For decades, Southwest Airlines stood out from the crowd with its famous "Bags Fly Free" policy, a true differentiator in an industry increasingly nickel-and-diming passengers for every little extra. But those days, my friends, are largely coming to an end. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest has implemented significant changes to its baggage policy, aligning itself more closely with other major U.S. carriers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest's new baggage fees, how to navigate them, and what to expect on your next flight.
Step 1: Are You Impacted by the New Baggage Fees? Let's Find Out!
First things first, let's determine if these new fees even apply to you. Are you currently planning a trip on Southwest, or have you recently booked one?
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If you booked and ticketed your reservation on or before May 27, 2025, then congratulations! Your first and second checked bags still fly free, regardless of your travel date (standard weight and size limits still apply). You're in the clear for that booking.
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If you booked and ticketed your reservation, or voluntarily changed it (including name updates or ticket changes) on or after May 28, 2025, then yes, these new baggage fees will likely apply to you. Don't worry, we'll break down exactly what that means.
This change marks a significant shift, and understanding which category you fall into is the crucial first step.
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| How Much Is Southwest Airlines Going To Start Charging For Bags |
Step 2: Understanding the New Standard Baggage Fees
For the vast majority of travelers booking flights on or after May 28, 2025, Southwest has introduced a clear fee structure for checked bags.
2.1 Standard Checked Bag Fees
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First checked bag: $35
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Second checked bag: $45
These fees apply to passengers traveling on Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares. It's a departure from the previous universal "two bags free" policy and brings Southwest's pricing in line with its competitors like Delta and American Airlines.
2.2 Important Considerations for Standard Bags
Even with the new fees, it's essential to adhere to Southwest's standard baggage requirements:
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Weight Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 lbs (22.7 kg).
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Size Limit: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm).
Bags exceeding these limits will incur additional fees, which we'll cover in the next step.
Step 3: Navigating Overweight, Oversized, and Additional Bags
Beyond the standard first and second checked bags, Southwest also has fees for bags that are heavier, larger, or if you need to check more than two.
3.1 Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag weighs more than 50 lbs, you're looking at additional charges.
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
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Bags weighing 51 to 70 pounds: An additional $150 per bag.
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Bags weighing 71 to 100 pounds: An additional $200 per bag.
Important Note: Any item weighing over 100 pounds will typically not be permitted as checked baggage.
3.2 Oversized Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds the 62-linear-inch dimension limit, it will be considered oversized.
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Bags measuring 63 to 80 inches (linear): An additional $200 per bag.
Important Note: Bags measuring over 80 inches in linear dimensions generally cannot be checked.
3.3 Third and Subsequent Checked Bags
Need to check more than two bags? Each additional bag will also incur a fee.
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Third (and any subsequent) checked bag: $150 per bag.
Keep in mind that overweight and oversized fees apply in addition to these third-bag fees. For example, a third bag that is also overweight would incur both the $150 third bag fee and the relevant overweight fee.
Step 4: Strategies to Potentially Avoid or Reduce Baggage Fees
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is mostly gone, there are still several ways you might be able to avoid or reduce these new fees. It pays to be prepared and understand these options!
4.1 Leveraging Elite Status with Rapid Rewards
Southwest's Rapid Rewards loyalty program offers some significant perks when it comes to baggage.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: Still enjoy two free checked bags. This is the top tier of Southwest's loyalty program, requiring a substantial amount of travel.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members: Receive their first checked bag for free. While not as comprehensive as A-List Preferred, this still saves you $35 per flight.
4.2 Utilizing Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards
Many co-branded Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards credit cards offer baggage benefits.
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Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: Receive their first checked bag for free. This benefit typically applies to the primary cardmember and often extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided the Rapid Rewards account number is included at the time of booking. This is a fantastic way for many travelers to save.
4.3 Booking Business Select Fares
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
If you're willing to pay for a higher fare class, you can still get free checked bags.
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Business Select Fares: Passengers booking Business Select fares continue to receive two free checked bags. This is Southwest's highest fare tier and comes with other benefits like priority boarding.
4.4 Specific Exemptions
Some traveler categories are still exempt from checked baggage fees.
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Active Duty Military Personnel: Members of the U.S. military traveling on active duty or permanent change of station orders are generally exempt from checked, overweight, or oversized bag fees, provided their bags do not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.
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Hawaii Residents (inter-island travel): Residents of Hawaii traveling between the islands continue to receive two free checked bags.
Step 5: Carry-On and Personal Item Policies (Unchanged)
It's important to remember that while checked bag policies have changed, Southwest's carry-on and personal item policies largely remain the same.
5.1 Carry-On Bag
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You are allowed one carry-on bag per passenger.
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This bag must fit in the overhead bin.
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Maximum Dimensions: 24" (L) + 16" (W) + 10" (H) (including wheels and handles).
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There is no specified weight restriction for carry-on items, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
5.2 Personal Item
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You are allowed one personal item per passenger.
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This item must fit under the seat in front of you.
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Examples: Purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack, camera bag.
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Maximum Dimensions: 16.25” (L) x 13.5” (W) x 8” (H).
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There is no specified weight limit for personal items.
5.3 Items Not Counted Towards Limits
Certain items do not count towards your one carry-on and one personal item limit:
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Outer garments (coats, jackets)
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Umbrellas
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Food for consumption during the flight in disposable packaging
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Assistive devices (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.)
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Child restraint devices (car seats) for a ticketed child or if a complimentary, available space exists.
Step 6: Preparing for Your Flight with the New Policies
To ensure a smooth travel day, consider these final steps:
6.1 Weigh and Measure Your Bags at Home
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Invest in a luggage scale if you don't have one. This small purchase can save you significant money and stress at the airport.
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Carefully measure the dimensions of your checked bags to avoid oversized fees.
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
6.2 Consolidate and Pack Smart
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Can you fit everything into one checked bag instead of two? Even with the $35 fee for the first bag, it's still less than $35 + $45 = $80 for two.
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Maximize your carry-on and personal item space, ensuring they meet the size requirements.
6.3 Factor in Baggage Costs When Comparing Fares
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When looking at flight prices, remember to add the potential baggage fees to get a true comparison of the total cost of your travel. Sometimes, a slightly higher fare on another airline might end up being cheaper if it includes baggage.
6.4 Be Aware of the "Voluntary Change" Clause
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If you booked your flight before May 28, 2025, but then make a voluntary change to your reservation (even a minor one like a name correction or flight time adjustment), the new baggage fees will apply. Be cautious about making changes unless absolutely necessary.
The Evolving Landscape of Air Travel
Southwest's decision to end its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy for most travelers is a significant one, reflecting broader trends in the airline industry. While it's a change that many loyal Southwest customers might lament, understanding the new rules and how to navigate them is key to avoiding unexpected costs and ensuring a stress-free journey. Always check Southwest's official website for the most up-to-date information before your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to calculate the linear dimensions of my bag?
To calculate the linear dimensions of your bag, simply add the length, width, and height of the bag together. For example, if your bag is 26 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 18 inches high, its linear dimensions are inches.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards credit card offers a free checked bag?
Check your specific Rapid Rewards credit card benefits guide or the issuing bank's website (e.g., Chase). Most Southwest co-branded credit cards explicitly state the baggage benefit, usually "first checked bag free."
How to ensure my carry-on bag meets Southwest's size requirements?
Measure your carry-on bag carefully, including wheels and handles, to ensure it does not exceed 24" (L) + 16" (W) + 10" (H). Many luggage manufacturers list dimensions, but it's always best to double-check with a tape measure.
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees?
Weigh your checked bags at home using a luggage scale before heading to the airport. If your bag is over 50 lbs, remove heavier items and place them in your personal item, carry-on, or another checked bag if you have allowance.
How to check baggage fees for international flights with Southwest?
Southwest primarily operates within the U.S. and to select international destinations. For international flights, the same domestic checked bag fees apply ($35 for the first, $45 for the second, etc.), unless you qualify for an exemption based on fare class or elite status. Always confirm on Southwest's website for specific international route policies.
How to check a third bag on Southwest?
You can check a third bag (and subsequent bags) on Southwest, but each will cost $150. These fees are in addition to any overweight or oversized charges that may apply to those additional bags.
How to get two free checked bags on Southwest now?
To get two free checked bags on Southwest, you generally need to be a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Member, or purchase a Business Select fare. Active duty military personnel and Hawaii residents traveling inter-island also receive two free checked bags.
How to handle sports equipment and musical instruments with the new baggage fees?
Most sports equipment and musical instruments are accepted as checked baggage. They generally count as one checked item and are subject to the same standard baggage fees and weight/size limits. Oversized or overweight sports equipment may incur additional fees. Check Southwest's specific policy for your particular item.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest?
You will pay for checked bags at the airport during the check-in process, either at the self-service kiosks or at the check-in counter. Southwest does not allow pre-payment for checked luggage online.
How to use my Southwest flight credit with the new baggage policy?
Flight credits issued on or after May 28, 2025, will now expire within six months or one year depending on the fare type purchased. Flight credits issued before May 28, 2025, do not expire. When using a flight credit to book a new reservation, the baggage policy in effect at the time of the new booking will apply.
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