Traveling with Southwest Airlines used to mean one glorious thing for many: "Bags Fly Free!" However, as of May 28, 2025, that era has largely come to an end for most passengers. If you're wondering how much an extra checked bag on Southwest Airlines will cost you now, you've come to the right place. We'll break down all the fees, exceptions, and tips to help you navigate their updated baggage policy.
Ready to ditch the baggage fee stress? Let's dive in and get you prepared for your next Southwest flight!
Step 1: Understand the New Baseline - The End of "Bags Fly Free"
First things first, it's crucial to acknowledge the recent change. Southwest Airlines, after decades of its unique "Bags Fly Free" policy, now charges for checked bags for the majority of travelers. This puts them in line with most other major U.S. carriers.
The Standard Fees (for most passengers):
First Checked Bag: $35
Second Checked Bag: $45
Third Checked Bag (and beyond): $150 per bag
It's important to note that these fees apply to flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. If you booked your flight before this date and haven't changed it, your original "Bags Fly Free" policy might still apply. Always double-check your booking details!
Step 2: Identify if You Qualify for Exceptions (and potentially still fly free!)
While the general rule is now "pay for bags," Southwest does still offer exceptions for certain passengers. Don't assume you'll pay until you've checked these categories!
Who gets free checked bags?
Business Select® Travelers: If you book the airline's top-tier Business Select fare, you're in luck! You'll still receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These highly-valued frequent flyers also enjoy the benefit of two free checked bags. This applies to the A-List Preferred member and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List status holders get their first checked bag free. Subsequent bags will incur the standard fees. This also applies to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: Many Southwest co-branded credit cards offer a perk of one free checked bag. Make sure your Rapid Rewards account number is included at the time of booking to receive this benefit.
Active Duty Military Personnel: If you are active-duty U.S. military or on permanent change of station orders, you are generally exempt from checked, overweight, and oversized bag fees, provided your bags do not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches. This is a significant benefit!
Hawaii Residents (Inter-island Travel): For Hawaii residents traveling between islands, special baggage allowances may apply, often including free checked bags.
Pro-Tip: Always verify your specific fare type and Rapid Rewards status before your flight to understand your exact baggage allowance.
Step 3: Factor in Overweight and Oversized Bag Fees
Even if your bag is within the free allowance or you've paid the standard fee, you could incur additional charges if your bag exceeds Southwest's size and weight limits. These fees are in addition to the standard checked bag fees.
Understanding Weight and Size Limits:
Standard Weight Limit: Each checked bag must weigh 50 pounds (23 kg) or less.
Standard Size Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This includes handles and wheels.
Overweight Bag Fees:
51 to 70 pounds (23.1 to 31.8 kg): $100 per bag (in addition to standard bag fees)
71 to 100 pounds (32.2 to 45.4 kg): $200 per bag (in addition to standard bag fees)
Bags exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
Oversized Bag Fees:
63 to 80 linear inches (160 to 203 cm): $200 per bag (in addition to standard bag fees)
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized (but still within the acceptable limits of 100 lbs and 80 inches), only one $200 charge applies for the excess dimensions/weight, plus the standard checked bag fee.
Step 4: Consider Special Items and Sports Equipment
Many special items and sports equipment are accepted as checked baggage but might have their own specific rules and fees.
Common Special Items and Their Treatment:
Sporting Equipment: Items like skis, golf bags, fishing equipment, and hockey equipment are generally accepted. They count as one checked bag. However, if they exceed the standard 50-pound weight or 62-inch size limit, overweight or oversized fees will apply.
Musical Instruments: Small instruments can often be carried on. Larger instruments may need to be checked and will be subject to standard baggage fees. If they exceed size/weight limits, additional fees apply.
Large Media Camera Equipment: Special allowances may apply, sometimes waiving overweight or oversized fees. Check Southwest's official policy for details.
Always check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page or contact them directly if you're traveling with unusual or valuable items.
Step 5: How to Pay for Your Extra Checked Bags
Unlike some airlines, Southwest Airlines generally does not allow you to prepay for luggage online. You will pay for your checked bags at the airport.
Payment Methods at the Airport:
Ticket Counter: You can pay for your checked bags directly at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter when you check in.
Curbside Check-in: At airports with curbside check-in, you might be able to pay there as well.
Kiosk: Some airports offer self-tagging kiosks where you can print your bag tags, and then proceed to a bag drop where payment is processed.
Remember: Have a valid credit card ready, as cash payments may not always be accepted or preferred for baggage fees.
Step 6: Plan Ahead to Minimize Costs
While the new fees are a reality, there are still ways to be a savvy traveler and potentially reduce your baggage expenses.
Smart Packing Strategies:
Pack Light: The most obvious solution! Can you consolidate items or leave non-essentials at home?
Utilize Carry-On and Personal Item: Southwest still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Maximizing these can sometimes eliminate the need for an extra checked bag. Ensure they meet the size requirements (carry-on: 10 x 16 x 24 inches; personal item: fits under the seat).
Wear Bulky Items: Wear your heaviest coat or bulkiest shoes on the plane rather than packing them.
Ship Your Luggage: For a significant number of bags or very heavy/oversized items, consider using a luggage shipping service. Sometimes, this can be more cost-effective than airline fees, especially for multiple extra bags.
Leverage Your Benefits:
Consider a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: If you fly Southwest frequently and don't have A-List status, a co-branded credit card could save you money on your first checked bag over time.
Strive for A-List Status: For very frequent flyers, reaching A-List or A-List Preferred status offers significant baggage benefits, among other perks.
Book Business Select: If the total cost of your ticket plus baggage fees on a lower fare approaches the Business Select price, it might be worth upgrading for the two free bags and other benefits like priority boarding.
Step 7: Double-Check Before You Fly
Airline policies can change, and specific routes or temporary embargoes might have different rules.
Before You Head to the Airport:
Visit the Official Southwest Airlines Website: The "Optional Travel Charges" or "Checked Bag Policy" pages on Southwest.com are the most reliable sources for the most up-to-date information.
Review Your Confirmation: Your flight confirmation or e-ticket might have a summary of your specific baggage allowance.
Weigh and Measure Your Bags: Don't guess! Use a luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the weight limits, and use a tape measure for dimensions to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to understand and manage the cost of an extra checked bag on Southwest Airlines.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
How to find the most current Southwest Airlines baggage policy?
The most current and official Southwest Airlines baggage policy can always be found on their official website, specifically under their "Optional Travel Charges" or "Checked Bag Policy" sections.
How to avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest?
You can avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest by being a Business Select traveler, a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List member, a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (for one free bag), or active-duty U.S. military personnel. Packing light and using only a carry-on and personal item also avoids fees.
How to check if my Southwest flight was booked under the old "Bags Fly Free" policy?
If you booked your flight before May 28, 2025, and haven't made any voluntary changes to your reservation since then, your flight should still be under the old "Bags Fly Free" policy. Check your original booking confirmation details.
How to calculate the linear inches of my luggage?
To calculate the linear inches, measure the length, width, and height of your bag (including wheels and handles) and add those three measurements together. For example, a bag that is 24 inches (L) + 16 inches (W) + 10 inches (H) = 50 linear inches.
How to pay for an overweight or oversized bag on Southwest?
Overweight and oversized bag fees on Southwest are paid at the airport, either at the ticket counter or bag drop area, using a credit card.
How to know if my sports equipment will incur extra fees on Southwest?
Your sports equipment will incur extra fees on Southwest if it exceeds the standard checked bag weight limit of 50 pounds or the standard size limit of 62 linear inches. Standard checked bag fees will apply, plus the additional overweight/oversized charges if applicable.
How to maximize my free carry-on allowance on Southwest?
To maximize your free carry-on allowance, ensure your main carry-on bag fits within the 10 x 16 x 24 inches dimensions and that your personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) fits under the seat in front of you. Utilize every available inch within these limits.
How to get A-List status with Southwest for baggage benefits?
A-List status can be achieved by flying 20 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier qualifying points within a calendar year. A-List Preferred requires 40 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 tier qualifying points.
How to know if a luggage shipping service is cheaper than Southwest's baggage fees?
Compare the total cost of Southwest's fees for all your bags (including any potential overweight/oversized charges) against quotes from reputable luggage shipping services. For multiple heavy or oversized bags, shipping can often be a more economical option.
How to check multiple bags on Southwest if I'm active duty military?
Active duty military personnel traveling on orders are typically allowed to check multiple bags without excess, overweight, or oversized fees, provided each bag does not exceed 100 pounds and 80 linear inches. Always present your valid military ID at check-in.
