The world of air travel is constantly evolving, and keeping up with airline policies can feel like a full-time job. Especially when it comes to baggage fees, which can significantly impact your travel budget. For years, Southwest Airlines stood out with its legendary "Bags Fly Free" policy, a true differentiator in the industry. However, as of May 28, 2025, that policy has undergone a significant change for most travelers.
So, if you're planning a trip with Southwest, it's crucial to understand their updated baggage charges. No one wants to be caught off guard at the airport with unexpected fees! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines baggage fees, step-by-step.
Step 1: Are You Affected by the New Baggage Policy? Let's Find Out!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of fees, the very first thing you need to determine is whether the new baggage policy applies to your flight. This is the most important step!
When did you book your flight? The key date here is May 28, 2025.
If you booked and ticketed your flight on or before May 27, 2025, regardless of your travel date, you will still enjoy Southwest's original "Bags Fly Free" policy for your first two checked bags (weight and size limits still apply). You are in luck!
If you booked and ticketed your flight on or after May 28, 2025, then the new baggage fees will apply to your reservation, unless you fall into specific exemption categories (which we'll discuss next). This also applies if you voluntarily changed your reservation (including name updates or changes to a ticket) on or after May 28, 2025.
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| How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge For Baggage |
Step 2: Understanding Standard Checked Baggage Fees for Most Travelers
For those whose flights fall under the new policy (booked on or after May 28, 2025, or voluntarily changed), here's what you can expect for standard checked bags:
First Checked Bag: $35 USD
Second Checked Bag: $45 USD
Third Checked Bag and Any Additional Bags: $150 USD per bag
These fees are per bag, each way. It's a significant change, bringing Southwest's pricing closer to other major U.S. airlines. Remember, these fees are typically paid at the airport when you check your bags. Southwest generally does not allow you to prepay for luggage online.
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
Sub-heading: Standard Bag Dimensions and Weight Limits
Even with the new fees, the standard dimensions and weight limits for checked bags remain consistent:
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (22.7 kg) per bag
Maximum Dimensions: 62 linear inches (length + width + height) per bag
Bags exceeding these limits will incur additional charges, which we'll cover in Step 4.
Step 3: Are You Exempt? Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is largely gone, Southwest has made several important carve-outs for specific types of travelers. Don't assume you'll pay! Check if you qualify for any of these exemptions:
Business Select® Fares / Choice Extra Fares (starting Q3 2025): If you've booked a Business Select® fare (or the new "Choice Extra" fare bundle when it launches in Q3 2025), you are entitled to two free checked bags. This premium fare type continues to offer this significant perk.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite loyalty program members enjoy two free checked bags. This is a great benefit for frequent flyers.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: As an A-List member, you will receive one free checked bag.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you are the primary cardmember of a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card, you (and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation) are eligible to receive your first standard checked bag free. Ensure your Rapid Rewards account number is linked to your reservation.
Hawaii Residents Traveling Between Islands: If you are a Hawaii resident traveling between the islands of Hawaii, you continue to receive two free checked bags.
Active Duty U.S. Military Personnel & Dependents: Active duty military personnel with a valid military ID, or those on permanent change of station (PCS) orders, are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided no single piece exceeds 100 pounds in weight or 80 inches in total dimensions.
If you fall into one of these categories, make sure your Rapid Rewards number is linked to your booking or present your military ID at check-in to ensure you receive your free baggage allowance.
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
Step 4: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, our bags end up a little heavier or larger than anticipated. Southwest has specific fees for these situations:
Overweight Baggage:
51 to 100 pounds (23 to 45 kg): $150 USD per bag
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo.
Oversized Baggage:
63 to 80 linear inches (160 to 203 cm): $200 USD per bag
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches (203 cm) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, you will typically only be charged one fee (the higher of the two). For example, if your bag is 55 lbs and 65 linear inches, you'll pay the $200 oversized fee, not both.
Step 5: Special Items and Sporting Equipment
Traveling with golf clubs, skis, or other unique items? Southwest generally treats most sporting equipment and special items as standard checked baggage, meaning they count towards your allowed number of bags and are subject to the same fees, weight, and size restrictions.
Golf Bags: A golf bag (containing clubs, balls, and shoes) counts as one checked item. If it's within the standard 50 lbs and 62 linear inches, and you qualify for free checked bags, it flies free. Otherwise, the standard checked bag fees (Step 2) apply.
Ski/Snowboard Equipment: One pair of skis or a snowboard, one pair of ski poles, and one pair of ski/snowboard boots count as one checked item, even if packed in two separate bags. Again, standard fees and limits apply. Oversized charges are often waived for these specific items, but overweight fees may still apply.
Bicycles: Bicycles are accepted as checked baggage, but they must be properly packed in a bicycle box or bag. They are subject to standard baggage fees, and oversized/overweight charges may apply depending on dimensions and weight.
Musical Instruments: Smaller musical instruments may be carried on board if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may be checked, subject to standard baggage rules, or you can purchase an additional seat for them.
Always check Southwest's official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date and specific policies on special items, as these can sometimes vary.
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Step 6: Carry-On Baggage Policy (Still Free!)
Good news! Southwest's carry-on baggage policy remains generous and free of charge for all passengers.
You are allowed to bring:
One Carry-On Bag: This bag must fit in the overhead bin.
Maximum Dimensions: 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H) (including handles and wheels).
Weight Limit: There is no specified weight restriction for carry-on items, as long as you can lift it into the overhead bin unaided.
One Personal Item: This item must fit under the seat in front of you.
Maximum Dimensions: 16.25" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 8" (H).
Examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack.
Sub-heading: Additional Carry-On Items That Don't Count Towards Your Limit
In addition to your carry-on bag and personal item, you can also bring:
Outer garments (coats, jackets)
Umbrellas or walking canes
Food for consumption during the flight (in disposable packaging)
Assistive devices (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.)
Child restraint devices (for a ticketed child or if space is available)
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
Step 7: How to Pay for Baggage Fees
Southwest Airlines currently requires you to pay for checked baggage at the airport. You cannot typically prepay for baggage fees online.
You can pay:
At the Self-Tagging Kiosks: Where available, you can use these kiosks to print your bag tags and pay the applicable fees.
At the Southwest Ticket Counter: A Southwest Agent will assist you with checking your bags and processing payment.
Accepted payment methods typically include major credit cards.
Step 8: Tips to Minimize or Avoid Baggage Fees
Even with the new policy, there are still ways to reduce or potentially avoid those baggage costs:
Consider a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: As mentioned, many co-branded credit cards offer a free checked bag for the primary cardmember and companions. The annual fee for some of these cards can be less than the cost of checking even one bag roundtrip!
Achieve A-List or A-List Preferred Status: If you fly Southwest frequently, earning elite status can save you a significant amount on baggage fees, plus offer other perks like priority boarding.
Pack Light (Carry-On Only): The most straightforward way to avoid checked bag fees is to pack everything into your free carry-on and personal item. This requires strategic packing, but it's a guaranteed cost-saver.
Share Luggage: If traveling with others, consolidate your belongings into fewer bags to stay within the free allowance of those who still have it, or to minimize the number of paid bags.
Ship Your Luggage: For very heavy or numerous items, especially on longer trips, consider using a luggage shipping service. Sometimes, this can be more cost-effective than paying airline fees, especially for oversized or overweight items.
Understand Your Fare Type: If you're booking a new flight, remember that Business Select (or the future Choice Extra) fares still include two free checked bags. While more expensive upfront, this might be cheaper than a lower fare plus multiple baggage fees.
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of Southwest's updated baggage policy, you can ensure a smoother and more budget-friendly travel experience!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions related to Southwest Airlines baggage, with quick answers:
How to check a bag on Southwest Airlines? You check bags at the airport using self-tagging kiosks (if available) or with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
How to avoid paying baggage fees on Southwest? You can avoid fees by booking flights before May 28, 2025 (for most), having A-List/A-List Preferred status, being a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, booking a Business Select or Choice Extra fare, or packing only carry-on items.
How to determine if my bag is oversized for Southwest? A bag is oversized if its total linear dimensions (length + width + height) exceed 62 inches.
How to determine if my bag is overweight for Southwest? A bag is overweight if it exceeds 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
How to pay for an additional bag on Southwest? Additional bags (third or more) are paid for at the airport check-in counter.
How to bring a golf bag on Southwest? A golf bag counts as one checked item and is subject to the standard baggage fees and weight/size limits.
How to pack a carry-on bag for Southwest? Ensure your carry-on bag fits within 24" x 16" x 10" and you can lift it into the overhead bin, and your personal item fits under the seat.
How to track lost luggage with Southwest? If your luggage is lost, damaged, or delayed, you must report it in person at the Southwest Airlines baggage office within four hours of your arrival at your destination.
How to bring a pet on Southwest? Southwest allows small domesticated cats or dogs in the cabin on domestic flights, in a suitable carrier for a fee ($125 one way). The carrier counts as your carry-on item.
How to get military baggage allowance on Southwest? Active duty U.S. military personnel and their dependents, with a valid military ID or on PCS orders, are exempt from the standard bag limits and associated fees for up to 100 lbs and 80 inches per bag.
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