Navigating airline baggage policies can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle, especially when you're excitedly planning a trip. If you're flying with Southwest Airlines, you're probably wondering: "How big can my luggage be for Southwest Airlines?" This is a crucial question, as getting it wrong can lead to unexpected fees or the dreaded repacking shuffle at the airport.
But don't fret! Southwest has a reputation for being more passenger-friendly with its baggage than many other airlines. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about Southwest's luggage policies, ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible.
Let's dive in!
Step 1: Let's Start with Your Bags! What Kind of Luggage Are You Bringing?
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty dimensions, let's consider the type of luggage you're planning to bring. Are you a minimalist packer who can get by with just a small bag under the seat, or do you need a suitcase for a longer trip? Knowing this will help us focus on the relevant policies.
Are you planning to carry everything with you onto the plane?
Or will you be checking some larger bags?
Perhaps a combination of both?
Understanding your packing style is the first crucial step to decoding Southwest's baggage rules.
Sub-heading: The Three Main Categories of Baggage
Southwest, like most airlines, categorizes luggage into three main types:
Personal Item: This is the smallest bag, designed to fit under the seat in front of you.
Carry-On Bag: This is a slightly larger bag that goes in the overhead bin.
Checked Baggage: These are the larger suitcases that are stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft.
Each of these categories has its own specific size and, sometimes, weight restrictions.
Step 2: Knowing Your Limits - Southwest's Luggage Dimensions and Weight
Now, let's get down to the precise numbers. It's critical to measure your bags accurately, including wheels and handles!
Sub-heading: Personal Item Dimensions for Southwest Airlines
Your personal item is your go-to for essentials during the flight. Think of it as your in-flight companion.
Size Limit: While Southwest doesn't explicitly state a maximum linear dimension for personal items on their main baggage policy pages, general guidelines and practical experience suggest it should easily fit under the seat in front of you. A common approximate size to aim for is around 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 21.6 x 34.3 cm).
Weight Limit: There is no specified weight limit for personal items, but you should be able to lift and place it under the seat without assistance.
Examples: This typically includes items like a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, briefcase, or a camera bag.
Pro-Tip: Always err on the side of caution with personal items. If it looks too big, you might be asked to place it in the overhead bin, taking up valuable space or even being counted as your carry-on.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Bag Dimensions for Southwest Airlines
This is your main cabin bag, perfect for a short trip or for items you want to keep close.
Size Limit: Your carry-on bag must not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 40 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels. This is a hard and fast rule, and Southwest uses sizing bins at the gate to check if your bag fits.
Weight Limit: Southwest does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags. However, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unaided. If you struggle, a flight attendant might ask you to check it.
Allowance: Each ticketed passenger is allowed one carry-on bag in addition to their personal item.
Remember: If your carry-on is too large, it will be gate-checked, meaning you'll pick it up at baggage claim at your destination.
Sub-heading: Checked Baggage Dimensions and Weight for Southwest Airlines
This is where Southwest truly shines with its historically generous policy. While there have been recent changes for many customers (more on that below!), the core dimensions remain the same.
Size Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This measurement includes handles and wheels.
Weight Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Allowance (Important Update!): Previously, Southwest was famous for "Bags Fly Free," allowing two free checked bags for all passengers. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest has revised this policy.
For most passengers on newly booked or voluntarily changed flights on or after May 28, 2025, there will be a charge for the first and second checked bags.
Exceptions: Passengers with Business Select fares, Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, A-List status holders, and Southwest credit card users may still qualify for free checked bags. Hawaii residents traveling between islands also have specific allowances.
Overweight Bags: Bags weighing between 51-100 pounds (23-45 kg) will incur a fee (historically $100-$125 per bag). Bags over 100 pounds (45 kg) must be shipped as air cargo.
Oversize Bags: Bags larger than 62 linear inches but not more than 80 linear inches (203 cm) will also incur a fee (historically $125 per bag). Bags over 80 linear inches cannot be checked as baggage but may be shipped as cargo if you are a "Known Shipper."
Double-check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page or your specific fare details for the most up-to-date information on fees, as these can change.
Step 3: Measuring Like a Pro - How to Get Accurate Luggage Measurements
This step is often overlooked, but it's absolutely vital to avoid last-minute airport stress.
Sub-heading: The "Linear Inches" Explained
When Southwest states "62 linear inches," they mean the sum of the bag's length, width, and height.
Example: If your suitcase is 28 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 16 inches high, its linear inches would be inches. This bag would be exactly at the limit!
Sub-heading: Your Measuring Toolkit
You'll need a few simple tools:
A flexible tape measure (the kind used for sewing is perfect).
A scale for weighing your checked bags.
Sub-heading: Step-by-Step Measuring Guide
Empty Your Bag (or approximate): If your bag is already packed, try to measure it as it would be when full. Over-stuffing can make a bag bulge and exceed dimensions.
Measure the Length: Lay your bag flat and measure from one end to the other, including any handles that are integrated into the length.
Measure the Width: Measure across the widest part of the bag.
Measure the Height (or Depth): Stand the bag upright and measure from the bottom (including wheels) to the very top (including any extended handles when fully retracted). This is crucial, as wheels and handles are often forgotten but count towards the total!
Add Them Up: Add the length, width, and height measurements together. This is your "linear inches."
Weigh Your Checked Bags: For checked bags, place them on a bathroom scale. If you don't have one, consider purchasing a portable luggage scale for future trips – they're incredibly handy!
Take your time with these measurements. A few extra minutes at home can save you a lot of hassle at the airport.
Step 4: Special Items and Exceptions - Beyond the Standard Suitcase
Southwest is quite accommodating with certain special items.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment
Many types of sports equipment (e.g., skis, golf clubs, surfboards) can be checked as part of your allowance, provided they meet specific size and weight criteria or fall under designated exceptions. Check Southwest's website for detailed information on your specific equipment. Often, they count as one piece of checked luggage.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Smaller musical instruments may be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments might require purchasing an additional seat or checking them as oversized baggage.
Sub-heading: Assistive Devices and Medical Equipment
Mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers), car seats, strollers, and medical devices do not count towards your carry-on or checked baggage allowance and can usually be checked for free.
Step 5: Strategies for a Smooth Baggage Experience with Southwest
Knowing the rules is one thing; applying them effectively is another!
Sub-heading: Pack Smart, Not Hard
Roll your clothes: This often saves space and minimizes wrinkles.
Utilize packing cubes: These can compress items and help you organize.
Wear your heaviest items: If you're close to a weight limit, wear your bulkiest shoes or heaviest jacket on the plane.
Distribute weight evenly: For checked bags, try to spread the weight so one side isn't significantly heavier.
Sub-heading: Arrive Early and Be Prepared
Allow ample time at the airport, especially if you're checking bags.
Have your measurements and weights confirmed before you leave home.
Be ready to adjust if your bag is slightly over the limit (e.g., shifting items to your personal bag if permitted).
Sub-heading: Consider Shipping Your Luggage
For very large or numerous items, or if you simply want to travel hands-free, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than paying multiple airline oversized/overweight fees.
Conclusion: Fly with Confidence
Understanding Southwest Airlines' baggage policies, while seemingly intricate with the recent changes, is straightforward once you break it down. By carefully measuring your bags, adhering to weight limits, and knowing your fare's specific allowances, you can avoid unexpected fees and enjoy a stress-free journey. Southwest's commitment to customer service, even with the new baggage fees for many, still makes it a popular choice, and being well-informed ensures you make the most of your travel experience.
Happy travels, and may your bags always fit!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to measure my luggage correctly for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your luggage correctly, sum the length, width, and height (including wheels and handles) to get the "linear inches." For checked bags, this sum should not exceed 62 inches. Use a flexible tape measure.
How to avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
To avoid checked baggage fees, consider qualifying for Business Select fares, having Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, A-List status, or being a Southwest credit card user, as these groups may still receive free checked bags. Also, ensure your bags do not exceed weight or size limits to avoid oversized/overweight fees.
How to know if my carry-on bag fits Southwest's requirements?
Your carry-on bag must not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 40 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels. Use a tape measure to confirm this, and remember it must fit in the overhead bin.
How to pack efficiently to stay within Southwest's limits?
To pack efficiently, roll clothes to save space, use packing cubes for compression, and wear your heaviest clothing items on the plane. Minimize unnecessary items and consider solid toiletries instead of liquids.
How to handle oversized or overweight luggage with Southwest?
Oversized (62-80 linear inches) or overweight (51-100 pounds) luggage will incur additional fees. If your bag is larger than 80 linear inches or heavier than 100 pounds, it cannot be checked as baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo.
How to confirm the exact baggage allowance for my specific Southwest flight?
Always check Southwest's official website, specifically their "Baggage Policy" and "Optional Travel Charges" pages, or review the details of your specific fare and Rapid Rewards status on your reservation for the most up-to-date and personalized baggage allowance information.
How to deal with sporting equipment when flying Southwest?
Many types of sporting equipment (e.g., skis, golf clubs) can be checked as part of your baggage allowance, provided they meet specific size and weight requirements. Refer to Southwest's detailed policy on special items for your specific equipment.
How to ensure my personal item fits under the seat on Southwest?
While there are no strict dimensions, aim for a personal item no larger than approximately 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. Test it at home by trying to fit it under a standard chair or a mock airplane seat space.
How to check my luggage weight at home?
Use a standard bathroom scale to weigh your checked bags at home. Place the bag on the scale, or weigh yourself, then weigh yourself holding the bag and subtract your weight for an accurate bag weight.
How to get assistance with baggage if I have special needs on Southwest?
Southwest provides assistance for passengers with disabilities or special needs. Inform the airline in advance if you require help with assistive devices or medical equipment, as these items typically do not count towards your baggage allowance and can be checked free of charge.
