Are you ready to unravel the mystery of checked baggage on Southwest Airlines? Let's dive in and make sure your next trip is as smooth as possible, without any surprises at the baggage counter!
Southwest Airlines has long been known for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, which was a huge differentiator. However, as of May 28, 2025, there have been significant changes to their baggage policy for most travelers. While some still enjoy free checked bags, many will now incur fees. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Step 1: Understand the Baseline – What's Changed?
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room. If you've flown Southwest before and enjoyed two free checked bags, that policy has changed for most fare classes. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest now charges for checked bags for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares.
So, what does this mean for YOU? It means it's more important than ever to check your fare type and understand what's included before you head to the airport.
Step 2: Determine Your Free Baggage Allowance
Even with the new changes, some travelers still enjoy free checked bags. This is where you need to identify which category you fall into.
Sub-heading: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags?
Business Select® Fare: If you've booked a Business Select® fare, you are still entitled to two free checked bags. This is a premium fare option that includes various perks.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These highly valued frequent flyers also receive two free checked bags. This benefit extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, which is fantastic if you're traveling with family or friends.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members receive their first checked bag for free. Similar to A-List Preferred, this benefit can apply to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardholders: If you hold a Southwest co-branded credit card, you typically get one free checked bag. Always double-check your specific card benefits as these can vary.
Active-Duty Military Passengers: This is a big one! Active-duty military personnel with a current, valid military ID are exempt from the standard baggage limits and fees. They can check multiple bags without excess, oversize, or overweight charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H). This is a significant benefit for our service members.
Sub-heading: For Everyone Else (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares)
If you don't fall into the categories above, you will now incur fees for checked baggage. Here's the breakdown:
First Checked Bag: $35 per bag (one-way)
Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag (one-way)
It's generally cheaper to pay for bags when you book your flight online rather than at the airport, so plan ahead!
Step 3: Understand Standard Baggage Dimensions and Weight Limits
Regardless of whether your bags are free or paid, all checked bags must adhere to specific size and weight restrictions.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Limits
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Maximum Size: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm). This measurement includes wheels and handles.
Pro Tip: Always measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport. Investing in a small luggage scale can save you a lot of hassle and unexpected fees.
Step 4: Prepare for Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
What happens if your bag exceeds the standard limits? Southwest has specific fees for overweight and oversized luggage. These fees are in addition to any standard checked bag fees that may apply.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
51 to 70 pounds (24 to 32 kg): An additional $150 per bag.
71 to 100 pounds (33 to 45 kg): An additional $200 per bag.
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg): Will NOT be accepted as checked baggage. You would need to explore alternative shipping options, such as Southwest Cargo (if you are a Known Shipper).
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
Bags exceeding 62 inches (157.5 cm) but not more than 80 inches (203 cm) in linear dimensions: An additional $200 per bag.
Bags exceeding 80 inches (203 cm): Will NOT be accepted as checked baggage.
Important Note: If a single bag is both overweight and oversized, you will generally only pay one of the additional fees (the higher of the two, typically). However, if you have an excess bag that is also overweight or oversized, you will be charged the excess bag fee plus the applicable overweight/oversized fee. This can add up quickly!
Step 5: Special Items and Sports Equipment
Traveling with sports equipment or other special items? Southwest has policies for these too. Many standard sports equipment items can be checked as part of your regular baggage allowance, provided they meet the weight and size limits. However, some larger or specialized items may incur additional fees.
Sub-heading: Common Special Items
Skis, Snowboards, Golf Clubs, Fishing Rods: Often accepted as one piece of checked luggage, counting towards your allowance. However, check specific dimensions and any unique packaging requirements.
Bicycles: Often incur a special handling fee and must be properly boxed. Dimensions and weight limits still apply, and often an oversized fee will be applicable.
Musical Instruments: Small instruments may be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may need to be checked and may incur oversized fees, or you might need to purchase an additional seat for them.
Always check Southwest's official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on specific special items you plan to travel with. Their "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section online is a great resource.
Step 6: Checking Your Bags at the Airport
When it's time to check your bags, remember these key points:
Sub-heading: Timing and International Travel
Domestic Flights: Allow sufficient time for your bags to be processed. Baggage checked 45 minutes or less before scheduled departure 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.
International Flights: If any part of your itinerary involves an international flight, you must check your luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter. Curbside check-in is not permitted for international itineraries.
For flights departing Aruba, minimum check-in time for passengers (with or without checked baggage) is 75 minutes before departure.
For all other international flights, passengers and baggage must be checked in 60 minutes prior to departure. Failure to meet this can result in denied check-in or boarding.
Connecting International Flights (entering U.S.): You must claim all luggage upon arrival in the U.S., regardless of your final destination. After clearing Customs, you will then be required to re-check your luggage with a Southwest Airlines Customer Service Agent before proceeding to your connecting flight.
Sub-heading: Self-Tagging and Payment
Southwest offers self-tagging kiosks at many airports, allowing you to print your own bag tags and then drop them off with an employee. This can save you time.
Southwest does not allow you to prepay for luggage online. Fees for checked bags (if applicable) are paid at the airport, either at a self-service kiosk or at the ticket counter.
Step 7: What to Do if Your Bag is Lost, Damaged, or Delayed
While we hope your travel is seamless, sometimes things go wrong.
Sub-heading: Reporting Issues
Damaged or Lost Baggage: You must report damaged or lost baggage in person within four hours of your arrival at your destination. This is a critical timeframe to remember.
Delayed Baggage: Report delayed baggage as soon as you realize it hasn't arrived.
Sub-heading: Liability
Southwest Airlines' liability for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage is limited to $3,800.00 per fare-paying Customer. This is important to know if you're packing valuable items. Consider travel insurance for high-value belongings.
Step 8: Keep These Final Tips in Mind!
Pack Smart: Only pack what you absolutely need. If you can fit it in a carry-on and personal item, you might avoid checked bag fees altogether!
Join Rapid Rewards: Even if you don't fly frequently, joining Southwest's Rapid Rewards program is free and can help you earn points towards A-List status, which comes with baggage benefits.
Consider a Southwest Credit Card: If you fly Southwest often, a co-branded credit card can offer not just baggage benefits but also other travel perks.
Stay Updated: Airline policies can change. Always check the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) before your flight for the most current and accurate baggage information.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines checked baggage, starting with "How to," along with quick answers:
How to know if my bags fly free on Southwest?
You get free checked bags if you're a Business Select® fare ticket holder, a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred or A-List member (first bag free for A-List), a Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardholder (first bag free), or active-duty military. Otherwise, fees apply for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares.
How to measure my luggage for Southwest?
Measure the length, width, and height of your bag (including wheels and handles) and add them together. The total must be 62 inches (157.5 cm) or less for standard checked bags.
How to avoid Southwest checked bag fees?
Fly Business Select®, achieve Rapid Rewards® A-List or A-List Preferred status, get a Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Card, or be active-duty military. Otherwise, pack light enough for just a carry-on and personal item.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest?
You pay for checked bags at the airport, either at a self-service kiosk or at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter, when you check your luggage. You cannot prepay online.
How to check if my bag is overweight for Southwest?
Use a luggage scale at home or at the airport. Each checked bag must be 50 pounds (23 kg) or less to avoid overweight fees.
How to pack sports equipment for Southwest flights?
Check Southwest's "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section on their website for specific packing requirements and potential fees for your item. Many can count as standard bags if within limits, but larger items may incur additional charges.
How to track my checked bag on Southwest?
Southwest offers digital bag tracking through their app or website. You'll receive a claim check for each bag you check, which can be used to track its status.
How to report a lost or damaged bag on Southwest?
You must report lost or damaged baggage in person at the Southwest baggage service office within four hours of your arrival at your destination.
How to travel with more than two checked bags on Southwest?
You can check additional bags beyond your allowance, but a fee of $150 per bag will apply for the third bag and any subsequent bags, in addition to any overweight or oversized charges.
How to get a refund for a baggage fee on Southwest?
Refunds for baggage fees are typically issued only if Southwest is responsible for a baggage issue (e.g., lost baggage that is not recovered) or if you were incorrectly charged. Contact Southwest Customer Service to inquire about a refund.
