You're planning a trip with Southwest Airlines, and you're wondering about baggage fees? You've come to the right place! It's crucial to be informed, especially since Southwest, famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, has made some significant changes recently. Let's break down everything you need to know, step by step.
Navigating Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees: Your Comprehensive Guide
For years, Southwest Airlines stood apart from most major U.S. carriers by offering two free checked bags to all passengers. That era, for most travelers, has now ended. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest introduced new baggage fees for many of its fare types. Understanding these changes is key to avoiding unexpected costs and ensuring a smooth travel experience.
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| How Much Is Southwest Airlines Charging For Bags Now |
Step 1: Engage with Your Fare Type - Are You Affected?
Before you even think about packing, the very first thing you need to do is identify your Southwest fare type. This is the most critical step in determining how much you'll pay for your bags. Southwest has introduced a new fare structure, and the baggage allowance varies significantly based on what you've booked.
Did you book your flight (or voluntarily change it) on or after May 28, 2025? If yes, keep reading, as these new fees likely apply to you.
Did you book your flight on or before May 27, 2025? If so, regardless of your travel date, Southwest's previous "Bags Fly Free" policy for your first two checked bags should still apply to that specific reservation (weight and size limits still apply, of course!). However, any voluntary changes made on or after May 28, 2025, will subject your reservation to the new fee structure.
Here's a breakdown of the new baggage policy by fare type:
Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: For reservations booked and ticketed/changed on or after May 28, 2025, these fares now incur checked baggage fees.
First checked bag: $35
Second checked bag: $45
Business Select® Fares: Good news! If you've booked a Business Select fare, you still receive two free checked bags. This premium fare continues to offer this significant perk.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: Another win for elite status holders! A-List Preferred members receive their first and second checked bags for free. This benefit also extends to up to eight (8) additional passengers on the same reservation!
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members receive their first checked bag for free. The second checked bag for A-List members (and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation) will cost $35.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you're a primary Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember and your Rapid Rewards account number is included in the reservation, you are eligible to receive your first standard checked bag free. This benefit applies to you and up to eight (8) additional passengers on the same reservation. For the second bag, the standard $45 fee applies.
Step 2: Understand Standard Baggage Dimensions and Weight Limits
Regardless of your fare type or status, standard size and weight limits apply to all checked bags. Exceeding these limits will result in additional fees.
Standard Checked Bag Requirements:
Weight Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Size Limit: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height, including wheels and handles) of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157 cm).
Pro Tip: Always measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport! A small bathroom scale can save you a lot of hassle and money.
Step 3: Factor in Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
This is where costs can really add up if you're not careful. Southwest has clear surcharges for bags that exceed the standard limits.
Overweight Baggage Fees:
51 to 70 pounds (24 to 32 kg): $100 (in addition to any standard checked bag fee that applies)
71 to 100 pounds (33 to 45 kg): $200 (in addition to any standard checked bag fee that applies)
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage. They may need to be shipped as cargo, which is a different process entirely.
Oversized Baggage Fees:
63 to 80 inches (160 to 203 cm) in linear dimensions: $200 (in addition to any standard checked bag fee that applies)
Bags exceeding 80 inches (203 cm) in linear dimensions will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, only one $200 charge applies, provided it doesn't exceed 100 lbs in weight. However, if it's overweight (51-70 lbs) and oversized, it seems the combined fee can be higher. Always confirm the exact calculation with Southwest if your bag falls into both categories.
Step 4: Consider Additional Checked Bags
If you need to check more than two bags, additional fees apply.
Third (and subsequent) checked bags: $150 per bag (in addition to any applicable overweight/oversized fees).
A word of caution: While Southwest generally allows up to 10 checked bags per passenger, it's wise to consider shipping extremely large or numerous items separately if costs become prohibitive.
Step 5: Special Items and Sports Equipment
Southwest has specific policies for various special items and sports equipment. Many items, such as golf bags or ski equipment, can often be substituted for one checked bag. However, they must still adhere to the standard weight and size limits.
Standard Checked Bag Fees Apply: For most sports equipment, standard checked bag fees (and applicable overweight/oversized charges) will apply.
Specific Items with Special Handling/Fees: Some larger or more sensitive items may have unique fees or requirements. Always check Southwest's official "Optional Travel Charges" page for specifics on items like bicycles, surfboards, or large musical instruments. For instance, a surfboard bag can count as one checked bag when traveling between the Hawaiian islands, potentially waiving oversized fees in that specific scenario.
Step 6: Understanding Carry-On and Personal Items
Good news here! Southwest Airlines still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free for all passengers. Taking advantage of this allowance is a great way to avoid checked bag fees.
QuickTip: Pause at transitions — they signal new ideas.
Carry-On Bag Requirements:
Size Limit: Must not exceed 24" (L) + 16" (W) + 10" (H), including wheels and handles.
Stowage: 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 unassisted.
Personal Item Requirements:
Size Limit: Must fit under the seat in front of you. Common examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack. Southwest generally suggests dimensions like 16.25" x 13.5" x 8".
Stowage: Must fit under the seat in front of you.
Weight Limit: There is no specified weight restriction.
Items that typically do not count against your carry-on/personal item limit: Outer garments, food for consumption during the flight (in disposable packaging), assistive devices, umbrellas/walking canes, and a child restraint for a ticketed child or when complimentary space is available.
Step 7: How to Potentially Avoid or Minimize Bag Fees
While the "Bags Fly Free" era is largely over for general fares, there are still strategies to reduce or avoid baggage costs:
Leverage your Rapid Rewards Status or Credit Card: As outlined in Step 1, A-List Preferred, A-List, and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers still enjoy free checked bag benefits. If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, pursuing elite status or getting a co-branded credit card could be worthwhile.
Book Business Select Fares: If two free checked bags are crucial for your trip and the cost difference isn't too significant, opting for a Business Select fare ensures this perk.
Pack Smart & Light: The most straightforward way to avoid fees is to only bring a carry-on and a personal item.
Utilize Carry-On Space Efficiently: Maximize the space in your free carry-on and personal item. Compression cubes can be a game-changer!
Wear Bulky Items: If you have a heavy coat or boots, wear them on the plane rather than packing them.
Ship Your Luggage: For very large or numerous items, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than paying multiple airline baggage fees, especially for international travel or extended stays.
Active Duty Military Exemption: Active-duty military personnel with a current, valid military ID are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided bags don't exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches. This is a significant benefit!
Step 8: Payment and Check-In Procedures
Unlike some airlines, Southwest Airlines does not currently allow you to prepay for luggage online. Checked bag fees must be paid for at the airport when you check your bags.
You can check your bags at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter or, where available, at self-tagging kiosks.
Ensure you receive a claim check for each bag and verify the destination matches your final arrival city.
Late Check-In: Be mindful of check-in times. Bags checked within 45 minutes of scheduled departure for domestic flights (or 60-75 minutes for international flights, depending on the origin) are considered "Late Check," and while Southwest will try to get them on your flight, they won't assume delivery charges if your bag doesn't arrive with you.
FAQs: How to Navigate Southwest Baggage Policies
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines baggage, starting with 'How to':
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
How to calculate the total size of my checked bag?
To calculate the total size (linear dimensions), measure the length, width, and height of your bag, and then add those three numbers together. For example, if your bag is 26 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 21 inches high, its total linear dimension is inches.
How to avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest?
You can avoid paying for checked bags by being a Business Select fare holder, a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member (two free bags), an A-List member (one free bag), or a Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (one free bag). Otherwise, the best way is to only bring a carry-on and a personal item, both of which are still free for all passengers.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards Credit Card offers free checked bags?
Most Southwest co-branded credit cards issued by Chase offer the benefit of one free checked bag for the primary cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation. Always check your specific card's benefits guide or call the card issuer to confirm.
How to pack efficiently to maximize my carry-on allowance?
Roll your clothes tightly, use packing cubes to compress items, wear your bulkiest shoes, and utilize the space within your personal item effectively (e.g., stuff small items into shoes). Consider a lightweight carry-on bag to maximize the weight allowance you can carry.
How to check sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment (like skis, golf clubs, or fishing rods) can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, provided they meet the weight and size limits. However, oversized or overweight fees will apply if they exceed the standard dimensions or weight. Always refer to Southwest's specific guidelines for your particular item.
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
How to handle an overweight or oversized bag at the airport?
If your bag is overweight or oversized, you will be subject to the additional fees ($100 for 51-70 lbs, $200 for 71-100 lbs or 63-80 linear inches). These fees are paid at the ticket counter when you check your bag. You may also have the option to lighten your bag by transferring items to a carry-on or another bag, or ship the excess items separately.
How to know if my flight qualifies for the old "Bags Fly Free" policy?
The "Bags Fly Free" policy (two free checked bags) applies to reservations booked and ticketed on or before May 27, 2025, regardless of the travel date. If you voluntarily changed your reservation on or after May 28, 2025, the new fees will apply.
How to get a refund for baggage fees if my bag is lost or damaged?
Southwest Airlines' liability for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage is limited. If your bag is lost, damaged, or delayed, you must report it in person within four hours of your arrival at the destination. Southwest will then guide you through their claims process, which may include reimbursement for necessary items or compensation for the bag's value, depending on the circumstances.
How to confirm the exact baggage policy for an international flight with Southwest?
While Southwest generally has consistent policies, for international travel, it's always best to double-check their official website or contact their customer service, especially concerning any destination-specific embargoes or differing check-in times (e.g., 60 minutes prior for most international, 75 minutes for Aruba). If your itinerary involves a partner airline, their baggage policies may also apply.
How to check bags if I have connecting flights on Southwest?
For connecting flights on Southwest, your baggage will typically be checked through to your final destination, as long as it's on a single reservation. However, if you are connecting from an international flight into the U.S., you will need to claim your luggage, clear customs, and then re-check your bags with a Southwest Customer Service Agent before proceeding to your connecting flight.
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