Understanding Southwest Airlines Baggage Charges: Your Essential Guide for 2025 and Beyond
Hey there, fellow traveler! Are you planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about those pesky baggage fees? You're in the right place! Southwest's "Bags Fly Free" policy, once a hallmark of the airline, underwent a significant change on May 28, 2025. This means that for most travelers, checked bags are no longer complimentary. But don't worry, we're going to break down everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines baggage charges now, with a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate these changes like a pro.
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| How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge For Bags Now |
Step 1: Acknowledge the Shift – The "Bags Fly Free" Era Has Evolved
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room. If you've flown Southwest before and enjoyed the freedom of two free checked bags, know that the policy has changed for most fares booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. This is a major shift, aligning Southwest more closely with other major U.S. carriers in terms of baggage fees. So, while the spirit of "Transfarency" remains, the baggage landscape has definitely evolved.
Step 2: Deciphering the Standard Checked Bag Fees
For the majority of passengers, understanding the new standard fees is crucial.
Sub-heading: The Basic Breakdown
As of May 28, 2025, for most fares (including Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares), you can expect to pay the following for checked bags:
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First Checked Bag: $35
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Second Checked Bag: $45
These fees are per bag, per one-way flight. So, if you're flying round trip and checking two bags each way, the costs can add up quickly.
Sub-heading: The "More Than Two" Rule
Need to check more than two bags? Be prepared for a steeper charge.
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Third Checked Bag and Beyond: $150 per bag
This fee applies to each additional bag beyond the first two.
Step 3: Understanding Size and Weight Limits – Avoid Surprises!
Even with the new fees, standard size and weight limits still apply. Exceeding these limits will result in additional charges.
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
Sub-heading: Standard Dimensions and Weight
For each checked bag, the following limits are in place:
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Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (23 kg)
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Maximum Size: 62 inches (length + width + height) – This includes wheels and handles!
It's always a good idea to weigh and measure your bags before heading to the airport. Many airlines provide helpful tools or guides on their websites, or you can use a luggage scale at home.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your bag tips the scales over 50 pounds, you'll incur an overweight fee:
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51 to 70 pounds: $150 per bag (in addition to the standard checked bag fee)
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71 to 100 pounds: $200 per bag (in addition to the standard checked bag fee)
Bags weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo if you are a Known Shipper.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag is larger than the 62-inch linear dimension limit, you'll face an oversized fee:
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63 to 80 inches: $200 per bag (in addition to the standard checked bag fee)
Bags larger than 80 inches will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Important Note: If a bag is both oversized AND overweight, you will typically only be charged one fee – the higher of the two applicable fees – as long as it does not exceed 100 lbs or 80 inches. Always confirm with Southwest directly for the most accurate information on combined fees.
Step 4: Unlocking Baggage Fee Waivers – Who Still Flies Free?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy has changed for many, certain travelers can still enjoy complimentary checked bags. This is where your fare type, loyalty status, or credit card can make a big difference.
Sub-heading: Fare Class Perks
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Business Select® Fare: If you book a Business Select fare, you will still receive two free checked bags. This is Southwest's highest fare class, offering various perks including priority boarding and free inflight WiFi.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards A-List and A-List Preferred Status
Southwest's frequent flyer program, Rapid Rewards, offers valuable baggage benefits to its elite members:
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
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A-List Members: Enjoy one free checked bag.
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A-List Preferred Members: Receive two free checked bags.
These benefits extend to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation as the A-List or A-List Preferred member.
Sub-heading: Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders
Having a Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card can also save you money on baggage fees:
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Southwest Credit Cardholders: Many Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards offer one free checked bag as a benefit. Be sure to check the specific terms and conditions of your card. This benefit often extends to companions on the same reservation as well.
Sub-heading: Active Duty Military Personnel
Southwest Airlines continues to honor active-duty military members:
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Active-duty military customers with a valid military ID: Are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided that none of the pieces of baggage exceeds 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in siz
Step 5: Carry-on and Personal Items – Still Free!
Good news here! Southwest Airlines still allows you to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item for free.
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Sub-heading: Carry-on Bag Guidelines
Your carry-on bag is designed to fit in the overhead bin.
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Size Limits: 24” (L) x 16” (W) x 10” (H) (including wheels and handles).
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Weight Limit: There is no stated weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
Sub-heading: Personal Item Guidelines
Your personal item should fit under the seat in front of you.
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Examples: Purse, briefcase, laptop computer case, small backpack, pillow, blanket, small camera.
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Size Limits: Approximately 16.25” (L) x 13.5” (W) x 8” (H).
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Weight Limit: There is no stated weight limit for personal items.
Important: If you're traveling with a pet, the pet carrier counts as either your personal item or carry-on.
Step 6: Special Items and Sports Equipment
Traveling with unique items like sports equipment or musical instruments? Southwest has specific policies and fees for these.
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
Sub-heading: General Rule
Most sports equipment and special items will be accepted as checked baggage and count towards your baggage allowance. However, oversize and overweight fees may apply depending on the item's dimensions and weight.
Sub-heading: Common Examples and Considerations
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Golf Bags: A golf bag can often replace one checked bag, and oversized fees may be waived, though overweight fees could still apply.
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Ski/Snowboard Equipment: Ski equipment (skis/snowboard, poles, and boots) can often be split into two bags but still count as one item towards your baggage allowance. Again, weight limits are key.
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Musical Instruments: Smaller instruments that fit within carry-on dimensions can be taken on board. Larger instruments may need to be checked and could be subject to oversized or overweight fees. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your instrument.
Always consult the Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service for detailed information on specific special items, as policies and fees can vary.
Step 7: Tips to Minimize or Avoid Baggage Fees
Now that you know the charges, here are some smart strategies to keep your travel costs down:
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Pack Light! This is the most obvious and effective way. Can you fit everything into a carry-on and personal item?
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Leverage Elite Status: If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, aiming for A-List or A-List Preferred status can save you significant money on baggage.
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Get a Southwest Credit Card: The baggage benefits offered by their co-branded credit cards can easily offset the annual fee, especially if you check bags regularly.
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Consider Business Select Fares: If you were already considering a higher fare class for other perks, the included two free checked bags might make Business Select a more attractive option.
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Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous bags, especially for long trips, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective and convenient than paying airline fees.
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Consolidate Bags: If traveling with family or friends, try to consolidate items into fewer bags that meet the weight and size limits to avoid excess bag fees.
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of Southwest's updated baggage policy, you can better plan your travel budget and avoid any unwelcome surprises at the airport. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to determine if my bag is oversized for Southwest Airlines?
To determine if your bag is oversized, measure its length, width, and height, and add those three dimensions together. If the total is greater than 62 linear inches (including wheels and handles), it's considered oversized and will incur a fee, up to a maximum of 80 inches.
How to check baggage with Southwest Airlines?
You can check baggage at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport or, at select airports, use self-tagging kiosks and then drop off your bag with an employee. Ensure you allow sufficient time before your flight, typically at least 45 minutes for domestic flights and 60-75 minutes for international flights.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
To avoid overweight baggage fees, ensure each checked bag weighs 50 pounds (23 kg) or less. Use a luggage scale to weigh your bags before arriving at the airport, and redistribute items if necessary.
How to utilize my Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List status for free bags?
If you have A-List status, you are entitled to one free checked bag. Simply present your Rapid Rewards number when checking in, and the benefit should automatically apply. For A-List Preferred, you get two free checked bags.
How to add a third checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
You can add a third checked bag when checking in at the airport. Be aware that a fee of $150 will apply for the third bag and each additional bag thereafter, in addition to any overweight or oversized charges.
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment (e.g., golf clubs, skis) is accepted as checked baggage and counts towards your bag allowance. Standard checked bag fees apply, but oversized fees may be waived for certain items, while overweight fees can still be incurred. Always check Southwest's specific sports equipment policy for detailed rules.
How to bring a carry-on and personal item on Southwest Airlines for free?
Southwest Airlines still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Your carry-on must fit in the overhead bin (max 24" x 16" x 10"), and your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you (approx. 16.25" x 13.5" x 8").
How to know if my Southwest fare includes free checked bags?
Only Business Select fares for flights booked on or after May 28, 2025, include two free checked bags. For Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares, checked bag fees now apply unless you have A-List/A-List Preferred status or a qualifying Southwest credit card.
How to get a refund for baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
Baggage fees are generally non-refundable once paid, unless there was an error in charging or your bag was lost by the airline and never recovered. If you believe you were charged incorrectly, contact Southwest Airlines Customer Service.
How to use a Southwest Airlines credit card for free checked bags?
Many Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards offer a benefit of one free checked bag for the primary cardholder and often for companions on the same reservation. To utilize this, ensure your Rapid Rewards number associated with the credit card is linked to your booking, and the fee waiver should apply automatically at check-in.
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