The era of "Bags Fly Free" on Southwest Airlines has officially ended for most travelers, starting May 28, 2025. This marks a significant shift in their baggage policy, bringing them more in line with other major US carriers. If you're planning to fly Southwest, understanding their new checked bag charges is crucial to avoid any surprises at the airport. Let's break it down!
Step 1: Are You Ready to Demystify Southwest's New Baggage Fees?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's get you engaged! Have you ever been surprised by an unexpected baggage fee at the airport? It can definitely put a damper on your travel plans. Well, by the end of this guide, you'll be a Southwest baggage fee expert, ready to pack smart and travel stress-free! So, are you ready to learn how to navigate these changes like a pro? Let's go!
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| How Much Will Southwest Airlines Charge For Checked Bags |
Step 2: Understanding the New Standard Checked Bag Fees
For most passengers, the days of two free checked bags are a thing of the past. Southwest has implemented a clear fee structure for your first and second checked bags.
Sub-heading: Flights Booked On or After May 28, 2025
For reservations booked and ticketed, or voluntarily changed, on or after May 28, 2025, the following fees apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares:
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First Checked Bag: $35 per bag
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Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag
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Third Checked Bag and Beyond: $150 per bag
It's important to note that these fees are per bag, per direction. So, for a round trip, you'd pay the fee for each bag on both your outbound and return flights.
Sub-heading: Flights Booked Before May 28, 2025
If you booked and ticketed your reservation on or before May 27, 2025, regardless of your travel date, you are still eligible for Southwest's previous policy of two free checked bags (subject to weight and size limits).
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
Step 3: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags on Southwest?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is largely gone, there are still some exceptions where you might avoid those checked bag fees.
Sub-heading: Business Select® Fare Holders
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If you purchase a Business Select® fare, you continue to receive two free checked bags. This is Southwest's highest-tier fare, offering maximum flexibility and premium benefits.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members enjoy the benefit of checking their first and second bags for free. This perk also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, which is a great bonus for families or groups traveling together.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards® A-List Members
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Members receive their first checked bag for free. For their second bag, the standard $45 fee will apply. This benefit also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers
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As a Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmember, you can get your first standard checked bag free. This benefit applies to the primary Cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided your Rapid Rewards account number is included in the reservation at the time of booking.
Sub-heading: Active-Duty Military Customers
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
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Active-duty military Customers and their dependents continue to enjoy the benefit of two free checked bags, regardless of fare type. This is a fantastic recognition of their service.
Sub-heading: Hawaii Residents Traveling Interisland
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For Hawaii residents traveling on interisland flights, the policy remains two free checked bags. Additional bags (3rd+) will incur a $50 fee.
Step 4: Understanding Weight and Size Limits
Just like with any airline, Southwest has specific weight and size restrictions for checked bags. Exceeding these limits will result in additional fees.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Dimensions
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Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg) in weight.
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The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for a standard checked bag are 62 inches (157 cm).
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
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If your bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds (24-32 kg), an overweight fee of $100 will be charged in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
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If your bag weighs between 71 and 100 pounds (33-45 kg), an overweight fee of $200 will be charged in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
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Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
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If your bag's linear dimensions are between 63 inches and 80 inches (160-203 cm), an oversized fee of $200 will be charged in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
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Bags exceeding 80 inches (203 cm) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Step 5: Special Baggage and Sports Equipment
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
Traveling with unique items or sports equipment? Southwest has specific guidelines and fees for these as well.
Sub-heading: Common Sports Equipment
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Many common sports equipment items (e.g., golf clubs, skis, snowboards, fishing equipment) are accepted as one of your standard checked bags, provided they meet the weight and size limits. If they exceed these limits, overweight or oversized fees will apply.
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Some items, like bicycles over 62 inches or surfboards, may have specific fees, often around $75 or $100. It's always best to check Southwest's official website for the most up-to-date information on your specific item.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
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Smaller musical instruments that fit in the overhead bin or under the seat count as your carry-on item.
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Larger instruments can be checked as baggage and will be subject to standard checked bag fees, as well as overweight/oversized fees if they exceed the limits. You can also purchase an additional seat for a larger instrument if you prefer it to travel in the cabin.
Sub-heading: Pet Carriers
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Southwest allows small domesticated cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on domestic flights in an approved pet carrier.
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There is a pet fare of $125 per carrier, per one-way trip.
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The pet carrier counts as either your carry-on item or your personal item.
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Important Note: Southwest does not accept pets as checked baggage in the cargo hold. All pets must travel in the cabin.
Step 6: How to Pay for Checked Bags
Currently, Southwest Airlines does not allow you to prepay for checked baggage online. All applicable baggage fees must be paid at the airport.
Sub-heading: Payment Options at the Airport
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Self-Tagging Kiosks: Where available, you can use self-tagging kiosks to check your bags and pay any applicable fees.
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Southwest Agent at the Ticket Counter: You can also pay for your bags directly with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
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Accepted Payment Methods: Southwest typically accepts major credit cards for baggage fees.
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
Step 7: Tips for Minimizing Baggage Fees
Now that you know the costs, here are some practical tips to help you keep those baggage fees to a minimum:
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Pack Light! This is the most obvious, but often the hardest! Try to fit everything into a single carry-on if possible.
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Utilize Your Carry-On Allowance: Southwest still allows one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. Make the most of this space!
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Weigh Your Bags at Home: Invest in a small luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the 50-pound limit before you leave for the airport.
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Consider a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: If you fly Southwest frequently, the free first checked bag benefit can quickly offset the annual fee of the credit card.
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Aim for Elite Status: If your travel volume is high enough, achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status can save you a significant amount on baggage fees.
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Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous bags, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline fees, especially for oversized or overweight items.
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Wear Your Bulkiest Items: If you're struggling with weight, wear your heaviest shoes, jacket, or bulky sweaters onto the plane.
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Consolidate with Travel Companions: If traveling with others, strategically distribute weight across everyone's allowance to avoid individual overweight fees.
By following these steps and understanding Southwest's updated baggage policy, you'll be well-prepared for your next trip and can potentially save yourself some money!
Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines checked bags, with quick answers:
How to avoid paying checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines? You can avoid fees by being a Business Select fare holder, a Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred member, a Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (for the first bag), an active-duty military customer, or by booking your flight before May 28, 2025. Otherwise, pack light and stick to a carry-on and personal item.
How to check the weight of my bag before heading to the airport? Use a home luggage scale! These are inexpensive and readily available online or at travel stores, allowing you to accurately weigh your bags to avoid overweight fees.
How to know if my flight was booked before or after May 28, 2025? Check your flight confirmation email or your Southwest Airlines reservation details. The date your flight was booked and ticketed is typically clearly stated.
How to add a pet to my Southwest Airlines reservation? You must call Southwest Airlines directly to add a pet to your reservation, as space for pets in the cabin is limited and reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to measure my bag to ensure it's not oversized? Measure the length, width, and height of your bag and add these three measurements together. This sum should not exceed 62 linear inches (157 cm) for a standard checked bag.
How to pay for checked bags at Southwest Airlines? Baggage fees on Southwest must be paid at the airport, either at a self-tagging kiosk (if available) or directly with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter using a credit card.
How to identify if I am a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred member? Log in to your Rapid Rewards account on the Southwest Airlines website. Your current tier status will be displayed in your profile.
How to check a third or more bags on Southwest Airlines? You can check a third bag and beyond, but each will incur a fee of $150 per bag, in addition to any overweight or oversized charges.
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest Airlines? Most sports equipment can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, but if it exceeds weight or size limits, additional overweight or oversized fees will apply. Some specialized items may have specific fees; check Southwest's website.
How to get updates on Southwest Airlines' baggage policy changes? Regularly check the "Optional Travel Charges" or "Baggage Policy" section on Southwest Airlines' official website (Southwest.com) for the most current and detailed information.
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