Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle, especially when you're trying to pack efficiently and avoid unexpected fees. Southwest Airlines, known for its unique approach to air travel, has a baggage policy that traditionally stood out. However, like many airlines, their policies have evolved. So, let's break down exactly how many bags you're allowed to carry on Southwest Airlines and ensure your next trip is as smooth as possible!
Are you ready to unravel the Southwest baggage mystery with me?
Let's dive in!
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| How Many Bags Are You Allowed To Carry On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understanding the Southwest Baggage Philosophy (The Recent Changes)
For a long time, Southwest Airlines was famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing two free checked bags for all passengers. This was a significant differentiator! However, as of May 28, 2025, Southwest implemented a change to this policy for most new bookings. While the spirit of being customer-friendly remains, it's crucial to understand the updated rules.
Key takeaway: Don't assume your bags will fly free anymore for all fare types.
Step 2: Decoding Your Carry-On Allowance
This is where you want to maximize your packing efficiency, as carry-on items are generally free! Southwest Airlines is quite consistent here.
2.1: Your Standard Carry-On Bag
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What you get: Each passenger is allowed one (1) carry-on bag.
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Where it goes: This bag is designed to fit in the overhead bin above your seat.
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Size matters: The maximum dimensions for your carry-on bag are 24 x 16 x 10 inches (approximately 61 x 40 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels. It's crucial to measure your bag before you leave! An oversized carry-on will likely be gate-checked and may incur fees.
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Weight: Good news! Southwest does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags. However, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted.
2.2: Your Essential Personal Item
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What you get: In addition to your carry-on, you're permitted one (1) small personal item.
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Where it goes: This item must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
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Size matters (again!): The typical maximum dimensions for a personal item are 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (approximately 47 x 21 x 34 cm). Think of things like a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or briefcase.
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Common sense: While there's no weight limit, remember it has to fit under the seat and not obstruct your legroom.
2.3: Additional Carry-On Items (Exemptions)
Certain items do not count towards your one carry-on and one personal item allowance. These are usually for safety, convenience, or medical necessity:
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Outer garments (coats, jackets)
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Umbrellas or walking canes
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Food for consumption during the flight in disposable packaging
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Assistive/mobility devices (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches)
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Child restraint systems (car seats) for a ticketed child or when a complimentary, available space exists.
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Pet carriers (note: this does count as one of your carry-on items if you're traveling with a pet and incurs a fee).
Step 3: Navigating Your Checked Baggage Allowance
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
This is where the recent changes come into play, so pay close attention!
3.1: The Standard Checked Bag Allowance (Post-May 28, 2025)
For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, Southwest has introduced checked bag fees for most passengers.
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First Checked Bag: Expect to pay $35.
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Second Checked Bag: This will cost you $45.
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Third and Subsequent Checked Bags: Each additional bag beyond the first two will be $150.
3.2: Weight and Size Restrictions for Checked Bags
Even if you pay the fees, your bags still need to meet certain criteria.
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Weight Limit: Each checked bag can weigh a maximum of 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
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Size Limit: The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for each checked bag are 62 inches (157.5 cm).
Exceeding these limits will lead to additional fees!
3.3: Who Still Gets "Bags Fly Free" for Checked Baggage?
Southwest does maintain some benefits for loyal customers and premium fare holders:
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Business Select Fares: Passengers who purchase Business Select fares still receive two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: These elite members continue to check two bags for free. This benefit also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members: A-List members get their first checked bag free.
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Southwest Credit Card Users: Some Southwest credit cards offer a free checked bag benefit. Always check the specific terms of your credit card.
If you fall into one of these categories, you can still enjoy the traditional Southwest perk!
Step 4: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
This is where costs can quickly add up, so it's best to avoid these!
4.1: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds the 50-pound limit:
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51-70 pounds (23-32 kg): There's an additional charge of $100 per bag (on top of any standard checked bag fee that applies).
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71-100 pounds (32-45 kg): This will cost you $200 per bag (plus any standard checked bag fee).
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Bags over 100 pounds are generally not accepted as checked luggage.
Tip: Don’t skip the small notes — they often matter.
4.2: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension limit:
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63-80 inches (160-203 cm): There's an additional charge of $200 per bag (on top of any standard checked bag fee that applies).
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Bags over 80 inches are generally not accepted as checked luggage.
4.3: When a Bag is Both Overweight and Oversized
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Southwest generally charges only one of the applicable fees if a bag is both oversized and overweight, typically the higher of the two, as long as it does not exceed 100 lbs. However, it's always best to verify with Southwest directly for specific scenarios.
Step 5: Special Baggage and Sports Equipment
Traveling with specific items like sports gear, musical instruments, or medical equipment requires special consideration.
5.1: Sports Equipment
Many types of sports equipment (e.g., golf clubs, skis, snowboards) can be checked as part of your standard checked baggage allowance, provided they meet the weight and size limits. However, some larger items may incur additional fees. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your particular item. For instance, bicycles may have specific requirements and fees.
5.2: Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require the purchase of an additional seat or be checked as special baggage, incurring fees.
5.3: Medical Equipment and Assistive Devices
Most medical devices and assistive equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches, oxygen concentrators) can be carried on or checked free of charge and do not count towards your baggage allowance. It's always recommended to notify Southwest in advance if you're traveling with specialized medical equipment.
Step 6: Military Exceptions
Southwest offers generous baggage exceptions for active-duty military personnel.
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
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Active-duty military Customers (with a current, valid military ID) are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges.
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The only restriction is that none of the pieces of baggage can exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
This is a fantastic benefit for those serving our country!
Step 7: Traveling with Infants and Children
Southwest also has specific policies for little travelers.
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Strollers and Car Seats: Each ticketed customer traveling with a child can check one stroller and one car seat/child restraint system free of charge. These items do not count towards your baggage allowance.
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Lap Children: If an infant (under two years old) is traveling as a lap child (not occupying a seat), they do not receive a separate baggage allowance. However, their accompanying adult's baggage allowance still applies.
Step 8: Double-Checking and Staying Informed
Airline policies can change, so it's always best practice to:
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Check the Official Southwest Airlines Website: Before every trip, visit the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) for the most up-to-date and specific baggage information.
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Review Your Ticket and Itinerary: Your booking confirmation may also contain important baggage details relevant to your specific fare type.
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Use a Baggage Sizer: Many airports have baggage sizers at the check-in counter and near security. If you're unsure about your carry-on, test it out!
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Pack Smart: Consider rolling your clothes, using packing cubes, and wearing your heaviest items to maximize space and stay within limits.
By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be well-prepared for your Southwest Airlines flight, confidently knowing exactly how many bags you're allowed to carry and how to avoid any last-minute surprises!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Avoid Southwest Baggage Fees?
You can avoid Southwest baggage fees by holding a Business Select fare, being a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member (or A-List for the first bag), or by using a Southwest Airlines credit card that offers a free checked bag benefit. Also, try to fit everything into your free carry-on and personal item allowance.
How to Measure My Bag for Southwest Airlines?
For carry-on bags, measure the length, width, and height (including handles and wheels) and ensure it doesn't exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches. For checked bags, add the length, width, and height together, and the sum should not exceed 62 linear inches. Use a tape measure or a luggage sizer at the airport.
How to Pack a Carry-On Bag for Southwest Airlines Effectively?
To pack effectively, roll your clothes tightly, use packing cubes to compress items, wear your bulkiest shoes and clothing on the plane, and utilize every inch of space without overstuffing, ensuring it still fits the specified dimensions.
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
How to Handle Overweight Baggage on Southwest Airlines?
If your bag is overweight (51-100 lbs), you will pay an additional fee of $100-$200 per bag, depending on the weight. To avoid this, redistribute items into other bags or consider shipping heavier items via a postal service before your flight.
How to Travel with a Pet on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest allows small domesticated cats and dogs in the cabin on domestic flights, provided they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. The pet carrier counts as your one carry-on item, and there is a one-way fee of $125 per pet carrier.
How to Check Special Sports Equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment can be checked as part of your standard checked baggage allowance, as long as it meets the 50 lbs and 62 inches limits. If it exceeds these, oversized/overweight fees will apply. Check Southwest's website for specific items like bicycles or surfboards, which may have unique policies or fees.
How to Get My Two Free Checked Bags on Southwest Airlines?
As of May 28, 2025, the "Bags Fly Free" policy is largely reserved for Business Select fare holders, Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, or those using specific Southwest credit cards. For other fare types, you will generally pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.
How to Bring a Car Seat or Stroller on Southwest Airlines?
Each ticketed passenger can check one stroller and one car seat/child restraint system free of charge. These items do not count towards your regular baggage allowance. You can check them at the curb, ticket counter, or gate.
How to Confirm My Specific Baggage Allowance for My Southwest Flight?
Always refer to your specific booking confirmation details, your Rapid Rewards status benefits, or the official Southwest Airlines website's baggage policy page for the most accurate and up-to-date information relevant to your fare type and travel date.
How to Handle a Delayed or Lost Bag with Southwest Airlines?
If your bag is delayed or lost, immediately file a report at the Southwest Airlines baggage service office upon arrival. Provide all necessary details, including your baggage claim tags and contact information. Southwest will initiate a trace process to locate your bag.
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