Are you getting ready for an exciting adventure with Southwest Airlines, but feeling a little anxious about how much your luggage can weigh? Don't worry, you're not alone! Knowing the ins and outs of airline baggage policies can be a bit of a maze, but I'm here to guide you through Southwest's rules so you can pack with confidence and avoid any last-minute surprises (and fees!).
Let's dive in and make sure your travel experience is as smooth as possible!
How Much Can My Bag Weigh on Southwest Airlines? A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Southwest's baggage policy is crucial for a stress-free trip. While they are known for their generous checked bag allowance, there are still important weight and size limits to keep in mind for both checked and carry-on luggage.
 |
| How Much Can My Bag Weigh On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understand the Baggage Categories
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of weight limits, let's clarify the different types of bags you can bring on a Southwest flight. This will help you categorize your belongings and plan accordingly.
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
-
1.1 Personal Item:
-
This is typically a small bag that fits under the seat in front of you. Think a purse, a laptop bag, a small backpack, or a briefcase. It's meant to be easily accessible during the flight.
-
-
1.2 Carry-On Bag:
-
This is a larger bag that you bring with you into the cabin and store in the overhead bin. It's designed for items you need during your flight or valuables you don't want to check.
-
-
1.3 Checked Bags:
-
These are the bags that are checked at the airport counter and travel in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Southwest has historically been very generous with its checked bag policy, offering two free checked bags to most passengers. However, as of May 28, 2025, there have been some changes, so it's important to stay updated!
-
Step 2: Decoding the Checked Baggage Weight & Size Limits
This is where the majority of your packing considerations will come into play. Southwest has specific limits for checked bags to ensure safe and efficient handling.
-
2.1 Standard Weight Limit:
-
For most passengers, each checked bag on Southwest Airlines has a standard weight limit of 50 pounds (22.7 kg). This is a crucial number to remember. Anything over this will likely incur an overweight fee.
-
-
2.2 Standard Size Limit (Linear Inches):
-
In addition to weight, there's a size restriction. Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). To calculate this, simply add the length, width, and height of your bag, including handles and wheels. If your bag is larger than this, it will be considered oversized and subject to additional fees.
-
-
2.3 The "Two Free Checked Bags" Rule (with recent updates):
-
Historically, Southwest was lauded for offering two free checked bags to all passengers. As of May 28, 2025, this policy has changed for many.
-
Business Select and A-List Preferred members: Still get two free checked bags.
-
A-List members and Rapid Rewards credit card holders: Generally receive one free bag or a bag credit.
-
All other passengers: Checked bags are no longer free and will incur a fee. It's vital to check your specific fare type and Rapid Rewards status to confirm your allowance.
-
-
Step 3: Navigating Carry-On and Personal Item Rules
Even though there aren't strict weight limits for carry-on and personal items, there are important size restrictions that ensure they fit safely in the cabin.
-
3.1 Carry-On Bag Dimensions:
-
Your carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and should not exceed 24" x 16" x 10" (length x width x height), including wheels and handles. While there isn't a stated weight limit, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
-
-
3.2 Personal Item Dimensions:
-
Your personal item needs to fit under the seat in front of you. Its dimensions should not exceed 16.25" x 13.5" x 8". Again, there's no weight limit, but it must be able to slide under the seat without obstructing your space.
-
-
3.3 Items Not Counted Against Your Limit:
-
Southwest also allows certain items in addition to your carry-on and personal item. These typically include:
-
Outer garments (coats, jackets)
-
Food for consumption during the flight (in disposable packaging)
-
Walking canes or umbrellas
-
Assistive/mobility devices (wheelchairs, crutches)
-
Child safety seats (FAA approved)
-
Breast pumps, milk/formula, and diaper bags when traveling with an infant.
-
-
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
Step 4: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Nobody likes unexpected fees! Knowing these charges in advance can save you a headache (and some money) at the airport.
-
4.1 Overweight Baggage Fees:
-
If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds (22.7 kg) but no more than 100 pounds (45.3 kg), you will be charged an overweight fee. This fee is typically an additional $75 per bag.
-
Important Note: Any item weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo.
-
-
4.2 Oversized Baggage Fees:
-
If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches (L+W+H) but is no more than 80 linear inches (L+W+H), you will be charged an oversized fee. This fee is also typically an additional $75 per bag.
-
Important Note: Bags measuring over 80 linear inches cannot be checked as baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
-
-
4.3 Combined Fees:
-
It's possible for a bag to be both overweight and oversized. In such cases, both the overweight and oversized fees will apply. For example, a bag weighing 60 lbs and measuring 65 linear inches would incur both the $75 overweight fee and the $75 oversized fee.
-
Step 5: Special Circumstances and Exceptions
Southwest offers some exceptions and special allowances for certain passengers and items.
-
5.1 Active-Duty Military Personnel:
-
Southwest is very supportive of active-duty military. If you are an active-duty military passenger with a current, valid military ID, you are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges. However, each piece of baggage must not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
-
-
5.2 Sporting Equipment:
-
Many common sporting items (like golf clubs, skis, or bicycles) can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, but may be subject to oversized or overweight fees if they exceed the standard limits. It's always best to check Southwest's specific policy for your particular sporting equipment on their website or by calling their customer service. Some items, like skis or snowboards, might be allowed as a single item even if they are in two separate bags (e.g., one bag for skis/snowboard and one for boots).
-
-
5.3 Musical Instruments:
-
Small musical instruments can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may need to be checked and could be subject to oversized baggage fees. It's highly recommended to contact Southwest directly if you are traveling with a valuable or large musical instrument to ensure proper handling and to understand any potential additional costs or requirements.
-
-
5.4 Medical Devices:
-
Medical devices and mobility aids are generally allowed as additional items and do not count against your standard baggage allowance. However, it's always wise to inform the airline in advance, especially for larger items, to ensure a smooth boarding process.
-
Step 6: Smart Packing Tips to Avoid Fees
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
Now that you know the rules, here are some practical tips to help you pack efficiently and avoid those pesky extra charges:
-
6.1 Weigh Your Bags at Home:
-
This is the most crucial step! Invest in a portable luggage scale. They are inexpensive and can save you a significant amount of money in overweight fees. Weigh your bags before you leave for the airport.
-
-
6.2 Distribute Weight Evenly:
-
If you have multiple bags, try to distribute the weight evenly so that no single bag exceeds the 50-pound limit.
-
-
6.3 Maximize Your Carry-On and Personal Item:
-
Remember, there are no weight limits for carry-on and personal items (as long as you can lift them). Pack heavier items like books, electronics, or shoes in your carry-on or personal item to reduce the weight of your checked bags.
-
-
6.4 Wear Heavier Items:
-
If you're close to the weight limit, consider wearing your heaviest jacket or bulkiest shoes on the plane. Every pound counts!
-
-
6.5 Consider Shipping:
-
For extremely heavy or oversized items, especially if you're traveling internationally or for an extended period, consider shipping them via a cargo service or a dedicated luggage shipping company. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline overweight/oversize fees.
-
-
6.6 Be Aware of Fare Types:
-
As mentioned, different fare types now have different checked bag allowances. When booking, consider the total cost, including potential baggage fees, to determine the best value for your trip.
-
10 Related FAQ Questions (How To)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Southwest Airlines baggage:
How to check my bag's weight before heading to the airport?
-
Purchase a portable luggage scale, readily available online or at travel stores. They are small, inexpensive, and can save you from overweight fees.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest?
-
Weigh your bags at home using a luggage scale and ensure each checked bag is under 50 pounds. Utilize your carry-on and personal item for heavier items.
How to check if my bag is oversized for Southwest Airlines?
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
-
Measure your bag's length, width, and height (including wheels and handles) and add the three numbers. If the total is over 62 linear inches, it's oversized.
How to know if I get free checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
-
Check your fare type (e.g., Business Select) and your Rapid Rewards status (e.g., A-List Preferred, A-List, Rapid Rewards credit card holder). Most other passengers now incur a fee.
How to pay for overweight or oversized bags on Southwest?
-
Fees for overweight and oversized bags are typically paid at the airport check-in counter when you drop off your luggage.
How to check sporting equipment on Southwest Airlines?
-
Most sporting equipment counts towards your checked baggage allowance. Check Southwest's website for specific details on your item, as some may have special requirements or fees if they exceed standard limits.
How to bring a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
-
Small instruments can often be a carry-on. For larger instruments, contact Southwest customer service in advance to discuss options for checking it or purchasing an extra seat for it.
How to track my checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
-
Southwest provides baggage tracking information through their app or website once your bag has been checked in. You can usually see when it's loaded and unloaded.
How to report a lost or delayed bag on Southwest Airlines?
-
Report lost or delayed bags immediately to the Baggage Service Office at the airport upon arrival. If you've already left, you can create a report online within the specified timeframes (4 hours for domestic, 7-21 days for international depending on issue).
How to get reimbursed for damaged baggage on Southwest Airlines?
-
Report damaged baggage in person to the Baggage Service Office at the airport before leaving. If you've left, you must return with the damaged bag to report it within 24 hours for domestic flights or 7 days for international flights. Southwest's liability is subject to their contract of carriage.
 |
