Traveling with Southwest Airlines is often a preferred choice for many due to their generally customer-friendly policies. However, even with Southwest, there are important rules and guidelines when it comes to checking bags. The number of bags you can check and whether you'll incur fees can depend on several factors, including your fare type, Rapid Rewards status, and even the date you booked your flight. Let's break it down in detail!
Navigating Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy: Your Ultimate Guide
Are you ready to pack your bags and embark on your next adventure with Southwest Airlines? Before you start stuffing that suitcase, let's make sure you're crystal clear on their baggage policy. It can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress at the airport!
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| How Many Bags Can You Check Per Person On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understand the Recent Changes to Southwest's Checked Bag Policy (This is Crucial!)
Here's the most important thing you need to know upfront: Southwest Airlines has changed its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy for most passengers on flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025.
What this means for most travelers: If you booked your flight before May 28, 2025, and haven't changed it, you likely still get two free checked bags. However, for flights booked or changed on or after May 28, 2025, you will generally incur fees for your checked bags. This is a significant shift, so always double-check your booking details!
Step 2: Determine Your Standard Checked Baggage Allowance
Even with the recent changes, there's a baseline for how many bags you can check, subject to fees.
Sub-heading: The General Rule for Checked Bags
Maximum per person: Southwest generally allows a customer to check a maximum of 20 pieces of checked baggage per flight. This is a high limit, so for most leisure travelers, this won't be an issue. However, you'll be paying a fee for almost every one of them beyond the first two (or potentially one, depending on your fare/status).
Sub-heading: Size and Weight Limits for Each Checked Bag
Size: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches in total linear dimensions (length + width + height). This includes handles and wheels!
Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Exceeding these limits will result in additional fees, which we'll cover in a later step.
Step 3: Identify Your Eligibility for Free Checked Bags (If Any)
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy has largely ended, there are still specific circumstances where you might get free checked bags. This is where your fare type and Rapid Rewards status come into play.
Sub-heading: Fare Type Matters
Business Select® Fares: If you booked a Business Select® fare, you are still entitled to two free checked bags. This is a premium fare and maintains the prior baggage benefit.
Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: For these fare types, booked or changed on or after May 28, 2025, you will typically pay fees for your first and second checked bags.
First Checked Bag: Roughly $35
Second Checked Bag: Roughly $45
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards Status Perks
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite members receive two free checked bags. This applies to the A-List Preferred member and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members typically receive their first checked bag free. This also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: Primary Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers and up to eight passengers on the same reservation are often eligible to receive their first standard checked bag free. Always check the specific benefits of your card.
Sub-heading: Active Duty Military
Active Duty Military: Southwest offers a great benefit to active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID. They are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
Step 4: Calculate Potential Fees for Additional, Overweight, or Oversized Bags
This is where costs can add up quickly, so be mindful of your packing!
Sub-heading: Fees for 3rd+ Checked Bags
If you check a third bag or more (beyond any free allowances you might have), the fee is typically $150 per bag. This applies to each additional bag.
Sub-heading: Overweight Bag Fees
51-70 pounds: If your bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds (but not over 70 pounds), there's an additional fee of $150 per bag.
71-100 pounds: Bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds (but not over 100 pounds) will incur a fee of $200 per bag.
Important Note: Bags exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Bag Fees
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
If your bag is between 63 inches and 80 inches in total linear dimensions, it will be considered oversized and incur a fee of $200 per bag.
Important Note: Bags exceeding 80 inches will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Combining Fees
If a bag is both oversized and overweight, Southwest generally charges the higher of the two applicable fees, not both. For example, if a bag is 70 lbs and 65 inches, it might be a single $200 charge (for oversized), not $150 (overweight) + $200 (oversized). Always confirm with the airline if you have a bag that falls into both categories.
Step 5: Consider Special Items and Sports Equipment
Southwest has specific policies for certain types of baggage, which might have different size and weight allowances, and potentially their own fees.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment
Many common sports equipment items (e.g., golf bags, skis/snowboards) are accepted as checked baggage. Generally, standard checked bag fees apply. However, some items might have waived oversized fees, while others will still incur overweight charges if they exceed 50 lbs. It's always best to check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page or contact them directly for specific sports equipment you plan to bring. For example, a golf bag can count as one checked bag. Ski equipment (skis/snowboard, poles, and boots) can often be split into two bags but still count as one item, provided they meet limits.
Sub-heading: Other Special Items
Items like musical instruments, bicycles, and large media camera equipment may have specific guidelines and fees. Always consult Southwest's official policy for these items to avoid surprises. Some items may require you to purchase an extra seat.
Step 6: Remember Carry-On and Personal Items
While not "checked bags," these are still part of your overall baggage strategy.
Sub-heading: Carry-on Bag
You are allowed one carry-on bag per person, free of charge.
Dimensions: Must not exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H) (including handles and wheels).
Weight: There is no specific weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted.
Sub-heading: Personal Item
Tip: Keep the flow, don’t jump randomly.
You are allowed one personal item per person, free of charge.
Examples: Purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack.
Dimensions: Must fit under the seat in front of you. While specific dimensions aren't always explicitly stated, common guidelines are around 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 8.5" (H).
Weight: No specific weight limit, but it must fit under the seat.
Step 7: Packing Tips for a Smooth Journey
Measure and Weigh: Before heading to the airport, always measure and weigh your bags. A simple luggage scale can save you significant money in overweight fees.
Consolidate: If you're close to the weight limit on multiple bags, try to redistribute items to avoid overweight fees on one bag.
Know Your Fare and Status: Be aware of your specific fare type and any Rapid Rewards status you hold, as these are the primary determinants of your baggage allowance.
Pack Valuables in Carry-on: Always keep essential medications, valuables, electronics, important documents, and anything you can't afford to lose in your carry-on bag.
Remove Old Tags: Remove any old airline tags from your luggage to prevent misdirection.
Label Your Bags: Place your name and contact information both inside and outside your checked bags.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your Southwest Airlines flight and can manage your checked baggage like a seasoned pro!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my specific baggage allowance for my Southwest flight?
The best way is to check the "Optional Travel Charges" section on the Southwest Airlines official website, or review your specific booking confirmation, as baggage policies can vary based on fare type and booking date.
How to avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
You can avoid checked baggage fees by booking a Business Select® fare, holding Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status (for two free bags), or A-List or Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember status (for one free bag). Active-duty military personnel also get generous free allowances. Otherwise, pack light enough for just a carry-on and personal item.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
Checked baggage fees for Southwest Airlines must be paid at the airport, either at the ticket counter or at the self-service kiosks. Southwest does not allow you to prepay for checked luggage online.
How to handle oversized or overweight bags on Southwest?
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
If your bag exceeds the standard 50 lbs or 62 linear inches, you will incur additional fees ($150 for 51-70 lbs, $200 for 71-100 lbs, and $200 for 63-80 linear inches). Bags over 100 lbs or 80 inches are generally not accepted as checked baggage.
How to travel with sporting equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sporting equipment is accepted as checked baggage, with standard checked bag fees applying. Some items, like golf bags or ski equipment, might have special allowances (e.g., a golf bag counting as one checked item). Always verify specific rules and potential oversized/overweight exceptions on Southwest's website for your particular equipment.
How to check a third bag or more on Southwest?
For each bag beyond your free allowance (if any), the fee is typically $150 per bag, in addition to any overweight or oversized charges that may apply to that specific bag. Remember, the maximum is generally 20 pieces per person.
How to travel with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Pets in carriers are permitted on Southwest flights but will count as either your personal item or carry-on bag. There is an additional pet fee per one-way trip, and pets are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Pets are generally not allowed in-cabin on international flights.
How to know if my carry-on bag is the correct size for Southwest?
Southwest carry-on bags should not exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H), including handles and wheels. Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. It's highly recommended to measure your bags before arriving at the airport.
How to ensure my bag reaches my final destination if I have a connecting flight?
For connecting flights within the U.S. on Southwest, your checked bags should typically be checked through to your final destination. However, if your itinerary includes an international flight, you may be required to claim and re-check your bags after clearing customs upon arrival in the U.S.
How to get a refund for damaged or lost baggage on Southwest?
Damaged or lost baggage claims with Southwest Airlines must generally be reported in person within four hours of your arrival at your destination. Southwest's liability for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage is limited to a certain amount per fare-paying customer (currently around $3,800.00).
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