So, you're planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about your baggage allowance? You've come to the right place! While Southwest was once famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy for everyone, things have changed as of May 28, 2025. Don't worry, though, with a little planning, you can still navigate their baggage rules effectively.
Let's break down exactly how many bags you can check on Southwest Airlines, step by step, and what you need to know to avoid any unexpected fees.
Step 1: Understand the Core Changes - The "Bags Fly Free" Era is Evolving!
First things first, it's crucial to understand that Southwest Airlines has revised its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy. As of May 28, 2025, for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after that date, the majority of passengers will now pay for their first and second checked bags. This is a significant shift, bringing Southwest more in line with other major U.S. carriers.
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Don't panic! While this is a change, there are still ways to get free checked bags, which we'll cover in the next steps.
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| How Many Bags Can I Check On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Identify Your Fare Type and Eligibility for Free Bags
The number of bags you can check for free on Southwest now largely depends on your fare type and your Rapid Rewards status. This is where you need to pay close attention!
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
Sub-heading 2.1: Standard Fare Types
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Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: For these common fare types, you will generally be charged for your first and second checked bags.
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First checked bag: Typically $35
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Second checked bag: Typically $45
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Third+ checked bags: These will incur a higher fee, typically $150 per bag.
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Sub-heading 2.2: Premium Fare and Loyalty Status Perks
This is where you can still enjoy free checked bags!
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Business Select® Fare: If you book a Business Select fare, you will continue to receive two free checked bags. This is the top-tier fare offering and includes other benefits like priority boarding.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, you'll also get your first and second checked bags for free. This benefit extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members: As a Rapid Rewards A-List member, you will receive your first checked bag for free. The second checked bag will incur the standard fee. This also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
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Southwest Co-branded Credit Card Holders: Many Southwest Airlines co-branded credit cards offer a perk of one free checked bag for the primary cardmember when their Rapid Rewards account number is included in the reservation. This is a great way for frequent travelers to save!
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Active-Duty Military Personnel: Southwest continues to support active-duty military personnel. If you are active-duty military with a current, valid military ID, you are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
Step 3: Understand the Standard Baggage Dimensions and Weight Limits
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
Even if your bags are free, they still need to meet Southwest's standard size and weight requirements. Exceeding these limits will result in additional fees.
Sub-heading 3.1: Weight Limit
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Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
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Bags weighing 51 to 70 pounds will incur an overweight fee of $100 (in addition to any standard checked bag fee).
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Bags weighing 71 to 100 pounds will incur an overweight fee of $200 (in addition to any standard checked bag fee).
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Items exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo.
Sub-heading 3.2: Size Limit (Linear Inches)
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Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This includes handles and wheels.
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Bags exceeding 62 inches but not more than 80 inches will incur an oversized fee of $200 (in addition to any standard checked bag fee).
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Bags exceeding 80 inches cannot be checked as baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
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Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you will generally be charged only one fee for the greater of the two, not both, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs.
Step 4: Consider Special Baggage and Sports Equipment
QuickTip: Use posts like this as quick references.
Southwest is generally accommodating with special items and sports equipment, but specific rules and fees apply.
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Many types of sports equipment (e.g., skis, golf bags, fishing equipment, hockey equipment) are accepted as checked baggage and will count towards your checked bag allowance. Standard baggage fees, including overweight/oversized fees, apply.
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Some specialized items might have specific dimensions or handling instructions. Always check Southwest's official website for detailed information on the specific sports equipment you plan to bring.
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Step 5: Pre-Planning and Airport Procedures
Being prepared at the airport can save you time and stress.
Sub-heading 5.1: Checking in Your Bags
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Southwest Airlines does not allow you to prepay for checked luggage online. You will typically pay for your bags at the airport.
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You can use self-tagging kiosks at select airports to tag your bags and then drop them off with a Southwest Employee.
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Alternatively, you can check your bags directly at the airport ticket counter with a Southwest Agent.
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Allow sufficient time for checking your baggage, especially if you're close to departure. Baggage checked 45 minutes or less before the scheduled departure time is considered "Late Check," and while efforts will be made to get it on your flight, Southwest won't assume delivery charges if it doesn't arrive with you.
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
Sub-heading 5.2: International Travel Considerations
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If your itinerary includes an international flight, you will be required to check your luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter upon arrival at the airport. Curbside check-in is not available for international itineraries.
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For flights departing Aruba, minimum check-in time for passengers (with or without checked baggage) is 75 minutes before scheduled departure. For all other international flights, passengers and their baggage must be checked in 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure.
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Connecting passengers on international flights must claim all luggage upon arrival in the U.S., clear Customs, and then re-check luggage with a Southwest Airlines Customer Service Agent.
Step 6: Tracking Your Bags
Southwest offers digital bag tracking, which can provide peace of mind.
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You can often track your checked bags digitally through the Southwest Airlines app or website once they've been checked in.
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In the unfortunate event of lost, damaged, or delayed baggage, it's crucial to report it in person within four hours of your arrival at your destination. Southwest's liability for such issues is limited.
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of Southwest's updated baggage policy, you can ensure a smoother and more predictable travel experience.
Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are 10 common questions about Southwest Airlines' baggage policy, starting with "How to," and their quick answers:
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How to avoid paying checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines?
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Book a Business Select fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, be an active-duty military member, or hold a Southwest co-branded credit card.
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How to know if my bag is overweight for Southwest Airlines?
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Weigh your bag at home using a luggage scale. Each checked bag must be 50 pounds (23 kg) or less to avoid overweight fees.
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How to measure my bag for Southwest Airlines' size limits?
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Measure the length, width, and height of your bag (including wheels and handles) and add them together. The total must be 62 linear inches (157 cm) or less.
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How to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines?
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You can check a third bag, but it will incur a fee, typically $150, in addition to meeting weight and size limits.
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How to check sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
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Most sports equipment is accepted as checked baggage, counting towards your allowance, and standard baggage fees (including overweight/oversized) apply. Check Southwest's website for specific equipment rules.
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How to check a bag if I'm traveling internationally with Southwest?
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You must check your bag at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter at the airport. Curbside check-in is not allowed for international flights.
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How to track my checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
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You can often track your bag digitally using the Southwest Airlines mobile app or by visiting their website after check-in.
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How to report a lost or damaged bag on Southwest Airlines?
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Report lost, damaged, or delayed baggage in person at the Southwest baggage service office within four hours of your arrival at your destination.
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How to get special allowances for military baggage on Southwest Airlines?
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Present a current, valid military ID as an active-duty military passenger to be exempt from bag limits and fees, provided bags are under 100 lbs and 80 inches.
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How to confirm the most up-to-date baggage policies for Southwest Airlines?
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Always refer to the official "Checked Baggage Policy" or "Optional Travel Charges" page on the Southwest Airlines website (southwest.com) for the very latest and most accurate information. Policies can change, so it's best to check before each trip!
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