Navigating Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees: Your Comprehensive Guide to Packing Smart
So, you're planning a trip with Southwest Airlines, and you've heard whispers of changes to their legendary "Bags Fly Free" policy. Is it true? How much will it cost? What about my carry-on? Don't worry, you're in the right place! We're here to demystify Southwest's baggage charges and provide a step-by-step guide to ensure you're well-prepared and avoid any unwelcome surprises at the airport.
Step 1: Let's Get Real About "Bags Fly Free" – Or Do They Still?
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room. Did you know that as of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has significantly altered its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy for most passengers? Yes, it's true. While Southwest was once a unicorn in the domestic airline industry, offering two free checked bags to all passengers, that's largely a thing of the past for new bookings. This change aims to align Southwest more closely with other major U.S. carriers and generate additional revenue.
So, what does this mean for YOU? It depends on when you booked your flight and what type of fare you purchased. Flights booked on or before May 27, 2025, will still generally adhere to the old "Bags Fly Free" policy. However, for reservations booked, ticketed, or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, most passengers will now incur fees for their first and second checked bags.
Step 2: Understanding the New Checked Baggage Fees (for bookings on or after May 28, 2025)
For most passengers, the new fee structure for checked bags is as follows:
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
First Checked Bag: $35
Second Checked Bag: $45
Third Checked Bag and Beyond: $150 per bag
Important Note: These fees are per bag, each way. So, a round trip with one checked bag will cost you $70 ($35 out + $35 back).
Sub-heading: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags? (The Exceptions to the New Rule)
While the "Bags Fly Free" era for the masses has largely ended, there are still some fortunate travelers who can avoid these fees:
Business Select® Fare Holders: If you've splurged on a Business Select® fare, you're in luck! You still get two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite flyers also enjoy the perk of two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: As an A-List member, you'll receive your first checked bag for free.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: Primary Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation are eligible to receive their first standard checked bag free if the Rapid Rewards account number is included at the time of booking.
Active Duty U.S. Military Personnel and their Dependents: Southwest still offers a generous policy for active duty military. They (and their dependents traveling on the same itinerary) are exempt from checked, overweight, or oversized bag fees, provided the bags do not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.
Hawaii Residents traveling between the islands: Residents of Hawaii traveling between the Hawaiian islands continue to receive two free checked bags.
Step 3: Decoding Carry-on and Personal Item Policies
Even with the changes to checked baggage, Southwest remains quite accommodating with carry-on items.
One Carry-on Bag: You are allowed one carry-on bag per passenger, free of charge. This bag should not exceed external dimensions of 10 x 16 x 24 inches (25.4 x 40.64 x 60.96 cm), including handles and wheels. It must fit in the overhead bin.
One Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one smaller personal item, also free of charge. This could be a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack, or a similar item. It must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.
Important Tip: There is no specified weight restriction for carry-on items, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself. Always measure your bags before you head to the airport to avoid any last-minute issues.
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
Step 4: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
This is where the costs can really add up if you're not careful. Beyond the standard checked baggage fees, additional charges apply for bags that exceed certain weight or size limits.
Standard Checked Bag Limits:
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag.
Maximum Dimensions: 62 linear inches (length + width + height) per bag.
Overweight Baggage Fees:
51 to 70 pounds (23 to 32 kg): $100 per bag (plus the standard checked bag fee if applicable).
71 to 100 pounds (32 to 45 kg): $200 per bag (plus the standard checked bag fee if applicable).
Bags exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Oversized Baggage Fees:
63 to 80 linear inches (160 to 203 cm): $200 per bag (plus the standard checked bag fee if applicable).
Bags greater than 80 linear inches will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Crucial Detail: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, only one $200 charge applies (for the higher of the two fees), as long as the bag does not exceed 100 lbs. However, it will still incur the standard checked baggage fee.
Step 5: Special Baggage and Sporting Equipment
Southwest has specific policies and fees for various special items and sporting equipment. Many standard sports equipment items (like skis, golf clubs, and fishing equipment) can be checked as part of your regular baggage allowance, but they must still adhere to weight and size limits. If they exceed these limits, overweight or oversized fees will apply.
General Rule for Sporting Equipment: Most sporting equipment will be accepted as one checked bag. Standard checked bag fees (and overweight/oversized fees if applicable) will apply.
Specific Examples:
Surfboards: Can be accepted, but often incur an overweight fee if over 50 pounds. Length and width restrictions typically don't apply, but fins and keels must be removed.
Bicycles: Often incur a $75 fee and must be packaged correctly.
Large Media Camera Equipment: May be subject to a $75 fee per item.
It's highly recommended to check the Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly for specific guidelines on any special or sporting equipment you plan to travel with, as policies can vary.
Tip: Reread sections you didn’t fully grasp.
Step 6: Smart Packing Strategies to Save Money
Now that you know the rules, here's how to play the game and potentially save some cash:
Prioritize Carry-on and Personal Items: Maximize your free carry-on and personal item allowance. Can you fit everything you need for a short trip into these? A good quality travel backpack and a perfectly sized carry-on can be your best friends.
Pack Light, Pack Smart: Only bring what you absolutely need. Consider rolling clothes to save space, and use packing cubes to organize and compress items.
Wear Bulky Items: If you're traveling with a heavy coat or boots, wear them on the plane instead of packing them.
Consider Shipping: For very large or numerous items, especially if you're staying for an extended period, explore luggage shipping services. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline baggage fees.
Utilize Status or Credit Card Benefits: If you fly Southwest frequently, consider working towards A-List status or getting a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card. The free checked bag(s) can quickly offset the annual fee.
Share Baggage Allowance (if applicable): If traveling with family or friends and some have free bag allowances, consider consolidating items into their free bags.
Double-Check Your Booking Date: Remember, the crucial date for the new fees is May 28, 2025. If you booked before this date, you might still get those free bags!
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
How to avoid Southwest checked baggage fees? You can avoid checked baggage fees by qualifying for A-List or A-List Preferred status, being a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, booking a Business Select® fare, or being active duty U.S. military personnel. Otherwise, focus on maximizing your carry-on and personal item allowance.
How to measure my luggage for Southwest? For checked bags, measure the length, width, and height of your bag and add these three dimensions together. The total should be no more than 62 linear inches. For carry-on bags, ensure dimensions are no more than 10 x 16 x 24 inches.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
How to know if my Southwest flight was booked before May 28, 2025? Check your flight confirmation email or your booking details on the Southwest Airlines website or app. The date you booked or ticketed your reservation will be clearly stated.
How to check a pet on Southwest Airlines? Southwest allows small domesticated cats or dogs in the cabin on domestic flights, provided they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. There is a $125 one-way charge per pet carrier, and the carrier counts as either your personal item or carry-on. Pets cannot be checked into the cargo hold.
How to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines? If you need to check a third bag (or more), it will cost $150 per bag, in addition to any overweight or oversized fees that may apply.
How to handle oversized sporting equipment on Southwest? Sporting equipment that exceeds the standard 62 linear inches and/or 50 pounds will incur oversized ($200) and/or overweight ($100-$200) baggage fees in addition to any standard checked bag fees. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your equipment type.
How to pay for baggage on Southwest Airlines? Baggage fees are typically paid at the airport ticket counter or at a self-service kiosk when you check in your bags. Southwest does not generally allow prepayment for checked bags online.
How to use my Rapid Rewards credit card benefit for free baggage? Ensure your Rapid Rewards account number is included in your reservation when booking. When you check in at the airport, the system should automatically waive the fee for your first standard checked bag.
How to find the most up-to-date Southwest baggage policy? The most accurate and current information can always be found on the official Southwest Airlines website under their "Optional Travel Charges" or "Baggage" sections, or by contacting their customer service directly.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest? To avoid overweight fees, ensure your checked bags do not exceed 50 pounds. Weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport. If a bag is close to the limit, redistribute items to another bag or your carry-on, or consider mailing heavier items.
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