Traveling with more than a couple of bags can quickly add up, especially when you're flying with an airline like Southwest. While Southwest historically was known for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, as of May 28, 2025, this policy has changed significantly for most travelers. Understanding the current baggage fees, particularly for a third bag, is crucial for budgeting your trip.
Your Guide to Checking a Third Bag on Southwest Airlines
Let's dive into the specifics of how much it costs to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines, along with important considerations to avoid unexpected fees.
Step 1: Understanding the New Baggage Policy
First things first, let's clear the air. Are you aware that Southwest's iconic "Bags Fly Free" policy has been updated for most fares? If you've been a loyal Southwest flyer, this is a significant change to be aware of.
Effective May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines implemented new baggage fees for most fare types. This means that for the majority of tickets booked or voluntarily changed on or after this date, you will now incur charges for your first and second checked bags. This change brings Southwest's baggage policy more in line with other major US carriers.
First Checked Bag: $35
Second Checked Bag: $45
Why is this important for your third bag? Because the third bag fee is in addition to any fees for your first and second bags, unless you qualify for an exemption.
Step 2: Determining the Cost of Your Third Bag
Now, for the main event: how much is it to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines?
For travel booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, the fee for a third (and any subsequent) checked bag on Southwest Airlines is $150 per bag.
This fee applies to each additional bag beyond your initial two, assuming they meet the standard size and weight limits.
Step 3: Understanding Standard Baggage Limits
Before you even think about the third bag fee, it's vital to know the standard limits for checked baggage on Southwest. Exceeding these limits will result in additional charges.
3.1: Weight Limits
Each checked bag, including your third bag, must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
3.2: Size Limits
Each checked bag, including your third bag, must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This includes handles and wheels.
Step 4: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Fees
Simply paying the $150 for your third bag isn't always the end of the story. If your third bag (or any checked bag) is overweight or oversized, you'll face additional surcharges. These fees are cumulative, meaning you could pay the third bag fee plus an overweight fee and/or an oversized fee.
4.1: Overweight Bag Fees
51 to 70 pounds (23.1 to 31.8 kg): An additional $150 per bag
71 to 100 pounds (31.9 to 45.4 kg): An additional $200 per bag
Bags exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
4.2: Oversized Bag Fees
63 to 80 linear inches (160 to 203 cm): An additional $200 per bag
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, Southwest typically applies the higher of the two applicable additional fees, not both. However, this is separate from the initial bag fee. So, your third bag could potentially cost $150 (third bag fee) + $200 (oversized) = $350! Always check the most current policy directly on Southwest's website or by contacting their customer service.
Step 5: Exemptions and How to Potentially Avoid Fees
While the new fee structure is in place, there are still ways some travelers can avoid or reduce baggage fees. Could you be one of the lucky ones?
5.1: Fare Class Benefits
Business Select® Fare: Passengers traveling on a Business Select fare will continue to receive two free checked bags. This means your third bag would incur the $150 fee.
Wanna Get Away Plus® and Anytime Fares: These fares now typically incur fees for the first and second checked bags, similar to the Basic fare.
5.2: Rapid Rewards® Loyalty Program Status
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite members receive two free checked bags. Again, your third bag would then be $150.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: These members receive one free checked bag. Your second bag would be $45, and your third would be $150.
5.3: Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers
Many Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards offer a benefit of one free checked bag. If you're a cardmember, your second bag would be $45, and your third would be $150. Always verify your specific card benefits.
5.4: Active-Duty Military Personnel
This is a significant exemption! Active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID are typically exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size. This is a fantastic benefit if it applies to you!
Step 6: Checking Your Bags at the Airport
Southwest Airlines does not typically allow you to prepay for checked baggage online. All baggage fees, including for a third bag, are generally paid at the airport.
6.1: Self-Service Kiosks
At many airports, you can use self-tagging kiosks to check your bags and pay any applicable fees. This can often save you time.
6.2: Ticket Counter with an Agent
You can also check your bags and pay fees directly with a Southwest Agent at the airport ticket counter. This is recommended if you have any questions or unusual items.
Step 7: Consider Alternatives for Excess Baggage
If you're looking at a hefty bill for your third bag (especially if it's overweight or oversized), you might consider alternative shipping methods.
7.1: Luggage Shipping Services
Companies like LugLess or My Baggage specialize in shipping luggage. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline fees, especially for multiple heavy or oversized bags. You ship your bags ahead of time, and they arrive at your destination.
7.2: Mailing Services
For less urgent items, traditional mailing services might be an option, but ensure they can handle the size and weight and factor in delivery time.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to calculate Southwest Airlines baggage linear inches?
To calculate linear inches, add the length, width, and height of your bag. For example, if a bag is 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high, its linear inches are inches.
How to avoid Southwest Airlines third bag fee?
The most direct way to avoid the third bag fee is to pack lighter and stay within the two-bag allowance. Alternatively, if you are an active-duty military member, hold a Business Select fare, or have Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, you may have increased free baggage allowances.
How to check special items or sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Many special items and sports equipment can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, but some may incur additional fees if they exceed standard size or weight limits. Always check Southwest's specific policies for items like golf clubs, skis, or musical instruments on their website.
How to track my checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest offers digital bag tracking through their mobile app or website. You'll typically receive a baggage claim tag with a tracking number when you check your bags at the airport.
How to pack to maximize baggage allowance on Southwest Airlines?
To maximize your allowance, distribute weight evenly across bags and use lightweight luggage. Consider vacuum-seal bags for clothes to compress them, and wear bulkier items on the plane.
How to pay for Southwest Airlines baggage fees?
Baggage fees on Southwest Airlines are typically paid at the airport when you check your bags, either at a self-service kiosk or with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
How to know if my Southwest flight is affected by the new baggage policy?
The new baggage fees apply to tickets booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. If your original booking was before this date and you haven't made any voluntary changes, your old policy might apply, but it's always best to confirm with Southwest directly.
How to combine baggage with others on my reservation to save money?
Southwest's baggage allowance is generally per ticketed Customer. While you can't officially "combine" allowances, you can strategically pack to ensure no single person incurs excessive fees by distributing items among your group's allowed bags.
How to handle an overweight or oversized third bag on Southwest Airlines?
If your third bag is overweight or oversized, you will incur additional fees as outlined in Step 4. You may need to repack, remove items, or consider shipping alternatives if the combined cost becomes prohibitive.
How to confirm the most current Southwest Airlines baggage fees?
The most reliable way to confirm current baggage fees is to visit the "Optional Travel Charges" section on the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly. Policies can change, so always check before your travel date.
