Navigating airline baggage policies can often feel like deciphering a secret code, and with recent changes at Southwest Airlines, it's more important than ever to be informed! If you're wondering how much Southwest Airlines is going to charge for bags, you've come to the right place. Let's break down the new policies step-by-step so you can pack smart and avoid any unwelcome surprises at the airport.
Step 1: Are you ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of baggage fees?
Before we get into the specifics, it's crucial to understand that Southwest Airlines, famously known for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, has made significant changes as of May 28, 2025. This means that for most travelers, the days of two complimentary checked bags are now a thing of the past. So, let's figure out what this means for your upcoming trip!
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| How Much Is Southwest Airlines Going To Charge For Bags |
Step 2: Understanding the New Standard Checked Bag Fees
For reservations booked and ticketed, or voluntarily changed, on or after May 28, 2025, the following standard checked baggage fees apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares:
First Checked Bag: Expect to pay $35.
Second Checked Bag: The cost for your second checked bag will be $45.
Third Checked Bag and Beyond: If you need to check a third bag or more, each additional bag will cost $150.
Important Note: These fees are per bag, per one-way trip. So, if you're flying round trip and checking two bags each way, you'll pay the fees twice.
Sub-heading: What are the standard size and weight limits?
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
Even with the new fees, your bags still need to meet specific dimensions and weight requirements to be considered "standard":
Standard Weight Limit: Each checked bag must weigh up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
Standard Size Limit: The sum of the bag's length, width, and height (L + W + H) must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm). This includes handles and wheels!
Step 3: Who Still Gets Free Bags? (The Exceptions!)
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is largely gone, Southwest hasn't completely abandoned all travelers. Certain fare types and loyalty program members still enjoy baggage benefits:
Business Select® Fares: If you've booked a Business Select fare, you will continue to receive two free checked bags. This is a significant perk for those who choose this premium fare.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These highly valued loyalty program members will also receive their first and second checked bags for free.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: As an A-List member, you'll be eligible for your first checked bag free.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you are the primary cardmember of a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card and are on the reservation with your Rapid Rewards account number included, you can also get your first standard checked bag free. This benefit extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation!
Hawaii Residents: Customers traveling between the islands of Hawaii with a valid United States Postal Hawaii mailing address will continue to receive two free checked bags.
Active-duty Military Personnel: Active-duty military passengers with a valid military ID 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.
Step 4: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Sometimes, packing light just isn't an option. If your bag exceeds the standard weight or size limits, be prepared for additional fees. These fees are in addition to the standard checked bag fees (if applicable to your fare/status).
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees:
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
51-70 pounds (23.1-31.8 kg): An additional fee of $100 per bag will apply.
71-100 pounds (32.2-45.3 kg): For bags in this weight range, an additional $200 per bag will be charged.
Bags over 100 pounds (45.3 kg) cannot be checked as baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees:
63-80 inches (160-203 cm) in total dimensions: An additional fee of $200 per bag will apply.
Bags over 80 inches (203 cm) in total dimensions cannot be checked as baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo.
Important to know: If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you will generally be charged only one of the applicable additional fees (the higher of the two), not both, as long as the bag doesn't exceed 100 lbs.
Step 5: What About Carry-On Bags?
Good news here! Southwest Airlines' policy for carry-on bags remains largely unchanged:
One Carry-On Bag: You are permitted one carry-on bag for free. This bag must fit in the overhead bin and not exceed 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H), including handles and wheels.
One Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one smaller personal item for free. This item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack.
Tip: Always check your bag dimensions before heading to the airport to avoid any last-minute gate-checking fees if your carry-on is deemed too large.
Step 6: Special Items and Sporting Equipment
QuickTip: Stop scrolling if you find value.
Traveling with unique items or sporting equipment? Southwest has specific guidelines and fees for these as well. Many sports equipment items are accepted as checked baggage but are subject to the standard baggage fees, and potentially overweight/oversized fees if they exceed the limits.
Many standard sports equipment items (like golf clubs, skis, or snowboards) are typically counted as one checked bag. If they exceed standard size/weight limits, the respective oversized/overweight fees will apply.
Some specialized equipment might have specific allowances or require advance notification. Always check Southwest's official website for the most up-to-date information on your specific item.
Step 7: How to Potentially Save on Baggage Fees
While the "Bags Fly Free" era for most is over, there are still ways to minimize your baggage costs:
Consider a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: As mentioned, credit cardholders get their first checked bag free. This can easily offset the annual fee of the card if you travel frequently.
Achieve A-List or A-List Preferred Status: If you're a frequent flyer, aiming for elite status can save you significantly on baggage fees.
Pack Light: The simplest solution! Can you fit everything into a carry-on and a personal item? Or perhaps share a checked bag with a travel companion to consolidate?
Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous bags, consider a luggage shipping service. Sometimes, this can be more cost-effective than paying airline fees.
Purchase Business Select: If you value the two free checked bags and other perks, a Business Select fare might be a good investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, all starting with "How to," along with their quick answers:
How to avoid paying checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines? You can avoid checked bag fees by being a Business Select fare holder, a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List member, a Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, or active-duty military. Otherwise, try to pack everything into your free carry-on and personal item.
How to check if my bag is oversized for Southwest Airlines? Measure the length, width, and height of your bag and add them together. If the sum exceeds 62 inches (158 cm), it's considered oversized and will incur a $200 fee, provided it's not over 80 inches.
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
How to know if my bag is overweight for Southwest Airlines? Weigh your bag before heading to the airport. If it's between 51-70 lbs, it's subject to a $100 fee. If it's between 71-100 lbs, it's subject to a $200 fee. Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted as checked luggage.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest Airlines? Baggage fees are typically paid at the airport when you check in your luggage, either at the self-service kiosks or with a Southwest agent at the ticket counter. Southwest does not generally allow prepayment for checked bags online.
How to pack efficiently to avoid baggage fees on Southwest? Utilize packing cubes, roll your clothes, wear your heaviest items, and prioritize essentials to fit everything into your carry-on and personal item. Consider multi-purpose items.
How to handle special sporting equipment baggage on Southwest? Most sporting equipment counts as one checked bag and is subject to standard fees and weight/size limits. If oversized or overweight, the respective fees apply. Check Southwest's official website for specific rules on your particular equipment.
How to find the most current Southwest Airlines baggage policy? Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) and their "Checked Bag Policy" or "Optional Travel Charges" pages for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information.
How to use my Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card for free bags? Ensure your Rapid Rewards account number is linked to your reservation, and as the primary cardmember, your first checked bag will be waived when you check in at the airport. This applies to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
How to check in baggage late for a Southwest flight? Southwest recommends checking baggage at least 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights, and 60-75 minutes for international flights. Bags checked within this "late check" window may not make it onto your flight, and Southwest will not assume delivery charges if your bag arrives later.
How to track my checked bag on Southwest Airlines? Southwest offers digital bag tracking. Once you've checked your luggage and received your claim check, you can usually track its status through the Southwest Airlines app or website.
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