Ready to unravel the mystery of baggage allowances? Southwest Airlines has long been known for its unique "Bags Fly Free" policy, setting it apart from many other major carriers. However, as of May 28, 2025, significant changes have been implemented. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how many suitcases you can check in on Southwest Airlines, what to expect, and how to navigate any potential fees.
Step 1: Understanding the "New" Southwest Baggage Policy – Are You Affected?
Let's cut to the chase: if you're flying Southwest, the first question on your mind is likely, "Can I still check bags for free?"
The answer, as of May 28, 2025, is: it depends.
Southwest Airlines has ended its universal "Bags Fly Free" policy for most travelers. This means that for tickets purchased on or after this date, the free baggage allowance you might have been accustomed to has changed. But don's worry, there are still ways to get those bags on board without extra cost!
So, before we dive into the specifics, take a moment to consider when you purchased your ticket. If it was before May 28, 2025, your original "Bags Fly Free" terms will likely be honored. If it was on or after that date, keep reading!
Step 2: Standard Checked Baggage Allowance for Most Travelers
For the majority of passengers who purchased tickets on or after May 28, 2025, the standard checked baggage policy now involves fees.
Sub-heading: The Fee Structure
First Checked Bag: Expect to pay $35.
Second Checked Bag: The fee for your second bag will be $45.
Third Bag and Beyond: For any additional bags (three or more), the cost jumps significantly to $150 per bag.
Sub-heading: Size and Weight Restrictions for Standard Bags It's crucial to remember that even with the new fees, your bags must adhere to Southwest's standard size and weight limits. Failure to do so will result in additional charges, which we'll cover in Step 4.
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Maximum Size: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm). Remember to include wheels and handles in your measurement!
Step 3: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags on Southwest?
While the general policy has shifted, Southwest Airlines still offers free checked baggage to certain categories of travelers. If you fall into one of these groups, you're in luck!
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards Elite Status Members
A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved A-List Preferred status in Southwest's Rapid Rewards loyalty program, you are entitled to two free checked bags. This is a fantastic perk for frequent flyers.
A-List Members: A-List members receive one free checked bag.
Sub-heading: Business Select Fare Holders
Travelers who purchase a Business Select fare will also enjoy two free checked bags. This is a premium fare option that comes with various benefits, including the enhanced baggage allowance.
Sub-heading: Southwest Co-Branded Credit Card Holders
If you hold a Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card and use it to book your flight, you (and often companions on the same reservation) may be eligible for one free checked bag. Always check the specific terms and benefits of your credit card as these can vary.
Sub-heading: Active-Duty Military Personnel
Southwest Airlines offers a generous exemption for active-duty military personnel with a current, valid military ID. They are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges. However, each piece of baggage still cannot exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size. This is a significant benefit for our service members.
Step 4: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Exceeding Southwest's standard weight and size limits for checked bags will incur additional fees, regardless of how many bags you are checking. These fees are per bag and are in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
For bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds (23-32 kg): An additional $150 per bag fee applies.
For bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds (32-45 kg): An additional $200 per bag fee applies.
Important Note: Any item weighing more than 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
For bags measuring between 63 and 80 inches (160-203 cm) in linear dimensions: An additional $200 per bag fee applies.
Important Note: Any item exceeding 80 inches in linear dimensions cannot be checked as baggage.
Sub-heading: Combined Overweight and Oversized
If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you will generally be charged only one of the applicable fees, typically the higher one, not both. However, this is at the discretion of the airline, so it's always best to stay within limits.
Step 5: Special Items and Sports Equipment
Southwest Airlines has specific policies for various special items and sports equipment. While many count towards your standard baggage allowance, some may have specific fees or packaging requirements.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Smaller musical instruments that fit within the standard carry-on dimensions (10" x 16" x 24") can be taken as your carry-on.
Larger instruments can be checked as baggage and will count towards your free baggage allowance (if applicable) or incur standard checked bag fees.
Overweight or oversized charges apply if the instrument exceeds the 50 lbs or 62 inches linear dimensions.
Very large instruments may require purchasing an additional seat or shipping via cargo.
Sub-heading: Sports Equipment (Golf Clubs, Skis, Bicycles, etc.)
Many common sports equipment items (golf clubs, skis/snowboards, fishing equipment, etc.) can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance.
They must be properly packed (e.g., golf clubs in a hard-sided case, skis in a ski bag).
If they exceed the standard 50 lbs weight or 62 linear inches, overweight or oversized fees will apply.
Bicycles are generally accepted but must be disassembled and packed in a bike box. They are often subject to standard baggage fees and potentially overweight/oversized fees.
Surfboards may incur a $75 fee per item, but this fee is waived for inter-island Hawaiian flights if it substitutes one of your two free bags.
Step 6: Checking Your Bags at the Airport
Sub-heading: Timing is Everything
It's recommended to check your bags at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights. For international flights, this window is typically longer (e.g., 60 minutes, or even 75 minutes for flights departing Aruba).
Bags checked in less than 45 minutes before departure are considered "Late Check" and, while every effort will be made to get them on your flight, Southwest will not assume delivery charges if they don't arrive with you.
Sub-heading: Payment Methods
Baggage fees are typically paid at the airport ticket counter using accepted credit cards. Southwest does not currently offer the option to pre-pay for checked baggage online.
Step 7: Tracking Your Checked Baggage
Southwest offers a digital bag tracking service. Once you've checked your luggage, make sure you receive a separate claim check for each piece. You can then use this information to track your bags online.
Step 8: What if Your Bag is Lost or Damaged?
In the unfortunate event that your checked baggage is lost, damaged, or delayed, you must report it in person to a Southwest Airlines representative within four hours of your arrival at your destination. Southwest's liability for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage is limited.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Southwest Airlines' checked baggage policy:
How to know if my ticket qualifies for free checked bags on Southwest?
Check your fare type (e.g., Business Select) or your Rapid Rewards status (A-List, A-List Preferred). Also, if you booked with a Southwest co-branded credit card, review its benefits. Tickets purchased before May 28, 2025, generally retain the previous "Bags Fly Free" policy.
How to measure my suitcase for Southwest Airlines?
Measure the length, width, and height of your suitcase (including wheels and handles) and add them together. This sum should not exceed 62 linear inches for standard bags.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest?
Ensure each checked bag weighs 50 pounds (23 kg) or less. Use a luggage scale at home before heading to the airport. Consider distributing weight across multiple bags if needed.
How to save on baggage fees if I have more than two bags on Southwest?
If you're not eligible for free bags, consider shipping extra luggage via a third-party service or looking into a Southwest co-branded credit card, which might offer one free bag. For active military, present your valid ID for an exemption.
How to check special items like golf clubs or skis on Southwest?
Pack them in appropriate, protective cases. They will count towards your checked baggage allowance and may incur overweight or oversized fees if they exceed the standard limits.
How to check in my bags for an international Southwest flight?
For international flights, you will be required to check luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter upon arrival at the airport. Curbside check-in is not permitted for international itineraries.
How to track my checked bags on Southwest?
After checking your bags, you'll receive a claim check for each. You can then use the information on these claim checks to track your bags digitally through Southwest's online tracking system.
How to report lost or damaged baggage to Southwest Airlines?
Report any lost, damaged, or delayed baggage in person to a Southwest Airlines Customer Service Agent at the airport within four hours of your arrival.
How to bring a pet on a Southwest flight and what are the baggage implications?
Small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in an appropriate pet carrier are welcome in the cabin on domestic flights. The pet carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item. There is usually a pet fare, and space is limited, so reservations are recommended. Pets are not accepted on international flights.
How to check a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Smaller instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under a seat. Larger instruments can be checked as baggage, counting towards your allowance, but will incur overweight/oversized fees if they exceed standard limits. Very large instruments may require purchasing an additional seat.