Understanding Southwest Airlines' Checked Baggage Policy: A Comprehensive Guide (2025 Update)
Hey there, fellow traveler! Are you planning your next adventure with Southwest Airlines and wondering about their baggage policy, especially when it comes to those all-important checked bags? You've come to the right place! For years, Southwest was celebrated for its legendary "Bags Fly Free" policy, setting it apart from nearly every other major U.S. airline. However, as of May 28, 2025, there's been a significant shift. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest's current checked baggage allowance, fees, and how to navigate the new landscape.
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| How Many Free Checked Bags Do You Get With Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Acknowledging the New Reality – The End of "Bags Fly Free" for Most
Let's start with the most crucial piece of information: the "Bags Fly Free" policy, as we knew it, has changed for the majority of travelers. If you've flown Southwest before, you'll remember the days when you could check two bags without a second thought, a huge perk that often influenced travelers' airline choices.
Unfortunately, to align with broader industry trends and enhance revenue, Southwest Airlines has revised its baggage policy for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. This means for most standard fare types (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares), you will now encounter fees for your checked bags.
Are you surprised by this change? Many travelers are! It marks a significant departure from Southwest's long-standing differentiator. But don't worry, we're here to help you understand exactly what this means for your travel plans.
Step 2: Understanding the Standard Checked Bag Allowance and Fees
Now that we've addressed the big news, let's dive into the specifics of what you can expect if you're flying with a standard fare.
2.1 Standard Baggage Fees
For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, the following fees apply to most passengers:
First Checked Bag: $35 per bag, each way.
Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag, each way.
Yes, you read that right. These fees are now in line with what many other major airlines charge. It's a significant change to factor into your travel budget.
2.2 Standard Bag Dimensions and Weight
Even with the new fees, your checked bags must adhere to Southwest's standard size and weight limits to avoid additional charges.
Maximum Weight per Bag: 50 pounds (23 kg)
Maximum Size per Bag: 62 linear inches (length + width + height), including handles and wheels.
It's absolutely crucial to measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport. An overweight or oversized bag will incur additional fees, which we'll cover in the next step.
Step 3: Navigating Overweight, Oversized, and Additional Bags
So, what happens if your bag is a little too heavy, a bit too big, or you simply need to bring more than two checked bags? Southwest has specific policies and fees for these scenarios.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
3.1 Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds the standard 50-pound weight limit but is 100 pounds or less, you will be charged an overweight fee.
Bags weighing 51 to 70 pounds: $150 per bag, each way.
Bags weighing 71 to 100 pounds: $200 per bag, each way.
Bags weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo if you are a "Known Shipper."
3.2 Oversized Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds the 62 linear inches size limit but is 80 linear inches or less, an oversized baggage fee will apply.
Bags measuring 63 to 80 linear inches: $200 per bag, each way.
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches will not be accepted as checked baggage.
3.3 Additional Bag Fees (Beyond the Second Bag)
If you need to check a third bag or more, you will be charged an additional fee per bag, in addition to any applicable overweight or oversized fees.
Third Bag and Beyond: $150 per bag, each way.
This means if you have, for example, a third bag that is also overweight, you'll pay both the $150 additional bag fee AND the relevant overweight fee. These costs can add up quickly!
Step 4: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags with Southwest? (The Exceptions!)
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy has largely ended, there are still important exceptions that allow certain passengers to check bags for free. Don't skip this step! You might qualify!
4.1 Business Select® Fare Holders
If you purchase a Business Select® fare, Southwest's highest fare tier, you are entitled to:
Two free checked bags (within standard size and weight limits).
This premium fare offers other benefits too, such as priority boarding and a complimentary premium drink, making it a viable option for travelers who value both flexibility and baggage allowance.
4.2 Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members
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Southwest's loyal customers with Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred status continue to receive:
Two free checked bags (within standard size and weight limits).
This status is earned through frequent flying, specifically by accumulating 40 one-way qualifying flight segments or 70,000 tier qualifying points within a calendar year.
4.3 Rapid Rewards® A-List Members
If you hold Rapid Rewards® A-List status, you are eligible for:
One free checked bag (within standard size and weight limits).
A-List status is achieved with 20 one-way qualifying flight segments or 35,000 tier qualifying points.
4.4 Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardholders
Many Southwest co-branded credit cards offer a valuable perk:
One free checked bag (within standard size and weight limits) for the primary cardmember.
It's essential to ensure your Rapid Rewards account number, linked to your credit card, is on your reservation to receive this benefit. This benefit typically extends to the primary cardholder on the reservation. Check the specific terms and conditions of your credit card for details.
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4.5 Active Duty Military Personnel
Southwest Airlines honors active-duty military personnel. If you are traveling on active duty or permanent change of station orders with a current, valid military ID, you are generally exempt from:
The two-piece baggage limit.
Excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges.
However, each piece of baggage still has weight and size limits (typically up to 100 pounds and 80 inches, though it's always best to verify directly with Southwest).
Step 5: Practical Tips for Managing Your Baggage
Even with the new fees, there are ways to make your travel smoother and potentially save some money.
5.1 Pack Smart, Pack Light
Consider if you truly need to check a bag. Can everything fit into a carry-on and personal item? Southwest still allows one carry-on bag (max size: 24" L x 16" W x 10" H) and one personal item (must fit under the seat in front of you) for free.
Roll your clothes tightly to save space.
Utilize packing cubes to organize and compress your items.
5.2 Weigh Your Bags at Home
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
Invest in a luggage scale. These are inexpensive and can save you significant money in overweight baggage fees at the airport.
If your bag is overweight, redistribute items to another bag or your carry-on if possible.
5.3 Consider Shipping Your Luggage
For very heavy or numerous bags, sometimes a third-party luggage shipping service can be a more cost-effective option than airline fees. Research these services in advance.
5.4 Understand Special Items
Sports Equipment: Many common sports items (like skis, golf clubs, and fishing equipment) count as one checked bag and are subject to the standard fees, weight, and size limits. Some oversized items may have waived oversized fees but still incur overweight fees. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your particular sports equipment.
Musical Instruments: Similar to sports equipment, musical instruments are often accepted as checked baggage with specific guidelines.
5.5 Arrive Early if Checking Bags
The process for checking bags might take longer now due to the new fee structure. Allow ample time at the airport, especially during peak travel periods. Southwest recommends checking bags at least 45 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and 60-75 minutes for international flights.
Conclusion: Adapting to the New Southwest Baggage Landscape
The change in Southwest Airlines' checked baggage policy is undoubtedly a significant one for many travelers. While the days of universally free checked bags are largely behind us, understanding the new fee structure, dimensions, and exceptions will empower you to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs. By planning ahead, packing strategically, and leveraging any elite status or credit card benefits you may have, you can still enjoy your Southwest journey without breaking the bank on baggage fees.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
You can avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines by holding a Business Select® fare, Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status (two free bags), Rapid Rewards A-List status (one free bag), or being a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholder (one free bag). Active-duty military personnel also receive special exceptions.
How to measure my bag for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your bag for Southwest Airlines, sum the length, width, and height of the bag (including handles and wheels). This total must not exceed 62 linear inches for standard checked bags.
How to weigh my bag for Southwest Airlines?
You can weigh your bag for Southwest Airlines using a home luggage scale. Most standard checked bags must be 50 pounds (23 kg) or less.
Tip: Highlight sentences that answer your questions.
How to check more than two bags with Southwest Airlines?
You can check more than two bags with Southwest Airlines by paying a fee of $150 per additional bag (for the third bag and beyond), in addition to any overweight or oversized fees.
How to handle an overweight bag on Southwest Airlines?
If your bag is overweight (51-100 lbs) on Southwest Airlines, you will pay an additional fee of $150 (51-70 lbs) or $200 (71-100 lbs) per bag, each way, on top of the standard checked bag fee. Bags over 100 lbs are generally not accepted.
How to handle an oversized bag on Southwest Airlines?
If your bag is oversized (63-80 linear inches) on Southwest Airlines, you will pay an additional fee of $200 per bag, each way, on top of the standard checked bag fee. Bags over 80 linear inches are generally not accepted.
How to know if my Southwest credit card offers free checked bags?
To know if your Southwest credit card offers free checked bags, review the benefits guide or terms and conditions specific to your card. Most co-branded Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards offer one free checked bag for the primary cardmember.
How to track my checked bag with Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines allows you to track your checked bags digitally. You can usually do this through their mobile app or website after checking your luggage at the airport.
How to check special items like sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
To check special items like sports equipment on Southwest Airlines, they generally count as one checked bag and are subject to standard fees, weight, and size limits. Certain oversized sports items may have waived oversized fees but could still incur overweight charges. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your item.
How to maximize free baggage allowance on Southwest Airlines?
To maximize your free baggage allowance on Southwest Airlines, consider purchasing a Business Select® fare or earning Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List status. Alternatively, applying for and using a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card can provide one free checked bag. Packing light and utilizing your free carry-on and personal item allowance is also key.
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