Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded! Especially when it comes to extra bags. Southwest Airlines, traditionally known for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, has recently undergone some significant changes. So, if you're wondering, "how much is it to check an extra bag on Southwest Airlines?" you're in the right place! Let's break it down step-by-step to ensure your travel is as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Understand the Recent Policy Shift – Have You Heard the News?
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room. If you're a seasoned Southwest traveler, you might be surprised by recent developments. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has ended its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy for most passengers. This is a major shift, bringing Southwest more in line with other major U.S. carriers.
So, what does this mean for you? Previously, every ticketed customer could check two bags for free. Now, fees apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares booked or changed on or after May 28, 2025. This is a critical point to remember, as your booking date can impact whether you pay for your first and second bags.
Step 2: Identify Your Fare Type and Rapid Rewards Status – Do You Qualify for Free Bags?
Before you even think about an "extra" bag, let's determine if your first two bags are actually free under the new policy. Southwest still offers free checked bags for certain fare types and Rapid Rewards members.
Sub-heading: Business Select® Fare Holders
Good news if you're flying Business Select! You continue to receive two free checked bags. This premium fare offers the most flexibility and benefits, including the continued baggage allowance.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members
If you've achieved A-List Preferred status with Rapid Rewards, you're also in luck! You receive your first and second checked bags for free. This benefit extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, making it great for group travel.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards® A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers
For A-List members and those with a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card, you receive your first checked bag for free. This is a valuable perk, though it means you'll still pay for your second checked bag (and any subsequent extra bags) if it's not a Business Select or A-List Preferred booking. Remember to include your Rapid Rewards account number at the time of booking to ensure this benefit is applied.
Sub-heading: Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares
If you booked one of these fares on or after May 28, 2025, you will incur fees for your first and second checked bags. This is where the "extra bag" conversation really begins, as these are your initial checked bags.
Step 3: Calculate the Cost for Your First and Second Bags (If Applicable) – What's the Baseline?
Assuming you don't qualify for free checked bags based on your fare type or status, here's what you'll typically pay for your first and second bags. These fees are per bag, each way.
First Checked Bag: Approximately $35 USD
Second Checked Bag: Approximately $45 USD
It's important to note that these fees are generally in line with what other major U.S. airlines charge.
Step 4: Determine the Cost of Your Third (and Subsequent) Extra Bags – This is Where "Extra" Kicks In!
Once you've exhausted any free bag allowances or paid for your first two standard bags, any additional bags are considered "extra" and come with a higher price tag.
Third Checked Bag and Beyond (up to 20 pieces total): $150 USD per bag, each way.
Yes, you read that right. The cost jumps significantly for your third bag and any further bags you need to check. Southwest typically limits a customer to checking 20 pieces of baggage per flight.
Step 5: Factor in Oversized and Overweight Bag Fees – Don't Get Surprised at the Airport!
Beyond the number of bags, the size and weight of your luggage are crucial. Exceeding the standard limits will incur additional fees, regardless of whether it's your first, second, or fifth bag.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Dimensions and Weight
For a bag to be considered standard, it must meet the following criteria:
Weight Limit: 50 pounds (23 kg) or less.
Size Limit: 62 linear inches (length + width + height) or less.
Wheels and handles are included in these measurements, so be sure to measure accurately.
Sub-heading: Overweight Bag Fees
If your bag exceeds the standard 50-pound limit but is within the acceptable maximum weight:
51 to 70 pounds (23 to 32 kg): Approximately $100 USD per bag, each way.
71 to 100 pounds (32 to 45 kg): Approximately $200 USD per bag, each way.
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Bag Fees
If your bag exceeds the standard 62-linear-inch limit but is within the acceptable maximum size:
63 to 80 linear inches (158 to 203 cm): Approximately $200 USD per bag, each way.
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches (203 cm) will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Bags That Are Both Oversized and Overweight
Southwest typically applies only one $200 charge if a piece of baggage is both oversized and overweight, as long as it does not exceed 100 lbs and 80 linear inches. However, if it's considered excess baggage (your 3rd+ bag) AND overweight/oversized, you'll pay the excess bag fee PLUS the applicable overweight/oversized fee. This can add up quickly!
Step 6: Consider Special Items and Sporting Equipment – Are There Exceptions?
Southwest has specific policies for various special items and sporting equipment. While many items are subject to the standard checked bag fees, some may have waived oversized fees or specific charges.
Sporting Equipment: Many common sporting equipment items (like golf bags, skis, snowboards) are accepted as one checked bag and are subject to standard baggage fees. Oversized fees for sporting equipment may be waived up to 115 linear inches for certain items, but overweight fees (51-70 lbs: $100; 71-100 lbs: $200) will still apply if the item is too heavy. It's always best to check Southwest's official website for the most up-to-date and specific information on your particular item.
Large Media Camera Equipment: This can sometimes have waived overweight/oversized fees, but typically incurs a separate $75 fee per item.
Active Duty Military: Active duty military personnel traveling on orders are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided no piece exceeds 100 lbs in weight or 80 inches in total dimensions. This is a significant benefit!
Step 7: Review International Travel Considerations – Are You Flying Beyond the U.S.?
While Southwest's primary routes are domestic, they do fly to some international destinations. The general baggage policies, including extra bag fees, typically apply. However, there can be specific nuances:
Preclear Cities: If you're flying from a pre-cleared city (like Aruba or Nassau) into the U.S., you'll go through U.S. Customs at the international airport. Your flight will then be considered a domestic arrival.
Connecting Flights: If your international itinerary includes a connection within the U.S., you'll likely need to claim your checked luggage, clear customs, and re-check it, even if it's tagged to your final destination.
Baggage Embargoes: For certain international destinations, Southwest may have baggage embargoes in place, which restrict oversized, overweight, and extra checked bags during peak travel periods. Always check for embargoes if flying internationally.
Step 8: Final Tips for Avoiding or Minimizing Extra Bag Fees – Be a Savvy Traveler!
Pack Smart and Light: This is the golden rule! Can you truly live without that extra pair of shoes or that third bulky sweater? Rolling your clothes instead of folding can also save space.
Utilize Your Carry-On and Personal Item: Southwest allows one carry-on bag (up to 24" x 16" x 10") and one personal item (fits under the seat) free of charge. Maximize this space! Remember, there's no weight limit for carry-on items, but you must be able to lift them into the overhead bin yourself.
Wear Your Bulkiest Items: If you're on the cusp of an overweight bag, wear your heaviest coat or bulkiest boots onto the plane.
Consider Shipping Your Bags: For a truly significant amount of luggage, especially if it's very heavy or oversized, a luggage shipping service might be more cost-effective than airline fees.
Upgrade Your Fare: If you anticipate needing two checked bags regularly, consider if upgrading to a Business Select fare or earning Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status is worthwhile for your travel habits.
Get a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: Even if you're not an A-List member, a co-branded credit card can get you one free checked bag, which can quickly offset the annual fee if you travel frequently.
Measure and Weigh Before You Go: Invest in a luggage scale! This small investment can save you a significant amount in unexpected airport fees. Measure your bags too to ensure they don't exceed the linear inch limits.
Step 9: Double-Check the Official Southwest Airlines Website – Policies Can Change!
While this guide provides comprehensive information based on current policies, airline rules can evolve. Before your trip, always visit the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) and navigate to their baggage policy section for the most accurate and up-to-date information specific to your flight and fare type.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, all starting with "How to," with quick answers, to further assist you with Southwest Airlines baggage:
How to avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
Book a Business Select fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, or be an A-List member or Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember to potentially get free checked bags. Otherwise, pack light and only bring a carry-on and personal item.
How to check if my bag is oversized for Southwest Airlines?
Measure the length, width, and height of your bag and add these three dimensions together. If the sum exceeds 62 linear inches (158 cm), it's considered oversized and will incur a fee.
How to check if my bag is overweight for Southwest Airlines?
Use a luggage scale to weigh your bag. If it exceeds 50 pounds (23 kg), it's considered overweight and will incur a fee.
How to get military baggage benefits on Southwest Airlines?
Active duty military personnel traveling on orders are generally exempt from excess, oversize, and overweight baggage fees for up to two bags, provided each bag is within 100 lbs and 80 linear inches. Present your military ID and orders at check-in.
How to bring a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Musical instruments can be brought onboard as a carry-on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require purchasing an additional seat or checking as special baggage, subject to standard or special baggage fees and size/weight limits.
How to handle a pet carrier on Southwest Airlines flights?
Pet carriers count as either your carry-on item or personal item. There is usually a one-way fee per pet carrier, and pets are not permitted in the cargo hold on Southwest flights. Check Southwest's pet policy for specific carrier dimensions and fees.
How to find the most current baggage policy for Southwest Airlines?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) and navigate to their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" section for the most up-to-date and definitive information.
How to pay for extra bags on Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for checked bags at the airport ticket counter or at self-service kiosks. It's usually not possible to prepay for checked bags online with Southwest.
How to pack efficiently to avoid extra baggage fees?
Roll your clothes tightly, use packing cubes, wear your heaviest items, and only bring essentials. Consider solid toiletries instead of liquids, and utilize your free carry-on and personal item allowance to the fullest.
How to deal with a bag that is both oversized and overweight on Southwest?
Southwest typically charges only one fee (the higher of the two, usually the $200 oversized/overweight fee) if a bag is both oversized and overweight, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs and 80 linear inches. However, if it's your third or subsequent bag, you'll pay the extra bag fee PLUS the single oversized/overweight fee. Consider repacking or shipping the item.
