Traveling can be exciting, but navigating airline baggage policies often adds a layer of stress. And if you're flying with Southwest Airlines, you might have heard about their famous "Bags Fly Free" policy. But here's the crucial update: that policy has changed for most travelers. Yes, you read that right! As of May 28, 2025, Southwest has revised its baggage policy, aligning more with other major U.S. carriers.
So, let's dive into the specifics of how many checked bags you get with Southwest Airlines now, and how to manage your luggage like a pro.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Checked Baggage Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide
It's essential to understand the nuances of Southwest's new baggage rules to avoid any surprises at the airport. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Step 1: Determine Your Fare Type and Eligibility
This is the absolute first step you need to take! Southwest's new baggage policy is largely dependent on the type of fare you purchased and your Rapid Rewards status (if any).
For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, the following applies:
Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: For most travelers on these standard fares, you will now pay for your first and second checked bags. This is the biggest change from the previous "Bags Fly Free" policy.
Business Select® Fare: If you've booked a Business Select fare, you're in luck! You still receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: These top-tier members also receive their first and second checked bags for free.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: If you hold A-List status or a Southwest co-branded credit card, you are entitled to one free checked bag.
Active-duty Military Passengers: With a current, valid military ID, active-duty military passengers are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each bag doesn't exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
Hawaii Residents traveling between islands: Residents of Hawaii (based on primary mailing address) traveling on inter-island flights also continue to receive two free checked bags.
For flights booked and ticketed and/or changed on or before May 27, 2025: Regardless of your travel date, if your reservation falls into this category, you will not be charged standard checked bag fees for your first or second checked bag, provided they adhere to size and weight limits.
Action Item: Go check your booking confirmation! What fare type did you select? Are you a Rapid Rewards member with status, or a Southwest credit card holder? This information is critical.
Step 2: Understand Standard Bag Dimensions and Weight Limits
Even if your bags are free, they still need to meet Southwest's standard requirements. Ignoring these can lead to additional fees!
Standard Size Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches in overall dimensions (length + width + height). Remember to include wheels and handles in your measurement.
Standard Weight Limit: Each checked bag must weigh 50 pounds (23 kg) or less.
Pro Tip: Invest in a portable luggage scale. It's a small investment that can save you a significant amount in overweight baggage fees!
Step 3: Calculating Potential Bag Fees
If you don't fall into one of the categories that still receive free checked bags, or if you plan to check more than the allowed free bags, you'll need to factor in the costs.
First Checked Bag: For those subject to fees, the first checked bag is typically $35.
Second Checked Bag: The second checked bag is generally $45.
Third and Additional Checked Bags: If you need to check a third bag or more, the fee jumps to $150 per bag.
Overweight Bags (51-70 pounds): If your bag is between 51 and 70 pounds, an additional fee of $100 applies.
Overweight Bags (71-100 pounds): For bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds, the fee is $200.
Oversized Bags (63-80 inches): If your bag exceeds 62 inches but is not more than 80 inches in linear dimensions, an additional fee of $200 applies.
Important Note: If a bag is both oversized and overweight, you'll generally only incur one charge for the higher of the two fees, not both, as long as it does not exceed 100 lbs.
Self-Reflection: Are you notorious for overpacking? Now might be the time to consider if you truly need that extra pair of shoes or if it's worth the added expense.
Step 4: Packing Smart and Efficiently
Now that you know the rules, it's time to pack strategically.
Consolidate when possible: If you're traveling with a companion who has free baggage, see if you can combine items into their allowance.
Utilize your carry-on: Southwest allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Make the most of this allowance!
Carry-on bag: Must not exceed 10 x 16 x 24 inches. It should fit in the overhead bin.
Personal item: This smaller item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) must fit under the seat in front of you.
Wear your heaviest items: If you have bulky shoes or a heavy jacket, consider wearing them on the plane rather than packing them.
Ship it: For extremely heavy or numerous items, consider shipping them via a separate service. Sometimes, this can be more cost-effective than airline baggage fees, especially for international travel or very large items.
Consider vacuum-seal bags to compress clothing and create more space in your checked luggage.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them; this can save space and reduce wrinkles.
Step 5: Checking Your Bags at the Airport
Once you've packed, it's time to check your bags.
Arrive early: Especially if you have checked bags, arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Baggage check-in cut-off times apply, typically 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 60-75 minutes for international flights.
Self-Tagging Kiosks: At many airports, Southwest offers self-tagging kiosks. This can save you time by allowing you to print your own bag tags before dropping your luggage at the bag drop counter.
Friendly Southwest Agent: Alternatively, you can always check your bags with a Southwest agent at the ticket counter.
Claim Checks: Make sure you receive a separate claim check for each piece of checked baggage. Verify that the city on the claim check matches your final destination.
Take a picture of your luggage and its contents with your phone before checking it. This can be helpful if your bag is lost or damaged.
Attach a unique luggage tag with your contact information (not just your home address) to easily identify your bag.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to handle your checked baggage on Southwest Airlines, ensuring a smoother and more predictable travel experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Southwest Airlines' baggage policy:
How to determine if my bag is oversized or overweight?
Measure your bag's length, width, and height, then add them together. If the sum exceeds 62 linear inches, it's oversized. Weigh your bag; if it's over 50 pounds (23 kg), it's overweight.
How to avoid paying baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
Book a Business Select fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, be an active-duty military member, be a Hawaii resident flying inter-island, or be a Rapid Rewards A-List member or Southwest credit card holder (for one free bag).
How to pack efficiently to stay within weight limits?
Use lightweight luggage, roll your clothes, wear bulky items, and consider if you truly need everything you plan to pack. Distribute weight evenly across multiple bags if you have free allowances.
How to check special items like sports equipment on Southwest?
Many sporting equipment items are accepted as checked baggage, subject to standard weight and size limits. Oversized or overweight rules and fees may still apply. Check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page for specific item policies.
How to track my checked bags with Southwest?
Southwest offers digital bag tracking through their mobile app. You can often see updates on your bag's status from check-in to arrival.
How to report lost or damaged baggage with Southwest?
Lost or damaged baggage must be reported in person at the Southwest Airlines baggage claim office within four hours of your arrival at your destination.
How to check bags for international flights with Southwest?
For international flights, you must check in and check your luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter at the airport. Curbside check-in is not permitted for international itineraries. Allow extra time for this process.
How to check bags if I'm traveling with a connecting flight?
If any portion of your itinerary contains an international flight and you connect within the U.S., you will likely be required to claim your luggage after clearing Customs and then re-check it with a Southwest Customer Service Agent before proceeding to your connecting flight(s).
How to get an exception for oversized or overweight bags if I'm military?
Active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID are exempt from oversized and overweight baggage fees, provided their bags do not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in linear dimensions.
How to find the most up-to-date baggage policy information for Southwest?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website's "Checked Bag Policy" and "Optional Travel Charges" pages for the most current and detailed information. Policies can change, so it's always best to verify directly with the airline.
