So, you're planning a trip with Southwest Airlines, and a crucial question has popped into your mind: how many bags can I bring? It's a common query, and getting it right can save you a lot of hassle (and money!) at the airport. Let's break down Southwest's baggage policy step-by-step, ensuring you're fully prepared for your journey.
Step 1: Let's Talk Bags! What Kind of Traveler Are You?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's consider your travel style. Are you a minimalist packer who can fit everything into a small backpack? Or are you the kind of traveler who needs options for every occasion, leading to a suitcase (or two, or three!) overflowing with possibilities? Your packing habits will largely dictate how Southwest's baggage policy applies to you.
-
Are you traveling light with just a carry-on and a personal item?
-
Do you anticipate needing one or two checked bags for a longer trip?
-
Are you moving, bringing special equipment, or traveling with a large family?
Understanding your needs is the first crucial step to navigating any airline's baggage rules effectively!
 |
| How Many Bags Can I Bring On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding the Basics: Carry-On and Personal Item
Every Southwest passenger is generally allowed to bring two types of bags into the cabin with them. This is often where people save money on baggage fees!
Sub-heading: Your Carry-On Bag
This is the bag that typically goes in the overhead bin above your seat.
-
Size Limits: Your carry-on bag should not exceed 24 inches (L) + 16 inches (W) + 10 inches (H). Remember to include wheels, handles, and any other attachments when measuring!
-
Examples: Think of a standard roller bag or a small suitcase.
-
Placement: This bag will be stowed in the overhead compartment.
Sub-heading: Your Personal Item
This smaller bag is designed to fit conveniently under the seat in front of you.
-
Size Limits: While Southwest doesn't provide exact dimensions for a personal item on their main policy page, generally, it should be small enough to fit comfortably under the seat. Other sources indicate a size of approximately 18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (W) x 13.5 inches (H).
-
Examples: Common personal items include a purse (including crossbody bags), a briefcase, a laptop bag, a small backpack, a pillow (neck pillows often don't count towards the limit), a blanket, or a small camera bag.
-
Placement: This item goes under the seat in front of you.
Important Note on Pets: If you're traveling with a pet, their carrier will count as either your carry-on bag or your personal item. You'll need to make a reservation for your pet in advance and pay a pet fare.
Step 3: The Big Question: Checked Baggage Allowance
This is where Southwest used to truly stand out, offering a highly popular perk. However, their policy changed for reservations booked and ticketed on or after May 28, 2025. It's critical to know when you booked your flight!
Tip: Scroll slowly when the content gets detailed.
Sub-heading: For Reservations Booked Before May 28, 2025
If your reservation was booked and ticketed (or voluntarily changed) on or before May 27, 2025, regardless of your travel date, you're in luck!
-
Two Free Checked Bags! Southwest historically allowed two free checked bags per ticketed Customer. This means your first two bags generally come at no additional cost, as long as they meet the size and weight limits.
Sub-heading: For Reservations Booked On or After May 28, 2025
This is the new policy that impacts many travelers. For reservations booked and ticketed (or voluntarily changed, including name updates) on or after May 28, 2025, the free checked bag allowance has changed based on your fare type:
-
Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: Checked baggage fees now apply. You will generally pay for your first and second checked bags.
-
Business Select® Fares: You still receive two free checked bags.
-
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: Enjoy two free checked bags.
-
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: Receive one free checked bag.
-
Hawaii Residents: Traveling between the islands still receive two free checked bags.
-
Companion Pass® Members: If the Companion Pass Member qualifies for free checked bags (based on tier status or fare type), that benefit extends to their designated Companion when traveling together.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Dimensions and Weight
Regardless of when you booked or your fare type, all checked bags must adhere to the following limits:
-
Maximum Weight: Each checked piece of luggage must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
-
Maximum Size: Each checked piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) when the linear dimensions are added together. Again, include wheels and handles in your measurements!
Step 4: Navigating Excess, Overweight, and Oversized Baggage
What happens if your bags don't quite fit the standard allowance? Southwest has fees for that, and they can add up quickly!
Sub-heading: Baggage Fees for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares (Booked On or After May 28, 2025)
-
First Checked Bag: Approximately $35.
-
Second Checked Bag: Approximately $45.
-
Third Bag (and more): Approximately $150 per bag.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your bag is heavier than 50 pounds, you'll incur an additional charge:
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
-
51 to 70 pounds: Approximately $100 per bag.
-
71 to 100 pounds: Approximately $125 per bag.
-
Any item weighing more than 100 pounds generally must be shipped as Air Cargo, with certain exceptions (like active-duty military).
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag's linear dimensions exceed 62 inches:
-
Larger than 62 inches (up to 80 inches): Approximately $125 per bag.
-
Bags in excess of 80 inches cannot be checked as baggage but can potentially be shipped as Cargo.
Important Tip: Southwest does not allow you to prepay for luggage online. You will need to pay any applicable baggage fees at the airport, either at a self-tagging kiosk or with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
Step 5: Special Items: Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, and More
Southwest is generally quite accommodating with special items, often allowing them to substitute for one of your checked bags, but specific rules and potential fees apply.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment
Many common sports equipment items can be checked as part of your baggage allowance, provided they meet specific criteria.
-
General Rule: If the item (or set of items, like skis and poles) is within the standard 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H), it counts as one of your checked bags (which may be free or incur a fee depending on your fare/status).
-
Oversized Sports Equipment: For items between 62 and 80 inches, an oversized fee (around $75 per item one way) may apply, but often the excess size charges are waived for many common sports items like skis and golf clubs. Always double-check the specific item's policy on the Southwest website.
-
Overweight Sports Equipment: If the item exceeds 50 lbs, an overweight fee (around $75 per item one way) will apply.
-
Examples of accepted sports equipment (with specific rules): Golf equipment, skis and snowboards, bicycles (must be properly packed in a bike box/bag), surfboards (often incur a fee, though sometimes free on inter-island Hawaii flights), fishing equipment, and more.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Traveling with your beloved instrument? Southwest has a policy for that too.
-
Carry-On: Smaller instruments that fit within the 24"x16"x10" carry-on dimensions can typically be brought on board if space is available. Even if slightly larger, if it fits in the overhead bin or under a seat, it may be allowed.
-
Purchasing a Seat: If your instrument won't fit in the overhead bin or under a seat, you may purchase a seat for it. Specific conditions apply (e.g., must be in the first row, closer to the window, secured with a seatbelt).
-
Checked Baggage: Larger instruments can be checked. They will substitute one piece of your checked baggage allowance. Oversize or overweight charges will apply if the instrument is between 62 and 150 inches (linear dimensions) or weighs between 51 and 165 pounds. Instruments over 150 inches or 165 pounds are generally not accepted as baggage.
-
Fragile Item Warning: Instruments transported in soft-sided cases or other packaging not strong enough to protect them under normal baggage handling conditions will be subject to a limited release of liability, meaning Southwest may not be responsible for damage.
Step 6: Packing Smart: Tips to Avoid Fees and Headaches
Now that you know the rules, here are some actionable tips to ensure a smooth baggage experience:
-
Measure and Weigh! This is the golden rule. Invest in a luggage scale and a tape measure. Do this at home before you leave! An extra pound or inch can cost you significantly at the airport.
-
Consolidate when Possible: Can two small bags become one larger, but still within-limits, checked bag?
-
Wear Your Heaviest Items: If you're teetering on a weight limit, wear your bulkiest shoes or heaviest jacket onto the plane.
-
Utilize Your Personal Item: Pack essentials like medications, important documents, electronics, and a change of clothes in your personal item. This is also a good place for anything that might push your carry-on over the weight limit for overhead bins (though Southwest doesn't typically weigh carry-ons, overhead bin space is limited).
-
Roll, Don't Fold: Rolling your clothes can maximize space in your luggage.
-
Consider Shipping: For very large or numerous items (especially if you're moving or traveling for an extended period), a luggage shipping service might be more cost-effective and convenient than airline baggage fees.
-
Check for Embargoes: Especially for international travel or during peak seasons, Southwest may have "baggage embargoes" in place, which limit the number of extra bags you can check. Always check their website for your specific destination.
By following these steps and understanding Southwest's current baggage policies, you can confidently pack for your next adventure and avoid any unwelcome surprises at the airport. Happy travels!
QuickTip: Look for repeated words — they signal importance.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions about Southwest Airlines baggage, with quick answers:
How to avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest Airlines (for new bookings)?
If you booked your flight on or after May 28, 2025, you can avoid checked bag fees by having a Business Select® fare, being a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Member (2 free bags), or a Rapid Rewards® A-List Member or Credit Cardmember (1 free bag). Hawaii residents traveling inter-island also get two free bags.
How to measure my bags correctly for Southwest Airlines?
For checked bags, measure the length, width, and height of your bag (including wheels and handles) and add them together. The total should not exceed 62 linear inches. For carry-ons, the dimensions are typically 24" x 16" x 10" (L+W+H).
How to find out if my specific sports equipment is allowed on Southwest?
Visit the "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section on the Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service. They list specific policies for items like golf clubs, skis, bikes, and more.
How to bring a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Small instruments can be a carry-on or personal item. Larger instruments may require purchasing a separate seat or can be checked as baggage, subject to size and weight limits, and often with a limited release of liability for damage.
How to check in my bags at the airport for Southwest Airlines?
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
You can check your bags and pay any applicable fees at the airport using Southwest's self-tagging kiosks (where available) or at the ticket counter with a Southwest Agent.
How to handle liquids in my carry-on bag on Southwest?
Follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
How to know if my bag is overweight or oversized for Southwest?
Weigh your bag with a luggage scale and measure its linear dimensions (L+W+H) before you leave for the airport. If it exceeds 50 lbs or 62 linear inches, it will be considered overweight or oversized.
How to travel with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in the cabin on domestic flights, but their carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item. You must make a reservation in advance and pay a pet fare.
How to track my checked bag with Southwest Airlines?
Southwest offers digital bag tracking. You can often track your bags through their mobile app or website once they've been checked in.
How to check bags if I'm active-duty military with Southwest?
Active-duty military passengers with a valid military ID are typically exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided bags do not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.
 |
