Are you ready to unravel the mystery of baggage allowances on Southwest Airlines? Packing for a trip can be stressful enough, but worrying about whether your bags will incur extra fees shouldn't be part of the equation. Let's break down exactly how many pounds you're allowed on Southwest, and how to avoid any surprises at the airport!
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Baggage Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Southwest Airlines has historically been famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, which allowed passengers to check two bags without charge. However, please note that as of May 28, 2025, this policy has changed for most passengers. This guide will reflect the most up-to-date information.
Step 1: Determine Your Baggage Needs – What Kind of Traveler Are You?
Before we dive into the numbers, let's figure out what kind of baggage you plan to bring. Are you a light packer with just a carry-on, or do you need to check multiple suitcases? Understanding your own packing style will help you navigate Southwest's policies efficiently.
Carry-on Only: Do you travel light and intend to only bring a bag that fits in the overhead bin and a smaller personal item?
Checked Bags: Do you need one, two, or even more larger suitcases to bring all your belongings?
Special Items: Are you traveling with sports equipment, musical instruments, or other unique items?
Answering these questions will set the stage for understanding the specific weight and size limits that apply to your trip.
Step 2: Mastering the Checked Baggage Limits (for Most Passengers)
For reservations booked and ticketed on or after May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has introduced fees for checked bags for most passengers. It's crucial to understand these changes to avoid unexpected costs.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Allowance
Weight Limit: Each checked bag has a standard weight limit of up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg). This is a critical number to remember. If your bag exceeds this, you will incur an overweight fee.
Size Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches in size (length + width + height). This includes handles and wheels! Always measure your bag before you leave to ensure it fits within these dimensions. If your bag exceeds this size, it will be considered oversized, and additional fees will apply.
Sub-heading: Checked Bag Fees (Effective May 28, 2025, for Most)
Unless you fall into specific categories (which we'll cover next), you can expect to pay for your checked bags:
First Checked Bag: Typically costs $35.
Second Checked Bag: Typically costs $45.
Third (+) Checked Bag: If you need to check a third bag or more, the fee is generally $150 per bag.
Important Note: Southwest Airlines does not allow you to prepay for luggage online. Baggage fees must be paid at the airport during check-in.
Sub-heading: Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
These fees are in addition to any standard checked bag fees:
Overweight (51-70 lbs): If your checked bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds, an additional fee of $100 per bag applies.
Overweight (71-100 lbs): If your checked bag weighs between 71 and 100 pounds, an additional fee of $200 per bag applies.
Oversized (63"-80" linear inches): If your checked bag measures between 63 and 80 linear inches, an additional fee of $200 per bag applies.
Over 80 inches or 100 pounds: Any item exceeding 80 linear inches or 100 pounds will not be accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo (which has its own separate regulations and requirements).
Step 3: Unlocking Free Checked Bags (Exceptions to the New Rule)
While the "Bags Fly Free" perk has largely ended, there are still ways to get complimentary checked bags on Southwest Airlines.
Business Select Fares: If you purchase a Business Select® fare, you are entitled to two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: Members with Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred status receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: Members with Rapid Rewards® A-List status receive one free checked bag.
Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders: Many Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cardholders receive one free checked bag. Check the specific benefits of your card.
Active-Duty Military Personnel: Active-duty military passengers with a current, valid military ID are exempt from baggage limits and fees for up to five pieces of baggage, provided none of the pieces exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size. This is a very generous allowance!
Step 4: Understanding Carry-On and Personal Item Rules (Still Free!)
Good news! Southwest Airlines still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free for all ticketed passengers. This is a great way to avoid checked bag fees if you can pack light.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Bag Specifications
Size Limit: Your carry-on bag should not exceed dimensions of 24 inches (length) x 16 inches (width) x 10 inches (height). This includes wheels and handles.
Weight Limit: Southwest Airlines does not impose a specific weight restriction for carry-on items. The primary requirement is that you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself. However, it's always wise to keep it manageable.
Sub-heading: Personal Item Specifications
Size Limit: Your personal item, such as a purse, briefcase, laptop case, or small backpack, should be able to fit under the seat in front of you. While there isn't a strict published size limit for personal items on Southwest's main policy page, some sources indicate a general guideline of 16.25 inches x 13.5 inches x 8 inches.
Weight Limit: Similar to carry-on bags, there is no stated weight limit for personal items.
Step 5: Navigating Special Baggage (Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, etc.)
If you're traveling with items that don't fit the standard suitcase mold, Southwest has specific guidelines.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment
Southwest generally accepts most sports equipment as checked baggage, subject to standard weight and size limitations.
Standard Rules Apply: For many items like golf clubs, skis, or snowboards, they count as one piece of your checked baggage allowance. If they exceed the 50-pound weight limit, overweight fees will apply.
Oversized Waivers (for some items): For certain sports equipment (e.g., surfboards, bicycles), the oversized fee may be waived, but overweight fees will still apply if the item exceeds 50 pounds. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your particular sport. For example, surfboards can be subject to a fee even if they replace a free checked bag on certain routes.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can be a bit tricky, depending on their size.
Carry-On: Smaller musical instruments that fit within the carry-on dimensions (24" x 16" x 10") can be brought as your carry-on item, provided there's space in the overhead bin.
Purchased Seat: For larger instruments that don't fit in the overhead bin but cannot be checked, you may purchase a separate seat for them. They must be secured with a seatbelt and not block any aircraft signage or exit paths.
Checked Baggage: Instruments that exceed carry-on limits but are not large enough to require a separate seat can be checked as baggage, subject to standard weight and size limits, and associated fees if overweight or oversized. Southwest will not accept musical instruments exceeding 150 linear inches or 165 pounds.
Step 6: Packing Smart and Avoiding Fees
Now that you know the rules, here are some tips to help you pack efficiently and save money:
Weigh Your Bags at Home: Invest in a luggage scale! This small investment can save you significant overweight baggage fees. Weigh your bags before you leave for the airport.
Distribute Weight Evenly: If you have multiple checked bags, try to distribute the weight so no single bag exceeds 50 pounds.
Utilize Your Carry-On and Personal Item: Maximize the space in your free carry-on and personal item. Pack heavier items in your carry-on if possible, as there's no weight limit.
Wear Your Heaviest Items: If you're on the cusp of an overweight bag, consider wearing your heaviest shoes or jacket on the plane.
Consider Shipping: For very heavy or numerous items, especially for longer trips, consider shipping them via a cargo service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline baggage fees.
Check Fare Types Carefully: When booking, pay attention to the fare type (e.g., Wanna Get Away, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select) as this directly impacts your baggage allowance.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your Southwest Airlines flight and can travel with peace of mind, knowing your baggage is sorted!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my baggage allowance for my specific Southwest flight?
Your baggage allowance depends on your fare type and Rapid Rewards status. For specific details, refer to the "Optional Travel Charges" section on the Southwest Airlines website or check your booking confirmation.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest?
To avoid overweight baggage fees, ensure each checked bag does not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg). Weigh your bags at home using a luggage scale and distribute heavier items across multiple bags or in your carry-on.
How to measure my luggage for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your luggage, use a tape measure to find the length, width, and height of your bag, including handles and wheels. Add these three dimensions together to get the total linear inches. For checked bags, this sum should be 62 inches or less.
How to find out if my Rapid Rewards status grants free checked bags?
Log in to your Rapid Rewards account on the Southwest Airlines website or app. Your A-List or A-List Preferred status will indicate your complimentary checked baggage allowance (one or two free bags, respectively).
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment can be checked as a regular bag, counting towards your allowance. Standard weight and size rules apply, but oversized fees may be waived for some items (e.g., surfboards), though overweight fees will still be charged if applicable. Check Southwest's "Special Baggage" section for specifics on your equipment.
How to bring a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Small musical instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin (24" x 16" x 10"). Larger instruments can be checked as baggage (under 100 lbs and 150 linear inches), or you can purchase a separate seat for very large instruments.
How to track my checked baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines offers a digital bag tracking service. You can track your bags using the Southwest Airlines app or on their website after you've checked them in at the airport.
How to check bags for international Southwest flights?
For international flights, you typically must check luggage at the ticket counter at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure (75 minutes for Aruba). If you have a connecting international flight within the U.S., you will generally need to claim and re-check your bags after clearing customs.
How to declare oversized or overweight baggage at the airport?
When checking in at the airport, Southwest agents will weigh and measure your bags. If they exceed the standard limits, they will inform you of the applicable oversized or overweight fees, which must be paid at that time.
How to get a military baggage allowance on Southwest Airlines?
Active-duty military personnel need to present a current, valid military ID at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. This exempts them from standard baggage fees for up to five pieces of baggage, provided each bag does not exceed 100 pounds or 80 inches.
