Traveling with checked bags can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of rules and fees. But fear not, fellow traveler! This comprehensive guide will illuminate the path to understanding Southwest Airlines' checked baggage allowance, ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible.
Are you ready to unlock the secrets to stress-free packing for your next Southwest adventure? Let's dive in!
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| How Many Pounds Can A Checked Bag Be On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understanding the Southwest Airlines Baggage Philosophy – "Bags Fly... Mostly Free"
Southwest Airlines has long been lauded for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, which was a major differentiator in the airline industry. However, it's crucial to note that as of May 28, 2025, this policy has undergone significant changes for most travelers. While the spirit of baggage friendliness remains for some, new fees apply to many. We'll break down who still enjoys free bags and who will now pay.
Sub-heading: The Golden Rule of Checked Bags on Southwest
Historically, Southwest offered two free checked bags to all passengers. This was a major perk! Now, the landscape has shifted. The core allowance for a standard checked bag on Southwest remains:
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Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (22.7 kg) per bag
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Maximum Size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height) per bag
If your bag exceeds these limits, you'll incur additional fees.
Step 2: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags on Southwest?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy isn't universal anymore, several groups of travelers can still enjoy complimentary checked bags:
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards Elite Status Holders
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Business Select Fares: Passengers who book a Business Select fare will still receive two free checked bags. This is Southwest's highest fare class, offering benefits like A1-15 boarding.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved A-List Preferred status in the Rapid Rewards program, you are entitled to two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members: A-List members typically receive one free checked bag or a "bag credit," depending on the booking. It's always best to verify your specific entitlement.
Sub-heading: Southwest Co-Branded Credit Card Holders
Many Southwest Airlines co-branded credit cards offer baggage benefits. Typically, these cardholders are eligible for one free checked bag. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your credit card to confirm this perk.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
Sub-heading: Active Duty Military Personnel
Southwest Airlines has a generous policy for active-duty military passengers. With a current, valid military ID, they are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided that none of the pieces of baggage exceeds 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H). This is a significant benefit for our service members.
Step 3: Navigating Checked Bag Fees for Other Travelers
If you don't fall into one of the categories above, you will now likely pay for your checked bags on Southwest.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Fees
For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, the standard fees are:
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First Checked Bag: Approximately $35 (USD)
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Second Checked Bag: Approximately $45 (USD)
These fees are per bag, per direction of travel.
Step 4: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Even if your bags are free, or you're paying the standard fees, exceeding the weight or size limits will trigger additional charges.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
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If your checked bag weighs between 51 and 100 pounds (23 and 45 kg), you will incur an overweight baggage fee. This fee is typically around $75 (USD) per item, per way.
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Any item weighing over 100 pounds (45 kg) generally cannot be checked as baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo, subject to different regulations and requirements.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
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If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches (length + width + height) but is not more than 80 linear inches (203 cm), you will be charged an oversized baggage fee. This fee is also typically around $75 (USD) per item, per way.
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Bags measuring over 80 inches (203 cm) in total dimensions generally cannot be checked.
Sub-heading: Combining Fees
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If a bag is both overweight AND oversized, Southwest usually charges only one combined fee (the higher of the two, which is typically $75), provided it doesn't exceed the 100-pound or 80-inch maximums.
Step 5: Special Items and Sports Equipment
Southwest Airlines has specific policies for various special items and sports equipment. Many of these items can be checked as part of your regular baggage allowance, provided they meet the standard weight and size limits. However, some may incur additional fees.
Sub-heading: Common Special Items
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Golf Bags: A golf bag (containing clubs, balls, and shoes) generally counts as one checked bag. If it exceeds the standard weight/size, overweight/oversized fees apply.
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Skis/Snowboards: Ski equipment (skis/snowboard, poles, and boots) can often be split into two bags but still count as one checked item, as long as they meet the usual size and weight limits.
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Bicycles: Bicycles are usually accepted but must be properly packed in a bike box. They may be subject to oversized fees.
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Musical Instruments: Small instruments that fit in the overhead bin can be carried on. Larger instruments may need to be checked and are subject to standard baggage rules or specific musical instrument policies.
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. Policies can vary and be updated.
Step 6: Planning and Packing Smart
Now that you're well-versed in Southwest's baggage policies, it's time to pack strategically!
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Sub-heading: Tips for Avoiding Extra Fees
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Weigh Your Bags at Home: Invest in a small luggage scale. This simple tool can save you significant money at the airport by allowing you to adjust your packing before you leave.
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Measure Your Bags: Don't just eyeball it. Ensure your bags are within the 62 linear inch limit. Remember, this includes wheels and handles!
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Distribute Weight Evenly: If you're traveling with multiple bags, try to distribute heavier items across them to stay within the 50-pound limit for each.
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Consider a Personal Item and Carry-On: Remember, you are allowed one personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) that fits under the seat in front of you, and one carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin. These are typically free and can hold essentials or heavier items to lighten your checked bags.
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Southwest Carry-On Bag Size: Max 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H)
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Southwest Personal Item Size: Max 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 8.5" (H)
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Ship Ahead for Extreme Cases: For very heavy or numerous items, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline overweight/oversized fees.
Sub-heading: What to Pack in Your Carry-On
Always keep essentials, valuables, and important documents in your carry-on bag, even if you're checking other luggage. This includes:
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Medications
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Identification and travel documents
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Electronics (laptops, tablets, cameras)
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Jewelry and other valuables
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A change of clothes
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Toiletries (following TSA liquid rules)
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
Step 7: Checking Your Bags at the Airport
When you arrive at the airport, the process for checking your bags is straightforward.
Sub-heading: Arrive Early
Give yourself ample time, especially if you anticipate checking bags. Lines at the baggage drop can be long, particularly during peak travel times. Southwest generally recommends checking bags at least 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure for domestic flights. For international flights, this can be 60-75 minutes.
Sub-heading: Presenting Your Bags
Head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter or a self-service kiosk to check in your bags. If fees apply, you will pay them at this time. Have your ID and boarding pass ready.
Conclusion
Understanding Southwest Airlines' checked baggage policy is key to a smooth and cost-effective travel experience. While the "Bags Fly Free" era has evolved for many, knowing the current allowances, fees, and exceptions empowers you to pack smartly and avoid any unwelcome surprises at the airport. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my bag's weight and size before I leave home?
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Use a luggage scale to weigh your bag and a measuring tape to determine its length, width, and height. Remember to include wheels and handles in your measurements.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
Tip: Break down complex paragraphs step by step.
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Checked bag fees, if applicable, are typically paid at the airport during check-in at the ticket counter or a self-service kiosk. Southwest does not generally offer pre-payment for checked bags online.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards status gives me free bags?
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Check your Rapid Rewards account details online or on the Southwest app. Your elite status (A-List or A-List Preferred) will clearly indicate your baggage allowance.
How to find out if my Southwest credit card offers free checked bags?
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Refer to the benefits guide or terms and conditions provided by your credit card issuer, or log in to your credit card account online to review your card's travel perks.
How to handle an overweight bag at the airport?
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If your bag is overweight, you can either remove items to bring it under the 50-pound limit, transfer items to another bag (if you have one within limits), or pay the overweight baggage fee.
How to pack oversized sports equipment for a Southwest flight?
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Ensure sports equipment is properly disassembled and packed in appropriate cases or boxes as per Southwest's guidelines for that specific item. Be prepared for potential oversized baggage fees.
How to track my checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
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You can track your checked bag online through the Southwest Airlines website or mobile app using your name and confirmation number. This shows when it's loaded/unloaded from the plane.
How to report a lost or damaged checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
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If your bag is lost or damaged, immediately report it to a Southwest Airlines Baggage Service Office at the airport before leaving. They will initiate a claim and provide further instructions.
How to carry on liquids on a Southwest Airlines flight?
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Liquids in carry-on bags must adhere to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized clear, re-sealable bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
How to ensure my personal item fits under the seat?
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Measure your personal item to ensure it's no larger than 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 8.5" (H). Test fitting it under a seat (like a dining chair) at home can give you an idea of its compatibility.
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