Your Ultimate Guide to Southwest Airlines Luggage Measurement: Fly Smart, Avoid Fees!
Are you getting ready to jet off on your next adventure with Southwest Airlines? Fantastic choice! Southwest is known for its unique policies, and while their "Bags Fly Free" policy used to be a hallmark, it's crucial to understand their current baggage rules to avoid any unexpected fees. So, let's dive right in and ensure your luggage is perfectly measured and packed for a smooth journey!
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Baggage Philosophy – What's Changed?
Before we even think about pulling out a tape measure, let's address the elephant in the room: Southwest's baggage policy. For a long time, Southwest was celebrated for offering two free checked bags to all passengers. However, as of May 28, 2025, this universal perk has changed.
The New Reality: For most fare classes (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares), you will now incur fees for your first and second checked bags.
Still Flying Free (for some): Don't despair! Business Select travelers and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members still enjoy two free checked bags. A-List members and Southwest credit card users typically get their first checked bag free.
Active Military Personnel: If you're active-duty military with a valid ID, you are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided your bags don't exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H). This is a fantastic benefit!
Understanding these changes is your first line of defense against surprise charges at the airport. Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of measuring.
Step 2: Gearing Up – Your Essential Measurement Toolkit
You don't need fancy equipment to measure your luggage accurately. Chances are, you already have everything you need around the house!
A Reliable Measuring Tape: A flexible cloth or retractable metal measuring tape is ideal. This will allow you to get accurate dimensions, even around curves.
A Luggage Scale: This is non-negotiable for checked bags. Many affordable digital luggage scales are available online or at travel stores, and they can save you significant money in overweight baggage fees.
Pen and Paper (or your phone's notes app): To jot down your measurements and calculations. It’s easy to forget a number when you’re dealing with multiple dimensions.
Step 3: Mastering the Art of Measuring Carry-On Bags
Your carry-on bag is your trusty companion in the cabin, and adhering to Southwest's dimensions is crucial to ensure it fits in the overhead bin.
Sub-heading: Southwest Carry-On Dimensions
Southwest Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger.
Carry-on Bag Maximum Dimensions: 24 inches (length) x 16 inches (width) x 10 inches (height).
Personal Item Maximum Dimensions: While not strictly defined by every source, a general guideline is typically around 18.5 inches (length) x 8.5 inches (width) x 13.5 inches (height). This item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or briefcase.
Sub-heading: How to Measure Your Carry-On Bag
Place Your Bag Upright: Set your carry-on bag on a flat, even surface, as if it were standing on its wheels.
Measure the Height: Start from the very bottom of the wheels (if applicable) and measure to the highest point of the bag, including any handles that do not fully retract.
Measure the Width: Measure across the widest part of the bag from side to side. Don't forget to include any side pockets or protruding parts.
Measure the Depth: Measure from the front of the bag to the back, including any front pockets or compartments that stick out.
Pro Tip: Always measure your bag when it is packed as you intend to travel. Overstuffing a soft-sided bag can significantly alter its dimensions!
Step 4: Decoding Checked Baggage Dimensions and Weight
This is where the linear inches calculation comes into play, and where you'll need your luggage scale!
Sub-heading: Southwest Checked Baggage Limits
For standard checked bags, Southwest has two primary restrictions:
Weight Limit: Up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg) per bag.
Size Limit (Linear Inches): 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Sub-heading: How to Measure Your Checked Bag for Linear Inches
The concept of "linear inches" might sound intimidating, but it's incredibly simple:
Lay Your Bag Flat: Place your checked bag on its back on a flat surface.
Measure the Length: Measure from one end of the bag to the other, including any wheels and handles.
Measure the Width: Measure across the widest part of the bag from side to side. Again, account for any side pockets or bulges.
Measure the Height (or Depth): Measure the thickness of the bag from front to back, including any protruding pockets or features.
Calculate Linear Inches: Add your three measurements together: Length + Width + Height = Total Linear Inches.
Example: If your bag measures 28 inches (Length) + 20 inches (Width) + 14 inches (Height), your total linear inches would be 28 + 20 + 14 = 62 inches. This bag would be perfectly within Southwest's standard size limit.
Sub-heading: Weighing Your Checked Bag
Use Your Luggage Scale: Before you even leave for the airport, weigh your packed checked bag using your luggage scale.
Be Precise: Don't just eyeball it. Even a pound or two over the 50-pound limit can result in a hefty fee.
Distribute Weight: If one bag is overweight, try to redistribute items to another checked bag or your personal item/carry-on if space allows.
Step 5: Handling Irregularly Shaped Items and Special Equipment
What about that oddly shaped duffel bag, your guitar, or your golf clubs? Southwest has specific guidelines for these too.
Sub-heading: Measuring Irregularly Shaped Luggage
For items like duffel bags, cylindrical cases, or backpacks that aren't rigid, the principle remains the same:
Measure the widest points of each dimension (length, width, and height/depth).
Fully pack the item before measuring, as its shape and size will change when filled.
Always include any protruding parts like straps, handles, or buckles in your measurements.
Sub-heading: Sporting Equipment and Musical Instruments
Southwest is generally accommodating with special equipment, but fees and specific rules can apply.
Sporting Equipment: Many common sports items (golf clubs, skis/snowboards, bicycles) can be checked as part of your allowance, but they must still adhere to standard weight and linear inch limits (often with exceptions for oversized linear dimensions, but weight limits are usually strict). Oversized items (63-80 linear inches) or overweight items (51-100 lbs) will incur a fee, typically $75 per item. Items over 100 lbs or 80 inches (for sports equipment) might need to be shipped as Air Cargo.
Musical Instruments: Smaller instruments fitting carry-on dimensions can go in the cabin. Larger instruments that don't fit in the overhead bin or under the seat may require purchasing a separate seat or being checked. If checked, they are subject to standard baggage rules, and oversize/overweight charges apply if they exceed the 62-inch/50-pound limits. Instruments between 62 and 150 inches (linear) or 51-165 pounds will incur fees.
Always check Southwest's official website for the most up-to-date and specific guidelines for your particular item. Policies can change, and special equipment often has detailed nuances.
Step 6: Avoiding Common Measurement Mistakes and Fees
Even with the best intentions, measurement errors can creep in. Be vigilant!
Ignoring Wheels and Handles: This is one of the most frequent mistakes. Always include these in your total dimensions for both carry-on and checked bags. They are part of the overall footprint of your luggage.
Overstuffing Your Bag: A bag that was within limits empty can easily bulge beyond them when packed full. Pack it, then measure it.
Rounding Down: Don't try to cheat by rounding down a fraction of an inch. Airline personnel measure precisely. It’s better to err on the side of caution and round up.
Forgetting to Weigh: Size is only half the battle. A perfectly sized bag can still cost you if it's too heavy.
Not Checking Current Policies: As seen with Southwest's recent changes, airline policies evolve. Before every trip, give the official Southwest Airlines baggage policy page a quick review.
By diligently following these steps and double-checking your work, you'll be well-prepared to navigate Southwest Airlines' baggage requirements, ensuring a stress-free start to your travels. Happy flying!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to measure the length, width, and height of my luggage accurately?
To measure accurately, place your bag on a flat surface. For length, measure from one end to the other. For width, measure across the widest part. For height/depth, measure from front to back. Always include wheels, handles, and any protruding pockets in all measurements.
How to calculate linear inches for Southwest Airlines checked bags?
Add the length, width, and height measurements of your bag together. For example, if your bag is 30 inches (L) + 20 inches (W) + 12 inches (H), the total linear inches are 62.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
Use a luggage scale at home before heading to the airport. If your bag is over 50 pounds, remove some items and place them in your carry-on or personal item, or consider checking an additional bag if it's more cost-effective.
How to find out the current baggage fees for Southwest Airlines?
Visit the "Optional Travel Charges" or "Checked Baggage Policy" section on the official Southwest Airlines website. Fees can vary based on fare class and Rapid Rewards status, and policies can change.
How to know if my carry-on bag fits Southwest's dimensions?
Measure your carry-on carefully (Length x Width x Height), ensuring it is no more than 24 x 16 x 10 inches, including wheels and handles. If unsure, many airports have sizing sizers near the check-in or gate area.
How to pack a musical instrument for air travel with Southwest Airlines?
For smaller instruments, ensure they fit carry-on dimensions (24 x 16 x 10 inches) and can be stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat. For larger instruments, you may need to purchase a separate seat or check it, in which case it will be subject to checked baggage fees if it exceeds standard size/weight limits. Always pack instruments in hard-sided cases for protection.
How to check sporting equipment with Southwest Airlines?
Sporting equipment generally counts towards your checked baggage allowance. Measure and weigh it to ensure it's within the 62 linear inch and 50-pound limits to avoid oversize/overweight fees. Specific rules apply to certain items like golf bags, skis, and surfboards, so consult the Southwest website.
How to utilize the active military baggage exemption on Southwest?
Active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID are exempt from excess, oversize, and overweight baggage charges for checked bags, provided each bag does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H). Present your ID at check-in.
How to differentiate between a carry-on and a personal item for Southwest?
A carry-on bag is larger, designed to fit in the overhead bin (max 24x16x10 inches). A personal item is smaller (e.g., purse, laptop bag, small backpack) and must fit under the seat in front of you. You are allowed one of each.
How to deal with bags that are both overweight and oversized on Southwest?
If your checked bag is both overweight (51-100 lbs) and oversized (63-80 linear inches), Southwest typically charges only one fee for the higher charge, not both. For current fees, check the "Optional Travel Charges" page, but generally, it's a single charge (e.g., $75 per item, or higher for very heavy/large bags).
