It's a common scenario: you've planned your perfect Southwest Airlines getaway, but as you start packing, you realize your carefully curated wardrobe or adventurous sports gear simply won't fit into your standard two free checked bags. Don't fret! Southwest Airlines, while known for its generous "Bags Fly Free" policy (though this has recently changed for new bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, with fees now applying for most passengers), still offers clear guidelines for adding extra baggage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Navigating Extra Baggage on Southwest Airlines: A Step-by-Step Guide
Adding extra baggage with Southwest Airlines is generally straightforward, though it requires a bit of planning, especially with the recent policy changes. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand Southwest's Current Baggage Policy and Your Entitlement
Before you even think about adding an extra bag, the most crucial first step is to grasp Southwest's updated baggage policy. This will help you determine if you'll incur fees and how many bags you're realistically looking to add.
1.1. The "Bags Fly Free" Era is Evolving (Effective May 28, 2025, for new bookings)
For bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, Southwest has introduced checked bag fees for most passengers.
First Bag: Typically $35.
Second Bag: Typically $45.
Third Bag and Beyond: A fee of $150 per bag applies.
Important Note: If you booked your flight before May 28, 2025, the previous "Bags Fly Free" policy (two free checked bags per passenger) still applies to your existing reservation. Always double-check your booking confirmation for the specific baggage allowance tied to your ticket.
1.2. Exceptions to the New Baggage Fees
Even with the new policy, certain passengers still enjoy a more generous baggage allowance:
Business Select/Choice Extra and A-List Preferred Customers: You still receive two free checked bags.
A-List Members and Chase Rapid Rewards Credit Card Holders: You are entitled to one free checked bag (or a bag credit, depending on the specific card).
1.3. Standard Baggage Dimensions and Weight Limits
Regardless of whether your bags are free or paid, the standard size and weight limits remain constant for each checked piece of luggage:
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag.
Maximum Size: 62 inches (length + width + height) per bag, including handles and wheels.
Key Takeaway: If your bag exceeds these limits, it will be considered overweight or oversized and incur additional fees on top of any standard checked bag fees.
Step 2: Determine if Your "Extra" Bag is Standard, Overweight, or Oversized
Once you know your basic allowance, it's time to categorize your "extra" items. This will directly impact the fees you pay.
2.1. Standard Extra Bag
Your bag is within the 50 lbs weight limit and 62 inches linear dimension limit.
You simply need to check a bag in addition to your standard allowance (whether that allowance is free or paid for).
2.2. Overweight Bag
Your bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds: This will incur a fee of $150 per bag.
Your bag weighs between 71 and 100 pounds: This will incur a fee of $200 per bag.
Bags over 100 pounds are NOT accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo (requires being a "Known Shipper").
2.3. Oversized Bag
Your bag measures between 63 and 80 inches (length + width + height).
This will incur a fee of $200 per bag.
Bags over 80 inches are NOT accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo.
2.4. Combining Overweight and Oversized
If your bag is both overweight and oversized, only one fee will be applied, typically the higher of the two. Always confirm with Southwest.
Step 3: Adding Extra Baggage: When and How to Pay
Unlike many airlines, Southwest has a unique approach to paying for checked baggage.
3.1. Payment is Primarily at the Airport
Southwest Airlines generally does NOT allow you to prepay for checked baggage online or through their app. This is a significant distinction from many other carriers. You will typically pay for any applicable checked bag fees, including those for extra bags, overweight bags, or oversized bags, when you check in at the airport.
You can pay at:
The Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
A self-tagging kiosk (at select airports).
3.2. Can You "Add" it Online?
While you can't pre-pay, you can certainly plan for extra baggage online.
During Booking: While booking your flight on Southwest.com, there isn't typically an option to pre-purchase additional baggage. Your fare type and Rapid Rewards status will determine your initial allowance.
Via "Manage Reservations": Similarly, the "Manage Reservations" section on the Southwest website or app generally doesn't have a direct "add extra bag" payment option. However, it's always a good idea to review your itinerary to understand your existing baggage allowance.
3.3. When to Consider Calling Southwest Customer Service
For complex baggage scenarios, such as:
Special Baggage: Traveling with sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, surfboards), musical instruments, or other non-standard items. These often have their own specific rules and fees.
Unusual Circumstances: If you have questions about embargoes for international travel (restrictions on oversized, overweight, and extra checked bags to certain countries).
Clarification on Fees: If you want to confirm the exact fees based on your specific itinerary and Rapid Rewards status.
You can reach Southwest Customer Service at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792). They can provide detailed information and sometimes, in very specific cases, assist with logging special baggage.
Step 4: At the Airport: The Final Steps
This is where your planning comes to fruition.
4.1. Arrive Early
Always allow ample time for baggage check-in, especially if you anticipate having extra, overweight, or oversized bags. Southwest recommends checking in at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 60-75 minutes for international flights (depending on the departure airport, some like Aruba require 75 minutes).
Late check-in (less than 45 minutes before departure) might mean your bag doesn't make your flight, and Southwest will not assume delivery charges to get it to you.
4.2. Proceed to the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter or Kiosk
Head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. If available and you're comfortable, you can also use a self-tagging kiosk at select airports.
An airline agent will weigh and measure your bags. Be prepared to pay any applicable fees at this point.
You will receive a separate claim check for each piece of baggage you've checked. Verify that the city shown on the claim check(s) matches your final destination.
4.3. Keep Your Receipts
Always keep the receipts for any baggage fees you pay. This is crucial for your records and for any potential issues that may arise.
Step 5: Packing Smart and Staying Informed
A little foresight can save you headaches and money.
5.1. Pack Efficiently
Consider weight: Before adding an extra bag, try to redistribute weight among your existing luggage. A digital luggage scale is an invaluable tool for avoiding overweight bag fees.
Roll your clothes: This classic packing hack can save surprising amounts of space.
Wear your heaviest items: If you're teetering on the edge of an overweight carry-on, wear your bulkiest shoes or jacket.
5.2. Utilize Carry-On and Personal Item Allowances
Southwest's carry-on policy is quite generous:
One carry-on bag: Max dimensions 24" x 16" x 10" (including wheels and handles). No weight limit, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
One personal item: Such as a purse, briefcase, laptop case, or small backpack. Max dimensions 16.25" x 13.5" x 8". No weight limit, must fit under the seat in front of you.
Make sure you're maximizing these allowances before considering checking an extra bag.
5.3. Monitor Southwest's Policy Changes
Airline baggage policies can change. Always check the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information, especially concerning fees and restrictions for international travel or special items.
Related FAQ Questions
How to calculate Southwest Airlines baggage fees?
Southwest Airlines baggage fees are calculated based on the number of bags, whether they are overweight (over 50 lbs), or oversized (over 62 linear inches). For bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, the first bag typically costs $35, the second $45, and subsequent bags are $150 each. Overweight (51-70 lbs) costs $150, (71-100 lbs) costs $200. Oversized (63-80 inches) costs $200. Only one fee (the higher one) applies if a bag is both overweight and oversized.
How to get free extra baggage on Southwest Airlines?
For bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, free extra baggage is generally limited. However, Business Select/Choice Extra and A-List Preferred Customers still receive two free checked bags, and A-List members and Chase Rapid Rewards credit card holders receive one free checked bag or a bag credit. Active-duty military personnel with a valid ID are also exempt from excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges for up to two bags, provided they don't exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.
How to find Southwest Airlines baggage allowance for international flights?
The standard baggage allowance (weight and size limits) is generally the same for international and domestic flights (50 lbs and 62 linear inches). However, for international flights, specifically to certain countries, Southwest may have baggage embargoes which restrict oversized, overweight, and extra checked bags. Always check the "Checked Bag Policy" section on Southwest.com and consider calling customer service if traveling internationally with excessive baggage.
How to check special baggage items like sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines accepts various special baggage items like golf clubs, skis, surfboards, and musical instruments. These items often have specific packaging requirements and may incur additional fees if they exceed standard dimensions or weight. It's best to consult the "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section on Southwest.com or call customer service to understand the specific rules and charges for your item.
How to handle overweight baggage at the Southwest airport counter?
If your bag is overweight at the airport, you will be subject to an overweight baggage fee ($150 for 51-70 lbs, $200 for 71-100 lbs). You will need to pay this fee at the ticket counter. If your bag is over 100 pounds, it will not be accepted as checked baggage and you'll need to make alternative arrangements, potentially shipping it via cargo if you are a "Known Shipper."
How to add baggage to an existing Southwest reservation online?
Southwest Airlines typically does not offer an option to pre-pay for checked baggage online or through the "Manage Reservations" section. All baggage fees, including those for extra bags, are generally paid when you check in at the airport. You can review your existing booking details online, but you'll handle payment for additional bags upon arrival at the airport.
How to avoid extra baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
To avoid extra baggage fees, first, pack efficiently and try to stay within the 50 lbs and 62 linear inches limit for each bag. Maximize your carry-on and personal item allowances. If you are a frequent traveler, consider obtaining A-List status or a Chase Rapid Rewards credit card, as these can provide free checked bag benefits. For new bookings, try to limit your checked bags to the first two, as the third and subsequent bags incur significantly higher fees.
How to confirm Southwest Airlines baggage policies before flying?
The best way to confirm Southwest Airlines baggage policies is to visit their official website, Southwest.com, and navigate to the "Checked Bag Policy" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections. You can also call their customer service line directly for specific questions or complex scenarios.
How to deal with oversized baggage at the Southwest airport?
If your bag is oversized (63-80 inches linear dimension), it will incur an oversized baggage fee of $200 per bag, which you will pay at the airport ticket counter. Bags over 80 inches are not accepted as checked baggage and will require alternative shipping arrangements.
How to check if my fare type includes free checked bags on Southwest?
For bookings made before May 28, 2025, all fare types included two free checked bags. For bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, the "Bags Fly Free" policy no longer applies to most standard fares. Only Business Select/Choice Extra and A-List Preferred fares specifically include two free checked bags, while A-List members and Chase Rapid Rewards credit card holders may still receive one free checked bag. Always refer to your booking confirmation or the "Optional Travel Charges" page on Southwest.com for the most accurate information specific to your ticket.
