Ever stood at the check-in counter, heart pounding, wondering if your perfectly packed suitcase is about to trigger a cascade of unexpected fees? Or perhaps you're a seasoned traveler who just needs a quick refresher on the latest baggage policies. Well, my friend, you've come to the right place! Southwest Airlines, famous for its "Bags Fly Free" slogan, has long been a favorite for its straightforward approach. However, like all airlines, there are important details and nuances to understand to ensure a smooth and budget-friendly journey.
This comprehensive guide will break down exactly how many bags you can have on Southwest Airlines, from your trusty carry-on to your generously packed checked luggage, along with all the essential rules, dimensions, and potential fees you need to know.
Let's dive in!
Step 1: Unpacking the Basics – What Kind of Bags Are We Talking About?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of numbers, let's clarify the different types of bags Southwest allows. This will help you categorize your belongings and plan your packing strategy effectively.
Sub-heading 1.1: The Carry-On Companion
This is the bag you bring with you into the airplane cabin. It's usually stored in the overhead bin. Think of your carry-on as your immediate access bag, perfect for essentials, valuables, and anything you might need during the flight.
Sub-heading 1.2: The Personal Item Pal
Smaller than your carry-on, this item fits under the seat in front of you. It could be a purse, a laptop bag, a small backpack, or a briefcase. This is for your absolute must-haves: your phone, wallet, snacks, book, etc.
Sub-heading 1.3: The Checked Baggage Brigade
These are the bags that go into the airplane's cargo hold. You check them in at the counter or a self-service kiosk, and they reappear on the baggage carousel at your destination. This is where your larger suitcases, clothing for longer trips, and less immediate necessities typically go.
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| How Many Bags Can You Have On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Mastering Your Carry-On Allowance – Your In-Cabin Essentials
Southwest Airlines is quite generous when it comes to carry-on items.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Standard Carry-On Rule
Each ticketed passenger is allowed one (1) carry-on bag and one (1) personal item, absolutely free of charge.
Sub-heading 2.2: Dimensions for Your Carry-On
Your carry-on bag needs to fit into the overhead bin. The maximum dimensions are:
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
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24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H) (61 x 40 x 25 cm). Remember to include handles and wheels in these measurements!
Sub-heading 2.3: Dimensions for Your Personal Item
Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are:
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18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (W) x 13.5 inches (H) (47 x 22 x 34 cm).
Sub-heading 2.4: What About Weight?
Good news! Southwest Airlines does not specify a weight restriction for carry-on items. However, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted. If you can't, you might be asked to check it.
Sub-heading 2.5: Additional Items You Can Bring (Beyond Your Allowance)
In addition to your carry-on and personal item, you can typically bring the following without it counting towards your allowance:
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Outer garments (coats, jackets)
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Food for consumption during the flight in disposable packaging
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Assistive/mobility devices (wheelchairs, crutches, canes)
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Child restraint systems (car seats) for a ticketed child or if a complimentary space is available.
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Umbrellas or walking canes.
Step 3: Decoding Checked Baggage – Your Luggage Beyond the Cabin
This is where Southwest truly shines, or at least used to. While their "Bags Fly Free" slogan was once universally true, there have been some recent changes as of May 28, 2025. It's crucial to be aware of these updates!
Sub-heading 3.1: The Standard Checked Baggage Allowance
Historically, Southwest allowed two (2) checked bags per ticketed Customer for free. However, as of May 28, 2025, this generous policy has changed for most fare classes.
New Policy (effective May 28, 2025, for reservations booked and ticketed or voluntarily changed on or after this date):
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Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime Fares:
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First checked bag: $35
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Second checked bag: $45
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Business Select® Fare:
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First checked bag: Free
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Second checked bag: Free
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members:
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First checked bag: Free
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Second checked bag: Free (for the member and up to eight additional Passengers on the same reservation)
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members:
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First checked bag: Free (for the member and up to eight additional Passengers on the same reservation)
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Second checked bag: $35
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Co-branded credit cardholders:
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First checked bag: Free
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Sub-heading 3.2: Standard Dimensions for Checked Bags
Each checked bag must adhere to specific size requirements. The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed:
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62 inches (157.5 cm) Again, this includes handles and wheels!
Sub-heading 3.3: Standard Weight Limit for Checked Bags
Each checked bag must not exceed:
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50 pounds (22.7 kg)
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
Step 4: Navigating Excess, Overweight, and Oversized Baggage Fees – When Your Bags Go Big
Sometimes, you just need more stuff. Or maybe your souvenirs pushed your suitcase past the limit. Southwest has fees for these situations.
Sub-heading 4.1: The Third Bag (and Beyond)
If you need to check a third bag or more, the fee is:
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$150 per additional bag.
Sub-heading 4.2: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds but does not exceed 100 pounds:
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51-70 pounds: $150 per bag
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71-100 pounds: $200 per bag Bags weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading 4.3: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches but does not exceed 80 linear inches:
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$200 per bag Bags measuring over 80 inches (203 cm) in linear dimensions will not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading 4.4: Important Note on Combined Fees
If your bag is both overweight and oversized, only one of the applicable fees (the higher one) will apply, as long as it does not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.
Step 5: Special Items and Sports Equipment – Bringing Your Hobbies Along
Southwest is generally accommodating with special items and sports equipment, often allowing them to count towards your checked baggage allowance. However, there are specific rules and potential fees.
Sub-heading 5.1: General Rule for Special Items
Many special items, including sports equipment and musical instruments, can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, provided they meet the 50 lbs and 62 inches limitations.
Sub-heading 5.2: Common Sports Equipment Examples
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Golf Clubs: One golf bag containing clubs, balls, and shoes typically counts as one checked bag. Standard weight and size limits apply.
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Skis/Snowboards: A ski or snowboard bag (containing skis/snowboard, boots, and bindings) typically counts as one checked bag. Must be appropriately packed.
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Bicycles: Must be properly packed in a bike box. Standard baggage fees apply, and oversized/overweight charges may apply depending on dimensions and weight.
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Surfboards: Accepted for a fee, and often have specific packing requirements. On Hawaiian inter-island flights, a surfboard bag can be substituted for one checked bag.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
Sub-heading 5.3: Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require purchasing a separate seat for them, provided they can be safely secured. If checked, standard baggage rules apply, with potential oversized/overweight fees. Southwest will not accept any musical instrument that exceeds 150 inches in linear dimensions or 165 pounds in weight.
Sub-heading 5.4: Firearms
Firearms are permitted in checked baggage only, unloaded and in a locked, hard-sided container. Ammunition must be securely packed. Specific rules apply, so always check the latest policy.
Step 6: Pet Travel – Flying with Your Furry Friends
Southwest allows small domesticated cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on domestic flights, but there are strict rules and fees.
Sub-heading 6.1: In-Cabin Pets Only
Southwest does not accept pets as checked baggage or cargo, with the exception of service animals.
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Only small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin.
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Pets must be at least eight weeks old.
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Unaccompanied minors cannot travel with a pet.
Sub-heading 6.2: Pet Carrier Requirements
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The pet carrier counts as one of your carry-on items (either your carry-on bag or your personal item).
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It must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
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Maximum dimensions are typically around 18.5 inches (L) x 13.5 inches (W) x 8.5 inches (H).
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The pet must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the carrier.
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The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
Sub-heading 6.3: Pet Fees and Reservations
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There is a one-way Pet Fare of $125 per pet carrier. This must be paid at the airport ticket counter.
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Space is limited (usually a maximum of six pet carriers per flight), so reservations are highly recommended and should be made in advance by calling Southwest.
Step 7: Tips for a Stress-Free Baggage Experience
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Measure and Weigh: Always measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport. Invest in a small luggage scale.
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Pack Smart: Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and maximize space.
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Know Your Fare: Be aware of the baggage allowance tied to your specific fare class, especially with the recent changes.
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Check for Embargoes: During peak travel times or to certain destinations, Southwest may have baggage embargoes that limit the number of extra bags you can check.
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Military Personnel Benefits: Active duty military personnel often receive waivers for excess, overweight, and oversized baggage fees, provided bags don't exceed certain limits (e.g., 100 lbs and 80 inches).
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Credit Card Perks: Some co-branded Southwest credit cards offer baggage fee waivers. Check your card benefits!
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Self-Tagging Kiosks: Where available, use self-tagging kiosks to save time at the airport.
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Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance that covers lost or damaged luggage for added peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to avoid Southwest Airlines baggage fees?
You can avoid checked baggage fees by booking a Business Select fare, being a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member, or holding a co-branded Southwest credit card that offers free checked bags. For carry-on and personal items, ensure they meet the size requirements to avoid being gate-checked and potentially incurring fees.
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
How to measure my bag for Southwest Airlines?
Use a tape measure to get the length, width, and height of your bag, including any handles and wheels. For checked bags, add these three dimensions together to get the total linear inches, which must not exceed 62 inches.
How to pack efficiently to maximize my Southwest Airlines baggage allowance?
Use packing cubes to compress clothes, roll rather than fold, wear your heaviest items on the plane, and utilize every corner of your bag. Consider capsule wardrobes for longer trips.
How to check if my fare class includes free checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
Refer to your booking confirmation or check Southwest Airlines' official baggage policy page, paying close attention to the "Checked Baggage" section and the details specific to the fare class you purchased (e.g., Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select).
How to handle oversized or overweight sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Declare your sports equipment at check-in. Be prepared for potential oversized or overweight fees if your item exceeds the standard 62 linear inches or 50 pounds. Always check specific equipment policies on Southwest's website.
How to travel with a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Small instruments can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require purchasing a separate seat for them or checking them as baggage, potentially incurring oversized/overweight fees.
How to bring a pet on a Southwest Airlines flight?
Call Southwest Airlines to make an advance reservation for your pet, as space is limited. Ensure your pet carrier meets the size requirements to fit under the seat and be prepared to pay the $125 one-way pet fare at the airport.
How to get military baggage waivers on Southwest Airlines?
Active duty military personnel traveling on active duty or permanent change of station orders are generally exempt from checked, overweight, and oversized bag fees, provided bags do not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches. Be sure to present your military ID.
How to track my checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines offers digital bag tracking. You can often track your bags through their mobile app or website once they've been checked in.
How to know if there are baggage embargoes for my destination on Southwest Airlines?
Check the Southwest Airlines website's baggage policy or travel alerts section for any current baggage embargoes or restrictions, especially for international flights or during peak travel periods.
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