SkyWest Airlines Baggage Policy: How to Avoid Extra Fees (2025)

SkyWest Airlines Baggage Policy

Carrying luggage may be tricky, particularly when you are not sure of the current airline regulations. Provided you are using a small carrier such as SkyWest, you need to know the SkyWest Airlines baggage policy thoroughly. The guide contains the latest statistics on the luggage allowances, dimensional and weight restrictions as well as ways to escape expensive luggage charges in 2025.

Whenever you need to fly, whether it be between states or outside the country internationally through large airlines such as Delta, United or American Airlines, here is all the information that you need to know.

What Is the SkyWest Airlines Baggage Policy?

SkyWest Airlines operates as a regional carrier for major U.S. airlines. While they follow their partner airline’s fare rules, SkyWest enforces its own aircraft-specific baggage policies due to smaller overhead and cargo space.

Here’s a quick summary of the SkyWest Airlines baggage policy:

• 1 personal item and 1 carry-on bag included on most tickets

• Checked bag fees vary by partner airline

• Strict size and weight restrictions due to smaller aircraft

• Gate-checking may apply for standard carry-on bags

This policy applies across SkyWest-operated flights for both domestic and international routes.

SkyWest Airlines Carry-On Policy

Know What You Can Bring in the Cabin

Most passengers are allowed:

• 1 Carry-On Bag

• 1 Personal Item (laptop bag, purse, or backpack)

SkyWest carry-on policy size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (may vary slightly depending on your ticketing airline)

SkyWest personal item size: Must fit under the seat in front of you

While carry-ons are included with most fare types, SkyWest’s smaller aircraft often require gate-checking your bag—even if it meets the size rules.

SkyWest Airlines Carry-On Size – Domestic & International

The standard SkyWest Airlines carry-on size applies to both domestic and international flights:

• For international travel, the SkyWest Airlines carry-on size international policy still limits cabin bags to 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

• Weight isn’t strictly enforced but must be manageable by the passenger.

If you’re flying a Basic Economy fare with United or American, carry-ons may not be allowed onboard and must be checked at an additional cost. Always confirm with your mainline carrier.

Checked Baggage Policy and Fees

SkyWest Airlines Checked Baggage Fees in 2025

Your first and second checked bags come with additional charges based on your booking airline:

• First checked bag: $30–$40

• Second checked bag: $40–$60

• Additional bags: $100+ each

Checked baggage size limit: 62 linear inches (Length + Width + Height) Weight limit:

• 50 lbs (Economy Class)

• 70 lbs (First Class)

  
  

Overweight or Oversized Luggage Charges

Bags over standard limits incur hefty fees:

• 51–70 lbs: $100 fee

• Over 70 lbs: Usually not accepted

• Oversized (63–80 inches): $100–$150

• Over 80 inches: Not permitted

Example: A 65 lb suitcase would cost you a $30 baggage fee plus $100 for being overweight—$130 total.

Avoid this by using a home luggage scale before arriving at the airport.

SkyWest Airlines Baggage Restrictions

There are strict rules about what can and cannot be packed in checked or carry-on bags on SkyWest flights:

• Prohibited in any bag: Alcohol over 140 proof, fireworks, flammable liquids

• Carry-on only: Lithium-ion batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes

• Checked only (with declaration): Firearms and ammunition in a hard case

These SkyWest Airlines baggage restrictions are in place to ensure safety on regional flights.

International Travel Considerations

If you're flying internationally on a partner airline (like Delta or United), and your SkyWest flight is part of that itinerary:

• You may be eligible for 2 free checked bags

• However, carry-on size limits and gate-checking still apply due to SkyWest aircraft restrictions

Always refer to the operating carrier’s rules when booking international flights.

Tips to Avoid Extra SkyWest Baggage Fees

Do not want some unexpected costs? These are clever tips:

• Pack light: When possible use a personal item and a carry-on

• Prepay when online: The expression check-in is normally the one that applies the discounted rates of baggage when doing it online

• Airline credit cards: Delta, United, or American airline credit cards allow free checked bags

• Weigh your luggage at home: No surprises at the airports:

• Enroll in frequent flyer programs: These same elite members may be given waived baggage fees

Knowing the baggage policy of the SkyWest Airlines in advance will help you save $100 or more every time you have an overweight bag or additional bags.

Conclusion: Know SkyWest’s Baggage Rules Before You Fly

When you are flying using SkyWest in 2025, you should not wait to find out the rules when you check in. The SkyWest Airlines baggage policy contains peculiarities of the sizes, weight, and charges caused by the restrictions of aircraft.

Planning prior to travel and packing matters will help you prevent unnecessary expenses, escape the rush and have a hassle-free experience. Never forget to verify the policies of your partner airline, as well, in case of international travel or when you bought a Basic Economy ticket.

If you’re curious how baggage policies can affect real travelers, check out this story about a $10,000 musical instrument mishap in our Lufthansa Airlines Baggage Policy article on Medium.