Have you ever found yourself at the airport check-in counter, staring at your luggage, and wondering, "How much is this actually going to cost me?" If you're flying Southwest Airlines, the answer has recently become a bit more nuanced than their famous "Bags Fly Free" slogan. While Southwest historically stood apart with its generous baggage policy, recent changes mean it's crucial to understand the updated fees.
This lengthy guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' checked baggage charges, including the standard fees, exceptions, and how to potentially avoid those extra costs. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand the Recent Policy Shift – The End of "Bags Fly Free" for Most
For decades, Southwest Airlines proudly distinguished itself with its "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing every passenger to check two bags without charge. However, as of May 28, 2025, this longstanding perk has been significantly revised.
The most crucial takeaway: For reservations booked and ticketed (or voluntarily changed) on or after May 28, 2025, most passengers will now incur fees for their first and second checked bags. This aligns Southwest more closely with other major U.S. carriers.
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| How Much Will Southwest Airlines Charge For Checked Baggage |
Step 2: Breaking Down the Standard Checked Baggage Fees
So, what are the new standard charges for checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
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First Checked Bag: $35 USD
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Second Checked Bag: $45 USD
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Third Checked Bag and Beyond: $150 USD per bag
These fees are per bag, per way, meaning if you have a round trip, you'll pay these fees for both your outbound and return journeys.
Sub-heading: Weight and Size Limits Remain Crucial
Even with the new fees, Southwest still has strict weight and size limits for checked bags. Adhering to these limits is vital to avoid additional charges.
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Standard Weight Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 lbs (22.7 kg).
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Standard Size Limit: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm). This includes handles and wheels.
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Step 3: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Baggage Charges
What happens if your bags exceed the standard weight or size limits? Southwest will hit you with additional fees. These are in addition to the standard checked baggage fees.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
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51 to 70 lbs (23.1 to 31.8 kg): $150 USD per bag, per way.
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71 to 100 lbs (32.2 to 45.4 kg): $200 USD per bag, per way.
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Over 100 lbs (45.4 kg): Bags exceeding 100 lbs will not be accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
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63 to 80 inches (160 to 203 cm) in linear dimensions: $200 USD per bag, per way.
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Over 80 inches (203 cm) in linear dimensions: Bags exceeding 80 inches will not be accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as cargo.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you will typically only be charged one fee – the higher of the two – as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs. For example, a bag that is 65 inches and 55 lbs would likely incur the $200 oversized fee, not both.
Step 4: Unlocking Exceptions – Who Still Gets Free Bags?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is mostly a thing of the past for new bookings, certain travelers can still enjoy complimentary checked bags. It's worth checking if you fall into any of these categories:
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Business Select® Fares: Passengers who book Business Select fares continue to receive two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite status holders are entitled to two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members receive their first checked bag free.
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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. Make sure your Rapid Rewards account number is included in the reservation when booking.
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Hawaii Residents: Travelers residing in Hawaii and traveling between the islands continue to receive two free checked bags.
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Active-duty Military Personnel: Active-duty military personnel with a current, valid military ID are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided no single piece exceeds 100 lbs or 80 inches in size.
Step 5: Understanding Special Baggage and Sports Equipment
Southwest generally treats special items and sports equipment as part of your standard checked baggage allowance, provided they meet the weight and size limits. However, there are some nuances and exceptions:
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Counts as One Checked Bag: Many common sports items (e.g., golf bags, skis/snowboards, fishing equipment, hockey/lacrosse sticks) will count as one checked bag.
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Weight and Size Still Apply: If the sports equipment exceeds the standard 50 lbs or 62 inches, overweight and/or oversized fees will apply.
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Specific Item Considerations: Southwest has detailed policies for various items like bicycles (must be in a bike box), musical instruments (can sometimes be carried on if they fit), and more. Always check the specific guidelines for your item on the Southwest Airlines website.
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Step 6: How to Pay for Your Checked Baggage
Southwest Airlines does not offer the option to prepay for checked baggage online or through their app. Baggage fees are paid at the airport during check-in.
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Self-Tagging Kiosks: At many airports, you can use self-tagging kiosks to check your bags and pay applicable fees.
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Southwest® Agent at the Ticket Counter: You can also check your bags and pay fees directly with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
Step 7: Tips to Avoid or Minimize Baggage Fees
Even with the new policies, there are strategies to keep your baggage costs down:
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Travel Light: This is the most obvious and effective method. Can you fit everything into a carry-on and a personal item? Southwest still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free.
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Carry-on bag limit: Up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches.
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Personal item limit: Up to 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (must fit under the seat).
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Leverage Rapid Rewards Status or Credit Cards: If you fly Southwest frequently, consider aiming for A-List or A-List Preferred status, or getting a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card. The baggage benefits can quickly offset annual fees.
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Consider Business Select Fares (If Budget Allows): If you absolutely need two checked bags and the benefits of Business Select align with your travel needs, it might be a worthwhile option, as it includes two free checked bags.
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Pack Smart to Avoid Overweight/Oversized: Distribute weight evenly across bags, use a luggage scale at home, and be mindful of your bag's dimensions.
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Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous items, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline baggage fees, especially for multiple oversized/overweight bags.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to calculate total linear dimensions of a bag?
To calculate total linear dimensions, add the length, width, and height of your bag (L + W + H). For example, a bag that is 24 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 10 inches high has total linear dimensions of 49 inches.
How to know if my flight was booked before May 28, 2025?
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Check your booking confirmation email or log into your Southwest Airlines account. The date your reservation was booked and ticketed will be clearly stated. If it was on or before May 27, 2025, the old "Bags Fly Free" policy generally applies.
How to avoid paying for the first checked bag on Southwest?
You can avoid paying for the first checked bag if you are a Business Select fare passenger, a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred member, or a primary Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (with your Rapid Rewards number on the reservation).
How to check my bag's weight at home?
Use a portable luggage scale, readily available online or at luggage stores. This small investment can save you significant overweight baggage fees at the airport.
How to pack efficiently to maximize space?
Roll your clothes instead of folding, use packing cubes to compress items, wear your heaviest items on the plane, and consider if you truly need everything you're planning to bring.
How to travel with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Pets in carriers count as either your one carry-on item or personal item. There is typically a separate, non-refundable pet fee of around $125 per carrier, per way, for in-cabin travel. Check Southwest's pet policy for current fees and restrictions.
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How to handle fragile items in checked baggage?
Pack fragile items securely with plenty of padding, such as bubble wrap or clothing. Consider using hard-sided luggage for extra protection. Southwest may apply a "limited release of liability" tag for fragile items, meaning they are not responsible for damage.
How to get A-List or A-List Preferred status with Southwest?
A-List status can be earned by flying 20 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year. A-List Preferred requires 40 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 tier qualifying points.
How to find the most up-to-date baggage information?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website, specifically their "Optional Travel Charges" or "Baggage Policy" pages, as policies can change.
How to contact Southwest Airlines customer service regarding baggage?
You can contact Southwest Airlines customer service through their website, by phone, or via social media for specific questions about your baggage or unique items you plan to travel with.
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