Navigating Baggage Fees on Southwest Airlines: Your Ultimate Guide
Are you planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about baggage? You've come to the right place! While Southwest was famously known for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, things have changed as of May 28, 2025. Don't worry, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about paying for baggage on Southwest Airlines, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
Step 1: Understand the New Baggage Policy (It's Crucial!)
Before you even think about paying, it's absolutely essential to understand Southwest's updated baggage policy. This is where many travelers get caught off guard.
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| How To Pay For Baggage On Southwest Airlines |
The Big Change: No More Universal "Bags Fly Free"
As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has revised its baggage policy. This means that for reservations booked and ticketed (or voluntarily changed) on or after this date, most passengers will now incur fees for their first and second checked bags.
First Checked Bag: Typically costs $35.
Second Checked Bag: Typically costs $45.
Third or More Bags: Can cost $150 per bag.
Important Note: These fees are subject to change, so always check the official Southwest Airlines website for the most up-to-date information before your travel.
Exceptions to the Fees: Who Still Gets Free Bags?
While the universal "Bags Fly Free" is gone, certain passengers can still enjoy complimentary checked bags. Check if you fall into any of these categories:
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Business Select® Fares: If you've booked a Business Select fare (or the upcoming "Choice Extra" fare in Q3 2025), you'll receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: These elite members of the Rapid Rewards program get two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: A-List members receive one free checked bag.
Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: Primary Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation are eligible for one free checked bag. Remember to include your Rapid Rewards account number in your reservation when booking.
Hawaii Residents: Those traveling between Hawaiian islands continue to receive two free checked bags.
Active Duty Military Personnel: Military personnel traveling on active duty or permanent change of station orders are exempt from checked, overweight, or oversized bag fees, provided the bags do not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.
If you booked your reservation on or before May 27, 2025, your original baggage allowance (which included two free checked bags) will still apply, regardless of your travel date.
Step 2: Prepare Your Bags According to Southwest's Limits
Before you head to the airport, make sure your bags comply with Southwest's size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees.
Standard Checked Baggage Limits:
Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Size (Linear Dimensions): Each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) (length + width + height).
What Happens If Your Bag Exceeds Limits?
Overweight Baggage:
51-70 lbs: A charge of $100 per bag applies.
71-100 lbs: A charge of $125 per bag applies.
Oversized Baggage:
Bags larger than 62 inches (up to 80 inches) will incur a charge of $125 per bag.
Combined Overweight & Oversized: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you will be charged for both.
Pro-Tip: Invest in a portable luggage scale! This small tool can save you a lot of money and stress at the airport by allowing you to check your bag's weight before you even leave home.
Step 3: Paying for Your Bags – The Airport is Your Go-To
Unlike many other airlines, Southwest Airlines does not currently offer the option to prepay for checked baggage online or through their mobile app. All applicable baggage fees must be paid at the airport.
Tip: Context builds as you keep reading.
Options for Payment at the Airport:
Self-Tagging Kiosks (Where Available):
Locate a Kiosk: Upon arrival at the airport, look for Southwest Airlines self-service kiosks.
Check-In: Follow the on-screen prompts to check in for your flight. You'll need your confirmation number and first and last name.
Indicate Bags: During the check-in process, you'll be asked to indicate how many bags you (and each passenger on your reservation) wish to check.
Pay Fees: The kiosk will then prompt you to pay any applicable baggage charges using a credit card. Debit cards are also generally accepted.
Print Bag Tags: Once payment is complete, the kiosk will print your baggage tags.
Attach Tags: Carefully follow the instructions on the tag to attach it to your bag's handle.
Drop Off: Proceed to the designated bag drop area to hand off your tagged luggage.
Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter with an Agent:
Approach the Counter: Head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter and queue up to speak with a Southwest Agent.
Provide Details: Inform the agent you wish to check bags. Provide your confirmation number and identification.
Agent Assistance: The agent will assist you with the check-in process, weigh your bags, and inform you of any applicable fees.
Pay Fees: You can pay the baggage fees directly to the agent using a credit card or debit card. Cash payments might be accepted at some locations, but card is generally preferred and quicker.
Receive Claim Checks: The agent will tag your bags and provide you with claim checks for each piece. Keep these safe!
Important Consideration: While you can check in online 24 hours prior to your flight, this does not include paying for checked bags. You will still need to handle baggage payment at the airport.
Step 4: Keep an Eye Out for Special Circumstances
Sometimes, your baggage situation might be a bit unique. Here's what to consider:
Sporting Equipment:
Southwest has specific policies for various types of sporting equipment. Many items can be substituted for a checked bag within the standard weight and size limits. However, oversized or overweight sporting equipment may incur additional charges. Always check Southwest's official website for details on your specific equipment (e.g., skis, golf clubs, surfboards).
International Travel:
While the general baggage policy applies, if you're traveling internationally, be aware that customs and entry requirements vary. Your passport will need to be verified at the ticket counter even if you check in online for most international destinations.
Tip: Slow down at important lists or bullet points.
Connecting Flights:
If you have a connecting flight on the same ticket, your baggage will typically be checked through to your final destination. However, it's always a good idea to confirm this with the agent when checking your bags.
FAQs: Your Quick Answers to Common Baggage Questions
Having some lingering questions? Here are 10 common "How to" FAQs with quick answers about Southwest baggage!
How to check my bag's dimensions and weight before arriving at the airport?
Measure your bag with a tape measure (length + width + height) and use a luggage scale to weigh it at home. This helps you avoid surprises and potential fees at the airport.
How to avoid baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
Book a Business Select fare, hold Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List status, or be a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember. These categories offer free checked bags.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards Credit Card qualifies me for free baggage?
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
Check the terms and benefits of your specific Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card. Generally, primary cardholders with their Rapid Rewards number linked to the reservation receive one free checked bag.
How to handle oversized or overweight baggage on Southwest?
You will pay an additional fee at the airport for bags exceeding 50 lbs or 62 linear inches. Refer to Southwest's official website for current charges.
How to check in my bags if I've already checked in online?
Even if you've checked in online, you must proceed to a self-tagging kiosk or the Southwest ticket counter at the airport to check and pay for your bags.
How to get a boarding pass if I'm checking bags for an international flight?
For most international flights, your passport must be verified by a Southwest Agent or kiosk at the ticket counter before a physical or digital boarding pass is issued, even if you've checked in online.
How to pay for extra bags beyond the first two?
Any additional bags beyond the first two will incur a higher fee ($150 per bag for the third and subsequent bags) and must be paid for at the airport.
How to know if my specific sporting equipment is allowed and what fees apply?
Visit the "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section on the official Southwest Airlines website. They list specific policies and potential fees for various items.
How to track my checked baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines generally provides baggage tracking information via their mobile app or website once your bags are checked in. Ask for a baggage claim receipt with a tracking number when you drop off your bags.
How to get assistance with baggage if I have a disability or special needs?
Contact Southwest Airlines Customer Service in advance or speak to a Southwest Agent at the airport upon arrival. They can provide assistance and guidance for passengers with special needs.
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