Have you ever packed for a trip, convinced your bag was just right, only to arrive at the airport and see that dreaded "OVERWEIGHT" tag appear on the scale? It's a moment that can send a shiver down any traveler's spine, especially when flying with an airline like Southwest, which has recently updated its baggage policies.
While Southwest Airlines was once lauded for its "Bags Fly Free" policy for all, that era has largely come to an end as of May 28, 2025. Now, understanding how much overweight bags cost is more crucial than ever. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' overweight bag fees, ensuring your next trip is as smooth and cost-effective as possible.
Step 1: Understand the New Baggage Landscape on Southwest Airlines
Before we dive into the specifics of overweight bags, it's absolutely essential to grasp the fundamental changes Southwest has implemented regarding checked baggage. If you booked your flight or voluntarily changed it on or after May 28, 2025, these new rules apply to you.
1.1 The End of "Bags Fly Free" for Most
Gone are the days when every Southwest passenger could check two bags for free. This major shift brings Southwest in line with most other major U.S. carriers.
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Standard Fares (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime): For most passengers on these fares, checked baggage fees now apply.
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First checked bag: Roughly $35
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Second checked bag: Roughly $45
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Business Select and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: These fortunate travelers still enjoy two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members and Southwest Credit Card Holders: You're generally entitled to one free checked bag.
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Active-duty Military Personnel: Good news! If you're active-duty military with a valid ID, you're exempt from the standard two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided your bags don't exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
1.2 Standard Checked Bag Dimensions and Weight
Regardless of whether you get free bags or pay for them, the standard limits remain:
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Maximum Weight: Your checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
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Maximum Size: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of your bag must not exceed 62 inches (157 cm). This includes wheels and handles.
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| How Much Are Overweight Bags On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Identifying an Overweight Bag
So, you've packed your suitcase to the brim, and it feels a little heavier than usual. How does Southwest define an "overweight" bag, and what are the crucial thresholds?
2.1 The Overweight Tiers
Southwest Airlines categorizes overweight bags into specific weight ranges, each with its own associated fee. These fees are in addition to any standard checked bag fees that may apply to your fare.
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Tier 1: 51-70 pounds (23.1-31.8 kg)
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This is the first threshold for overweight baggage. If your bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds, you'll incur an overweight fee.
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Tier 2: 71-100 pounds (32.2-45.4 kg)
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If your bag tips the scales even further, into the 71-100 pound range, a higher overweight fee will apply.
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Important Note: Any item weighing more than 100 pounds (45.4 kg) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo. This is a critical limit to keep in mind, especially for specialized equipment.
Step 3: Calculating the Cost: How Much Are Overweight Bags?
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
Now for the numbers! Understanding the specific fees is key to avoiding sticker shock at the airport.
3.1 Overweight Bag Fees (as of May 28, 2025, for flights booked/changed on or after this date):
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For bags weighing 51-70 pounds (23.1-31.8 kg): The charge is approximately $100 per bag.
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For bags weighing 71-100 pounds (32.2-45.4 kg): The charge is approximately $200 per bag.
3.2 Combining Fees: Overweight AND Oversized?
What if your bag is both too heavy and too big?
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Southwest Airlines generally states that if a piece of baggage is both oversized (over 62 linear inches, up to 80 inches) and overweight (within the acceptable weight limits of 51-100 lbs), only one oversized or overweight charge applies, whichever is higher.
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For example, if your bag is 65 linear inches and weighs 60 pounds, you'd pay the oversized fee (approximately $200), not both the oversized and overweight fees separately. However, it's crucial to confirm the most up-to-date policy directly with Southwest, as airline policies can have nuances.
Step 4: Strategies to Avoid Overweight Bag Fees
No one wants to pay extra! Here are some actionable steps to ensure your luggage stays within the limits.
4.1 Pack Smart and Light
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Prioritize Essentials: Before you even begin packing, think about what you truly need. Lay everything out and ruthlessly eliminate non-essentials.
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Roll, Don't Fold: Rolling your clothes can save significant space and potentially reduce bulk, making it easier to distribute weight evenly.
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Wear Bulky Items: If you're bringing a heavy coat, boots, or multiple layers, wear them on the plane instead of packing them.
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Travel-Sized Toiletries: Opt for travel-sized versions of liquids and gels, or transfer them to smaller reusable containers.
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Consider a Digital Scale: A small, portable luggage scale is an invaluable investment. Weigh your bag at home before you leave for the airport. This gives you time to adjust and redistribute items.
4.2 Utilize Your Carry-On and Personal Item Allowance
Remember that Southwest allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. This is your secret weapon against overweight checked bags!
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Carry-on Bag: Max dimensions are typically 24" x 16" x 10" (including handles and wheels). There's generally no weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself. Use this for heavier items like books, electronics, or shoes.
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Personal Item: This should fit under the seat in front of you (e.g., a purse, laptop bag, small backpack). Max dimensions are usually 16.25" x 13.5" x 8.5".
4.3 Distribute Weight Across Multiple Bags
If you're traveling with a companion and have two checked bags, try to balance the weight between them. Don't put all your heavy items in one bag if the other is half empty.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
4.4 Consider Shipping Ahead (For Extremely Heavy or Bulky Items)
For exceptionally heavy or numerous items (e.g., moving, bringing specialized equipment), shipping them via a dedicated luggage shipping service or even Southwest Cargo (if you qualify as a Known Shipper) might be more cost-effective than paying multiple overweight and excess baggage fees.
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Step 5: What to Do if Your Bag is Overweight at the Airport
Despite your best efforts, sometimes you find yourself at the check-in counter with an overweight bag. Don't panic!
5.1 Remain Calm and Polite
Airport agents deal with this frequently. A calm and polite demeanor can make the situation much smoother.
5.2 Be Prepared to Repack (if possible)
If you have a carry-on bag with space, or even a personal item that isn't full, you might be able to shift some heavier items to these bags. Be ready to open your suitcase and move things around. Having a small, foldable extra bag in your carry-on can be a lifesaver for this purpose.
5.3 Understand the Fee and Payment Options
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The agent will inform you of the overweight fee.
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You'll typically pay this fee at the check-in counter using a credit card. Southwest does not allow pre-payment for checked baggage fees for most standard fares.
5.4 Ask About Alternatives (Last Resort)
In rare cases, if your bag is only slightly over the limit and space permits, an agent might offer a small reprieve or suggest alternative solutions. However, this is at their discretion and not something to count on. Always be prepared to pay the fee or redistribute items.
Step 6: Reviewing Your Fare Type and Rapid Rewards Status
Tip: Take notes for easier recall later.
As mentioned, your Southwest fare type and Rapid Rewards status significantly impact your baggage allowance, including potential waivers for checked bag fees.
6.1 Fare Types and Their Baggage Benefits
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Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, Anytime: These fares generally incur checked baggage fees.
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Business Select® / Choice Extra: Two free checked bags (up to 50 lbs and 62 linear inches each).
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Choice Preferred (formerly Anytime): May include certain baggage benefits, always check the specifics of your booking.
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Choice (formerly Wanna Get Away Plus®): Generally subject to checked bag fees.
6.2 Rapid Rewards Status and Co-branded Credit Cards
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A-List Preferred: Two free checked bags.
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A-List: One free checked bag.
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Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: Typically receive one free checked bag. If you're the primary cardholder and your Rapid Rewards account number is linked to your reservation, this benefit usually applies.
Always verify your specific benefits when booking or reviewing your itinerary, as policies can be updated.
FAQs: How to Navigate Overweight Bags on Southwest Airlines
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about overweight bags on Southwest, with quick answers to help you out:
How to check my bag's weight before I go to the airport?
You can use a portable luggage scale at home. These are inexpensive and can save you a lot of hassle at the airport.
How to avoid overweight bag fees on Southwest?
Pack lightly, utilize your carry-on and personal item allowance for heavier items, and consider wearing your bulkiest clothing on the plane.
How to pay for an overweight bag on Southwest?
Overweight bag fees are typically paid at the Southwest Airlines check-in counter at the airport using a credit card.
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
How to know if my Southwest bag is oversized or overweight?
Measure your bag's length, width, and height (add them up for linear inches) and weigh it with a luggage scale. Compare these to Southwest's limits of 62 linear inches and 50 pounds for standard bags.
How to handle an overweight bag at the Southwest check-in counter?
Be prepared to open your bag and redistribute items to your carry-on or personal item if possible, or be ready to pay the applicable overweight fee.
How to get free checked bags on Southwest now?
Book a Business Select fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, or hold a Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards co-branded credit card (for one free bag).
How to check multiple bags on Southwest?
You can check up to 20 pieces of baggage per flight. The first and second bags will incur standard fees (for most fares), and additional bags (3rd+) will have an excess baggage fee in addition to any overweight or oversized charges.
How to check special items like sports equipment on Southwest?
Sports equipment often counts as one of your checked bags. If it exceeds standard weight or size limits, overweight or oversized fees will apply. Check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page for specific equipment details.
How to calculate linear inches for my bag?
Measure the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles, and add these three measurements together. This sum is your linear inches.
How to find the most current Southwest baggage policy?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website's "Checked Bag Policy" or "Optional Travel Charges" pages for the most up-to-date and definitive information.
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