Oh, planning a trip with Southwest Airlines, are we? Excellent choice! Southwest is known for its unique boarding process and, until recently, its very generous "Bags Fly Free" policy. However, as of May 28, 2025, there have been some significant changes to their baggage policy for most travelers, so it's more important than ever to understand the new rules. Don't worry, though, checking your bags with Southwest is still a relatively straightforward process once you know the steps. Let's get you ready for a smooth journey!
The Definitive Guide to Checking Bags with Southwest Airlines
Navigating airport procedures can sometimes feel like a maze, especially with ever-evolving airline policies. But with Southwest, and this comprehensive guide, you'll be a pro at checking your bags in no time.
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| How To Check Bags Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understand Southwest's Current Baggage Policy (The Crucial First Step!)
Before you even think about packing, it's absolutely vital to grasp Southwest's baggage rules. Why? Because ignoring these can lead to unexpected fees and last-minute scrambling at the airport.
Sub-heading: What's Changed?
As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has ended its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy for most travelers. This is a major shift!
First Checked Bag: For most fares (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime), you'll now pay $35.
Second Checked Bag: This will cost $45.
Business Select® fares, Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members, and A-List Members still enjoy some free checked bag benefits. If you fall into one of these categories, double-check your specific benefits as they might vary (e.g., A-List members typically get their first checked bag free, while A-List Preferred and Business Select get two).
Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card Members may also receive one free checked bag.
Sub-heading: Standard Bag Dimensions and Weight
These limits are critical to avoid extra charges:
Maximum Dimensions (Length + Width + Height): 62 linear inches (157 cm)
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag
Anything exceeding these limits will incur additional fees. We'll cover those in a later step.
Step 2: Pack Smart & Strategically
Packing isn't just about fitting everything in; it's about adhering to airline regulations and protecting your belongings.
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
Sub-heading: What to Pack in Your Carry-On
Remember, Southwest allows one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge.
Carry-on Bag Dimensions: Should not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 40 x 25 cm). This bag typically goes in the overhead bin.
Personal Item Dimensions: Should fit under the seat in front of you, generally not exceeding 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. This includes purses, briefcases, laptop bags, or small backpacks.
Essentials: Always pack medications, valuable items (jewelry, electronics), important documents (passport, ID), and a change of clothes in your carry-on.
Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries, portable chargers/power banks, and electronic smoking devices (e.g., e-cigarettes) must be in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage.
Liquids, Aerosols, Gels (LAGs): Adhere to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids (containers must be 3.4 ounces or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and one bag per passenger).
Sub-heading: What to Pack in Your Checked Bags
For items you don't need access to during the flight, checked baggage is the way to go.
Heavy Items: Clothes, shoes, toiletries (in larger containers), and non-valuable items are best suited for checked bags.
Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with Southwest's and TSA's list of prohibited items for both carry-on and checked luggage. This includes flammable liquids, explosives, certain chemicals, and some sporting equipment if not properly prepared. When in doubt, check the TSA website or Southwest's hazardous materials policy.
Step 3: Weigh and Measure Your Bags Before You Leave Home
This step can save you a lot of time, stress, and money at the airport.
Invest in a Luggage Scale: These are inexpensive and can be a lifesaver. Weigh your packed bags to ensure they are within the 50-pound limit.
Measure Dimensions: Use a tape measure to check the length, width, and height of your bags. Remember, it's the sum of these three dimensions that counts towards the 62 linear inches.
Rearrange if Necessary: If a bag is overweight or oversized, redistribute items or consider shipping some items separately. Better to do it at home than frantically unpacking at the check-in counter!
Step 4: Choose Your Check-in Method
Southwest offers several convenient ways to check in for your flight and, by extension, check your bags.
Sub-heading: Online Check-in (Most Convenient for Printing Boarding Pass)
You can check in online starting 24 hours before your flight.
Visit Southwest.com or use the Southwest App: Enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name.
Select "Check In": Follow the prompts to complete the check-in process. You'll get your boarding pass.
Baggage Declaration: While you can't pay for checked bags online for most fares, you'll likely indicate the number of bags you plan to check.
Remember: Checking in online primarily gets you your boarding pass and boarding position. You'll still need to physically drop off your bags at the airport.
Sub-heading: Airport Self-Service Kiosk
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These are widely available at Southwest airport locations.
Locate a Kiosk: Find the Southwest self-service kiosks in the airport lobby.
Scan Boarding Pass or Enter Info: You can scan your mobile or printed boarding pass, or enter your confirmation number.
Follow Prompts: The kiosk will guide you through printing your boarding pass and, crucially, paying for and printing bag tags for your checked luggage.
Attach Bag Tags: Carefully attach the printed bag tags to your bags. Make sure they are secure and visible.
Sub-heading: Ticket Counter Check-in (Traditional Method)
If you prefer a human touch, or have special circumstances, the ticket counter is an option.
Queue Up: Head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Be prepared for potentially longer lines, especially during peak travel times.
Present ID and Confirmation: Have your government-issued ID and flight confirmation readily available.
Baggage Assistance: A Southwest agent will assist you with weighing your bags, processing payments for any applicable fees, and printing and attaching your bag tags.
Sub-heading: Curbside Check-in (Where Available)
For added convenience, some airports offer curbside check-in.
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Look for Southwest Skycaps: At participating airports, look for uniformed Southwest Skycaps outside the terminal.
Present ID and Confirmation: Provide your ID and flight details.
Baggage Drop: Skycaps will weigh your bags, collect any fees, and tag your luggage right there. Tipping your Skycap is customary and appreciated for their service.
Availability: Note that curbside check-in is not available at all airports or during all hours. Check the Southwest website or your airport's information for details.
Step 5: Bag Drop and Payment
Once you have your boarding pass and your bags are tagged, it's time to hand them over.
Bag Drop Area: If you used online check-in or a self-service kiosk, look for the designated "Bag Drop" area. This is typically a separate, faster line than the full-service ticket counter.
Payment for Fees: If your bags are overweight, oversized, or you're checking more than your included allowance, you'll pay the fees at the self-service kiosk or the ticket counter.
Overweight (51-70 lbs): $100 per bag
Overweight (71-100 lbs): $200 per bag (bags exceeding 100 lbs will not be accepted)
Oversized (63-80 inches): $200 per bag (bags exceeding 80 inches will not be accepted)
Third+ Checked Bag: $150 per bag
Important Note on Combined Fees: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, Southwest generally only applies one fee (the higher one, or a single $200 charge if it fits within the 100lb and 80-inch limits). Always clarify with the agent if you're unsure.
Step 6: Security Screening (For You, Not Your Bags After Drop-Off)
After dropping off your checked bags, your focus shifts to yourself and your carry-on items.
Head to Security: Proceed to the TSA security checkpoint.
Prepare: Have your boarding pass and ID ready. Remove laptops, liquids, and any other items as required by TSA.
Walk Through: Follow the instructions of the TSA agents.
Step 7: Track Your Bags (Optional, But Recommended)
While Southwest has a good track record, it's always reassuring to know where your bags are.
Southwest App: The Southwest Airlines mobile app often provides real-time updates on your checked baggage. Look for a "Track My Bag" or similar feature within your flight details.
Bag Tag Number: Keep a record of your bag tag numbers (usually found on the receipt given to you at check-in or on your boarding pass). This is crucial if you need to file a lost baggage claim.
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Step 8: Baggage Claim at Your Destination
Upon arrival, your checked bags will be waiting for you.
Follow Signs: Look for "Baggage Claim" signs in the airport.
Find Your Carousel: Match your flight number with the designated baggage carousel.
Collect Your Bags: Retrieve your bags. Double-check the bag tag numbers to ensure you're picking up your own luggage, as similar bags can easily be confused.
Report Issues Immediately: If your bag is missing, delayed, or damaged, do not leave the baggage claim area without reporting it to a Southwest Airlines baggage service agent. They will help you file a report and initiate a search or claim process.
By following these steps, checking your bags with Southwest Airlines, even with the new policy, will be a smooth and efficient part of your travel experience. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, all starting with "How to," with quick answers, to further assist you with checking bags on Southwest Airlines:
How to calculate the linear inches of my bag?
Add the length, width, and height of your bag. For example, if your bag is 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high, its linear inches are inches.
How to pay for extra bags on Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for extra bags at the airport self-service kiosks or at the ticket counter when you check in your luggage.
How to check special items like sports equipment or musical instruments on Southwest?
Many special items can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance if they meet size and weight limits. However, oversized or overweight sports equipment or musical instruments will incur additional fees, and some require specific packing. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your item before flying.
How to handle lost or delayed baggage with Southwest Airlines?
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
If your bag is lost or delayed, immediately report it to a Southwest Airlines baggage service agent at the airport baggage claim area before leaving. They will help you file a report and start the tracking process.
How to check bags if I have a connecting flight on Southwest?
Typically, your checked bags will be automatically transferred to your connecting Southwest flight, provided it's on the same ticket. However, for international arrivals into the U.S., you'll often need to claim and re-check your bags after clearing customs.
How to use curbside check-in for my bags with Southwest?
Look for uniformed Southwest Skycaps outside the terminal at participating airports. Present your ID and flight information, and they will weigh, tag, and collect fees for your bags. Tipping is customary.
How to know if my ticket qualifies for free checked bags on Southwest?
Check your specific fare type (e.g., Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, Anytime, Business Select®) and your Rapid Rewards status (A-List, A-List Preferred). For tickets booked or changed after May 28, 2025, most standard fares will incur fees, while Business Select and higher Rapid Rewards tiers will still receive free checked bags.
How to ensure my bag isn't considered overweight or oversized?
Weigh your bag with a luggage scale and measure its dimensions (length + width + height) at home before heading to the airport. The limits are 50 lbs and 62 linear inches.
How to pack fragile items in my checked baggage for Southwest?
Pack fragile items securely with ample padding (bubble wrap, clothes, etc.) inside a sturdy suitcase. While Southwest takes precautions, they generally advise against checking highly fragile or valuable items; these are best kept in your carry-on.
How to check bags for an international Southwest flight?
For international flights, you must check luggage at the ticket counter (not kiosks or curbside) and present it at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure (75 minutes for flights from Aruba). Be aware of customs procedures upon arrival, as you might need to claim and re-check your bags after clearing customs, especially when arriving in the U.S.
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