Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering just how many suitcases you can bring along? You've come to the right place! Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle, but with this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about Southwest's luggage rules.
How Many Suitcases Can You Bring on Southwest Airlines? A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there, fellow traveler! Are you ready to embark on your next adventure with Southwest Airlines, but feeling a bit puzzled about their baggage rules? Don't worry, you're not alone! Many people wonder about the exact number of suitcases they can bring, especially with recent changes in airline policies. Let's demystify it together, step by step!
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| How Many Suitcases Can You Bring On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understanding the Basics - The "Bags Fly... Differently Now" Policy
For a long time, Southwest was famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing two checked bags for every passenger without extra charge. However, as of May 28, 2025, this has largely changed for most travelers. It's crucial to understand that most passengers will now incur fees for checked bags. But don't fret, there are still ways to get those bags for free, depending on your fare type or loyalty status!
The New Standard: For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, you'll generally pay:
$35 for your first checked bag.
$45 for your second checked bag.
$150 for your third bag and any additional bags beyond that.
Key Takeaway: No more blanket "Bags Fly Free" for everyone. This is the most significant change to be aware of!
Step 2: Deconstructing Your Baggage Allowance - Checked, Carry-On, and Personal Items
Southwest's baggage policy isn't just about checked bags. It also includes allowances for what you can bring in the cabin with you.
Sub-heading 2.1: Checked Baggage Allowance
This is where your main suitcases go. Here's what you need to remember:
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
Weight Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Size Limit: The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) for each checked bag must be 62 inches (158 cm).
Exemptions to Fees: While most pay, some passengers still enjoy free checked bags:
Business Select® fares: You get two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: You also receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: You get one free checked bag.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: You receive one free checked bag. This applies to the primary cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided the cardmember's Rapid Rewards number is on the reservation.
Active-duty Military Passengers with a current, valid military ID are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided bags don't exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.
Sub-heading 2.2: Carry-On Baggage Allowance
This is the bag you bring with you onto the airplane and store in the overhead bin.
Quantity: You are allowed one carry-on bag.
Size Limit: Your carry-on bag, including wheels and handles, must not exceed 24" x 16" x 10".
Weight Limit: There is no weight restriction for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into and out of the overhead bin yourself. If it's too big, it may be gate-checked (potentially for a fee if it exceeds checked bag limits).
Sub-heading 2.3: Personal Item Allowance
This is a smaller item that fits under the seat in front of you.
Quantity: You are allowed one personal item.
Examples: This typically includes items like a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack, or camera bag.
Size Limit: Your personal item should not exceed 18.5" x 13.5" x 8.5".
Weight Limit: There is no weight limit for personal items.
Step 3: Navigating Overweight and Oversize Baggage Fees
Sometimes, your enthusiasm for packing leads to a bag that's a little too heavy or too big. Southwest has clear policies for these situations.
Overweight Baggage:
If a checked bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds (23-32 kg), there's a $100 fee.
If a checked bag weighs between 71 and 100 pounds (32-45 kg), there's a $125 fee.
Bags weighing over 100 pounds will not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo if you are a "Known Shipper."
Oversize Baggage:
If a checked bag is larger than 62 linear inches (158 cm) but up to 80 linear inches (203 cm), there's a $125 fee.
Bags larger than 80 linear inches cannot be checked as baggage and may need to be shipped via cargo.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you will generally only be charged one fee (the higher of the two) if it does not exceed 100 pounds or 80 inches.
Step 4: Special Items - Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, and More
Southwest has specific guidelines for various special items. These often count towards your checked baggage allowance, but sometimes have their own rules.
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
Sports Equipment: Many common sports items (like golf clubs, skis/snowboards, bicycles) can be checked as part of your baggage allowance. However, they must still meet the standard weight and size limits (50 lbs and 62 inches) or incur overweight/oversize fees. Some exceptions apply (e.g., ski equipment can be split into two bags but counts as one item). Always check the specific sport equipment policy on Southwest's website.
Musical Instruments:
Carry-on: Smaller instruments that fit in the overhead bin (up to 24" x 16" x 10") or under the seat can be carried on.
Purchased Seat: Larger instruments (like a cello) that don't fit in the overhead bin can have a seat purchased for them, provided they can be properly secured.
Checked: Instruments can be checked as baggage, counting towards your allowance. Overweight/oversize fees apply for instruments between 62 and 150 inches, or 51 and 165 pounds. Instruments over 150 inches or 165 pounds will not be accepted.
Assistive Devices: Wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices are not counted towards your baggage allowance and can be checked free of charge.
Step 5: International Travel Considerations
If your journey includes an international flight with Southwest, there are a few additional points to keep in mind.
Checking Baggage: For international flights, you must check your luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter at the airport. Curbside check-in is not available for international itineraries.
Check-in Times: Be sure to adhere to stricter check-in times for international flights. For most international flights, passengers and their baggage must be checked in 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure. For flights departing Aruba (AUA), it's 75 minutes.
Customs and Connections (U.S. Inbound): If you are flying into the U.S. and have a connecting flight, you must claim all checked luggage after arrival in the U.S. to clear Customs, even if your bag is tagged to your final destination. After clearing Customs, you will then re-check your bags with a Southwest Customer Service Agent before proceeding to your connecting flight.
Step 6: Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
Nobody likes unexpected costs! Here are some strategies to minimize or avoid those baggage fees:
Pack Smart & Light: The simplest solution! Lay out everything you think you need, and then remove half of it. Seriously.
Utilize Your Carry-On and Personal Item: Maximize the space in your free carry-on and personal item. This often means fitting essentials, a change of clothes, and valuable items here.
Consider Loyalty Status or Credit Card: If you fly Southwest frequently, achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status, or getting a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card, can save you a significant amount on baggage fees.
Ship Your Luggage: For a truly hassle-free experience with multiple bags, consider using a luggage shipping service. Companies like My Baggage allow you to ship your suitcases ahead of time, often at competitive rates and with higher weight allowances.
Weigh Your Bags at Home: Invest in a small luggage scale. It's a lifesaver for avoiding those dreaded overweight fees at the airport.
Wear Your Heaviest Items: If you have bulky shoes or a heavy jacket, wear them on the plane rather than packing them.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines baggage, with quick answers to help you out!
How to calculate the linear dimensions of my bag?
Add the length, width, and height of your suitcase (L + W + H) to get the total linear dimensions. For example, a bag that is 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high has a linear dimension of 50 inches.
QuickTip: Read step by step, not all at once.
How to weigh my suitcase at home?
You can purchase a small, portable luggage scale online or at most travel stores. Simply attach your bag to the scale's hook and lift to get an accurate weight reading.
How to ensure my carry-on fits in the overhead bin?
Stick to the stated dimensions of 24" x 16" x 10". If your bag is soft-sided, ensure it's not overstuffed, which can make it difficult to fit. Many airports have sizing bins near check-in counters where you can test your bag.
How to get free checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
You can get free checked bags if you book a Business Select® fare, are a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred Member, or are a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (for the primary cardholder and passengers on the same reservation). Active-duty military personnel also get free checked bags.
How to pay for extra checked bags on Southwest?
You cannot prepay for checked bags with Southwest Airlines. All baggage fees, including those for additional, overweight, or oversized bags, are paid at the airport during check-in.
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
How to check multiple bags if I'm traveling with a group?
If you're traveling on the same reservation as a Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, they can extend their one free checked bag benefit to up to eight additional passengers on that reservation. Otherwise, each passenger will follow the standard baggage policy based on their fare type and status.
How to handle a gate-checked bag?
If your carry-on is too large or the overhead bins are full, Southwest may require you to gate-check your bag. This means it will be taken from you at the gate and placed in the cargo hold. You will typically retrieve it at baggage claim upon arrival at your destination, not at the gate.
How to pack liquids in my carry-on or personal item?
Follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item, fit in one quart-sized bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
How to transport special equipment like golf clubs or ski equipment?
Golf equipment and ski/snowboard equipment generally count as one piece of checked baggage. They must meet the standard 50 lbs weight limit to avoid overweight fees. Ski/snowboard equipment can be split into two bags (e.g., one for skis/board, one for boots/poles) but still count as one checked item.
How to find the most up-to-date baggage policy for my specific flight?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) or contact their customer service directly. Policies can change, and the website will have the most current and detailed information.
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