Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle, especially when you're trying to figure out the cost of that extra bag. Southwest Airlines, known for its once-unique "Bags Fly Free" policy, has recently updated its rules, making it crucial to understand the new fee structure. So, if you're wondering, "How much does Southwest Airlines charge for an extra bag?" you've come to the right place!
Let's dive in and break down everything you need to know, step-by-step, to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Baggage Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide
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| How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge For An Extra Bag |
Step 1: Are You Eligible for Free Checked Bags Anymore?
Woah there, hold your horses! Before we talk about extra bags, let's first clarify if you even need to worry about paying for your first and second bags. Southwest's "Bags Fly Free" policy has undergone a significant change, effective for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. This is a critical date to remember!
Sub-heading: The New Standard: For most passengers, the days of two free checked bags are a thing of the past. Under the new policy, for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares, you will now incur fees for your first and second checked bags.
Sub-heading: Who Still Gets Free Bags? Don't despair entirely! Some passengers still enjoy complimentary checked baggage. This includes:
Business Select® Fares: Passengers who book Business Select® will continue to receive two free checked bags. This is the top-tier fare and comes with various other perks.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite members will still get their first and second checked bags for free.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members will receive their first checked bag for free.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you hold a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card, you'll also get your first checked bag for free. Remember to include your Rapid Rewards® account number at the time of booking!
If you fall into one of the above categories, good for you! You might only need to consider "extra" bag fees if you're checking a third bag or more.
Step 2: Calculating the Cost of Your First and Second Checked Bags (If Applicable)
Now, for the moment of truth for many travelers. If your fare type (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, or Anytime) requires you to pay for checked bags, here's the breakdown as of May 28, 2025:
First Checked Bag: Expect to pay $35 per bag, each way.
Second Checked Bag: This will cost you $45 per bag, each way.
It's important to note that these fees apply per bag, per direction of travel. So, a round trip with one checked bag would cost you $70 ($35 out + $35 back).
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
Step 3: How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge for an Extra Bag (Third Bag and Beyond)?
Okay, so you've got your first two bags sorted (either free or paid for). What if you have even more luggage? This is where the "extra bag" fees truly come into play.
Sub-heading: Standard Third Bag Fee: For any third checked bag and beyond, Southwest charges a flat fee of $150 per bag, each way. This applies as long as the bag adheres to the standard size and weight limits.
Sub-heading: The "Stacking" of Fees: It's crucial to understand that these fees can add up. If you're paying for your first two bags AND have a third, your total checked baggage cost could look something like this for a one-way trip (assuming Basic fare): $35 (1st) + $45 (2nd) + $150 (3rd) = $230. Ouch!
Step 4: Understanding Oversized and Overweight Bag Fees
Even if your bag is within the number allowed, its dimensions and weight are critical. Southwest has strict limits, and exceeding them will result in additional charges.
Sub-heading: Standard Limits: For all checked bags (free or paid), the following limits apply:
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (22.7 kg)
Maximum Size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
Sub-heading: Overweight Bag Fees: If your bag exceeds the 50-pound limit, you'll face an overweight baggage fee:
51-70 pounds (23-32 kg): Expect a fee of $100 per bag, each way.
71-100 pounds (32-45 kg): The fee jumps to $200 per bag, each way.
Bags weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Bag Fees: If your bag is larger than 62 linear inches, you'll incur an oversized baggage fee:
63-80 inches: A fee of $200 per bag, each way applies.
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches are typically not accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: When a Bag is Both Oversized and Overweight: This is important: If your bag is both oversized and overweight, Southwest generally charges only one of the higher applicable fees, provided the bag does not exceed 100 pounds. For example, if a bag is 70 lbs and 65 inches, you'd pay the $200 oversized fee, not both the overweight and oversized fees. However, if it's an "excess bag" (3rd bag +) and oversized/overweight, you'll pay the excess baggage fee plus the applicable oversized/overweight fee.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
Step 5: Special Items and Their Fees
Southwest has specific policies and potential fees for various special items, including sports equipment, musical instruments, and pet carriers. These often count towards your checked bag allowance, but may have their own unique size and weight restrictions or associated fees.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment: Many common sports items (like golf clubs, skis, or snowboards) can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, provided they meet the weight and size limits. However, some larger items or those exceeding standard limits may incur a fee. For example:
Surfboards: May incur a fee of $75 if they exceed 50 lbs or the standard dimensions, or if you're checking more than two.
Bicycles: Will typically be subject to a $75 fee, and must be properly packaged.
Always check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page or contact them directly for specific sports equipment you plan to bring.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments: Musical instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under a seat. If checked, they count as one piece of your checked baggage allowance. However, oversized or overweight instruments will be subject to the standard oversized/overweight fees.
Sub-heading: Pet Carriers: If you're traveling with a small, domesticated cat or dog in the cabin, the pet carrier counts as either your carry-on item or personal item. There is a separate pet fare of $125 per carrier, each way, for domestic flights. Pets are not allowed in cargo on Southwest.
Step 6: Payment Methods and Tips for Saving
Sub-heading: When and Where to Pay: Southwest Airlines does not offer the option to pre-pay for checked baggage online. Baggage fees, including those for extra, oversized, or overweight bags, are typically paid at the airport ticket counter when you check your bags.
Sub-heading: Saving on Baggage Fees: Here are some tips to potentially save money:
Pack Lightly and Efficiently: This is the most obvious, but often overlooked, tip! Can you truly live without that third pair of shoes?
Utilize Your Carry-On and Personal Item: Southwest allows one carry-on bag (max 24" x 16" x 10") and one personal item (max 16.25" x 13.5" x 8") for free. Maximize this allowance! There is no weight limit for carry-on bags, as long as you can lift them into the overhead bin yourself.
Consider Fare Types: If you know you'll be checking multiple bags, compare the cost of a Basic/Wanna Get Away Plus fare + baggage fees versus a Business Select fare. The latter might actually be more cost-effective if you have two or more checked bags.
Earn Rapid Rewards A-List Status or Get a Southwest Credit Card: As outlined in Step 1, these avenues offer free checked bags, which can add up to significant savings for frequent flyers.
Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous items, consider using a luggage shipping service. Sometimes, this can be more affordable than airline fees, especially for international travel or extremely large items.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How to Avoid Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees?
To avoid Southwest baggage fees, qualify for A-List or A-List Preferred status, use a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card (for one free bag), or purchase a Business Select fare (for two free bags). Otherwise, minimize your luggage to a carry-on and personal item.
How to Check the Current Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) and navigate to their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" section for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information. Policies can change, so checking directly is always best.
How to Measure My Bag for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your bag, use a tape measure to determine the length, width, and height. Add these three dimensions together to get the "linear inches." For example, if your bag is 26" L + 14" W + 22" H, it's 62 linear inches. Don't forget to include wheels and handles in your measurements!
How to Weigh My Bag for Southwest Airlines?
You can weigh your bag at home using a bathroom scale. Weigh yourself first, then weigh yourself holding the bag, and subtract your weight to find the bag's weight. Many airports also have scales near the check-in counters.
How to Get My Pet on a Southwest Airlines Flight?
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
To fly with your pet on Southwest, ensure it's a small, vaccinated domestic cat or dog. Reserve space for your pet in advance as only a limited number are allowed per flight. Pay the pet fare ($125 one-way) at the airport ticket counter, and ensure your pet remains in its approved carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.
How to Travel with Sports Equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance if it fits within the 50 lbs and 62 linear inches limits. Oversized or overweight sports equipment may incur a $75 or $200 fee depending on the item and the extent it exceeds the limits. Check specific item policies on Southwest's website.
How to Handle Overweight Bags at the Airport?
If your bag is overweight at the airport, you have a few options: remove items to lighten the bag and transfer them to another bag (if within limits), pay the overweight fee ($100-$200), or consider shipping the excess items via a cargo service if time permits.
How to Contact Southwest Airlines for Baggage Questions?
You can contact Southwest Airlines' customer service directly via phone (numbers available on their website) or through their social media channels for specific baggage questions or complex scenarios.
How to Track My Checked Bag on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines provides a bag tracking service. After checking your bag, you'll receive a baggage claim tag with a tracking number. You can usually enter this number on the Southwest website or through their mobile app to track your bag's status.
How to Pack Smart for Southwest Airlines to Avoid Fees?
Pack versatile clothing, utilize compression bags to save space, wear your bulkiest items, and prioritize essentials. Consider rolling clothes instead of folding. If traveling with someone, distribute weight evenly between bags to avoid individual bags becoming overweight.
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