You're planning a trip with Southwest Airlines, and like many travelers, you're probably wondering, "How much will Southwest Airlines charge per bag?" This is an excellent and very timely question, as Southwest's baggage policy has undergone some significant changes recently! Gone are the days when all bags always flew free for every passenger. So, let's break down the new policy step-by-step to ensure you're fully prepared and avoid any surprises at the airport.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Baggage Charges: A Step-by-Step Guide
The key to understanding Southwest's baggage charges now lies in your fare type and loyalty status. It's not a one-size-fits-all anymore.
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| How Much Will Southwest Airlines Charge Per Bag |
Step 1: Are You Eligible for Free Checked Bags? Let's Find Out!
This is the most crucial first step. Southwest Airlines, as of May 28, 2025, has revised its "Bags Fly Free" policy. So, let's figure out if you're one of the lucky ones who still gets free checked bags!
Sub-heading: Check Your Fare Type
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Business Select® Fare: If you've booked a Business Select® fare, you are in luck! You still receive two free checked bags. This is their premium fare, offering more flexibility and perks, and free checked bags are a significant part of that.
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Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: For these fare types, booked or changed on or after May 28, 2025, baggage fees will now apply. This is the biggest change and affects the majority of travelers.
Sub-heading: Check Your Rapid Rewards® Status
Southwest's loyalty program, Rapid Rewards®, offers valuable baggage benefits for its elite members:
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: Fantastic news! As an A-List Preferred member, you'll continue to receive your first and second checked bags for free. This benefit also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, which is a great perk for families or groups.
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: You'll receive your first checked bag for free. For your second bag, standard fees will apply. This benefit also applies to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation for the first free bag.
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Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you hold a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card, you are eligible for your first checked bag free. This also applies to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided your Rapid Rewards account number is included at the time of booking.
Sub-heading: Active-Duty Military Personnel
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Active-duty military Customers with a current, valid military ID: You are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges. This is a generous policy to support those serving.
Step 2: Understanding Standard Checked Bag Fees (If Applicable)
If Step 1 indicated that fees will apply to your baggage, this section is for you.
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
Sub-heading: First and Second Checked Bag Fees (for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares)
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First Checked Bag: Southwest will charge $35 per bag.
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Second Checked Bag: Southwest will charge $45 per bag.
Remember: These fees apply to flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. If you booked your flight before this date, you might still fall under the old "Bags Fly Free" policy for your first two checked bags.
Sub-heading: Third (and Subsequent) Checked Bags
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For any bags beyond the first two (i.e., your 3rd, 4th, etc., checked bags), the charge is $150 per bag. This applies to all fare types and statuses, unless otherwise exempted (like active-duty military).
Step 3: Navigating Weight and Size Limits – Avoid Extra Charges!
Even if your bags are free, they still need to meet Southwest's standard dimensions and weight. Exceeding these limits will incur additional fees.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Dimensions and Weight
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Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
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Maximum Size: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm).
It's crucial to measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport! A simple luggage scale can save you significant money.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your bag is heavier than the standard 50 pounds, you'll face an overweight charge in addition to any standard bag fees:
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51-70 pounds: An additional $100 per bag.
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71-100 pounds: An additional $200 per bag.
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Bags exceeding 100 pounds will NOT be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo through Southwest Cargo (which has different requirements, typically for Known Shippers).
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension limit, you'll incur an oversized baggage fee in addition to any standard bag fees:
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63-80 inches: An additional $200 per bag.
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Bags exceeding 80 inches will NOT be accepted as checked baggage and will also need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo.
QuickTip: Revisit this post tomorrow — it’ll feel new.
Step 4: Special Items and Sports Equipment
Many special items and sports equipment can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, but some have specific rules and potential additional fees.
Sub-heading: General Rules for Special Items
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Many items, such as skis, golf clubs, and fishing equipment, can be substituted for one of your checked bags.
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They must still adhere to the 50-pound weight limit and the 62-inch linear dimension rule unless otherwise specified.
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If they exceed these limits, overweight or oversized fees will apply as described in Step 3.
Sub-heading: Common Sports Equipment Exceptions
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Some oversized sports equipment, like surfboards and bicycles, may have specific fees or size limitations that differ from the standard oversized bag policy. For instance, bicycles between 63-115 linear inches may incur a specific charge, and some larger items might not be accepted as checked baggage at all.
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Always check Southwest's official "Optional Travel Charges" page or contact them directly for specific sports equipment you plan to travel with.
Step 5: Carry-On and Personal Items – Still Free!
Good news! Southwest continues its generous policy for carry-on and personal items.
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Sub-heading: Carry-On Bag Allowance
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You are allowed one carry-on bag per passenger, free of charge.
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This bag must fit in the overhead bin and typically should not exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H), including handles and wheels. There is generally no weight restriction, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
Sub-heading: Personal Item Allowance
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In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one personal item, free of charge.
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This item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or a small backpack. Typical dimensions are around 18.5" (L) x 8.5" (W) x 13.5" (H).
Sub-heading: Items Not Counted Towards Your Carry-On Limit
Southwest allows certain items in addition to your carry-on and personal item, such as:
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Outer garments (coats, jackets)
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Food for consumption during the flight (in disposable packaging)
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Assistive/mobility devices (wheelchairs, canes, crutches)
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Child restraint devices (car seats for ticketed children or if space allows)
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Breast pumps and milk/formula
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Umbrellas or walking canes
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
Step 6: International Travel Considerations
If your Southwest itinerary includes an international flight, there are a few additional things to keep in mind regarding baggage.
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You will typically be required to check in any luggage at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter upon arrival at the airport for international flights; curbside check-in might not be available.
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For flights departing certain international locations (e.g., Aruba), minimum check-in times might be longer (e.g., 75 minutes before departure). For most other international flights, passengers and their baggage must be checked in at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure.
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Connecting passengers arriving internationally into the U.S. will usually need to claim all luggage, regardless of their final destination, clear Customs, and then re-check their bags with a Southwest Customer Service Agent.
Step 7: Pro Tips for Saving on Baggage Fees
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Pack Light: The easiest way to avoid fees is to only bring what you truly need. Consider packing cubes to maximize space in your carry-on.
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Weigh Your Bags at Home: Invest in a cheap luggage scale. It can save you significant last-minute stress and expensive airport fees.
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Consider a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: If you fly Southwest frequently, the baggage benefits alone can justify the annual fee.
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Aim for A-List Preferred Status: For very frequent flyers, reaching this elite tier offers the most comprehensive baggage benefits.
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Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous items, especially if you're staying for an extended period, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline fees.
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Consolidate: If traveling with family or friends, try to consolidate belongings into fewer bags to stay within limits.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to Southwest Airlines baggage, with quick answers:
How to avoid checked bag fees on Southwest?
You can avoid checked bag fees on Southwest by booking a Business Select® fare, being a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred or A-List member, being a Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmember, or being active-duty military personnel.
How to check my bag's weight and size for Southwest?
Use a luggage scale to weigh your bag and a measuring tape to determine its length, width, and height. Ensure it's under 50 lbs and 62 linear inches to avoid overweight/oversized fees.
How to add an extra bag to my Southwest flight?
If you're subject to baggage fees, you will pay for additional bags at the airport check-in counter or ticket counter. The fee for a third (and subsequent) bag is $150.
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest?
Most sports equipment can be checked as a standard bag if it meets weight/size limits. Oversized or overweight sports equipment may incur additional fees. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your item online.
How to bring a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest allows small domesticated cats or dogs in the cabin on domestic flights, provided they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. There is a fee of $125 each way, and the pet carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item.
How to pack liquids in my carry-on for Southwest?
Liquids in your carry-on must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and one bag per passenger.
How to ensure my carry-on fits Southwest's limits?
Measure your carry-on (including wheels and handles) to ensure it's no larger than 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H). If it's borderline, consider if it will comfortably fit in the overhead bin without force.
How to get my bags delivered if they are delayed on Southwest?
If your checked bags are delayed, report it to a Southwest Baggage Service Agent at the airport within four hours of your arrival. Southwest will generally arrange for delivery to your location once found.
How to claim damaged baggage on Southwest?
Report damaged baggage in person to a Southwest Baggage Service Agent at the airport within four hours of your arrival. Southwest's liability for damaged baggage is limited.
How to check in luggage for an international Southwest flight?
For international Southwest flights, you must check your luggage at the ticket counter inside the airport. Curbside check-in may not be available for international itineraries. Allow extra time for this process.
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