Hey there, fellow traveler! Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about those all-important baggage allowances? You've come to the right place! Unlike many other airlines that nickel and dime you for every little thing, Southwest has historically been famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy. However, recent changes have been implemented, so it's crucial to understand the updated rules to avoid any surprises. Let's dive in and break down exactly how many free bags you get with Southwest Airlines, step by step!
Understanding Southwest's Baggage Philosophy
Southwest Airlines has long prided itself on its transparent and customer-friendly policies, and "Bags Fly Free" has been a cornerstone of that. This often set them apart from competitors who quickly added fees for checked luggage. However, as of May 28, 2025, Southwest has made some adjustments to their checked baggage policy for certain fare types. It's no longer a universal "Bags Fly Free" for everyone, but rather depends on your fare class and Rapid Rewards status. Don't worry, we'll clarify everything!
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| How Many Free Bags Do You Get With Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Determine Your Fare Type
This is the most crucial first step! Southwest offers several fare categories, and your baggage allowance for checked bags is now directly tied to the fare you've purchased.
Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares (Booked On or After May 28, 2025): If you booked these fares on or after May 28, 2025, you will now incur fees for your first and second checked bags. This is the biggest change to be aware of.
Business Select® Fare: If you've opted for the Business Select fare, you're in luck! You still receive two free checked bags. This fare typically comes with other perks like priority boarding.
Reservations Booked On or Before May 27, 2025: If your reservation was booked and ticketed (or voluntarily changed, including name updates or ticket changes) on or before May 27, 2025, then the original "Bags Fly Free" policy for two checked bags still applies, regardless of your travel date.
Step 2: Check Your Rapid Rewards Status
Beyond your fare type, your Southwest Rapid Rewards loyalty status can also grant you free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite flyers continue to receive both their first and second checked bags for free. This is a significant perk for frequent travelers.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: If you're an A-List member, you will receive your first checked bag for free.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: Many Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card holders are eligible for their first standard checked bag free. This benefit typically applies to the primary cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided the Rapid Rewards number is included in the booking. Note: If you already receive free bags through A-List status or Business Select, this credit card benefit does not provide additional free bags.
Step 3: Understand Carry-On and Personal Items (Always Free!)
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Regardless of your fare type or Rapid Rewards status, Southwest's policy on carry-on and personal items remains consistent and very generous:
One Carry-On Bag: Every passenger is allowed one carry-on bag for free. This bag must fit in the overhead bin and should not exceed dimensions of 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H), including handles and wheels. There is no weight restriction for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.
One Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one personal item for free. This item must fit under the seat in front of you. Common examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack, or a camera bag. The suggested dimensions for a personal item are 16.25" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 8" (H). Again, there is no weight limit for personal items.
Step 4: Know the Standard Checked Bag Dimensions and Weight Limits
For any checked bags, whether free or paid, the following standard limits apply:
Maximum Dimensions: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Exceeding these limits will incur additional fees, which we'll discuss next.
Step 5: Be Aware of Fees for Additional, Overweight, or Oversized Bags
While Southwest offers a generous initial allowance, additional fees apply if your baggage exceeds the standard limits or if you're checking more bags than your allowance.
Sub-heading: Fees for Third and Additional Checked Bags
For any bags beyond your free allowance (i.e., your third bag and onward), Southwest charges a fee of $150 USD per bag.
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Sub-heading: Fees for Overweight Bags
If your checked bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds (24-32 kg), an overweight fee of $150 USD applies per bag.
If your checked bag weighs between 71 and 100 pounds (33-46 kg), an overweight fee of $200 USD applies per bag.
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (46 kg) will NOT be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Fees for Oversized Bags
If your checked bag measures between 63 and 80 linear inches (160-203 cm), an oversized fee of $200 USD applies per bag.
Bags greater than 80 linear inches (203 cm) will NOT be accepted as checked baggage.
Note: If a bag is both overweight AND oversized, only one higher fee will apply (e.g., if it's 65 linear inches and 60 lbs, you'd likely pay the $200 oversized fee).
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Step 6: Special Circumstances and Exceptions
Southwest has specific policies for certain items:
Sub-heading: Military Personnel
Active U.S. 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 linear inches. This is a fantastic benefit for service members.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment
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Many types of sports equipment (e.g., golf bags, skis, snowboards, fishing equipment) are accepted as checked baggage.
They count towards your checked bag allowance. If they are within the standard 50 lbs and 62 linear inches, they will be free if they fall within your free bag allowance.
However, if they exceed these limits, overweight and/or oversized fees will apply just like regular luggage. Some sports items, like surfboards, may have specific fees or size allowances depending on the route. It's always best to check Southwest's official website or call them for precise details if you're traveling with unusual sports gear.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Small musical instruments can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
Larger instruments may be checked as baggage and will count towards your checked bag allowance. Standard baggage fees and oversized/overweight charges apply if they exceed the limits.
For very large instruments, you might even consider purchasing an extra seat in the cabin, provided it can be safely secured. Always contact Southwest directly for specific requirements when traveling with valuable or large musical instruments.
Sub-heading: Pets
Southwest allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on domestic flights, provided they are in an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat.
The pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on item.
There is a pet fare fee per carrier, each way (currently $95 USD, subject to change). Pets are not accepted on international flights or flights to/from Hawaii (except for inter-island flights within Hawaii).
Sub-heading: Strollers and Car Seats
When traveling with children, each ticketed Customer may check one stroller and one car seat/child restraint system free of charge, in addition to their regular baggage allowance. These items can be checked at the curb, ticket counter, or gate.
Step 7: Check-In and Payment
Southwest Airlines does not allow you to pre-pay for checked luggage online. Any applicable baggage fees (for bags beyond your free allowance, or for overweight/oversized items) must be paid at the airport during check-in, either at the ticket counter or a self-service kiosk.
It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before your international flight to allow ample time for baggage check-in, especially if you have oversized or special items.
Conclusion: Navigating Southwest's Baggage Policy
While Southwest Airlines has adjusted its "Bags Fly Free" policy for certain fare types booked after May 28, 2025, they still offer a competitive and often more straightforward baggage experience compared to many other airlines. By understanding your fare, Rapid Rewards status, and the standard dimensions and weight limits, you can confidently pack for your next adventure without unexpected fees. Always double-check the latest policy on Southwest's official website before your trip, as policies can change. Happy travels!
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FAQs: How to Get the Most Out of Southwest's Baggage Policy
How to check if my specific fare includes free checked bags? You can usually find this information clearly stated during the booking process or on your booking confirmation email. Alternatively, log into your Southwest account and view your reservation details.
How to avoid checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines? Book a Business Select® fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List status, or be a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember. For reservations made on or before May 27, 2025, two checked bags remain free for all.
How to measure my luggage to ensure it meets Southwest's size requirements? Use a tape measure to determine the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles. Add these three dimensions together to get the "linear inches." For carry-on bags, ensure it's 24" x 16" x 10" or less. For checked bags, 62 linear inches or less.
How to weigh my luggage at home to avoid overweight fees? Invest in a portable luggage scale. These are inexpensive and can save you significant money and hassle at the airport. Alternatively, use a bathroom scale by weighing yourself first, then weighing yourself holding your bag, and subtracting the difference.
How to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines? You can check a third bag at the airport during check-in, but be prepared to pay the applicable fee, which is currently $150 USD per bag.
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest without extra fees? If your sports equipment (like a golf bag or skis) fits within the standard 50 lbs and 62 linear inches, it will count as one of your free checked bags if your fare or status allows. If it's oversized or overweight, fees will apply.
How to bring a pet on Southwest Airlines? Small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin on domestic flights in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. The carrier counts as your carry-on or personal item, and a pet fare fee ($95 USD each way) applies. You must call Southwest to reserve space for your pet as space is limited.
How to ensure my carry-on bag will fit in the overhead bin? Adhere to the maximum dimensions of 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H). If your bag is soft-sided, ensure it's not overpacked, which can make it difficult to fit.
How to handle a gate-checked bag on Southwest? If your carry-on bag is too large or there's no overhead bin space, Southwest may gate-check it for you. It will usually be returned to you at the baggage claim carousel at your destination, not at the gate.
How to confirm the most up-to-date baggage policy before my flight? Always check the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) directly or contact their customer service. Airline policies can change, and the official source will have the most current information.
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