Pack an appropriately sized carry-on bag. AirTran has strict guidelines on the acceptable size carry-on bag. You may not have a bag more than 55 total inches (24 inches long by 18 inches wide by 13 inches tall). This bag must be able to fit in the overhead storage area on the plane.
Choose one personal item, if desired. AirTran allows only one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. This item can include a purse, laptop bag or walking stick. These items must be able to be stored either in the overhead storage compartment or below the seat directly in front of you.
Avoid packing any items that are prohibited on the plane. You may not pack knives, swords or any sharp objects to carry on the plane with you. Check the Transportation Security Administration website (see Resources) to determine what is restricted on your flight because the TSA regulates what is acceptable on an airplane.
Determine how many bags you require for your trip. AirTran charges a baggage fee of $20 (for coach class reservations made after August 16, 2010) for the first bag and $25 for the second bag, as long as they weigh less than 50 pounds. If you exceed this restriction, you will be charged an overweight baggage fee.
Pack bags that are no larger than 61 total inches. This is the combined height, width and length of the bag. If your bags are larger than this, you will be charged an additional $49 for bags up to 70 total inches and $79 for bags up to 80 inches. Bags larger than 80 total inches will not be accepted.
Check in your bags with an agent at the AirTran check-in counter. Check your bags at least 90 minutes before your flight. If you are flying on a domestic flight, you may check in bags up to 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Checked bags for international flights must be checked in at least one hour before your flight. You may not check any bags prior to four hours before your flight is scheduled to leave.
