Are you gearing up for a fantastic trip with Southwest Airlines, but feeling a little anxious about how much your suitcase can weigh? You're not alone! It's a common concern, and getting it right can save you from unexpected fees and airport stress. Let's break down everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' baggage weight limits, step-by-step, to ensure your journey is as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Understanding the Basics - Southwest's Checked Baggage Policy
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's start with the most important rule of thumb for Southwest checked bags. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has adjusted its famous "Bags Fly Free" policy. While it used to be a universal perk, now most passengers will face fees for their first and second checked bags.
For most fares, your first checked bag will cost $35, and your second checked bag will cost $45.
The good news is that for standard checked bags, the maximum weight is 50 pounds (22.7 kg) per piece of luggage.
The maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height) per checked piece of luggage, including wheels and handles.
Engage the user: Now, before you even start packing, grab your tape measure and a bathroom scale! We're going to make sure your luggage is compliant from the get-go. Have you ever been caught off guard at the airport with an overweight bag? Share your experience in the comments below – we've all been there!
Step 2: Navigating the Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
So, what happens if your bag exceeds that 50-pound limit or the 62-inch dimension? Southwest has specific fees for that, and they can add up quickly.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage
If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds but less than 100 pounds (45 kg), it is considered overweight.
For bags weighing 51 to 99 pounds (23.1 to 44.9 kg), there will be an additional fee of $75 per bag. This fee is in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
Bags weighing over 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage. This is a strict rule, so don't even try!
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage
If your checked bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension, it's considered oversized.
For bags measuring 63 to 80 inches (160 to 203 cm) in total linear dimensions, an additional fee of $75 per bag will apply. This fee is also in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
Bags measuring over 80 inches will not be accepted as checked baggage.
Remember: These fees apply per one-way trip. So, if your bag is overweight on both your outbound and return flights, you'll pay the fee twice.
Step 3: Understanding Carry-on and Personal Item Policies
While Southwest has a clear weight limit for checked bags, their policy for carry-on and personal items is a bit more flexible in terms of weight, but strict on size.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Bags
Southwest allows one carry-on bag per passenger.
The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 24 inches (length) x 16 inches (width) x 10 inches (height), including handles and wheels.
Southwest does not specify a weight limit for carry-on bags. However, you must be able to safely lift your bag into the overhead bin without assistance. If you can't, it might need to be checked, and then the checked baggage rules (and potential fees) will apply.
Sub-heading: Personal Items
In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one personal item.
Examples of personal items include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, backpack, or a small camera bag.
While there isn't a specific weight limit, the personal item must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. Typical dimensions are around 16.25” x 13.5” x 8”.
Pro Tip: Maximize your personal item! This is often where you can stash heavier items like electronics, books, or a thick sweater to keep your checked bag under the weight limit.
Step 4: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags on Southwest?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy has been revised for most, there are still some exceptions where you can enjoy complimentary checked bags.
Business Select Travelers: Passengers who book the more expensive Business Select fares are entitled to two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved A-List Preferred status with Southwest's Rapid Rewards program, you'll also receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: A-List members will receive one free checked bag.
Southwest Co-branded Credit Cardholders: Many Southwest credit cards offer the benefit of one free checked bag for the cardholder and sometimes even for companions on the same reservation. Check your specific credit card benefits to confirm.
Military Personnel: Active duty military personnel traveling on orders can often check bags that exceed the standard weight and size limits (up to 100 pounds and 80 inches) without incurring overweight or oversized fees. Always verify with Southwest directly or on their official website for the most up-to-date military policy.
Hawaii Residents (inter-island travel): Residents traveling between the islands of Hawaii may be allowed two free checked bags.
Step 5: Practical Tips for Packing Smart and Avoiding Fees
Now that you know the rules, let's talk strategy! Here are some invaluable tips to help you pack efficiently and avoid those extra charges.
Sub-heading: Invest in a Portable Luggage Scale
This is perhaps the most important investment for frequent travelers. A small, inexpensive digital luggage scale can save you significant money and stress at the airport. Weigh your bag before you leave for the airport to make sure you're well within the limit.
Sub-heading: Wear Your Heaviest Items
If you're close to the weight limit, consider wearing your bulkiest items on the plane. This includes heavy shoes, jackets, and sweaters. It might feel a bit warm initially, but it can make a big difference to your bag's weight.
Sub-heading: Distribute Weight Evenly
If you're traveling with multiple bags or with a companion, try to distribute the weight across all checked bags. It's better to have two bags at 45 pounds each than one at 60 pounds and one at 30 pounds.
Sub-heading: Utilize Packing Cubes
While packing cubes don't reduce weight, they help compress your clothes and organize your suitcase, making it easier to fit more items into a smaller space. This can be particularly useful for carry-on luggage.
Sub-heading: Consider Shipping Some Items
For very heavy or bulky items, especially if you're staying for an extended period, consider shipping them to your destination ahead of time. Services like FedEx or UPS can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline baggage fees, particularly for multiple overweight bags.
Sub-heading: Review Your Itinerary
If you have a connecting flight with a different airline, be aware that their baggage policies might differ. Always check the baggage allowance for all airlines involved in your journey.
Step 6: What About Special Items and Sporting Equipment?
Southwest has specific policies for various special items and sporting equipment. While these items often count towards your checked baggage allowance, some may have specific dimensions or handling instructions.
Sporting Equipment: Items like skis, golf clubs, surfboards, and bicycles often have specific rules regarding size and whether they incur oversized/overweight fees. Always check the Southwest Airlines website for detailed information on your specific sporting equipment.
Musical Instruments: Small musical instruments can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require the purchase of an additional seat or be checked as baggage, with specific packing requirements.
Medical Equipment: Necessary medical devices and equipment typically do not count towards your carry-on or checked baggage allowance.
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service if you are traveling with any unusual or specialized items.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Southwest Airlines Baggage Weight
Here are 10 common questions about Southwest Airlines baggage, with quick answers to help you on your way:
1. How to much can my checked bag weigh on Southwest Airlines? Your checked bag can weigh a maximum of 50 pounds (22.7 kg) without incurring overweight fees.
2. How to know if my carry-on bag is too heavy for Southwest? Southwest does not have a specific weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted. If you struggle, it's likely too heavy.
3. How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest? Use a portable luggage scale, wear your heaviest items, distribute weight among multiple bags, and consider shipping excess items.
4. How to measure my suitcase for Southwest's size limits? Measure the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles, and add those three measurements together. The sum should not exceed 62 inches for checked bags or 24" x 16" x 10" for carry-ons.
5. How to check a third bag on Southwest Airlines? If you wish to check a third bag (or more), it will cost $75 per bag, in addition to any overweight or oversized fees.
6. How to get free checked bags on Southwest Airlines? Book a Business Select fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred status, or hold a Southwest co-branded credit card. Military personnel also receive free checked bags.
7. How to handle liquids in my Southwest luggage? Liquids in checked bags generally have no size restrictions (though hazardous materials are prohibited). For carry-on, follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and limited to one bag per passenger.
8. How to deal with an overweight bag at the Southwest airport counter? You will be charged the overweight baggage fee ($75 for 51-99 lbs). Your options are to pay the fee, remove items to get below 50 lbs, or potentially ship excess items if time permits.
9. How to know if Southwest's baggage policy applies to international flights? Yes, Southwest's general baggage policies, including weight and size limits, apply to international flights. However, for flights arriving in the U.S. from non-pre-cleared cities, you will need to claim and re-check your bags after clearing customs.
10. How to find the most up-to-date Southwest baggage information? Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website's "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections, as policies can change.
