each airline to avoid any issues during your travel.

Another important consideration is the time between your connecting flights. If you have a tight connection, you may not have much time to retrieve your ukulele from the overhead bin or gate-check it for your next flight. In such cases, it is advisable to carry your ukulele with you instead of checking it, as it will save you time and provide peace of mind. However, if you have a longer layover, you may have the option to explore and stretch your legs without worrying about carrying your instrument.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended to arrive at the airport early and check-in online if possible. This will allow you to secure your preferred boarding group and increase your chances of finding overhead bin space for your ukulele. Remember that the earlier you board, the more likely you are to find space for your instrument. Additionally, consider printing and carrying relevant policies and laws regarding the carriage of musical instruments, just in case you encounter any issues at the gate or during boarding.

Lastly, be prepared for the possibility of gate-checking your ukulele, especially if you are among the last to board and the overhead bins are already full. While this may not be ideal, it is better than having to check your instrument all the way through to your final destination. Gate-checking allows you to hand over your instrument at the aircraft entrance, and it will be readily available for you to collect as you disembark, reducing the risk of damage or loss.

Frequently asked questions