We've all been there – the excitement of planning a trip, the meticulous packing, and then suddenly that nagging question pops into your head: "How many pounds can my luggage be on Southwest Airlines?" It's a crucial detail that can save you from unexpected fees, frantic repacking at the airport, and a whole lot of travel stress.
Fear not, fellow traveler! This comprehensive guide will break down Southwest Airlines' baggage weight limits, step by step, ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Engage Your Inner Detective: What Kind of Luggage Are We Talking About?
Before we dive into the numbers, let's clarify what kind of baggage you're planning to bring. Are you a minimalist traveler with just a small carry-on? Or are you bringing enough clothes for a month-long expedition, requiring checked bags? Southwest has different rules for each!
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Carry-On Baggage: This is the bag you bring with you onto the plane, stowing it in the overhead bin.
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Personal Item: This is a smaller item that fits under the seat in front of you. Think purses, laptop bags, small backpacks.
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Checked Baggage: These are the bags you check at the counter or curb, and they travel in the plane's cargo hold.
Once you know what you're bringing, you're ready for the next step!
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| How Many Pounds Can Your Luggage Be On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Cracking the Code: The Weight Limits for Southwest Airlines Luggage
Southwest Airlines, unlike many other carriers, used to be famous for its incredibly generous baggage policy, offering two free checked bags to all passengers. However, as of May 28, 2025, that policy has changed for most fare classes. It's now more aligned with other major airlines.
Sub-heading: Checked Baggage Weight Limit
For most checked bags on Southwest Airlines, the maximum weight limit is 50 pounds (23 kilograms).
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Crucial Update (as of May 28, 2025): While the weight limit remains 50 pounds, Southwest no longer offers two free checked bags for all fare types.
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First Checked Bag: Generally costs $35.
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Second Checked Bag: Generally costs $45.
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Third and More Bags: The fee typically jumps to $150 per bag.
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Important Exception: Active-duty Military personnel with a valid military ID are still exempt from these checked baggage fees, including excess, oversize, or overweight charges, provided their bags do not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
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Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees – The Cost of Packing Too Much
What happens if your checked bag tips the scales over 50 pounds? Southwest will hit you with an overweight baggage fee. These fees are in addition to any standard checked bag fees you might incur.
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51 to 70 pounds: An additional $150 per bag.
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71 to 100 pounds: An additional $200 per bag.
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Bags over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped via Air Cargo.
Sub-heading: Carry-On and Personal Item Weight Limits
Here's some good news! Southwest Airlines does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags or personal items.
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Carry-On Bag: While there's no weight limit, you must be able to lift your carry-on bag without assistance to store it in the overhead bin. If you can't, it will need to be checked.
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Size Limit for Carry-On Bags: Typically, your carry-on should not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (including wheels and handles).
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Personal Item: Again, no specified weight limit. It simply needs to fit under the seat in front of you.
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Size Limit for Personal Items: Generally, personal items should be no larger than 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 inches.
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Step 3: Measuring Up: The Importance of Dimensions
Weight isn't the only factor! Southwest also has size restrictions for checked baggage.
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Checked Baggage Size Limit: The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for a checked bag should not exceed 62 inches (158 centimeters).
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension limit, you'll face an oversized baggage fee.
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63 to 80 inches: An additional $200 per bag.
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Bags exceeding 80 inches will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
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Note: If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you will typically only be charged one fee (the higher of the two) if it does not exceed 100 pounds.
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Step 4: Smart Packing Strategies: Avoiding Fees and Hassle
Now that you know the limits, let's talk about how to stay within them!
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Invest in a Luggage Scale: These are relatively inexpensive and can be a lifesaver. Weigh your bags at home before you leave for the airport.
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Pack Smart, Not Just Light:
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Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space.
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Wear your heaviest items (like boots or a bulky jacket) on the plane.
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Distribute weight evenly across multiple bags if you're close to the limit.
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Consider shipping items if you have a significant amount of heavy or oversized goods.
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Know Your Fare Type and Status: As mentioned, Southwest's baggage policy has changed. If you are an A-List Preferred member, Business Select traveler, or a Southwest credit cardholder, you may still qualify for waived checked bag fees. Always check the specific details of your fare type and any loyalty program benefits.
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Don't Forget the "Forbidden" List: Beyond weight and size, remember TSA regulations on prohibited items in both carry-on and checked luggage. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-ons are limited to 3-1-1 rule (3.4 ounces or less, in a quart-sized bag, one bag per passenger).
Step 5: Special Circumstances: What About Unique Items?
Southwest has specific policies for certain items.
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Sporting Equipment: Many common sporting items (like golf clubs, skis, or surfboards) are often accepted as checked baggage. They usually count as one of your checked bags and may be subject to oversized/overweight fees if they exceed the standard limits. Always check Southwest's website for specific details on your particular equipment.
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Musical Instruments: Small musical instruments that fit in the overhead bin or under the seat can be carried on. Larger instruments may require purchasing an additional seat or checking them as baggage. Special oversized/overweight fees may apply if checked.
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of Southwest's baggage policy, you'll be well-prepared for your next adventure, free from the unexpected baggage fee blues!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to calculate the linear dimensions of my luggage?
To calculate the linear dimensions, simply add the length, width, and height of your bag (L + W + H). For example, a bag that is 20 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 10 inches high would have linear dimensions of 45 inches (20+15+10 = 45).
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
To avoid overweight baggage fees, always weigh your checked bags at home using a luggage scale to ensure they are 50 pounds (23 kg) or less. If a bag is too heavy, redistribute items to another bag or remove non-essential items.
How to know if my specific fare includes free checked bags on Southwest?
You should check your booking confirmation or the Southwest Airlines website for the most up-to-date information on your specific fare type. As of May 28, 2025, only certain fare classes (like Business Select) and Rapid Rewards elite members (A-List Preferred) or Southwest credit cardholders may still receive free checked bags.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines does not allow you to prepay for checked baggage online. You will typically pay for any applicable checked bag fees at the airport during check-in, either at the ticket counter or a self-service kiosk.
How to check special items like musical instruments or sports equipment?
For musical instruments or sports equipment, check the specific guidelines on the Southwest Airlines website under their "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section. These items often count towards your checked baggage allowance but may incur oversized or overweight fees if they exceed standard limits.
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How to ensure my carry-on bag is the correct size?
Measure your carry-on bag carefully, including wheels and handles. Southwest's carry-on size limit is generally 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Many luggage manufacturers list the dimensions, or you can use a tape measure at home.
How to pack effectively to maximize space and stay within limits?
To pack effectively, roll clothes tightly, use packing cubes to compress items, wear bulky clothing on the plane, and utilize all available space in your personal item for smaller, heavier objects like electronics.
How to handle bags that are both oversized and overweight?
If your bag is both oversized (over 62 inches) and overweight (over 50 pounds), Southwest typically charges only one fee, which will be the higher of the two applicable charges (e.g., $200 for 71-100 pounds or $200 for 63-80 inches).
How to verify the most current baggage policies for Southwest Airlines?
The most accurate and up-to-date baggage policies can always be found on the official Southwest Airlines website (southwest.com) or by contacting their customer service directly. Policies can change, so it's always best to verify before you fly.
How to travel with an item exceeding 100 pounds on Southwest Airlines?
Items weighing more than 100 pounds generally cannot be checked as standard baggage on Southwest Airlines. They must typically be shipped as Air Cargo, and you would need to be classified as a "Known Shipper" as defined by the TSA or use a TSA-approved Indirect Air Carrier (IAC).
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