Have you ever found yourself at the airport, bag in hand, suddenly wondering, "How much is this going to cost me on Southwest Airlines?" You're not alone! For years, Southwest was the champion of "Bags Fly Free," a policy that endeared them to countless travelers. However, as of May 28, 2025, things have changed. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' baggage charges in 2025, ensuring you're prepared and can avoid any last-minute surprises.
The Big Shift: What You Need to Know About Southwest's New Baggage Policy
Southwest Airlines has, for a long time, been an anomaly in the U.S. airline industry, proudly offering two free checked bags to all passengers. This was a significant differentiator. However, the airline announced in March 2025 that it would be revising this policy, with the changes officially taking effect on May 28, 2025. This shift brings Southwest more in line with other major carriers like American, Delta, and United, which have long charged for checked luggage.
The primary driver behind this change is Southwest's strategy to generate new revenue and adapt to evolving traveler expectations. While it might feel like a loss for passengers who enjoyed the free perk, Southwest maintains that it's about offering more choice and enhancing profitability.
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| How Much Will Southwest Airlines Charge For Baggage |
Step 1: Understanding the Core Changes: Who Pays and Who Doesn't?
The most crucial step is to determine if you'll be subject to the new baggage fees. The "Bags Fly Free" policy is no longer universal.
Sub-heading: Flights Booked On or After May 28, 2025
If you booked your flight on or after May 28, 2025, or if you voluntarily changed your reservation (including name updates or ticket changes) on or after this date, the new baggage fees will apply to most fare types.
Sub-heading: Flights Booked Before May 28, 2025
If your reservation was booked and ticketed before May 28, 2025, your original baggage policy will apply, meaning you'll likely still get two free checked bags (subject to weight and size limits). This is a key distinction to remember!
Sub-heading: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags?
Even with the new policy, some passengers can still enjoy the benefit of free checked bags. This is where your loyalty status and fare type come into play:
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
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Business Select® Fares: Passengers who book Business Select fares will continue to receive two free checked bags.
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite members of Southwest's loyalty program also get their first and second checked bags for free.
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Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: If you have A-List status, you'll receive your first checked bag for free.
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Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: Holders of Southwest's co-branded credit cards will also be eligible for their first checked bag for free (the primary cardmember must be on the reservation and their Rapid Rewards account number included).
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Active-Duty Military Passengers: With a current, valid military ID, active-duty military personnel are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided no piece exceeds 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H). This is a significant benefit!
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Hawaii Residents: Residents traveling between the islands of Hawaii continue to receive two free checked bags.
Step 2: Deconstructing the Standard Baggage Fees (for those who pay)
If you're not one of the lucky few who still get free bags, here's what you can expect to pay for standard checked luggage as of May 28, 2025:
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First checked bag: $35 per bag, one way.
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Second checked bag: $45 per bag, one way.
Remember: These fees are for bags that adhere to Southwest's standard size and weight limits. We'll cover those limits in the next step.
Step 3: Understanding Size and Weight Limits: Avoid Extra Charges!
Even if your bags are free or you've paid the standard fee, exceeding the dimensions or weight limits will result in additional charges. Measure and weigh your bags carefully before heading to the airport!
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Baggage Limits
For a bag to be considered standard, it must meet the following criteria:
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Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (22.7 kg) per bag.
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Maximum Size: 62 inches (157.5 cm) in total dimensions (length + width + height). This includes wheels, handles, and any attachments.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Charges
If your checked bag exceeds the 50-pound weight limit, you'll face an overweight baggage fee:
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51-70 pounds (23-32 kg): $100 per bag, one way.
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71-100 pounds (32-45 kg): $200 per bag, one way.
Important Note: Any item weighing more than 100 pounds must be shipped as Air Cargo and cannot be checked as baggage unless you are a "Known Shipper" as defined by the TSA or TSA-approved Indirect Air Carriers (IAC).
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Charges
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
If your checked bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension limit, you'll incur an oversized baggage fee:
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63-80 inches (160-203 cm): $200 per bag, one way.
Crucial Point: If a single piece of baggage is both oversized and overweight (but not exceeding 100 lbs), you will generally only be charged one fee, which is the higher of the two applicable charges (often the $200 oversized fee).
Sub-heading: Additional (Third or More) Checked Bags
If you need to check a third bag or more, beyond your initial allowance, the fee structure changes:
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Third (and subsequent) checked bags: $150 per bag, one way.
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These additional bags are also subject to the 50 lbs and 62 inches limits, and overweight/oversize fees will apply in addition to the $150 fee if those limits are exceeded.
Step 4: Navigating Carry-On and Personal Items: What's Free?
Southwest's carry-on policy remains largely consistent, allowing you to bring items into the cabin without charge.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Bag
You are permitted one carry-on bag that must fit in the overhead bin.
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Maximum Dimensions: 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H). This includes wheels, handles, and any attachments.
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There is no specified weight restriction for carry-on items, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
Sub-heading: Personal Item
In addition to your carry-on bag, you can bring one small personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you.
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Examples: A purse, briefcase, laptop computer case, small backpack, pillow, or blanket.
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Maximum Dimensions: Approximately 18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (W) x 13.5 inches (H).
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Neck pillows do not count toward the carry-on limit.
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If you're traveling with a pet, the pet carrier counts as either your personal item or carry-on.
Sub-heading: Additional Items Not Counted Towards Carry-On Limit
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
Southwest allows certain items in addition to your standard carry-on and personal item, provided they are for your direct use during the flight:
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Umbrellas or walking canes
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Outer garments (coats, jackets)
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Food for consumption during the flight in disposable packaging
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Assistive/mobility devices (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.)
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A child restraint system (car seat) for a ticketed child or when a complimentary, available space exists.
Step 5: Special Baggage and Sports Equipment: Unique Considerations
Traveling with specialized items like sports equipment or musical instruments requires understanding specific rules and potential fees.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment
Many common sports equipment items can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance. However, if they exceed the standard size or weight limits, special fees apply.
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Standard-sized/weighted sports equipment: If within 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H), it counts towards your checked baggage allowance (and will incur fees if you're not exempt from standard baggage charges).
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Oversized sports equipment (63-80 inches): Generally incurs a $75 fee per item, one way.
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Overweight sports equipment (51-100 lbs): Generally incurs a $75 fee per item, one way.
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If an item is both oversized and overweight, typically only one $75 fee applies, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs.
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Bicycles: Must be packed in a bike box or bag, and specific restrictions may apply.
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Golf Equipment: Defined as a hard-sided carrying case with clubs, balls, and shoes. One golf bag can count as one checked item.
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Skis and Snowboards: Must be appropriately packed in a suitable bag or case. Note: Some sources indicate that for skis/snowboards, oversized charges (over 62 inches) might be waived if they meet weight limits. It's always best to double-check directly with Southwest for the most current specifics on these items, as policies can have nuances.
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Surfboards: Accepted for a fee of $75. Surfboards travel free when substituted as one of your two free bags only on Hawaiian Inter-island flights.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can often be carried on if they fit under the seat or in the overhead bin. Larger instruments may require purchasing an additional seat or checking them as baggage.
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If checked, standard baggage fees, overweight, and oversized charges apply unless special provisions are made.
Step 6: Paying for Your Bags: When and How?
Southwest offers various options for paying baggage fees.
Sub-heading: Paying in Advance vs. At the Airport
While Southwest's website doesn't explicitly state a discount for paying baggage fees in advance, many airlines do offer this. It's generally a good practice to check their "Optional Travel Charges" page or during the online check-in process to see if pre-paying is an option and if it offers any savings. Often, paying at the airport can be slightly more expensive for some carriers.
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
Sub-heading: Payment Methods
You can typically pay for baggage fees:
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Online: During the check-in process on Southwest's website or mobile app (if available for your fare class).
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At the airport: At a self-tagging kiosk (where available) or at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with a Customer Service Agent.
Step 7: Tracking Your Bags and Other Important Considerations
Once your bags are checked, you'll want peace of mind knowing where they are.
Sub-heading: Bag Tracking
Southwest offers digital bag tracking, allowing you to monitor the status of your checked luggage. Make sure you receive a separate claim check for each piece of baggage and verify that the city shown on the claim check matches your final destination.
Sub-heading: Late Check-In
Allow sufficient time for your baggage to be processed. Baggage checked in 45 minutes or less before the scheduled or posted departure time (whichever is later) is considered "Late Check." While Southwest will make every effort to get your late-checked baggage on your flight, they will not assume delivery charges if it doesn't arrive with you.
Sub-heading: International Travel
For international flights, you will generally be required to check your luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter upon arrival at the airport. You cannot check in or check luggage at the curbside for international itineraries. Minimum check-in times for international flights may also be longer (e.g., 60-75 minutes before departure).
FAQ: How To Navigate Southwest Baggage Fees
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help you further understand Southwest's baggage policies:
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How to avoid Southwest checked baggage fees?
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Book a Business Select fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List status, or be a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember. Active-duty military personnel also get free bags.
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How to measure my bag to ensure it meets Southwest's size limits?
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Use a tape measure to calculate the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles, and add these three measurements together. The sum should not exceed 62 inches for checked bags or 24" x 16" x 10" for carry-on bags.
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How to weigh my bag accurately at home?
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Use a luggage scale for the most accurate measurement. Alternatively, weigh yourself on a bathroom scale, then weigh yourself holding your bag, and subtract your weight to find the bag's weight.
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How to check if my reservation is subject to the new baggage fees?
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Check the date you booked or last voluntarily changed your flight. If it's on or after May 28, 2025, the new fees likely apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares.
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How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest?
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Most sports equipment can be checked as regular baggage. Be aware that items exceeding 50 lbs or 62 inches may incur additional fees (typically $75 for overweight/oversized). Check Southwest's "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" page for specifics on your item.
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How to handle an overweight or oversized carry-on bag at the gate?
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If your carry-on bag exceeds the limits, Southwest staff may require you to gate-check it. This will typically be done free of charge, but it will then be handled as a checked bag.
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How to track my checked baggage on Southwest?
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After checking your bag, you'll receive a claim check. You can use the information on this claim check to track your bag digitally through the Southwest Airlines website or mobile app.
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How to ensure my pet carrier counts as a personal item or carry-on?
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Your pet carrier must meet the specified dimensions for a carry-on or personal item (8.5 inches high x 18.5 inches long x 13.5 inches wide) and count as one of your permitted cabin items. A fee applies for pet travel.
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How to dispute a baggage fee if I believe it was charged incorrectly?
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If you believe you were charged incorrectly, retain all receipts and documentation, and contact Southwest Airlines Customer Service as soon as possible to explain your situation.
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How to pack efficiently to avoid baggage fees on Southwest?
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Consider rolling your clothes, using packing cubes, and wearing your heaviest items. Ship non-essential items ahead of time if you have many large belongings. Maximize your carry-on and personal item allowances.
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