Are you planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering just how much luggage you can bring along without incurring extra fees? You've come to the right place! Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle, but with Southwest, it's generally more straightforward than many other carriers. However, there have been recent changes you need to be aware of!
This comprehensive guide will break down Southwest's baggage allowance step-by-step, including carry-on, checked baggage, special items, and all the associated fees. Let's get packing!
Step 1: Understand the Southwest Baggage Philosophy (and Recent Changes!)
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's understand Southwest's approach to baggage. For a long time, Southwest was famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing two checked bags per passenger without charge. This was a huge differentiator!
However, as of May 28, 2025, Southwest has introduced changes to its baggage policy. While some passengers still enjoy the "Bags Fly Free" benefit, it's no longer universal for all fare classes. It's crucial to know which category you fall into.
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Are you traveling on a Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, or Anytime Fare? If so, you will likely incur fees for your first and second checked bags.
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Are you a Business Select passenger or a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member? Good news! You still get two checked bags for free.
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Are you a Rapid Rewards A-List member or a Southwest credit card holder? You may qualify for one free checked bag.
Don't worry, we'll cover the specific fees in a later step! The key takeaway here is to not assume your bags will fly free anymore unless you fall into one of the exempted categories.
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| How Many Pieces Of Luggage Are You Allowed On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Demystifying Carry-On Baggage
Your carry-on luggage is what you bring with you into the aircraft cabin. Southwest, like most airlines, has specific allowances and dimensions for these items.
Sub-heading: The "One Plus One" Rule
Southwest Airlines adheres to the standard "one carry-on bag plus one personal item" rule. This means you can bring:
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One Carry-On Bag: This is typically a small suitcase or a larger backpack that fits in the overhead bin.
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One Personal Item: This is a smaller item that must fit under the seat in front of you.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Bag Dimensions and Weight
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Size Limit: Your carry-on bag should not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 40 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels. It's essential to measure your bag accurately. If it doesn't fit in the sizer at the gate, you might be required to check it, potentially incurring a fee.
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Weight Limit: Southwest does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags. However, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted. If you can't, you should check it.
QuickTip: Pause before scrolling further.
Sub-heading: Personal Item Dimensions and Examples
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Size Limit: Your personal item must not exceed 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 21.6 x 34.3 cm). This size ensures it can comfortably fit under the seat in front of you.
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Examples: Common personal items include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, camera bag, small backpack, or a bag of food for consumption during the flight.
Sub-heading: Exceptions to the "One Plus One" Rule
Southwest is quite accommodating with certain items that do not count towards your carry-on limit. These include:
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Assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches, canes)
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Outer garments (e.g., coats, wraps)
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Food for consumption during the flight (in disposable packaging)
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Child restraint devices (for a ticketed child or if space is available)
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Umbrellas
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A breast pump and/or breast milk bag.
Step 3: Navigating Checked Baggage Allowance and Fees
This is where the recent changes come into play, so pay close attention! Southwest's checked baggage policy is a significant factor in your overall travel cost.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Baggage Allowance
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For most passengers (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime Fares) on flights booked after May 28, 2025:
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First Checked Bag: $35
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Second Checked Bag: $45
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For Business Select Travelers and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members:
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Two checked bags are still FREE.
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For Rapid Rewards A-List Members and Southwest Credit Cardholders:
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One checked bag may be FREE. Check your specific credit card benefits or A-List tier details for confirmation.
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Sub-heading: Checked Baggage Size and Weight Limits (Crucial Details!)
Regardless of whether you pay for your bags or get them for free, the following size and weight restrictions apply to each checked bag:
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Weight Limit: Each bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
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Size Limit: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm). This is measured by adding the length, width, and height of your suitcase together.
Sub-heading: Fees for Additional, Overweight, and Oversized Bags
Exceeding the standard limits or bringing more bags than your allowance will result in additional charges. These fees are per item, one-way.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
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Third Bag and Beyond (up to 10 bags maximum):
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Each additional bag will cost $150.
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Overweight Baggage:
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Bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds (23-32 kg) will incur a fee of $100 in addition to any standard baggage fee.
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Bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds (32-45 kg) will incur a fee of $200 in addition to any standard baggage fee.
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Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will NOT be accepted as checked baggage.
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Oversized Baggage:
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Bags exceeding 62 linear inches (158 cm) but not more than 80 linear inches (203 cm) will incur a fee of $200 in addition to any standard baggage fee.
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Bags exceeding 80 linear inches (203 cm) will NOT be accepted as checked baggage.
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Combined Oversized and Overweight: If a bag is both oversized and overweight (but within the acceptable limits of 80 inches and 100 lbs), only one additional fee of $200 applies. You won't be charged for both.
It's important to note that Southwest does not allow you to prepay for luggage; all baggage fees are paid at the airport.
Step 4: Special Baggage and Sports Equipment
Traveling with unique items or sports equipment? Southwest has specific policies for these, often treating them as part of your checked baggage allowance or with special fees.
Sub-heading: Common Special Items and Their Treatment
Many common sports equipment items (e.g., golf bags, skis, fishing equipment) can often be substituted for one checked bag, as long as they meet the standard weight and size limits. If they exceed these limits, additional fees will apply.
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Golf Clubs: A golf bag containing golf clubs, shoes, and balls is generally accepted as one checked item. Standard weight and size limits apply.
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Ski Equipment/Snowboard Equipment: A ski or snowboard bag (containing skis/snowboard, poles, and boots) counts as one checked item. Standard weight and size limits apply.
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Bicycles: Bicycles are accepted as checked baggage, but they must be properly packed in an approved bicycle container. An oversized fee of $200 typically applies for bicycles over 62 linear inches, even if they are within the weight limit.
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Musical Instruments: Small musical instruments that fit within carry-on dimensions can be brought on board. Larger instruments may require the purchase of an additional seat or be checked as baggage, subject to oversized/overweight fees if they exceed standard limits.
Sub-heading: Active Duty Military Personnel Exemptions
Southwest offers a generous policy for active duty military personnel and their dependents. They are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided no piece exceeds 100 lbs in weight or 80 inches in total dimensions. Always have your valid military ID ready.
Step 5: How to Minimize Baggage Hassle and Fees
Now that you know the rules, here are some tips to make your travel smoother and potentially save some money:
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Weigh and Measure Before You Go: This is the most crucial step! Invest in a luggage scale and a measuring tape. Knowing your bags comply with the limits before you leave home will save you time, stress, and potential fees at the airport.
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Consolidate When Possible: Can you fit everything into fewer bags? Fewer bags mean fewer potential fees.
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Wear Your Heaviest Items: If you're close to the weight limit, wear your bulkiest or heaviest clothing items onto the plane (e.g., winter coat, heavy boots).
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Consider Shipping Luggage: For very heavy or numerous items, especially if you're staying for an extended period, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline excess baggage fees.
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Check Your Fare Class and Status: Reconfirm your specific fare class (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select) and your Rapid Rewards status (A-List, A-List Preferred) to understand your exact baggage allowance.
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Southwest Credit Card Benefits: If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, explore their co-branded credit cards. Many offer benefits like a free checked bag, which can quickly offset the annual fee.
By understanding Southwest's baggage policy and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and budget-friendly journey. Happy travels!
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my specific baggage allowance for my Southwest flight?
You can check your specific baggage allowance by reviewing the fare type you purchased (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select) and your Rapid Rewards status (A-List, A-List Preferred). This information is typically provided during the booking process and on your e-ticket or reservation details.
How to measure my luggage correctly for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your luggage, use a tape measure to determine the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles. For checked bags, add these three measurements together to get the total linear inches (L+W+H) and ensure it doesn't exceed 62 inches.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
To avoid overweight baggage fees, weigh your checked bags at home using a luggage scale to ensure they are under the 50-pound (23 kg) limit. If over, redistribute items to lighter bags or wear heavier clothing.
How to find out if my sports equipment counts as a free checked bag on Southwest?
Many common sports equipment items (e.g., golf bags, skis) can be substituted for one checked bag if they meet the standard weight and size limits of 50 lbs and 62 linear inches. For specific items, check the "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section on the Southwest Airlines website.
How to transport a pet on Southwest Airlines and how does it count towards my baggage?
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
Southwest allows small domesticated cats and dogs to travel in the cabin in an approved carrier. The pet carrier will count as either your one carry-on item or your personal item, depending on its size. A one-way pet fee applies. Pets are not allowed in the cargo hold due to temperature concerns.
How to deal with an oversized musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
For oversized musical instruments that do not fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, you may need to purchase an additional seat for the instrument, or it can be checked as baggage, subject to oversized baggage fees if it exceeds the standard 62 linear inches.
How to get a free checked bag if I'm not A-List Preferred or Business Select?
If you're not an A-List Preferred member or a Business Select passenger, you may still get one free checked bag if you are a Rapid Rewards A-List member or hold a Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card. Check the specific benefits of your card or status.
How to determine the fees for a third checked bag on Southwest?
A third checked bag, and any subsequent bags up to a maximum of 10, will incur a fee of $150 per bag, in addition to any standard checked bag fees that apply to your fare class.
How to ensure my carry-on will fit in the overhead bin or under the seat?
Measure your carry-on bag (24 x 16 x 10 inches max) and personal item (18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches max) carefully, including all wheels and handles. If you're concerned, try fitting it into the sizing bins available at the airport check-in counters before heading to security.
How to understand the military baggage allowance for active duty personnel on Southwest?
Active duty military personnel and their dependents enjoy a generous exemption, allowing them to check more than two bags without incurring excess, oversized, or overweight fees, provided no single bag exceeds 100 lbs or 80 linear inches. Always present your valid military ID.
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