Flying to paradise shouldn’t start with confusion over baggage fees. Understanding Hawaiian Airlines’ baggage policy is key to a smooth and stress-free journey.
Whether you’re packing for a quick island hop or a long-haul vacation, this guide has everything you need to know.
Hawaiian Baggage Policy at a Glance
For a quick overview, this table summarizes Hawaiian Airlines’ current baggage policy for most standard flights.
Fees can vary based on your destination, cabin class, and elite status, so always use this as a starting point.
| Baggage Type | Allowance & Limits | Fees (Main Cabin) |
| Personal Item | 1 item, must fit under the seat | Free |
| Carry-On Bag | 1 bag, 22″ x 14″ x 9″, up to 25 lbs | Free |
| Checked Bag 1 | Up to 50 lbs, 62 linear inches | Neighbor Island: $30 North America: $40 |
| Checked Bag 2 | Up to 50 lbs, 62 linear inches | Neighbor Island: $40 North America: $45 |
| Overweight Bag | 51-70 lbs | +$100 (North America) |
| Oversized Bag | 63-80 linear inches | +$200 (North America) |
| Special Items | Varies (e.g., surfboards, bikes) | Subject to specific fees and rules |
Note: Fees for international flights vary significantly. First Class passengers and certain elite members receive a more generous allowance.
What Can You Bring for Free?
Hawaiian Airlines keeps its carry-on policy simple and in line with most major carriers. Every passenger is allowed to bring baggage onboard free of charge.
Carry-On and Personal Items
All passengers can bring one personal item and one carry-on bag.
- Personal Item: This should be a small item like a purse, laptop bag, or backpack that can fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
- Carry-On Bag: Your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches and must weigh 25 pounds or less. It should be stored in the overhead bin.
Keep in mind that passengers who purchase a Main Cabin Basic ticket are in the last boarding group, so overhead bin space may be limited by the time they board.
Checked Baggage Fees and Allowances
Your checked baggage allowance depends on your destination, fare class, and loyalty status.
All standard checked bags must be no larger than 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and weigh no more than 50 pounds.
Flights Within Hawaii (Neighbor Islands)
For travel between the Hawaiian islands:
- First Bag: $30
- Second Bag: $40
- Third Bag and Beyond: $50 each
Flights Between Hawaii and North America
For travel between Hawaii and the mainland U.S.:
- First Bag: $40
- Second Bag: $45
- Third Bag and Beyond: $150 each
International Flights
Baggage allowances on international routes are more complex.
- Japan, Korea, American Samoa, Tahiti, Cook Islands: 2 free checked bags.
- Australia and New Zealand: 1 free checked bag. The second bag costs $100.
First Class passengers on most routes receive two complimentary checked bags.
Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bags exceed the standard limits, be prepared for additional charges. These fees are applied in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
- Overweight (51–70 lbs): An additional $100 per bag for North America flights and $35 for Neighbor Island flights.
- Overweight (71–100 lbs): An additional $200 per bag for North America flights. Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted.
- Oversized (62–80 linear inches): An additional $200 per bag for North America flights and $35 for Neighbor Island flights.
Exceptions and Waivers: How to Save on Fees
You may be able to avoid checked baggage fees through elite status, specific credit cards, or by transporting certain items.
Elite Status Benefits
Following the integration with Alaska Airlines’ loyalty program, Atmos Rewards members enjoy the following benefits on Hawaiian Airlines flights:
- Atmos™ Titanium, Platinum, and Gold Members: First 2 bags are free.
- Atmos™ Silver Members: First bag is free.
These benefits apply only to the elite member and not to travel companions on the same reservation.
Credit Card Perks
- Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard®: The primary cardmember receives the first two checked bags for free on domestic flights.
- Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card: The cardholder and up to six guests on the same reservation get their first checked bag free.
Traveling with Special Items
Surfboards and Sporting Equipment
Hawaiian Airlines has specific policies for sports gear. A surfboard bag, for example, is subject to standard checked bag fees as long as it meets weight requirements.
Oversize fees may apply depending on the route.
Box of Pineapples or Papayas
On flights from Hawaii to North America, you can check one pre-inspected box of pineapples or papayas (up to 10 lbs) for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepay for my baggage?
Yes, you can pay for your checked bags online during check-in, which opens 24 hours before your flight. For flights to North America, you may receive a small discount for prepaying online.
What is the policy for infants and children?
Infants not occupying a seat do not get a carry-on allowance, but their parents can bring a diaper bag. Strollers and car seats can be checked at the gate for free.
Does Hawaiian Airlines allow baggage pooling?
Yes, passengers on the same reservation can pool their baggage allowances.
For example, if two people are traveling together and each has a one-bag allowance, one person can check two bags for free while the other checks none.
What happens if I’m connecting to another airline?
If your itinerary includes a flight with a partner airline, the baggage policy of the most significant carrier (usually the one operating the longest flight) will apply. Check with both airlines to be sure.
Can I check a box instead of a suitcase?
Yes, you can check a cardboard box as long as it is properly sealed and falls within the size and weight limits for standard checked baggage.
Your Flight to Paradise Awaits
By packing smart, weighing your bags at home, and taking advantage of elite status or credit card perks, you can save money and start your vacation on the right foot.
Policies can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Hawaiian Airlines website for the most current information before you fly.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
