Traveling by air often comes with a myriad of questions, and baggage fees are almost always at the top of the list. For years, Southwest Airlines stood out from the crowd with its famous "Bags Fly Free" policy, a huge perk that endeared them to many travelers. However, as of May 28, 2025, that policy has undergone significant changes for most passengers. So, if you're wondering how much it is to check a bag on Southwest Airlines now, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into the details, step by step!
Step 1: Are You Ready to Unpack the New Baggage Policy?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's address the elephant in the room: Southwest's "Bags Fly Free" policy has changed for most travelers for flights booked on or after May 28, 2025. This is a major shift, and understanding it is key to avoiding surprises at the airport. No more just showing up with two bags and assuming they'll fly free if you're on a standard fare! So, are you ready to learn how these changes impact your travel plans? Let's proceed!
 |
| How Much Is It To Check A Bag On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding the New Standard Checked Bag Fees
For the majority of Southwest passengers, gone are the days of two automatically free checked bags. The airline has introduced standard fees that align more closely with other major U.S. carriers.
Sub-heading: The Basic Breakdown
First Checked Bag: For most fare types, your first checked bag will now cost $35.
Second Checked Bag: If you need to check a second bag, the fee will be $45.
These fees apply per bag, per direction (one-way). So, for a round trip with two checked bags, you'd be looking at $35 + $45 outbound and another $35 + $45 inbound, totaling $160! It's crucial to factor these costs into your overall travel budget.
Sub-heading: Weight and Size Limits Still Apply
Even with the new fees, standard weight and size restrictions remain in place for checked baggage. Adhering to these limits is essential to avoid additional charges.
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
Maximum Size: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm). This includes handles, wheels, and any other protrusions.
Always measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport! A simple luggage scale can save you significant money and stress.
Step 3: Identifying Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy has largely ended, there are still specific categories of travelers who can enjoy complimentary checked baggage on Southwest. Don't assume you're in this group without verifying!
Sub-heading: Fare Types with Included Bags
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
Southwest's higher-tier fare options still come with checked bag allowances:
Business Select: Travelers who book a Business Select fare will continue to receive two free checked bags. This is Southwest's most premium fare, offering benefits like A1-A15 boarding, a complimentary premium drink, and free inflight internet.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards Elite Status Holders
Loyalty pays off! Southwest's Rapid Rewards program offers elite statuses that include baggage benefits:
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved A-List Preferred status, you're entitled to two free checked bags. This benefit extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: A-List members will receive one free checked bag. This also applies to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Sub-heading: Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card Holders
If you carry a Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card, you're in luck!
Southwest Credit Card Members: Holders of a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card will typically receive one free checked bag. This is a significant perk if you frequently fly Southwest.
Sub-heading: Active-Duty Military Personnel
Southwest recognizes and supports military personnel:
Active-Duty Military with ID: Active-duty military passengers with a valid military ID are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and are not subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each bag doesn't exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches. This is a fantastic benefit for service members!
Step 4: Understanding Fees for Additional, Overweight, and Oversized Bags
Sometimes, two bags aren't enough, or your luggage might exceed the standard limits. Southwest has specific charges for these scenarios.
Sub-heading: Third (and Beyond) Checked Bags
Third and Subsequent Bags: If you need to check a third bag or more, each additional bag will cost $150. This can add up quickly, so pack wisely!
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
Exceeding the 50-pound weight limit for standard bags will incur additional fees:
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
51-70 Pounds: Bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds will be charged an additional $100.
71-100 Pounds: Bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds will be charged an additional $200.
Over 100 Pounds: Any item weighing more than 100 pounds must be shipped as Air Cargo and cannot be checked as standard baggage, unless you are classified as a Known Shipper by the TSA or TSA-approved Indirect Air Carriers.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension limit, you'll face an oversized baggage fee:
63-80 Inches: Bags measuring between 63 and 80 inches in linear dimensions will be charged an additional $200.
Over 80 Inches: Bags exceeding 80 inches cannot be checked as baggage but can be shipped as cargo if you are a Known Shipper.
Important Note on Combined Fees: If a single piece of baggage is both overweight and oversized, Southwest typically charges only one of the additional fees, usually the higher one. For example, if a bag is 70 lbs and 65 inches, it will be subject to the $200 oversized fee, not both the $100 overweight and $200 oversized fees. However, if it exceeds 70 lbs and 80 inches, it won't be accepted as checked baggage. Always double-check Southwest's official policy for the most precise details on combined fees.
Step 5: How to Potentially Avoid or Reduce Baggage Fees
Now that you know the costs, let's explore strategies to keep those dollars in your pocket!
Sub-heading: Pack Smart and Light
Consolidate: Try to fit everything into fewer bags. Sharing luggage with a travel companion can also help.
Utilize Your Carry-On and Personal Item: Remember, Southwest still allows one carry-on bag (up to 24" H x 16" W x 10" D) and one personal item (fitting under the seat, e.g., a purse, laptop bag, small backpack) for free. Maximize this allowance! Pack essentials and heavier items in your carry-on if possible.
Wear Bulky Items: Instead of packing heavy coats or boots, wear them on the plane.
Sub-heading: Consider Fare Upgrades or Loyalty Programs
Book Business Select: If you know you'll be checking two bags and valuing other perks like early boarding, the higher cost of a Business Select fare might offset the baggage fees.
Earn Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred: For frequent travelers, achieving elite status through flying or credit card spending can lead to significant savings on baggage fees over time.
Get a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: The annual fee for many of these cards can easily be justified by the baggage fee savings, not to mention other travel benefits and points earning.
Sub-heading: Ship Your Luggage Ahead
Luggage Shipping Services: For very heavy or numerous bags, consider using a luggage shipping service. Companies like My Baggage or Luggage Forward can send your bags directly to your destination, often at competitive rates, and save you the hassle at the airport. This is particularly useful for long trips or specialty items.
Sub-heading: Monitor Southwest's Official Policy
Stay Updated: Airline policies can change. Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) or their customer support for the most current and definitive information regarding baggage policies and fees for your specific itinerary.
Step 6: Checking Your Bags – The Airport Process
Once you've decided which bags to check, here's what to expect at the airport.
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
Sub-heading: Check-in Options
Online Check-in (No Checked Bags): If you're only carrying on, you can check in online 24 hours before your flight.
Airport Kiosk or Ticket Counter: If you have checked bags, you'll need to visit a self-service kiosk or the Southwest ticket counter at the airport to print your bag tags and drop off your luggage.
Curbside Check-in: Some airports offer curbside check-in, which can be a convenient option for dropping off bags quickly, but it's always advisable to confirm availability and hours beforehand.
Sub-heading: Time Limits for Bag Check
Domestic Flights: Generally, bags must be checked at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
International Flights: For international flights, the bag check-in deadline is typically 60 minutes prior to departure (or 75 minutes for flights departing Aruba). Always confirm these times, as failing to meet the deadline can result in your bags not making the flight.
Sub-heading: Claiming Your Checked Bags
Baggage Claim: Upon arrival at your destination, proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve your bags. Your baggage claim checks will indicate the carousel number.
Connecting Flights (International): If you're on an international itinerary with a connecting flight within the U.S., you will almost always need to claim your checked bags, clear customs, and then re-check them with a Southwest agent before proceeding to your connecting flight.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about checking bags on Southwest Airlines:
How to determine if my bag is oversized on Southwest?
Your bag is oversized if its total linear dimensions (length + width + height) exceed 62 inches.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest?
Pack lighter, distribute weight across multiple bags (if allowed), or consider shipping heavier items separately. Ensure each checked bag is 50 pounds or less.
How to check a third bag on Southwest?
A third checked bag will cost $150. You can check it at the airport ticket counter or curbside.
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
How to check a car seat or stroller for free on Southwest?
Southwest typically allows one car seat and one stroller per child to be checked for free, in addition to your standard baggage allowance.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards status gives me free bags?
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members get two free checked bags, and A-List members get one free checked bag. Check your Rapid Rewards account for your current status.
How to calculate the linear dimensions of my bag?
Measure the length, width, and height of your bag, then add those three measurements together.
How to pack medical equipment or assistive devices on Southwest?
Southwest generally allows medical equipment and assistive devices to be checked for free, in addition to your regular baggage allowance, and they are exempt from size and weight limitations.
How to handle fragile items in checked baggage on Southwest?
Fragile items should be properly packed in protective cases. Southwest may require a "Limited Release" tag, meaning they are not liable for damage to improperly packed items.
How to make sure my bags are checked to my final destination on Southwest?
Always verify the city printed on your baggage claim check matches your final destination, especially if you have connecting flights.
How to find the most current Southwest baggage policy?
Always refer to the "Checked Baggage Policy" or "Optional Travel Charges" section on the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) for the latest and most accurate information.
 |
