You've packed your bags, confirmed your flight, and you're ready for your Southwest Airlines adventure! But wait... did you bring too much? Southwest is famous for its generous baggage policy, but even they have limits. And when you hit that third bag, things can get a little pricey. Let's break down exactly what that third bag will cost you on Southwest Airlines.
Understanding Southwest's Baggage Philosophy (and Recent Changes!)
Southwest Airlines has long been lauded for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing two free checked bags per passenger. However, it's crucial to note that as of May 28, 2025, there have been significant changes to their baggage fee structure for most fare classes. While the initial two bags were historically free for everyone, now specific fare types (like Business Select and A-List Preferred) retain this benefit, while others (like Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime) will incur fees for even the first and second checked bags. This makes understanding the cost of a third bag even more important!
This guide will focus on the cost of that third bag, assuming you've already accounted for any potential fees on your first and second bags based on your fare class.
The Cost of a Third Bag on Southwest Airlines: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Are you sure you need that third bag?
Before we dive into the numbers, seriously consider if you truly need that third checked bag. Could you consolidate? Could you ship some items ahead of time? Sometimes the cost of an extra bag can outweigh the convenience. Southwest's fees for additional bags can add up quickly, so a little planning beforehand could save you a significant amount of money. Think about what's in that bag – are they absolute essentials, or could some items be left behind or even shipped via a separate service like My Baggage (as suggested in some search results)?
Step 2: Understanding the Base Fee for a Third Bag
The good news is, the fee structure for a third (and subsequent) checked bag on Southwest Airlines is straightforward.
The Base Fee: For your third checked bag, and any additional bags beyond that (up to a maximum of 10 bags total per passenger), Southwest Airlines charges a flat fee of $75 USD per bag, each way.
This means if you're flying round trip and checking a third bag both ways, you're looking at $150 just for that one extra bag.
Step 3: Checking for Overweight or Oversized Surcharges
The $75 fee is just the starting point. You'll also need to consider if your third bag (or any of your checked bags) falls into the overweight or oversized categories. These surcharges are in addition to the standard baggage fees.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage
Standard Weight Limit: Each checked bag on Southwest Airlines has a standard weight limit of 50 pounds (23 kg).
Overweight Surcharge: If your third bag (or any other checked bag) weighs between 51 and 100 pounds (23 kg to 45 kg), you will incur an additional overweight fee of $75 USD per bag.
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage
Standard Size Limit: The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for a standard checked bag on Southwest Airlines are 62 inches (157 cm). This includes handles and wheels.
Oversized Surcharge: If your third bag (or any other checked bag) measures between 63 and 80 linear inches (160 cm to 203 cm), you will incur an additional oversized fee of $75 USD per bag.
Bags greater than 80 linear inches (203 cm) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Step 4: Calculating Your Total Cost
Let's put it all together with some examples.
Scenario 1: Third bag, standard size and weight.
Cost: $75 (for the third bag) = $75
Scenario 2: Third bag, standard size, but overweight.
Cost: $75 (for the third bag) + $75 (overweight fee) = $150
Scenario 3: Third bag, oversized, but standard weight.
Cost: $75 (for the third bag) + $75 (oversized fee) = $150
Scenario 4: Third bag, both overweight AND oversized.
Cost: $75 (for the third bag) + $75 (overweight fee) + $75 (oversized fee) = $225
Remember these are per bag, per way. So, for a round trip with an overweight and oversized third bag, the total could easily be $450!
Step 5: Special Circumstances and Waivers
While the general rules apply, there are a few exceptions and situations where baggage fees might be waived or different.
Sub-heading: Military Personnel
This is a big one for our active-duty military members! Southwest offers a generous military exception. Active-duty military personnel (with valid military ID) and their authorized dependents are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges. However, each bag still cannot exceed 100 pounds in weight or 80 inches in linear dimensions. This is a fantastic benefit for those serving our country.
Sub-heading: Specific Fare Classes and Loyalty Tiers (Post-May 28, 2025)
As mentioned, Southwest's baggage policy has changed.
Business Select and A-List Preferred members still receive two free checked bags. While this doesn't directly give you a free third bag, it means you're starting from a better baseline for your initial two bags, making the $75 fee for the third bag the only additional cost for you (assuming it's not overweight/oversized).
A-List members and Rapid Rewards credit card holders generally receive one free checked bag. Again, this impacts your first two bags, but the third bag would still incur the $75 fee.
Step 6: When and How to Pay
Southwest Airlines does not allow you to prepay for checked baggage online. All applicable baggage fees, including those for a third bag and any overweight/oversized charges, must be paid at the airport.
At the Kiosk: Many airports offer self-tagging kiosks where you can tag your bags and pay any applicable fees with a credit card.
At the Ticket Counter: You can also check your bags and pay fees with a Southwest Agent at the airport ticket counter.
Step 7: Planning for Your Next Trip
Now that you're well-versed in Southwest's third-bag costs, you can plan your next trip more effectively. Consider:
Packing Strategically: Can you pack lighter? Are there items you can purchase at your destination?
Shipping Alternatives: For very heavy or bulky items, look into luggage shipping services. While there's a cost, it might be comparable to or even less than airline fees, and it offers the convenience of not lugging it through the airport.
Southwest Credit Cards: If you fly Southwest frequently, consider their co-branded credit cards. Some offer benefits like free checked bags (though typically for the first one or two, not specifically the third), which can still contribute to overall savings.
Fare Class Choice: When booking, factor in the new baggage fee structure. Sometimes, a slightly higher fare class might end up being cheaper overall if it includes free checked bags that you would otherwise pay for.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to avoid paying for a third bag on Southwest Airlines?
You can avoid paying for a third bag by packing lighter, consolidating items into your first two bags (which may still incur fees depending on your fare class), or by shipping excess luggage via a dedicated luggage shipping service. Active-duty military personnel are generally exempt from excess baggage fees.
How to measure and weigh my bags before arriving at the airport?
Use a luggage scale to weigh your bags and a tape measure to determine the length, width, and height. Remember to include wheels and handles in your measurements. Many home scales can approximate luggage weight if you weigh yourself holding the bag and then subtract your own weight.
How to know if my fare class includes free checked bags on Southwest?
For reservations booked on or after May 28, 2025, only Business Select and A-List Preferred fare classes include two free checked bags. A-List members and Rapid Rewards credit card holders may receive one free checked bag. For other fare classes, baggage fees apply to the first and second checked bags as well. Always check your specific fare details when booking.
How to pay for a third bag on Southwest Airlines?
You cannot prepay for checked baggage online with Southwest. You will need to pay for your third bag (and any other checked bags or applicable fees) at the airport, either at a self-tagging kiosk or with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
How to find out the maximum number of bags I can check on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines generally allows a maximum of 10 checked bags per passenger. Beyond two bags, each additional bag will incur the standard third-bag fee, plus any applicable overweight or oversized charges.
How to understand Southwest's baggage embargoes?
Baggage embargoes are temporary restrictions on oversized, overweight, or extra checked bags for specific routes or during certain periods, often due to high travel volume or operational limitations. You should check the Southwest Airlines website or contact them directly if you are traveling to or from an international destination during peak seasons to see if any embargoes are in place.
How to check my bag's dimensions for oversized fees?
Add the length, width, and height of your bag (including handles and wheels). If the sum is greater than 62 linear inches but not more than 80 linear inches, it will be considered oversized and incur an additional fee.
How to handle sports equipment as a third bag on Southwest?
Many standard sports equipment items can be checked as one of your free checked bags if they meet the standard size and weight limits. However, if the sports equipment counts as a third bag, or if it exceeds the standard weight (50 lbs) or size (62 linear inches), it will be subject to the same $75 additional bag fee, plus any applicable overweight/oversized surcharges. Some very large items might have specific fees.
How to track my checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines offers digital bag tracking. You can usually track your bags through their mobile app or on their website once they have been checked in.
How to contact Southwest Airlines for specific baggage questions?
You can contact Southwest Airlines directly through their customer service phone number (1-800-I-FLY-SWA) or by visiting their official website's help center or "Contact Us" page for the most up-to-date and specific information regarding your travel plans.
