Ah, the perennial question for any traveler: "How much can I really bring?" And when it comes to Southwest Airlines, for years, the answer was a joyous chorus of "Bags Fly Free!" However, as of May 28, 2025, Southwest has made some significant changes to its baggage policy. So, let's dive deep into understanding exactly how much luggage you can carry on Southwest Airlines in this new era of travel!
Step 1: Let's Talk About Your Travel Style – Are You a Minimalist or a Maximalist?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's take a quick moment for self-reflection. Are you the kind of traveler who prides yourself on fitting everything into a small carry-on, or are you the type who believes in bringing "just in case" items for every conceivable scenario? Your answer will heavily influence how you approach Southwest's updated baggage policies. Understanding your packing habits is the first crucial step to a stress-free airport experience!
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| How Much Luggage Can You Carry On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding the Two Main Categories of Luggage: Carry-On vs. Checked
Southwest, like most airlines, divides luggage into two primary categories: what you can take into the cabin with you (carry-on) and what goes underneath the plane (checked baggage). Each has its own set of rules, and knowing them is key to avoiding surprises at the gate or check-in counter.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Luggage – Your In-Cabin Essentials
This is the baggage you'll keep with you throughout your flight. It's perfect for your valuables, entertainment, medications, and anything you might need access to during the journey.
What's Allowed?
One Carry-On Bag: This is your primary in-cabin bag, typically a small roller bag or a duffel.
One Personal Item: This is a smaller item that must fit under the seat in front of you. Think of a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or a briefcase.
Dimensions and Weight (Crucial Details!):
Carry-On Bag: Must not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (approximately 61 x 40 x 25 cm). This includes handles, wheels, and any attachments!
Personal Item: Must not exceed 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. It must fit completely under the seat in front of you.
Weight Limit: Good news! Southwest Airlines generally does not specify a weight limit for carry-on items. However, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted. If you can't, it might need to be gate-checked.
Items That Don't Count Towards Your Limit (Bonus!):
Child restraint devices (for a ticketed child with a reserved seat, or when space is available)
Assistive/mobility devices for individuals with disabilities (no limit)
Outer garments (coats, jackets)
Food for consumption during the flight (in disposable packaging)
Walking canes or umbrellas
A neck pillow or blanket (these are usually considered wearable articles)
Sub-heading: Checked Baggage – The Bulk of Your Belongings
This is where the major changes have occurred for Southwest. For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, the long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy for most travelers is no longer in effect.
Tip: Highlight sentences that answer your questions.
Standard Allowance & Fees:
First Checked Bag: $35 per bag, each way.
Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag, each way.
Maximum Dimensions: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Who Still Gets Free Bags? (The Exceptions!):
Business Select® Fares: Passengers on this fare type still receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These loyal customers also get two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: You're eligible for one free checked bag.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers (Primary): If you are the primary cardmember and are on the reservation with your Rapid Rewards account number, you are eligible for your first standard checked bag free. This benefit also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation! (This is a fantastic perk if you travel with family or friends!)
Hawaii Residents: Traveling between Hawaiian islands may still qualify for two free checked bags.
Active Duty Military: Active duty military personnel on permanent change of station (PCS) orders are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided no piece exceeds 100 lbs in weight or 80 inches in total dimensions.
Step 3: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Baggage – The Costly Details
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, your bag just will be a little too heavy or a little too big. Be prepared for these potential charges!
Overweight Baggage Fees:
51-70 lbs (24-32 kg): $100 per bag (in addition to any standard checked bag fee if applicable).
71-100 lbs (32-45 kg): $200 per bag (in addition to any standard checked bag fee if applicable).
Important Note: Bags exceeding 100 lbs (45 kg) will not be accepted as checked baggage. You'll need to look into cargo options.
Oversized Baggage Fees:
63-80 linear inches (160-203 cm): $200 per bag (in addition to any standard checked bag fee if applicable).
Important Note: Bags greater than 80 linear inches (203 cm) will not be accepted as checked baggage.
Combined Fees: If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you will only be charged one fee – the higher of the two, provided the weight does not exceed 100 lbs.
Third+ Checked Bag: If you need to check a third bag or more, the fee is $150 per bag.
Step 4: Special Items and Sports Equipment – Bringing Your Gear Along
Southwest is generally accommodating with special items and sports equipment, but there are specific rules and potential fees.
Sub-heading: General Rules for Special Items
Many sports equipment and musical instruments can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, provided they meet the weight and size limits. If they exceed these limits, overweight or oversized fees will apply.
Sub-heading: Common Sports Equipment Examples (with nuances!)
Golf Equipment: One golf bag containing clubs, balls, and shoes is generally accepted. It counts as one checked item. Standard fees and oversized/overweight rules apply.
Skis and Snowboards: A ski bag (containing skis, poles, and boots) or a snowboard bag (containing a snowboard and boots) counts as one checked item. They must be properly packed. Standard fees and oversized/overweight rules apply.
Bicycles: Bicycles must be properly packed in a bike box or a hard-sided case. They are subject to standard baggage fees, and if oversized or overweight, applicable fees will apply.
Surfboards: Surfboards are accepted for a fee of $75 per item, each way. However, if you are traveling on flights between the islands of Hawaii, a surfboard bag containing one or more surfboards can be substituted for one checked bag and is free, provided it meets weight limits. Keels and fins must be removed.
Musical Instruments:
Carry-on: If your instrument (including its case) is within the carry-on dimensions (24" L + 16" W + 10" H), you can bring it as your carry-on, space permitting. If it exceeds these dimensions but still fits in the overhead bin or under a seat, it may still be allowed, space permitting.
Purchasing a Seat: For larger instruments that won't fit in the overhead bin or under a seat (e.g., cellos), you can purchase a separate seat for the instrument. It must be secured with a seatbelt in the first row, closer to the window, and not block aircraft signage.
Checked Baggage: Instruments can be checked as part of your baggage allowance. Overweight or oversized fees will apply if the instrument (including case) is between 62 and 150 linear inches or weighs between 51 and 165 pounds. Instruments exceeding 150 linear inches or 165 pounds will not be accepted. Southwest assumes limited liability for instruments in soft-sided cases.
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Step 5: Traveling with Pets – Your Furry Companions
Southwest has a specific policy for traveling with small domesticated cats and dogs.
In-Cabin Only: Pets are only allowed in the main cabin; they are not permitted as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
Pet Carrier Requirements:
The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
Maximum dimensions: 18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (H) x 13.5 inches (W).
It must fit under the seat in front of you.
Only one pet carrier is allowed per ticketed passenger, with a maximum of two pets of the same species per carrier, provided they can stand up and turn around comfortably.
Pet Fee: A fee of $125 per carrier, each way, applies. This fee is refundable if your travel plans change.
Limited Availability: There's a limit of six pet carriers allowed per flight, and reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. It's highly recommended to book your pet's travel as early as possible.
Restrictions: Pets are not allowed on international flights or flights to/from Hawaii (with the exception of inter-island flights within Hawaii). Unaccompanied minors cannot travel with a pet. Passengers traveling with pets cannot sit in exit rows or seats with no under-seat stowage.
Step 6: The Golden Rule: Always Double-Check!
Airline policies, especially concerning baggage, can change. While this guide is current as of July 2025, it's always a good idea to perform the following:
Check the Official Southwest Airlines Website: The most up-to-date and authoritative information will always be found directly on Southwest's website under their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections.
Review Your Specific Fare Type: As we've seen, your fare type (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select) significantly impacts your checked baggage allowance.
Consider Your Rapid Rewards Status: If you're an A-List or A-List Preferred member, remember your baggage benefits!
Look at Your Booking Confirmation: Any specific baggage allowances or restrictions for your particular itinerary will often be detailed here.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to understand and manage your luggage for your next Southwest Airlines flight, ensuring a smoother and less stressful journey!
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Southwest Airlines luggage:
How to avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
You can avoid checked baggage fees if you fly Business Select®, are a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member (two free bags), a Rapid Rewards A-List member (one free bag), or a Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (first bag free for you and up to eight others on the same reservation).
Tip: Look for examples to make points easier to grasp.
How to measure my luggage for Southwest Airlines?
For carry-on bags, measure the length, width, and height of the bag, including wheels and handles, to ensure it doesn't exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches. For checked bags, measure the length, width, and height, and add them together to ensure the sum does not exceed 62 linear inches.
How to weigh my luggage for Southwest Airlines?
Use a luggage scale at home before heading to the airport. This is the most accurate way to ensure your checked bags are within the 50-pound limit. Many airports also have scales available near the check-in counters.
How to pack efficiently to maximize my Southwest Airlines luggage allowance?
Roll your clothes tightly, use packing cubes to compress items, wear your heaviest items (like coats or bulky shoes) on the plane, and utilize your personal item effectively for essentials. Consider if you truly need everything you're planning to bring!
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment can be checked as standard baggage, subject to regular fees, weight, and size limits. Review Southwest's "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" policy on their website for specific item requirements (e.g., proper packing for bicycles, specific surfboard fees).
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
How to travel with a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Small instruments can be carry-on if they fit sizing. Larger instruments can be carried on if they fit overhead or under a seat (space permitting). For instruments that don't fit, you can purchase an additional seat, or check them as baggage, subject to size/weight fees.
How to bring a pet on a Southwest Airlines flight?
Ensure your small, vaccinated cat or dog is in an approved carrier (max 18.5" L x 8.5" H x 13.5" W) that fits under the seat. Book your pet's reservation early due to limited spots (6 per flight) and be prepared to pay the $125 one-way pet fee.
How to check an extra bag on Southwest Airlines?
After your first two checked bags (which may incur fees depending on your fare/status), additional bags (3rd+) will cost $150 each, in addition to any applicable overweight/oversized fees.
How to handle an overweight or oversized bag at the Southwest Airlines airport?
If your bag is overweight (over 50 lbs) or oversized (over 62 linear inches), you will be subject to additional fees ($100-$200). You'll pay these fees at the check-in counter. If your bag is extremely heavy (over 100 lbs) or large (over 80 linear inches), it will not be accepted as checked baggage and you'll need alternative shipping.
How to confirm my baggage allowance before my Southwest Airlines flight?
Always check the official Southwest Airlines website (southwest.com) under their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections, and review your specific booking confirmation, as policies can vary based on fare type and Rapid Rewards status.
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