Have you ever found yourself at the airport, frantically rummaging through your luggage, wondering if that extra pair of shoes is going to cost you a small fortune? If you're flying with Southwest Airlines, the landscape of luggage fees has recently undergone a significant shift. For decades, Southwest stood out with its celebrated "Bags Fly Free" policy, a beacon of budget-friendly travel in an industry increasingly reliant on ancillary fees.
But as of May 28, 2025, that era has largely come to an end for most passengers. So, let's dive deep into everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' new luggage charges, ensuring you're fully prepared for your next trip and avoid any unwelcome surprises at the check-in counter!
Unpacking the New Reality: Southwest Airlines Luggage Charges
Southwest's decision to introduce baggage fees for most passengers marks a pivotal change for the airline. This strategic move aligns them more closely with other major U.S. carriers who have long charged for checked bags. While it may feel like the end of an era, understanding the new rules is key to smart travel.
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| How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge For Luggage Now |
Step 1: Are You Affected by the New Baggage Fees? (Engage!)
Before we delve into the specific costs, let's figure out if these new fees even apply to you! Did you book your flight on or after May 28, 2025? * If yes, then it's highly likely that you will be subject to the new checked baggage fees. Keep reading to understand the specifics!
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If no, and you booked your flight before May 28, 2025, you might still fall under the old "Bags Fly Free" policy for those specific reservations. However, any voluntary changes to those bookings on or after May 28, 2025, could trigger the new fee structure. It's always best to double-check your specific booking details.
There are, however, some important exceptions to these new rules. Southwest is still offering some perks for their most loyal customers and those who opt for premium fares.
Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags on Southwest?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is largely gone, certain travelers can still enjoy complimentary checked baggage:
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Business Select Travelers: If you book Southwest's highest-tier fare, Business Select, you are entitled to two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: These elite frequent flyers also continue to receive two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members: Members with A-List status are now eligible for one free checked bag.
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Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card Holders: If you hold a Southwest co-branded credit card, you are typically granted one free checked bag.
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Active Duty Military Personnel: Military personnel traveling on active duty or permanent change of station orders are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
Step 2: Understanding Standard Checked Baggage Fees
For the majority of passengers, the new checked baggage fees are as follows:
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First Checked Bag: $35 USD
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Second Checked Bag: $45 USD
These fees are per bag, per one-way trip. This means a round trip with two checked bags could cost you $35 + $45 + $35 + $45 = $160 in baggage fees!
Important Considerations for Standard Checked Bags:
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Weight Limit: Each standard checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
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Size Limit: The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for each standard checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm). Remember to include handles and wheels in your measurements!
Step 3: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Packing a little too much? Or perhaps you're traveling with specialized equipment? Southwest has specific charges for bags that exceed the standard weight and size limits. These fees are in addition to the standard checked bag fee.
Overweight Baggage Fees:
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If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds but less than 100 pounds, you'll incur an overweight fee.
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51 to 70 pounds (23.1 to 31.8 kg): $100 USD per bag
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71 to 100 pounds (32.2 to 45.4 kg): $125 USD per bag
Bags weighing over 100 pounds (45.4 kg) are generally not accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo if you are a "Known Shipper" as defined by the TSA.
Oversized Baggage Fees:
If your checked bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension limit but is within the maximum allowed oversized limit, an oversized fee will apply.
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63 to 80 inches (160 to 203 cm) in linear dimensions: $125 USD per bag
Bags exceeding 80 inches (203 cm) in linear dimensions are generally not accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo.
Combined Overweight and Oversized Fees:
It's important to note that if your bag is both overweight and oversized, you will typically be charged both the overweight and oversized fees. For example, if a bag is between 51-70 lbs AND 63-80 inches, you would likely pay the standard bag fee + $100 (overweight) + $125 (oversized).
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Step 4: Understanding Carry-on Baggage Policy
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Even with the changes to checked baggage, Southwest maintains a relatively generous carry-on policy, and these items remain free of charge. This is a great way to save on fees if you can pack light!
What You Can Bring for Free (Carry-on):
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One Carry-on Bag: This bag must fit in the overhead bin.
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Maximum Dimensions: 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H). These dimensions include wheels and handles.
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Weight Limit: Southwest does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
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One Personal Item: This item must fit under the seat in front of you.
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Maximum Dimensions: 18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (W) x 13.5 inches (H).
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Examples: A purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack, camera bag, or food container.
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Special Items Not Counted Towards Carry-on Limit:
Southwest allows certain items in addition to your one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as:
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Outer garments (coats, jackets)
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Umbrellas or walking canes
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Food for consumption during the flight in disposable packaging
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Assistive/mobility devices (wheelchairs, crutches, walkers)
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Child restraint systems for a ticketed child or when a complimentary, available space exists.
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Breast pumps, milk/formula, and diaper bags for infants.
Step 5: Special Baggage and Sports Equipment
Traveling with a golf club, skis, or other sports equipment? Southwest often treats these items as part of your checked baggage allowance, but specific rules and potential fees apply.
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Many standard sports equipment items (e.g., golf bags, skis, snowboards, fishing rods) can be checked as one piece of your checked baggage allowance, provided they meet the standard weight and size limits (50 lbs and 62 inches linear).
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If the item exceeds these limits, overweight and/or oversized baggage fees will apply.
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Some larger or more unusual items may have specific restrictions or require special handling, and it's always best to check Southwest's official policy page or contact them directly before you travel.
Step 6: How to Pay for Luggage Fees
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Southwest Airlines does not allow you to prepay for luggage online for most standard bookings. Baggage fees are typically paid at the airport:
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Self-Tagging Kiosks: At select airports, you can use self-service kiosks to tag your bags and pay any applicable fees.
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Ticket Counter: You can always check your bags and pay fees with a Southwest Agent at the airport ticket counter.
Top 10 Related FAQ Questions:
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Southwest Airlines luggage:
How to find the most up-to-date Southwest baggage policy? The most accurate and current information will always be on the official Southwest Airlines website, specifically their "Checked Baggage Policy" and "Carryon and Personal Item Policy" pages.
How to avoid Southwest baggage fees? You can avoid checked baggage fees by qualifying for free bags (Business Select, A-List Preferred, A-List, Rapid Rewards credit card holders) or by packing light enough to only bring a carry-on and personal item.
How to measure your luggage accurately for Southwest? Use a tape measure to determine the length, width, and height of your bag, including any wheels and handles. For checked bags, add these three dimensions together to get the linear inches. Use a luggage scale to weigh your bags.
How to pack efficiently to stay within Southwest's limits? Consider rolling clothes, using packing cubes, wearing heavier items on the plane, and prioritizing essentials. Think about whether you truly need everything you're planning to bring.
How to handle oversized or overweight sports equipment on Southwest? Check Southwest's website for specific policies on your particular sports equipment. Be prepared to pay overweight and/or oversized fees if your gear exceeds the standard limits.
How to check if your Southwest flight booking includes free bags? Refer to your original booking confirmation or log into your Rapid Rewards account if you have status or a co-branded credit card. You can also contact Southwest Customer Service to confirm.
How to use self-tagging kiosks for baggage at Southwest? At airports with kiosks, follow the on-screen instructions. You'll typically scan your boarding pass, confirm your bags, print tags, attach them, and then drop off your bags at the designated area.
How to track your checked bags on Southwest? Southwest often provides digital bag tracking through their mobile app or website once your bags have been checked.
How to handle gate-checked bags with Southwest? If your carry-on is oversized or the overhead bins are full, Southwest may require you to gate-check your bag. This is usually free of charge, but the bag will be returned at baggage claim.
How to contact Southwest Airlines for specific baggage questions? You can reach Southwest Airlines customer service via phone, social media, or their online help center for any specific or unusual baggage inquiries.
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