Oh, the age-old question that now has a brand new answer for Southwest Airlines flyers! For years, Southwest stood out with its incredibly generous "Bags Fly Free" policy, a true beacon for budget-conscious travelers. However, as of May 28, 2025, things have significantly changed. If you're planning to fly with Southwest, it's absolutely crucial to understand these updates to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Let's dive deep into the new baggage landscape with Southwest Airlines, so you can pack smart and travel stress-free.
Step 1: Engage with Your Travel Plans - Are You Affected?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of fees, let's figure out if these changes even apply to your upcoming trip. This is the most important first step!
When did you book or change your flight? The new baggage policy primarily applies to reservations booked and ticketed, or voluntarily changed (including name updates or ticket changes), on or after May 28, 2025.
If you booked/changed before May 28, 2025, regardless of your travel date, your original "Bags Fly Free" policy for two checked bags should still apply. However, always double-check your specific reservation details or contact Southwest directly to confirm.
Are you traveling on a special fare or do you have elite status? Some travelers still enjoy free checked bags, which we'll detail below.
If you booked your flight on or after May 28, 2025, or if you're considering a new booking, then keep reading!
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| How Much Are Bags On Southwest Airlines Now |
Step 2: Understanding the New Checked Baggage Fees
Southwest has largely aligned its baggage fees with other major U.S. carriers. This is a significant departure from their previous model.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Standard Fees for Most Travelers
For the majority of passengers, specifically those with Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares booked on or after May 28, 2025, here's what you can expect:
First Checked Bag: $35 per bag, each way.
Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag, each way.
It's important to note that you cannot pre-pay for checked luggage online with Southwest. You will need to pay for your bags at the airport, either at a self-tagging kiosk (where available) or with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
Sub-heading 2.2: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags?
Good news! Not everyone is subject to the new fees. Southwest is maintaining some free baggage allowances for specific fare types and loyalty program members:
Business Select® fares: These continue to receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: You're in luck! You also get your first and second checked bags for free. This benefit extends to up to eight additional Passengers traveling on the same reservation as the A-List Preferred Member.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: You'll receive your first checked bag for free. For your second bag, the $35 fee will apply. This benefit also extends to up to eight additional Passengers traveling on the same reservation.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: As a primary Credit Cardmember, you're eligible to receive your first standard checked bag free. This applies to you and up to eight additional Passengers traveling on the same reservation, provided your Rapid Rewards account number is included in the reservation when booking. If you already qualify for a free bag through A-List status, this credit card benefit doesn't provide an additional free bag.
Active Duty Military Service Members: Southwest continues its support for military personnel. Active duty military members on active duty or permanent change of station orders are exempt from the standard two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 lbs in weight or 80 inches in total dimensions.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
Step 3: Understanding Checked Bag Size and Weight Limits
Even if your bags are free, they still need to adhere to Southwest's size and weight restrictions. Exceeding these limits will incur additional fees.
Sub-heading 3.1: Standard Limits for Checked Bags
For all standard checked bags:
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag.
Maximum Linear Dimensions (L+W+H): 62 inches (157 cm) per bag.
Sub-heading 3.2: Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
These fees are in addition to any standard checked bag fees that may apply.
Overweight Bags:
51 to 70 pounds: $100 per bag.
71 to 100 pounds: $200 per bag.
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Oversized Bags:
Bags larger than 62 inches (157 cm) up to 80 inches (203 cm) linear dimensions: $200 per bag.
Bags greater than 80 inches (203 cm) linear dimensions will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Combined Overweight and Oversized: If a bag is both overweight and oversized (but still within the acceptable limits of up to 100 lbs and 80 inches), only one $200 charge will apply.
Step 4: Understanding Carry-On and Personal Items
Good news here! Southwest's policy on carry-on and personal items remains generous and free.
Sub-heading 4.1: Your Free Carry-On Bag
You are permitted one carry-on bag per passenger.
Size Limits: Your carry-on bag must not exceed 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H). This includes wheels, handles, and any attachments. It must fit in the overhead bin.
Weight Limit: There is no specified weight restriction for carry-on items, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
Sub-heading 4.2: Your Free Personal Item
In addition to your carry-on, you are allowed one small personal item.
Examples: This typically includes items like a purse, briefcase, laptop computer case, backpack, or a small camera bag.
Size Limits: Your personal item should not exceed approximately 18.5 inches x 8.5 inches x 13.5 inches and must fit under the seat in front of you.
Weight Limit: There is no specified weight limit for personal items.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
Sub-heading 4.3: Items Not Counted Towards Your Carry-On Limit
Several items do not count towards your one-bag plus one-personal-item limit, including:
A child restraint device (car seat) for a ticketed child or when complimentary space is available.
Assistive/mobility devices for individuals with a disability (no limit).
Outer garments or other wearable articles of clothing.
Food for consumption during the flight, provided it's in disposable packaging.
Walking canes or umbrellas.
Step 5: Special Baggage Items and Sports Equipment
Southwest has specific guidelines and fees for special items and sports equipment.
Sub-heading 5.1: General Rule for Special Items
Most special items, such as musical instruments and various types of sports equipment, can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance if they meet the weight and size limits. If they exceed these limits, additional fees will apply.
Sub-heading 5.2: Examples and Fees for Specific Items
Bicycles: May be checked as a regular piece of luggage. If exceeding weight/size limits, overweight/oversize fees apply.
Golf Clubs: Treated as one checked item. If overweight/oversized, standard fees apply.
Skis/Snowboards: A pair of skis or a snowboard (along with poles and boots) count as one item. Overweight/oversize fees apply if limits are exceeded.
Surfboards/Paddleboards: Specific size restrictions apply (typically up to 115 linear inches). Overweight/oversize fees will apply if limits are exceeded.
Firearms: Must be unloaded, in a locked, hard-sided container, declared to the agent, and will count as one piece of checked baggage.
Pet Carriers (in-cabin): If you're traveling with a small domesticated cat or dog in the cabin, the pet carrier counts as either your personal item or carry-on bag. There is a one-way charge of $125 per pet carrier for domestic flights.
Always check the Southwest Airlines website for the most up-to-date and detailed information on specific sports equipment or other special items you plan to travel with.
Step 6: Tips to Avoid or Minimize Baggage Fees
Now that you know the costs, here are some smart strategies to keep those dollars in your pocket!
Pack Light and Smart: This is the most obvious, yet often overlooked, tip! Can you fit everything into a carry-on and personal item?
Utilize Your Free Carry-On and Personal Item: Maximize the space in your free allowance. A well-packed backpack or small duffel can hold a surprising amount.
Weigh and Measure Your Bags Before You Go: Invest in a small luggage scale. It's much cheaper to re-pack at home than to pay overweight fees at the airport. Measure your bags to ensure they meet linear dimension limits.
Consider a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: If you fly Southwest frequently, the credit card can quickly pay for itself with the free checked bag benefit, especially if you're traveling with family or friends.
Aim for A-List or A-List Preferred Status: For very frequent flyers, achieving elite status will grant you free checked bags.
Travel with a Companion who has Status/Credit Card: If you're traveling on the same reservation as an A-List, A-List Preferred, or Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, you might benefit from their free bag allowance.
Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous bags, especially if traveling for an extended period, consider using a luggage shipping service. Sometimes, this can be more cost-effective than airline excess baggage fees.
Wear Your Heaviest Items: Layer up your heaviest clothes, or wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane to reduce suitcase weight.
Consolidate with Travel Companions: If you're traveling with others and some have free bag allowances, strategically distribute items among your bags.
By understanding Southwest's updated baggage policies and implementing these tips, you can navigate your next trip with confidence and avoid unexpected costs. Happy travels!
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to calculate the linear dimensions of my checked bag?
To calculate the linear dimensions, simply add the length, width, and height of your bag (L + W + H). For example, a bag that is 20 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 10 inches high would have linear dimensions of 45 inches (20+15+10 = 45).
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for checked bags at the airport directly with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter or by using their self-tagging kiosks where available. Southwest does not currently offer an option to pre-pay for checked bags online.
How to avoid checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines if I don't have elite status or a credit card?
The best way to avoid checked bag fees if you don't have elite status or a qualifying credit card is to pack only a carry-on bag and a personal item, as these are still free for all passengers.
How to confirm if my specific reservation still qualifies for free bags?
You should check your booking confirmation or log in to your Southwest Airlines account to review the baggage policy explicitly stated for your reservation. If in doubt, contact Southwest Airlines customer service directly.
How to check the weight and size of my bag before arriving at the airport?
You can purchase a small, portable luggage scale to weigh your bags at home. Use a measuring tape to confirm the length, width, and height of your bag to ensure it meets the linear dimension requirements.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
How to travel with musical instruments on Southwest Airlines?
Most musical instruments can be checked as standard baggage as long as they meet the weight and size limits. If they exceed these limits, overweight or oversized baggage fees will apply. Smaller instruments that fit within carry-on dimensions may be brought into the cabin.
How to travel with sports equipment like golf clubs or skis on Southwest Airlines?
Sports equipment like golf clubs and skis generally count as one piece of checked baggage. Standard weight and size limits apply, and if exceeded, the usual overweight or oversized baggage fees will be charged. Specific rules may apply to certain types of equipment, so check Southwest's website.
How to get a refund for baggage fees if my flight is canceled or changed by Southwest?
If Southwest Airlines cancels your flight or makes a significant schedule change that you do not accept, and you choose not to travel, you should be entitled to a refund for any baggage fees paid. Contact customer service for assistance.
How to determine if my pet carrier counts as my personal item or carry-on?
On Southwest Airlines, if you are traveling with a pet in the cabin, the pet carrier is counted as either your personal item or your one carry-on bag. It does not count as an additional free item.
How to minimize baggage fees for a family traveling together on Southwest?
If members of your family have A-List status, A-List Preferred status, or are a Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, their free bag allowance can extend to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation. Strategically consolidate your family's belongings to maximize these free allowances.
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