So, you're getting ready to fly Southwest Airlines, and you're wondering, "How do I make sure my luggage fits and avoids those pesky extra fees?" Excellent question! While Southwest was famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, things have changed as of May 28, 2025. Now, most passengers will pay for their first and second checked bags. But don't worry, with a bit of planning and proper measuring, you can still pack smart and minimize costs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about measuring your luggage for Southwest Airlines, step-by-step!
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Baggage Policies
Before we dive into the measuring, it's crucial to understand Southwest's updated baggage policies. Knowing the limits will help you determine what kind of bag you need and how much you can pack.
Carry-On Baggage: Your Cabin Companion
Southwest allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. These are designed to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Maximum Dimensions for Carry-On Bag:
10 inches x 16 inches x 24 inches (25 cm x 40 cm x 60 cm)
Important: These dimensions include wheels and handles. Many bags might look like they fit, but the wheels can push them over the limit.
Maximum Dimensions for Personal Item:
18.5 inches x 8.5 inches x 13.5 inches (46.9 cm x 21.6 cm x 34.3 cm)
This item must fit under the seat in front of you. Think purses, briefcases, laptop bags, or small backpacks.
Checked Baggage: Your Checked-In Companions
Southwest now charges for checked bags for most passengers. However, there are exceptions for certain fare types (like Business Select) and Rapid Rewards elite members (A-List, A-List Preferred) and co-branded credit cardholders.
Maximum Dimensions for Checked Bag:
62 linear inches (length + width + height)
Again, this includes wheels and handles. This is a crucial point many people miss!
Maximum Weight for Checked Bag:
50 pounds (22.68 kg) per bag
Cost for Checked Bags (for most passengers, as of May 28, 2025):
First Checked Bag: $35
Second Checked Bag: $45
Third and More Checked Bags: $150 per bag
Overweight and Oversized Baggage: The Costly Culprits
If your bags exceed the standard limits, you'll incur additional fees. These can add up quickly, so it's best to avoid them.
Tip: Reread complex ideas to fully understand them.
Overweight Baggage Fees:
51-70 pounds: $150 per bag (in addition to the standard checked bag fee)
71-100 pounds: $200 per bag (in addition to the standard checked bag fee)
Items over 100 pounds are not permitted as checked baggage and must be shipped as air cargo.
Oversized Baggage Fees:
63-80 linear inches: $200 per bag (in addition to the standard checked bag fee)
Items over 80 linear inches cannot be checked as baggage.
Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, only one oversized/overweight charge applies (the higher of the two), in addition to the standard checked bag fee, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs and 80 inches.
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| How To Measure Luggage For Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Engage! Gather Your Tools and Get Ready!
Alright, intrepid traveler, are you ready to conquer those baggage dimensions? This isn't just about avoiding fees; it's about smart packing and a stress-free travel experience. So, let's get organized!
What you'll need:
Your luggage: Every bag you plan to take – carry-on, personal item, and any checked bags.
A flexible tape measure or a yardstick: A sewing tape measure works perfectly for irregular shapes.
A pen and paper (or your phone's notes app): To jot down measurements.
A bathroom scale: For weighing your checked bags.
Got everything? Great! Let's move on to the measuring process.
Step 2: Mastering the Art of Measuring Carry-On Bags
Measuring your carry-on bag is critical because it needs to fit into the overhead bin or, in the case of your personal item, under the seat. Airlines are often quite strict with these dimensions.
Sub-heading: For Your Main Carry-On (Overhead Bin)
Place the bag upright: Stand your suitcase on its wheels (if it has them).
Measure the Height:
Start from the very bottom of the wheels. Yes, the wheels count!
Measure all the way to the highest point of the bag, which is usually the top of the handle (even if it's retracted).
Jot down this measurement.
Measure the Width:
Measure from the widest point of the bag, side to side.
This often includes side pockets or any protruding elements.
Record this number.
Measure the Depth (or Thickness):
Lay the bag flat on its back.
Measure from the back of the bag to the front, including any front pockets or expanding sections.
Be mindful of overstuffing! A soft-sided bag can bulge, adding to its depth. Make sure you measure it as it would be when packed.
Write this down.
Compare to Southwest's Limits:
Your measurements should not exceed 10 inches (depth) x 16 inches (width) x 24 inches (height).
If any single dimension is over, you might have to check the bag at the gate, potentially incurring a fee.
QuickTip: Scan the start and end of paragraphs.
Sub-heading: For Your Personal Item (Under Seat)
Place the item in its normal orientation: If it's a backpack, stand it upright. If it's a briefcase, lay it flat.
Measure all three dimensions:
Height: From bottom to top.
Width: Side to side at the widest point.
Depth: Front to back at the thickest point.
Again, consider how it will be when packed. An overstuffed backpack can easily exceed these limits.
Compare to Southwest's Limits:
Your measurements should not exceed 18.5 inches (height) x 8.5 inches (depth) x 13.5 inches (width).
This one is generally less strict, but if it's too big, you might be asked to check it or even combine it with your main carry-on, which isn't ideal.
Step 3: Precisely Measuring Checked Bags for Linear Inches
This is where many people get tripped up. Southwest (like many airlines) uses "linear inches" for checked baggage, which means the sum of the length, width, and height.
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Sub-heading: The Linear Inch Calculation
Place the bag upright: Stand your checked suitcase on its wheels.
Measure the Height (Length):
Measure from the bottom of the wheels to the top of the handle (when retracted). This is your "length" for the linear inch calculation.
Record this number.
Measure the Width:
Measure from the widest point of the bag, side to side, including any side pockets.
Write it down.
Measure the Depth (Thickness):
Lay the bag flat on its back.
Measure from the back of the bag to the front, including any front pockets or expansion zippers.
Crucially, measure it when it's packed as full as you intend to pack it. Soft-sided bags can expand considerably!
Note this measurement.
Calculate Total Linear Inches:
Add your three measurements together: Height + Width + Depth = Total Linear Inches.
Example: If your bag is 28 inches (H) + 18 inches (W) + 16 inches (D), your total linear inches would be 28 + 18 + 16 = 62 inches.
Compare to Southwest's Limit:
Your calculated total linear inches must be 62 inches or less.
If it's over, you're looking at that $200 oversized baggage fee.
Step 4: Weighing Your Checked Bags - The Weighty Matter!
The weight limit is just as important as the size limit for checked bags, and it's often the more common culprit for extra fees.
Pack your bag completely: Ensure your bag is packed exactly how you intend to travel with it.
Use a reliable scale: A digital bathroom scale is usually sufficient.
Weigh your bag:
Place the bag on the scale.
If your bag is too large to fit entirely on the scale, you can weigh yourself first, then weigh yourself holding the bag. Subtract your weight from the combined weight to get the bag's weight.
Check the reading: Make sure the weight is clearly visible.
Compare to Southwest's Limit:
Your bag must weigh 50 pounds (22.68 kg) or less.
If it's between 51-70 lbs, it's a $150 fee.
If it's between 71-100 lbs, it's a $200 fee.
Anything over 100 lbs will not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Tips for Weight Management
Distribute weight: If you have multiple checked bags, try to distribute the weight evenly so no single bag goes over the limit.
Consider a luggage scale: These are inexpensive and very accurate, giving you peace of mind before you even leave home.
Wear heavier items: If you're close to the limit, wear your bulkiest shoes or heaviest jacket onto the plane.
Ship it: For truly excessive luggage, consider using a luggage shipping service as an alternative to airline fees.
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
Step 5: Double-Checking and Final Preparations
You've measured, you've weighed, now it's time for a final review!
Re-measure if unsure: If any measurement was close to the limit, or if you struggled to get an accurate reading, take it again. Better safe than sorry!
Consider flexibility: Remember that soft-sided bags can be compressed slightly, but hard-sided luggage has no give. Always measure soft-sided bags when packed to their maximum intended capacity.
Account for souvenirs: If you plan on buying a lot during your trip, consider leaving some space and weight capacity in your checked bags, or bring an extra foldable bag for new purchases.
Know your exemptions: If you are an active-duty military member with a valid ID, you are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and excess, oversize, or overweight charges, provided bags do not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches. Business Select passengers and A-List Preferred members also get two free checked bags. A-List members and co-branded credit cardholders get one free checked bag. Factor this into your planning!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions travelers have about Southwest baggage, with quick answers:
How to pack efficiently to avoid overweight bags?
Distribute weight evenly across multiple bags, use vacuum-seal bags for bulky clothes, and wear heavier items on the plane.
How to know if my bag is carry-on compliant without measuring?
Many luggage brands now explicitly state if their bags are "carry-on compliant" for major airlines. You can also look for a bag sizer at the airport before checking in.
How to deal with oversized sports equipment on Southwest?
Southwest generally accepts sports equipment as checked baggage, but specific rules and fees may apply. Always check the airline's official policy for your specific item (e.g., golf clubs, skis).
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
How to manage liquids in my carry-on bag?
Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule: liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
How to add an extra bag if I realize I need more space last minute?
You can add extra checked bags at the airport ticket counter, but be prepared to pay the applicable fees per bag.
How to find the official Southwest Airlines baggage policy?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website under their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" section for the most current and detailed information.
How to avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest?
Fly Business Select, be a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred member, or hold a Southwest co-branded credit card, as these typically include free checked bag allowances.
How to measure odd-shaped items like guitars or specialized equipment?
For odd-shaped items, always measure the total linear inches (L+W+H) at their longest, widest, and thickest points. Check Southwest's specific guidelines for musical instruments or special items, as they may have different rules.
How to make sure my personal item fits under the seat?
Choose a soft-sided bag like a small backpack or tote that can be easily squished if it's a tight fit. Avoid rigid, oversized bags for this purpose.
How to handle gate-checked bags if my carry-on is too big?
If your carry-on exceeds the dimensions, it will be gate-checked. This means you'll surrender it at the gate and retrieve it at baggage claim, potentially incurring a checked bag fee if you've already checked your allowance.
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