The Ultimate Guide to Adding Baggage on Southwest Airlines: A Step-by-Step Journey
Hey there, fellow traveler! Ever found yourself staring at your bulging suitcase, wondering, "How in the world am I going to get all this on my Southwest flight?" Or maybe you've packed light, but then remembered all those souvenirs you just have to bring back? Don't fret! Adding baggage to your Southwest Airlines itinerary, while it now involves some fees for most, is a straightforward process. Let's embark on this journey together to ensure your luggage makes it to your destination smoothly and without any last-minute airport surprises.
Understanding Southwest's Baggage Policy – The Crucial First Step!
Before we dive into how to add bags, it's absolutely vital to understand Southwest's current baggage policy. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest has introduced new baggage fees for most passengers. This is a significant change, as they were previously known for their "two free checked bags" perk for all customers.
Here's a quick rundown of the general policy:
Carry-on Baggage: You are generally allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) for free.
Carry-on bag dimensions: Generally, up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 40 x 25 cm).
Personal item dimensions: Generally, up to 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 21 x 34 cm).
There's no specified weight restriction for carry-on items, but you should be able to lift it into the overhead bin unaided.
Checked Baggage: This is where the new fees come into play for most passengers.
First Checked Bag: Expect to pay $35.
Second Checked Bag: Expect to pay $45.
Third or More Bags: These will likely cost $150 per bag.
Each checked bag must not exceed 50 lbs (23 kg) in weight and 62 linear inches (158 cm) (length + width + height) in total dimensions.
Important Exceptions to the Fees:
Business Select/Choice Extra Fares: These fares typically still include two free checked bags.
A-List Preferred Customers: You'll generally receive two free checked bags.
A-List and Chase Rapid Rewards Credit Card Members: You might get one free checked bag.
Active U.S. Military Personnel and/or Dependents: When traveling on orders, you often get a more generous allowance of up to five free checked bags, with higher weight and size limits (up to 100 lbs and 80 linear inches).
Always check the most up-to-date information on Southwest's official website or your specific fare details, as policies can change!
Now that we're clear on the what, let's get to the how!
Step 1: Assess Your Baggage Needs (Before You Even Think About the Airport!)
Alright, imagine this: you're standing in your living room, surrounded by clothes, shoes, and that giant inflatable flamingo you just had to buy. Before you do anything else, let's get organized!
1.1 Declutter and Consolidate:
Be ruthless! Do you really need those five pairs of shoes for a weekend trip? Lay everything out and identify what's truly essential.
Consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them – it saves space and reduces wrinkles!
Utilize packing cubes to compress items and keep your bag organized.
1.2 Weigh and Measure Your Bags:
This is crucial to avoid unexpected fees at the airport. Invest in a small, portable luggage scale. They are incredibly affordable and can save you a lot of money and stress.
Measure your bags (length + width + height) with a tape measure to ensure they don't exceed the 62-linear-inch limit for checked bags or the carry-on dimensions. Remember to include wheels and handles in your measurements!
1.3 Decide What Goes Where: Carry-On vs. Checked
Carry-on: Keep essentials here: medications, important documents, valuables (jewelry, electronics), a change of clothes, and anything you can't afford to lose or wait for.
Checked: This is for everything else. Remember the weight and size limits!
Step 2: Adding Baggage – Your Options
Southwest Airlines doesn't allow you to pre-pay for checked baggage online when you initially book your flight (unless you're buying a fare that includes free checked bags). Baggage fees for additional bags are typically handled closer to your departure. Here are your primary methods:
2.1 At the Airport – The Most Common Method
This is the traditional way to add checked baggage on Southwest. You'll handle the payment at the check-in counter or a self-service kiosk.
Sub-Step 2.1.1: Utilizing Self-Tagging Kiosks (Where Available)
Check-in First: When you arrive at the airport, head to a Southwest self-tagging kiosk.
Indicate Number of Bags: During the check-in process on the kiosk, you'll be prompted to indicate how many bags you (and each Customer in your party) would like to check.
Pay Applicable Charges: The kiosk will display any applicable bag charges. You'll need to pay these with a credit card directly at the kiosk.
Print and Attach Tags: Once payment is processed, the kiosk will print your baggage tags. Carefully follow the on-screen and printed instructions to peel back the adhesive area and securely attach the tag(s) to your bag handles. Ensure the barcode is clearly visible.
Bag Drop: After tagging your bags, proceed to the designated baggage drop-off area. An attendant will scan your tags and take your bags.
Sub-Step 2.1.2: Full-Service Ticket Counter
If self-tagging isn't available, or if you prefer a personal touch, simply head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
A friendly Southwest agent will assist you with the check-in process, weigh your bags, and process any applicable baggage fees.
They will print and attach your baggage tags for you.
2.2 During Online Check-in (Limited Functionality for Additional Bags)
While Southwest generally doesn't allow pre-payment for additional bags online before check-in, you might encounter options to indicate your checked bags during the online check-in process (24 hours before your flight). However, the actual payment for additional bags beyond your allowance usually still occurs at the airport. This online indication simply streamlines the airport process.
Log in to Your Reservation: Go to Southwest.com and log in to your reservation 24 hours before your flight.
Proceed to Check-in: Follow the prompts to check in for your flight.
Indicate Checked Bags: You may be asked if you are checking bags. Select the appropriate number. Keep in mind, you typically won't pay at this stage for bags beyond your allowance. This information is primarily for the airport's planning.
Step 3: Paying for Your Baggage
As mentioned, payment for checked baggage (especially for those subject to fees) is primarily handled at the airport.
3.1 Accepted Payment Methods:
Credit Card: This is the most common and convenient method at the airport kiosks and ticket counters.
Debit Card: Also generally accepted.
Southwest typically does not allow cash payments for baggage fees.
3.2 Understanding Overweight and Oversized Fees:
Even if you've budgeted for the first or second checked bag fee, remember the weight and size limits.
Overweight Fee: If your bag weighs between 51-70 lbs, there's a charge of $100. If it's between 71-100 lbs, the fee is $125.
Oversized Fee: If your bag is larger than 62 linear inches (up to 80 linear inches), there's a charge of $125 per bag.
Bags exceeding 100 lbs or 80 linear inches may not be accepted as checked baggage at all.
These fees are cumulative. If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you'll pay both applicable fees.
Step 4: Special Baggage Considerations
Traveling with something unique? Southwest has policies for various special items.
4.1 Sporting Equipment:
Many sporting items (e.g., golf clubs, skis/snowboards) can be checked as one of your regular checked bags if they meet the standard weight and size limits.
However, some larger items like surfboards may incur a dedicated fee (e.g., $75).
Always check Southwest's specific policy for your type of sporting equipment on their website. They often have detailed guidelines.
4.2 Musical Instruments:
Small instruments that fit under the seat or in the overhead bin can be carried on.
Larger instruments may be carried in the cabin if you purchase an additional seat for them, provided they can be secured.
Instruments that cannot be carried on can be checked as baggage, subject to standard fees and potential overweight/oversized charges. Southwest assumes limited liability for instruments in soft-sided cases.
4.3 Pet Carriers:
Southwest allows small domesticated cats and dogs in the cabin on domestic flights only, in an approved carrier.
A pet carrier counts as either your carry-on item or your personal item.
There's a pet fare (currently $125 each way, subject to change).
Pets are NOT allowed in checked baggage (cargo hold) on Southwest flights.
Step 5: Arrive Early and Be Prepared!
Even with the best planning, airport operations can be unpredictable.
Arrive with Ample Time: Especially if you're checking bags, aim to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your domestic flight and 3-4 hours before an international flight. This gives you plenty of buffer for lines, self-tagging, or any unforeseen issues.
Have Your Payment Ready: Ensure your credit/debit card is easily accessible.
Know Your Limits: Double-check your bag weights and dimensions one last time before leaving for the airport.
Step 6: Track Your Bags (Peace of Mind!)
Once your bags are checked, Southwest offers a helpful service.
Digital Bag Tracking: Southwest provides a digital bag tracking feature. You can often track your bags through their mobile app or website using your confirmation number or bag tag number. This can provide peace of mind as your luggage makes its way to your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Southwest Baggage
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to adding baggage on Southwest, with quick answers:
How to check baggage on Southwest for free?
You can generally check bags for free on Southwest if you are traveling on a Business Select/Choice Extra fare, are an A-List Preferred member (two bags), or an A-List or Chase Rapid Rewards credit card holder (one bag). Active U.S. military personnel on orders also receive a generous free allowance.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest?
To avoid overweight fees, weigh your bags before arriving at the airport using a luggage scale. Ensure each checked bag is 50 lbs (23 kg) or less. If it's over, consider shifting items to another bag, discarding non-essentials, or shipping some items separately.
How to pay for extra baggage on Southwest?
Extra baggage fees on Southwest are typically paid at the airport, either at a self-tagging kiosk or at the full-service ticket counter, using a credit or debit card.
How to add a third bag on Southwest?
To add a third bag on Southwest, you will typically pay a fee of $150 at the airport check-in counter or kiosk, in addition to any fees for the first two bags. Remember it must still meet the standard weight and size limits (50 lbs, 62 linear inches).
How to find Southwest's current baggage policy and fees?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (southwest.com) under their "Checked Bag Policy" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections for the most current and detailed information on baggage policies and fees.
How to travel with oversized luggage on Southwest?
Oversized luggage (larger than 62 linear inches, up to 80 inches) on Southwest will incur an additional fee of $125 per bag at the airport. Bags over 80 linear inches may not be accepted. Certain sporting equipment may have specific oversized fee waivers.
How to bring a musical instrument on Southwest?
Small musical instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require purchasing an additional seat or checking them as baggage, where standard checked bag fees, and potentially overweight/oversized fees, will apply.
How to bring sporting equipment on Southwest?
Most sporting equipment can be checked as part of your checked baggage allowance, subject to standard weight and size limits. Some specialized equipment like surfboards may have specific fees, even if counted as one of your checked bags. Always check the specific policy for your equipment type on Southwest's website.
How to travel with a pet on Southwest?
Southwest allows small domesticated cats and dogs in the cabin on domestic flights only, provided they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. A pet fare (currently $125 each way) applies, and the carrier counts as your carry-on or personal item. Pets are not accepted in the cargo hold.
How to track my checked bag on Southwest?
You can track your checked bag digitally through the Southwest Airlines mobile app or on their website using your confirmation number or the barcode number on your baggage tag.
