The era of universally "Bags Fly Free" on Southwest Airlines has seen some significant changes recently! As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines revised its baggage policy, which means many travelers will now incur fees for checked bags. If you're wondering how much it costs to check an extra bag on Southwest, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will break down the costs, explain the nuances, and even give you tips on how to potentially avoid those fees.
Are you ready to unravel the mystery of Southwest's baggage fees? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understanding the New Southwest Baggage Landscape
First things first, it's crucial to understand that Southwest's checked baggage policy has undergone a major shift. What was once a hallmark of the airline's customer-friendly approach has evolved, bringing it more in line with other major U.S. carriers. This change applies to flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025.
Sub-heading: The Standard Checked Bag Fees
For most fare types (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares), you'll now encounter the following standard fees for your first and second checked bags:
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First Checked Bag: $35 per bag
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Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag
Important Note: These fees are per bag, per way. So, a round trip with one checked bag would cost $70 ($35 out + $35 back), and with two checked bags, it would be $160 ($35 + $45 out + $35 + $45 back).
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| How Much Does It Cost To Check An Extra Bag On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: The Cost of Your "Extra" Bag (The Third Bag and Beyond)
Now, let's get to the core of your question: how much does it cost to check an extra bag, meaning beyond the first two?
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Third Checked Bag and Beyond: $150 per bag
Yes, you read that right. If you're checking a third bag, or any subsequent bags after that (up to a limit of 20 pieces of checked baggage per flight), the fee significantly jumps to $150 per bag, each way.
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
Step 3: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Even if you're within the allowance for the number of bags, the weight and size of your luggage are critical factors that can incur additional charges.
Sub-heading: Understanding Standard Limits
For any checked bag, the standard limits are:
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Weight: Up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg)
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Size: Up to 62 inches (length + width + height, including wheels and handles)
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the standard 50-pound limit, you'll face an overweight fee in addition to any standard checked bag fees:
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51-70 pounds: $100 per bag
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71-100 pounds: $200 per bag
Bags weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the standard 62-inch linear dimension limit, you'll also incur an oversized fee in addition to any standard checked bag fees:
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63-80 inches: $200 per bag
Bags exceeding 80 inches in linear dimensions will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Sub-heading: The Double Whammy: Overweight AND Oversized
What happens if your bag is both overweight and oversized?
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If a single piece of baggage is both overweight (within the acceptable limits) AND oversized (within the acceptable limits), only one $200 charge applies (the higher of the two fees), plus any applicable standard checked bag fees (e.g., $35 for the first, $45 for the second, $150 for the third).
Step 4: Strategies to Potentially Avoid or Reduce Baggage Fees
While Southwest's policy has changed, there are still ways some travelers can avoid or reduce these fees. It pays to be prepared!
Sub-heading: Leverage Fare Classes
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Business Select® Fare: If you've booked a Business Select® fare, you are still entitled to two free checked bags. This is a significant perk for those who need to check multiple items.
Sub-heading: Utilize Rapid Rewards Status
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite members receive two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members receive one free checked bag.
Sub-heading: Benefit from Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards
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Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: Many Southwest co-branded credit cards offer a benefit of one free checked bag for the primary cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided their Rapid Rewards account number is included at the time of booking. This can be a fantastic way to save! Always check the specific terms and conditions of your credit card.
Sub-heading: Active Duty Military
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Active Duty Military Customers: Southwest still offers a generous policy for active duty military personnel, allowing them to check bags for free, often exceeding the standard limits for weight and size (up to 100 lbs and 80 inches) without incurring additional fees. Always verify with Southwest directly for the most current military policy.
Sub-heading: Pack Smart and Light
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The simplest way to avoid fees is to pack within the carry-on limits (one carry-on bag and one personal item) or to ensure your checked bags adhere to the standard weight and size requirements. Consider using packing cubes to maximize space and weigh your bags before heading to the airport.
Sub-heading: Consider Shipping Your Luggage
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
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For very heavy or numerous items, especially if you're relocating or traveling for an extended period, luggage shipping services can sometimes be a more cost-effective alternative to airline baggage fees. This also allows you to bypass baggage claim.
Step 5: What to Expect at the Airport
Southwest does not allow you to prepay for luggage online. You will pay for your checked bags, including any extra, overweight, or oversized fees, at the airport.
Sub-heading: Checking Your Bags
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You can utilize self-tagging kiosks at select airports to print your bag tags and then drop them off with an employee.
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Alternatively, you can check your bags directly with a Southwest Agent at the airport ticket counter.
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Be sure to arrive with ample time to check your bags, especially if you anticipate paying fees or need assistance.
Sub-heading: Tracking Your Bags
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Southwest offers digital bag tracking, which can provide peace of mind once your bags are checked.
Step 6: Stay Informed About Policy Updates
Airline policies, especially regarding baggage, can change. It's always a good practice to double-check Southwest's official website or contact their customer service closer to your travel date for the most up-to-date information, particularly if you have specific or unusual items you plan to check.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to Southwest Airlines baggage fees, with quick answers:
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
How to avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest Airlines? You can avoid checked bag fees if you are a Business Select® fare traveler, a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred member (two free bags), a Rapid Rewards® A-List member (one free bag), a Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmember (one free bag), or active duty military. Otherwise, try to pack light and fit everything into a carry-on and personal item.
How to know if my bag is overweight for Southwest Airlines? Weigh your packed bag at home using a luggage scale. Southwest's standard weight limit for checked bags is 50 pounds (22.7 kg). Bags 51-70 lbs incur a $100 fee, and 71-100 lbs incur a $200 fee.
How to know if my bag is oversized for Southwest Airlines? Measure the length, width, and height of your bag and add these three dimensions together. Southwest's standard size limit is 62 linear inches. Bags 63-80 inches incur a $200 fee.
How to get two free checked bags on Southwest Airlines? You can get two free checked bags if you book a Business Select® fare or if you are a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred member.
How to use my Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card for free bags? Ensure your Rapid Rewards account number is included in your reservation when booking. The primary cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation may receive one free checked bag.
How to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines? A third checked bag will cost $150 per bag, each way, in addition to any applicable overweight or oversized fees. You will pay for this at the airport.
How to check special items like sports equipment on Southwest Airlines? Many sports equipment items are accepted as checked baggage and count towards your allowance, but some may incur additional fees if they are oversized or overweight. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your type of equipment.
How to pay for extra bags on Southwest Airlines? You pay for any additional, overweight, or oversized bags at the airport when you check in your luggage, either at a self-tagging kiosk or with a Southwest agent. Southwest does not offer online prepayment for bags.
How to track my checked bags on Southwest Airlines? Southwest offers digital bag tracking through their website or mobile app once your bags have been checked in at the airport.
How to confirm the most current baggage fees before my flight? Always visit the "Optional Travel Charges" or "Checked Bag Policy" section on Southwest Airlines' official website (Southwest.com) or contact their customer service directly for the very latest and most accurate information.
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