Oh, the eternal struggle of packing for a trip, especially when you're flying Southwest and want to avoid those dreaded baggage fees! You're not alone in wondering, "How much weight does Southwest Airlines actually allow?" It's a common question, and getting it right can save you money, time, and stress at the airport. Let's dive deep into Southwest's baggage policy, step-by-step, so you can pack like a pro.
Navigating Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy: Your Ultimate Guide
Southwest Airlines has long been known for its customer-friendly policies, especially the legendary "bags fly free" perk. However, it's crucial to stay updated as policies can change. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest has introduced new checked baggage fees for most fares. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure a smooth journey.
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| How Much Weight Does Southwest Airlines Allow |
Step 1: Understand the Baggage Categories – What Are You Bringing?
Before you even think about weight, let's categorize your luggage. Southwest typically breaks down baggage into three main types:
1.1. Personal Item
What is it? This is your smallest item, designed to fit under the seat in front of you. Think of it as your in-flight essential holder.
Common examples: A purse, a small backpack, a laptop bag, a brief case, a small camera bag, or even a neck pillow.
Key Dimensions: While Southwest doesn't provide a strict maximum weight for personal items, they do have size guidelines. Generally, it should not exceed 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 21.6 x 34.3 cm). Always ensure it comfortably fits under the seat.
1.2. Carry-On Bag
What is it? This is your slightly larger bag, intended to be stored in the overhead bin above your seat. This is where you'll keep items you need access to during the flight, but aren't small enough for under the seat.
Common examples: A small suitcase, a duffel bag, a larger backpack, or a garment bag.
Key Dimensions & Weight: Southwest permits one carry-on bag per passenger. It should not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 40 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels. There is no stated weight limit for carry-on bags, as long as you can lift it into the overhead bin unaided.
1.3. Checked Baggage
What is it? These are the bags that go into the cargo hold of the airplane. You'll check these at the counter or kiosk before you go through security.
Common examples: Larger suitcases, trunks, and sometimes specialized equipment.
Key Dimensions & Weight (and the all-important fees!): This is where the new policies come into play and where weight limits become critical.
Standard Allowance: Each checked bag has a maximum dimension of 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg).
New Fees (as of May 28, 2025, for most fares):
First checked bag: $35
Second checked bag: $45
Third and subsequent checked bags: $150 per bag
However, there are exceptions! Business Select® fares, Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members, Rapid Rewards® A-List Members, and Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers may still enjoy some free checked bag allowances. Always double-check your specific fare type and loyalty status!
Step 2: Mastering the Art of Weight Management for Checked Bags
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
This is the make-or-break section for your wallet! Going over the 50-pound limit can lead to significant fees.
2.1. The 50-Pound Golden Rule
Remember, 50 pounds (23 kg) is the standard maximum weight for each checked bag on Southwest. This is a non-negotiable limit if you want to avoid extra charges.
Why 50 pounds? This limit is standard across many airlines and is largely due to safety regulations and the physical limitations of baggage handlers.
2.2. Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds the 50-pound limit, you'll incur additional fees:
For bags between 51 and 70 pounds (24-32 kg): There's a fee of $100 (plus the standard bag fee).
For bags between 71 and 100 pounds (33-45 kg): There's a fee of $200 (plus the standard bag fee).
Important Note: Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) will generally NOT be accepted as checked baggage. You'll need to explore cargo options or ship your items separately.
2.3. Oversized Baggage Fees
Weight isn't the only factor. Size matters too! If your checked bag exceeds the 62 linear inches limit:
For bags between 63 and 80 linear inches: There's a fee of $200 (plus the standard bag fee).
Crucial Detail: If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you'll typically pay only one combined fee, usually the higher of the two, plus the standard bag fee. However, always confirm with Southwest if you have an item that falls into both categories.
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches (203 cm) will generally NOT be accepted.
Step 3: Packing Smart to Avoid Fees
Now that you know the limits, let's talk strategy!
3.1. Invest in a Luggage Scale
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
This is your best friend when packing. A small, portable luggage scale is inexpensive and can save you hundreds of dollars in overweight fees.
Pro Tip: Weigh your bags at home before you leave for the airport. This gives you time to redistribute items or decide what to leave behind.
3.2. Distribute Weight Evenly
If you're traveling with multiple checked bags, try to distribute the weight so that no single bag goes over 50 pounds.
Consider: If one bag is 55 pounds and another is 45 pounds, you could shift 5 pounds from the heavier bag to the lighter one and avoid an overweight fee entirely!
3.3. Wear Your Heaviest Items
If you're pushing the limits, wear your bulkiest or heaviest clothing items (like boots or a heavy jacket) on the plane. They don't count towards your baggage allowance!
3.4. Utilize Your Carry-On and Personal Item
Remember, your carry-on and personal item don't have explicit weight limits (beyond being manageable for you to lift for the carry-on, and fitting under the seat for the personal item). Pack heavier items like books, electronics, or dense clothing in these bags if your checked luggage is getting heavy.
Think Strategically: Your laptop and its accessories, for instance, can weigh a surprising amount. Keep them in your personal item or carry-on.
3.5. Consider Shipping Items
For very heavy or numerous items, especially if you're moving or staying for an extended period, shipping them via a courier service (like FedEx or UPS) can sometimes be more cost-effective than paying airline excess baggage fees.
Step 4: Special Circumstances and Exemptions
Southwest has specific policies for certain items and travelers.
4.1. Sports Equipment
Many types of sports equipment (like skis, golf bags, fishing equipment) can be substituted for one checked bag.
Standard checked baggage fees and weight/size limits generally apply. However, some oversized fees might be waived for specific sports equipment, but overweight fees will still apply if the item exceeds 50 lbs. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your particular sport equipment.
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
4.2. Medical Equipment and Assistive Devices
Southwest is generally very accommodating with medical equipment and assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers, portable oxygen concentrators). These items usually do not count against your baggage allowance and are carried free of charge.
Important: If you're traveling with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC), ensure it's an FAA-approved model and that you have sufficient battery life. You may need to notify Southwest in advance.
4.3. Lap Infants
For domestic travel, one child under two years of age not occupying a seat (lap infant) can generally travel free of charge.
While the lap infant doesn't get a separate baggage allowance, you can usually check one stroller and one car seat/child restraint system free of charge in addition to your own baggage.
4.4. Active Duty Military Personnel
Southwest offers generous baggage allowances for active U.S. military personnel and their dependents. They are often allowed to check additional bags free of charge, even beyond the standard two. Always carry your military ID for verification.
Step 5: At the Airport – What to Expect
Even with all your preparation, airport procedures are important.
5.1. Self-Tagging Kiosks
At many airports, Southwest offers self-tagging kiosks. You can print your baggage tags there and then proceed to a bag drop area. This can save you time.
Note: You'll typically pay any applicable baggage fees at these kiosks.
5.2. Ticket Counter Check-in
If you prefer, or if you have complex baggage situations (like special equipment or military exceptions), you can always check in your bags with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
5.3. Be Prepared for the Scale
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
Every checked bag will be weighed. If it's over the limit, the agent will inform you of the fee. At this point, your options are to pay the fee, remove items, or re-pack. This is why pre-weighing at home is so crucial!
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to understand and navigate Southwest Airlines' baggage policies. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to avoiding unnecessary fees!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How to Handle Your Southwest Baggage
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about Southwest Airlines baggage, with quick answers:
How to check baggage for free on Southwest Airlines? As of May 28, 2025, free checked bags are mostly limited to Business Select® fares, Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members, Rapid Rewards® A-List Members, Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers, and active U.S. military personnel/dependents. Most other fares now incur fees for the first two checked bags.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees on Southwest? The best way is to weigh your bags at home using a luggage scale and ensure each checked bag is under 50 pounds (23 kg). Distribute weight evenly across multiple bags, or consider putting heavier items in your carry-on or personal item.
How to measure my bag for Southwest Airlines? For checked bags, measure the length, width, and height, and add them together. The sum should not exceed 62 linear inches. For carry-on, ensure it fits within 24 x 16 x 10 inches. For personal items, ensure it fits under the seat, typically around 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches.
How to carry a car seat and stroller on Southwest Airlines? Southwest allows one car seat and one stroller per child to be checked free of charge, in addition to your regular baggage allowance. These can be checked at the curb, ticket counter, or gate.
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest? Many sports equipment items can be substituted for one checked bag. Standard baggage fees and weight limits (50 lbs) apply. Oversized fees may be waived for some equipment, but overweight fees ($100-$200) will still apply if the item exceeds 50 lbs. Always check Southwest's specific sports equipment policy online.
How to add a pet to my Southwest reservation? Pets (cats and dogs) can fly in the cabin on Southwest in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. The pet carrier counts as either your personal item or carry-on bag. There's a per-carrier fee, and reservations for pets are typically made by calling Southwest.
How to check more than two bags on Southwest? You can check more than two bags, but a fee of $150 per bag applies for the third and subsequent checked bags for most fares, in addition to any overweight or oversized fees.
How to bring a musical instrument on Southwest? Small musical instruments can usually be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, counting as your carry-on item. Larger instruments may need to be checked as baggage (subject to standard fees, weight, and size limits) or an extra seat purchased for them.
How to handle an oversized checked bag on Southwest? If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches (but is under 80 inches), an oversized fee of $200 (plus the standard bag fee) will apply. Bags over 80 inches are generally not accepted.
How to find the most up-to-date baggage policy for Southwest Airlines? Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website, specifically their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections. Airline policies can change, so checking the direct source before your flight is crucial.
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