Let's unravel the mystery of Southwest Airlines baggage weight limits! It can be a bit of a puzzle sometimes, especially with policies evolving. So, if you're planning a trip with Southwest, listen up, because understanding their baggage rules can save you from unexpected fees and airport headaches.
Navigating Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy: Your Ultimate Guide
Gone are the days when Southwest was synonymous with "Bags Fly Free" for absolutely everyone. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has updated its baggage policy, bringing it more in line with other major carriers. While some passengers still enjoy complimentary checked bags, it's crucial to know where you stand. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how heavy your bag can be on Southwest Airlines.
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| How Heavy Can Your Bag Be On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Identify Your Baggage Type - Carry-On vs. Checked
First things first, let's distinguish between the two main types of bags you'll be bringing:
What's a Carry-On?
A carry-on bag is the one you bring with you into the airplane cabin. It needs to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
What's a Checked Bag?
A checked bag is the one you hand over to the airline at the check-in counter. These bags go into the cargo hold of the plane and you retrieve them at baggage claim at your destination.
Step 2: Understanding Carry-On Baggage Weight and Size
Good news for carry-on packers! Southwest Airlines has a fairly relaxed policy regarding the weight of your carry-on items.
Carry-On Weight Limit
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Southwest Airlines does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags. However, there's a practical caveat: you must be able to lift your carry-on bag into the overhead bin without assistance. If you can't, it might need to be checked.
Carry-On Size Dimensions
While there's no strict weight limit, there are definite size restrictions:
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One Carry-On Bag: This bag, typically a roller bag or small suitcase, must not exceed 24" (length) x 16" (width) x 10" (height). Remember to include wheels and handles in these measurements!
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One Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on, you're allowed one smaller personal item, such as a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack. This item must fit under the seat in front of you and typically has dimensions around 16.25" (length) x 13.5" (width) x 8" (height). Again, no specific weight limit for the personal item.
Additional Permitted Items
Southwest also allows you to bring a few extra items on board that don't count towards your carry-on or personal item allowance, such as:
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Jackets, coats, or wraps
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Umbrellas
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Food purchased at the airport for consumption on the flight
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Assistive devices (wheelchairs, crutches, canes, etc.)
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Child restraint systems (car seats) and diaper bags
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Breast pumps and milk/formula
Step 3: Delving into Checked Baggage Weight and Size
This is where the recent policy changes come into play, so pay close attention!
Standard Checked Bag Weight Limit
For each checked piece of luggage, the maximum weight allowed is 50 pounds (22.7 kg). This is a crucial limit to remember, as exceeding it will incur fees.
Standard Checked Bag Size Dimensions
Each checked bag must also adhere to a maximum size. This is measured by adding the length, width, and height of the bag (L + W + H), and the sum must not exceed 62 linear inches (158 cm). Again, this measurement includes wheels and handles.
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How Many Checked Bags are Free? (The New Reality)
This is the big change. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest's "Bags Fly Free" policy is no longer universal. Your allowance for free checked bags now depends on your fare type or Rapid Rewards status:
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Business Select Fares: Passengers with Business Select tickets still receive two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you have A-List Preferred status, you are also entitled to two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members & Southwest Co-branded Credit Cardholders: These passengers typically receive one free checked bag.
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All Other Fare Classes (e.g., Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime): For these fare types, you will now be charged for your first and second checked bags.
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First checked bag: Approximately $35
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Second checked bag: Approximately $45
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These fees are per bag, per way.
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Step 4: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Exceeding the standard weight and size limits for checked bags will result in additional charges. These fees are in addition to any standard bag fees that might apply based on your fare class.
Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds but does not exceed 100 pounds:
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51 to 70 pounds: You'll typically incur a fee of around $150 per bag.
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71 to 100 pounds: The fee increases to around $200 per bag.
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Important Note: Any item weighing over 100 pounds generally will not be permitted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo.
Oversized Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches but does not exceed 80 linear inches:
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63 to 80 linear inches: You'll typically incur a fee of around $200 per bag.
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Important Note: Bags measuring over 80 linear inches typically cannot be checked as baggage.
Combined Overweight and Oversized Fees
If your bag is both overweight and oversized, generally only one of the higher fees will apply (e.g., if it's 75 lbs and 70 linear inches, you'd likely pay the $200 overweight fee, not both). However, it's always best to confirm with Southwest directly if you have a bag that falls into both categories.
Step 5: Special Items and Sporting Equipment
Southwest has specific guidelines for various special items and sporting equipment. Many of these items are considered part of your standard checked baggage allowance if they meet the weight and size limits. However, some may incur additional fees.
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Common Sporting Equipment Examples:
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Golf Clubs: A golf bag (containing clubs, balls, and shoes) counts as one checked bag. If it exceeds 50 lbs, overweight fees apply. Oversize fees are often waived for standard golf bags.
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Skis/Snowboards: Skis or snowboards in a bag count as one checked bag. Overweight fees apply if over 50 lbs. Oversize fees are often waived for standard ski/snowboard bags.
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Bicycles: Must be properly packed in a bicycle box or case. They are often subject to standard baggage fees, and potentially oversized/overweight fees if limits are exceeded.
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Surfboards/Kiteboards: Often accepted with an additional fee (e.g., $75) and may have specific packing requirements. Overweight fees apply if over 50 lbs.
Other Special Items:
Musical instruments, firearms, and other unique items also have specific rules. It's highly recommended to visit the Southwest Airlines official website or contact their customer service directly for details on any special item you plan to travel with, as policies can vary and may require specific packaging.
Step 6: Practical Tips for Packing and Avoiding Fees
Now that you know the rules, here are some actionable tips to ensure a smooth baggage experience:
Weigh Your Bags at Home
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Invest in a luggage scale. These are inexpensive and can save you a lot of money and stress at the airport. Weigh your bags before you leave for the airport to ensure they are within the 50-pound limit.
Measure Your Bags Accurately
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Use a measuring tape to determine the length, width, and height of your bags, adding them up to check against the 62-linear-inch limit for checked bags. Remember to include all protrusions like wheels and handles.
Pack Strategically
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Distribute Weight: If you have multiple checked bags, try to distribute the weight evenly to keep each bag under 50 pounds.
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Wear Heavier Items: If you're close to the limit, wear your heaviest shoes or jacket on the plane.
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Consider Shipping: For extremely heavy or oversized items, or if you simply want to avoid the hassle at the airport, consider using a luggage shipping service.
Consolidate When Possible
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If you're traveling with family or friends, see if you can consolidate items into fewer bags, especially if some of you are eligible for free checked bags (e.g., A-List Preferred).
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Know Your Fare Type and Status
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Before you even start packing, double-check your fare type (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select) and your Rapid Rewards status. This will tell you exactly how many free checked bags you're entitled to.
Check for Embargoes
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Southwest Airlines occasionally implements baggage embargoes for certain international destinations or during peak travel times. These embargoes can restrict the number of bags you can check or the size/weight of those bags. Always check the Southwest website for any active embargoes for your destination.
Step 7: What to Do if Your Bag is Overweight or Oversized at the Airport
Despite your best efforts, sometimes you find yourself at the airport with an overweight or oversized bag. Here's what you can do:
Option 1: Repack Your Bag
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If you're just slightly over the limit, you might be able to shift items between your bags, or move some heavier items (like books or dense clothing) into your carry-on or personal item (assuming they still meet those limits).
Option 2: Pay the Fee
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If repacking isn't an option or won't solve the problem, be prepared to pay the applicable overweight or oversized baggage fee. These fees are usually paid at the check-in counter.
Option 3: Ship the Item
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For significantly overweight or oversized items that aren't allowed as checked baggage, you might need to explore shipping options through a cargo service.
Conclusion
While Southwest Airlines has adjusted its baggage policy, particularly concerning free checked bags, understanding the limits for both carry-on and checked luggage is straightforward once you know the specifics. By being aware of the weight and size restrictions, your fare type, and potential fees, you can pack smart and enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey with Southwest.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to...
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How to check my bag's dimensions to ensure it's not oversized for Southwest Airlines?
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Quick Answer: Use a measuring tape to measure the length, width, and height of your bag. Add these three measurements together. For checked bags, the sum should not exceed 62 linear inches (158 cm), including wheels and handles.
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How to weigh my bag accurately at home before heading to the airport?
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Quick Answer: Invest in a digital luggage scale, which provides a precise weight reading. Alternatively, you can weigh yourself on a bathroom scale, then weigh yourself holding the bag, and subtract your body weight to get the bag's weight.
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How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
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Quick Answer: Pack lightly, distribute heavy items across multiple bags (if applicable), wear your heaviest clothing/shoes, or consider shipping items if they are excessively heavy. Always weigh your bags before leaving for the airport.
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How to determine if my specific fare type includes free checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
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Quick Answer: Refer to your flight confirmation or check Southwest's official website under their baggage policy. Generally, only Business Select fares and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members still receive two free checked bags.
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How to check if there are any baggage embargoes for my Southwest Airlines destination?
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Quick Answer: Visit the "Checked Bag Policy" section on the official Southwest Airlines website. They will list any current baggage embargoes by country or region.
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How to pack sporting equipment for Southwest Airlines flights?
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Quick Answer: For most sporting equipment, ensure it's properly packed in a suitable case (hard-sided is often recommended) and meets the 50-pound weight limit. Check Southwest's "Special Baggage" section for specific equipment guidelines.
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How to get military baggage benefits on Southwest Airlines?
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Quick Answer: Active-duty military personnel with valid military ID are typically exempt from checked, overweight, and oversized baggage fees, provided bags do not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size.
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How to confirm the most up-to-date baggage fees for Southwest Airlines?
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Quick Answer: The most reliable source for current baggage fees is the "Optional Travel Charges" page on the official Southwest Airlines website, as policies can sometimes change.
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How to travel with a pet on Southwest Airlines and how it impacts baggage allowance?
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Quick Answer: Pets in carriers are allowed in the cabin but count as either your carry-on item or personal item. There's usually a separate pet fee, and pets are not allowed in checked baggage. Check their pet policy for specific carrier size and reservation requirements.
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How to deal with an overweight bag at the Southwest Airlines check-in counter?
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Quick Answer: If caught at the counter, you can either try to repack by shifting items to your carry-on or another checked bag, or be prepared to pay the overweight baggage fee (e.g., $150 for 51-70 lbs, $200 for 71-100 lbs).
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