Navigating the Skies with Southwest: Your Ultimate Guide to Checked Bags
Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering how many bags you can check? You've come to the right place! While Southwest was long famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, things have shifted recently. Don't worry, we're here to break down everything you need to know, step-by-step, to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
So, let's start with a crucial question: Are you someone who likes to pack light, or are you a "just-in-case" packer who needs options for every conceivable scenario? Your packing style might influence how you approach Southwest's baggage policy!
Step 1: Understanding the New Landscape – The "Bags Fly Free" Era Has Evolved
For years, Southwest Airlines was the envy of many travelers with its incredibly generous policy of allowing two free checked bags for every single passenger. This was a major differentiator! However, as of May 28, 2025, this universal perk has changed.
This is a critical update you need to be aware of!
Now, the number of free checked bags you get on Southwest depends on your fare type or loyalty status.
Step 2: Deciphering Your Baggage Allowance Based on Your Fare or Status
Southwest has introduced changes that align its baggage fees more closely with other major U.S. carriers. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Sub-heading 2.1: The Standard Fares (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, Anytime)
First Checked Bag: $35 per bag
Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag
Yes, you read that right. For most standard fare tickets booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, you will now incur fees for your first and second checked bags.
Sub-heading 2.2: The Premium Fares & Loyalty Perks
This is where you might still enjoy some "Bags Fly Free" benefits!
Business Select® Fare: If you've booked a Business Select fare, rejoice! You still get two free checked bags. This is a significant perk for those who choose this higher-tier fare.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: As an A-List Preferred member, you're also in luck! You receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members (the tier below A-List Preferred) get one free checked bag.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you're a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, you also get your first checked bag for free. This can be a great way to save on fees if you only plan to check one bag.
Active-Duty Military Personnel: Southwest continues to support active-duty military personnel. If you have a current, valid military ID, you are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided your bags meet certain criteria (see Step 3 for details).
Pro-Tip: Always double-check your specific booking confirmation or log into your Rapid Rewards account to confirm your exact baggage allowance for your upcoming flight. Policies can be nuanced!
Step 3: Understanding Weight and Size Limits for Each Checked Bag
Regardless of how many bags you're allowed, all checked bags on Southwest (and most airlines) have specific weight and size restrictions. Exceeding these limits will result in additional fees.
Sub-heading 3.1: Standard Checked Bag Limits
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Maximum Size: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157 cm).
Remember: These dimensions include handles and wheels! Don't get caught off guard by a slightly oversized bag.
Sub-heading 3.2: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your bag weighs more than 50 pounds but less than 100 pounds, it's considered overweight, and you'll incur additional charges.
51 to 70 pounds: $150 per bag
71 to 100 pounds: $200 per bag
Any item weighing more than 100 pounds generally will not be accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo (which has its own set of rules and requirements).
Sub-heading 3.3: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag's total linear dimensions exceed 62 inches but are within acceptable limits, it's considered oversized.
63 to 80 inches: $200 per bag
Bags measuring over 80 inches in total linear dimensions generally cannot be checked as baggage.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight AND oversized, you will typically only pay one combined fee, whichever is higher, as long as it does not exceed 100 pounds.
Step 4: What About Additional Bags (Beyond Your Initial Allowance)?
So, you've factored in your free bags (if any) and your standard allowance. What if you need to check more?
Third and Subsequent Checked Bags: For any bags beyond your first two (or beyond your free allowance, if applicable), there is a fee of $150 per bag.
Be warned: These fees can add up quickly, so consider if everything truly needs to be checked! Southwest generally limits customers to a total of 20 pieces of checked baggage per flight, though this is rarely an issue for leisure travelers.
Step 5: Special Items and Their Policies
Traveling with unique items like sports equipment or musical instruments? Southwest has specific guidelines for these.
Sub-heading 5.1: Sports Equipment
Many types of sports equipment are accepted as checked baggage. Generally, standard checked bag fees apply, meaning they count toward your allowance and are subject to weight and size limits.
Examples: Golf bags, skis/snowboards, bicycles (properly packed), surfboards (with specific conditions, especially for Hawaiian inter-island flights).
Waivers: For some sports equipment, oversized charges might be waived, but overweight charges may still apply. It's crucial to check Southwest's official website for the exact policy for your specific item.
Sub-heading 5.2: Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can be carried on or checked, depending on their size.
Carry-on: If your instrument (including case) fits within standard carry-on dimensions (24" L x 16" W x 10" H), you can bring it as your carry-on item. Larger instruments might be allowed if they fit in an overhead bin or under a seat and space is available.
Purchasing a Seat: For larger instruments that don't fit in the overhead bin or under a seat, you can purchase a separate seat for them, provided they meet certain criteria (e.g., fit in the seat, secured with a seatbelt, first row, window side).
Checked Baggage: Instruments can be checked as baggage and will count towards your allowance. Oversize or overweight charges will apply if the instrument exceeds standard checked bag limits (e.g., between 62 and 150 inches linear dimensions, or 51 to 165 pounds). Items exceeding these limits may not be accepted.
Sub-heading 5.3: Pets
Southwest does not accept pets as checked baggage. Small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed to travel in the cabin on domestic flights, in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. This pet carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item. A fee applies for in-cabin pets.
Step 6: Practical Tips for a Smooth Baggage Experience
Measure and Weigh Before You Go: This is the most important tip! Invest in a luggage scale and a measuring tape. Knowing your bags comply with limits before you get to the airport will save you time, stress, and potentially money.
Pack Smart: Can you consolidate? Do you truly need that extra pair of shoes? Consider if items can be carried on instead of checked.
Check Your Fare Details: Confirm your specific fare type and any associated baggage allowances when you book your flight.
Consider a Southwest Credit Card: If you fly Southwest frequently and typically check bags, a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card could save you money on baggage fees over time.
Allow Enough Time: When checking bags, especially during peak travel times, allow ample time at the airport. Baggage checked less than 45 minutes before departure is considered "Late Check" and might not make your flight.
Know the Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with TSA's list of prohibited items in both carry-on and checked baggage to avoid delays.
By following these steps and understanding Southwest's current baggage policy, you'll be well-prepared for your next flight!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How to Handle Your Southwest Bags
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to Southwest Airlines checked baggage, with quick answers:
How to get free checked bags on Southwest Airlines? You can get two free checked bags if you book a Business Select® fare or are a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred member. Rapid Rewards® A-List members and Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers get one free checked bag. Active-duty military personnel also receive free checked bags with valid ID.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest? Ensure each checked bag weighs 50 pounds (23 kg) or less. Use a luggage scale at home before heading to the airport. Consider distributing weight across multiple bags or shipping heavier items separately.
How to avoid oversized baggage fees on Southwest? Ensure the total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag do not exceed 62 inches (157 cm). Measure your bags carefully, including wheels and handles, before packing.
How to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines? You can check a third bag, and any subsequent bags, for a fee of $150 per bag. Ensure it meets the standard weight and size limits (50 lbs, 62 inches linear).
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest? Sports equipment generally counts as one checked bag and is subject to standard weight and size limits. Oversize/overweight fees may apply, though some oversized fees for specific equipment might be waived. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your item.
How to travel with a musical instrument on Southwest? Small instruments can be carried on. Larger ones might fit in the overhead bin or require purchasing an additional seat. If checked, they count towards your bag allowance, and oversize/overweight fees may apply if they exceed standard limits.
How to check a car seat or stroller on Southwest? Car seats and strollers can typically be checked for free at the check-in counter or at the gate, and they do not count towards your standard baggage allowance.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest? Baggage fees are typically paid at the airport during check-in. Southwest does not generally allow pre-payment of checked baggage fees online.
How to check if my fare includes free bags on Southwest? When booking your flight, the fare details will specify your baggage allowance. You can also log into your Rapid Rewards account or check your booking confirmation after purchase to confirm your specific benefits.
How to handle delayed or damaged baggage on Southwest? If your baggage is delayed or damaged, report it to a Southwest Airlines Customer Service Agent in person at the airport baggage office within four hours of your arrival at your destination. Make sure to get a claim number and understand the claims process.
