Flying with Southwest Airlines is often a popular choice due to their famously generous baggage policy. However, even with their reputation, there are still important weight and size limits you need to be aware of to avoid unexpected fees or issues at the airport. Let's break down exactly how heavy your suitcase can be for Southwest Airlines, step by step!
Step 1: Are You Ready to Pack Smart?
Before we dive into the specifics, let me ask you: Are you the kind of traveler who always overpacks, or do you meticulously plan every outfit? No matter your packing style, understanding these guidelines before you start stuffing your suitcase will save you a lot of hassle (and potentially money!) at the airport. Let's get organized!
Step 2: Understanding Southwest's Checked Baggage Policy
Southwest Airlines is well-known for offering two free checked bags per passenger. This is a fantastic perk that sets them apart from many other airlines. However, "free" doesn't mean "unlimited." There are strict weight and size restrictions for these free bags.
2.1 Standard Checked Bag Weight Limit
The Golden Rule: Each standard checked bag on Southwest Airlines must weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kg).
Exceeding this limit will incur an overweight baggage fee.
2.2 Standard Checked Bag Size Limit
Measuring Up: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each standard checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157 cm). This includes wheels and handles!
If your bag is larger than this, it will be considered oversized and subject to additional fees.
2.3 What Counts Towards Your Two Free Bags?
Most standard suitcases, duffel bags, and backpacks that meet the weight and size requirements will count towards your two free checked bags.
Keep in mind that some specialized items, like certain sports equipment or musical instruments, may have different rules or be exempt from these fees, but generally count towards your allowance. We'll touch on those briefly later.
Step 3: What Happens If Your Bag is Overweight or Oversized?
This is where things can get a bit pricier. Southwest has clear fee structures for bags that don't meet the standard limits.
3.1 Overweight Baggage Fees
The Cost: If your checked bag weighs between 51 and 100 pounds (23-45 kg), you will be charged an overweight fee of $75 per bag.
Important Note: Any item weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be permitted as checked baggage and must be shipped via Southwest Cargo (if applicable) or another shipping method.
3.2 Oversized Baggage Fees
The Cost: If your checked bag has linear dimensions between 63 and 80 inches (160-203 cm), you will be charged an oversized fee of $75 per bag.
Just like overweight bags, items exceeding 80 inches will not be accepted as checked baggage.
3.3 Can a Bag Be Both Overweight and Oversized?
Yes, it absolutely can! If your bag is both overweight and oversized, Southwest Airlines generally charges only one fee (the higher of the two, though often they are the same amount for these categories) if it does not exceed 100 lbs and 80 inches. Always confirm with the airline for the most current policy.
Step 4: Carry-On and Personal Item Policies
While the focus is on checked bags, it's crucial to understand the rules for what you can bring onboard. These items typically don't have a weight limit, but they do have size restrictions and must fit in specific places.
4.1 Carry-On Bag
Allowance: Each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag.
Size Limit: Your carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and should not exceed 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H). This includes wheels, handles, and any attachments.
Weight Limit: Southwest does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted.
4.2 Personal Item
Allowance: In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one personal item.
Size Limit: Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack. While Southwest doesn't provide exact dimensions on its main policy page, generally, this means it should be around 18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (W) x 13.5 inches (H).
Weight Limit: Similar to carry-on bags, there is no specified weight limit for personal items, as long as they fit under the seat.
Step 5: Special Circumstances and Exceptions
While the standard rules apply to most travelers, there are a few important exceptions and considerations:
5.1 Active-Duty Military Personnel
Southwest offers a significant benefit to active-duty military passengers with a valid military ID. They are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided that none of the pieces of baggage exceeds 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in siz
e. This is a very generous policy!
5.2 Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments
Many types of sports equipment (like golf clubs, skis, or surfboards) and musical instruments are accepted as checked baggage. They may count towards your free checked bag allowance, and if they exceed the standard weight (50 lbs) or size (62 inches), they could be subject to the overweight or oversized fees. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your particular item as some may have unique handling guidelines or different maximum dimensions. For instance, certain large musical instruments may be able to be purchased a seat for if they don't fit in the overhead bin or under a seat.
5.3 Medical Equipment and Assistive Devices
Medical equipment and assistive devices generally do not count against your baggage allowance and can be brought on board or checked free of charge. However, it's always a good idea to notify Southwest in advance if you're traveling with such items.
Step 6: Tips for Packing and Avoiding Fees
Now that you know the limits, here are some practical tips to ensure your suitcase is always travel-ready for Southwest:
Invest in a Luggage Scale: These are relatively inexpensive and can save you a lot of stress at the airport. Weigh your bag before you leave home.
Distribute Weight Evenly: If you have multiple bags, try to distribute heavier items across them to stay under the 50-pound limit for each.
Wear Heavier Items: If you're on the cusp, consider wearing your heaviest shoes or jacket on the plane.
Pack Smart, Not Hard: Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and only bring what you truly need. A minimalist approach can go a long way.
Consider Shipping: For extremely heavy or oversized items that won't qualify as checked baggage, explore shipping services like FedEx or UPS, or Southwest Cargo.
Double-Check Embargoes: For international travel, especially to certain destinations, Southwest may have "baggage embargoes" in place, which temporarily restrict oversized, overweight, or extra checked bags. Always check their website before you fly.
Be Aware of Policy Changes: Airline policies can change. While the information here is current as of July 2025, it's always best to double-check Southwest's official website or contact them directly before your trip for the most up-to-date information.
By following these steps and understanding Southwest's generous yet firm baggage policies, you can enjoy a smooth and fee-free travel experience!
FAQs: How to Navigate Southwest Airlines Baggage Rules
How to Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees on Southwest Airlines?
To avoid overweight fees, use a luggage scale at home to ensure your checked bags are under 50 pounds (23 kg) each. Distribute heavy items across multiple bags if you're traveling with more than one.
How to Measure Your Suitcase for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your suitcase, use a tape measure to get the length, width, and height (including wheels and handles). Add these three dimensions together. For checked bags, this sum should be no more than 62 inches (157 cm).
How to Pack a Carry-On Bag for Southwest Airlines?
Pack your carry-on bag to fit within 24" L x 16" W x 10" H. Since there's no weight limit, focus on fitting everything comfortably in the overhead bin without assistance.
How to Travel with a Personal Item on Southwest Airlines?
Your personal item should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you (approximately 18.5" L x 8.5" H x 13.5" W). This includes items like purses, briefcases, or small backpacks.
How to Check Special Sports Equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Sports equipment typically counts towards your free checked bag allowance. If it exceeds 50 lbs or 62 inches, it may incur overweight or oversized fees. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your type of equipment.
How to Check a Musical Instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Musical instruments can be checked as baggage and may count towards your free allowance. Instruments over 50 lbs or 62 inches will incur fees. Larger instruments might require purchasing an additional seat if they cannot fit in the overhead bin.
How to Find the Most Up-to-Date Baggage Policy for Southwest Airlines?
Always visit the "Checked Bag Policy" or "Baggage" section on the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) for the most current and detailed information, as policies can change.
How to Get an Exemption for Baggage Fees on Southwest Airlines?
Active-duty military personnel with a valid ID receive exemptions from excess, overweight, and oversized baggage fees, provided bags are under 100 pounds and 80 inches. Other exemptions are rare and typically for specific medical equipment.
How to Handle Overweight Bags at the Airport for Southwest?
If your bag is overweight at the airport, you'll be charged a $75 fee for bags between 51-100 lbs. Your options are to pay the fee, remove items to reduce weight (and potentially carry them on or discard them), or ship the excess items.
How to Pack Liquids in Your Southwest Airlines Luggage?
For checked luggage, there are generally no restrictions on the size of liquids. For carry-on bags, liquids must follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller, fit in one quart-sized bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
