Oh, the ever-present question of airline baggage fees! It's a topic that can spark joy or frustration, depending on the airline you're flying. And when it comes to Southwest Airlines, their baggage policy has seen some significant changes recently. So, let's dive deep into how much Southwest Airlines will charge for luggage and how you can navigate these policies like a seasoned traveler.
Your Ultimate Guide to Southwest Airlines Luggage Fees
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| How Much Will Southwest Airlines Charge For Luggage |
Step 1: Are You Ready to Unpack the Truth About Your Bags?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of fees, let's confront the baggage beast head-on! Do you typically pack light, or are you someone who brings "just in case" items that fill multiple suitcases? Understanding your packing habits is the first step to figuring out your potential baggage costs. Get ready, because we're about to demystify Southwest's luggage policies.
Step 2: The Core Policy – Understanding the New Landscape
For years, Southwest Airlines was famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing two checked bags per passenger without a charge. This was a major differentiator in the airline industry. However, as of May 28, 2025, Southwest has revised this policy for most passengers and fare types. This is a crucial date to remember!
Sub-heading: The New Standard for Most Fares
For reservations booked and ticketed (or voluntarily changed) on or after May 28, 2025, the following applies to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares:
First Checked Bag: Expect to pay $35 USD per bag, per way.
Second Checked Bag: This will cost you $45 USD per bag, per way.
Yes, you read that right. The days of automatically free checked bags for everyone are largely behind us on these fare types. This brings Southwest's baggage fee structure more in line with other major US carriers.
Sub-heading: The Dimensions and Weight That Matter
Even with the new fees, there are still crucial size and weight limitations for your checked bags. Exceeding these limits will incur additional charges.
Standard Size: Each checked bag should not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Standard Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Always measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport! A small kitchen scale and a measuring tape can save you a significant amount of money and hassle.
Step 3: Who Still Gets Free Bags? The Exceptions and How to Qualify
While the general policy has changed, Southwest still offers ways to avoid or reduce baggage fees for certain passengers and fare types. This is where strategic booking and loyalty can truly pay off.
Tip: Reading twice doubles clarity.
Sub-heading: Business Select® Fare
If you opt for Southwest's Business Select® fare, you're in luck! This premium fare tier still includes two free checked bags. While it's a more expensive ticket, the included baggage allowance, along with other perks like priority boarding and a complimentary premium drink, might make it worthwhile for some travelers.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards® Elite Status Members
Southwest's frequent flyer program, Rapid Rewards, offers valuable baggage benefits for its elite members:
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: You'll still receive your first checked bag free.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: Even better, you get both your first and second checked bags free.
Earning elite status requires a certain number of qualifying flights or points within a calendar year, so if you fly Southwest frequently, aiming for A-List or A-List Preferred status can significantly offset baggage costs.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers
This is often the easiest and most accessible way for many travelers to secure a free checked bag. If you are the primary cardholder of a Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Card (and your Rapid Rewards account number is included in the reservation), you and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation are eligible to receive your first standard checked bag free.
This benefit applies to various Southwest credit cards, including the Plus, Premier, and Priority cards. The annual fees for these cards can be less than what you'd pay for checked bags on just a couple of round-trip flights, making them a smart investment for frequent Southwest flyers.
Sub-heading: Active Duty U.S. Military Personnel
Southwest Airlines continues to offer a generous policy for active duty U.S. military personnel (including reservists, National Guard members, and Coast Guard members with active orders). With a valid military ID, you are exempt from the standard two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds (46 kg) in weight and 80 inches in size. This is a fantastic benefit for service members.
Sub-heading: Hawaii Residents (Inter-island Travel)
For Hawaii residents traveling between the islands, Southwest still allows two free checked bags.
Step 4: Beyond the Standard – Overweight, Oversized, and Excess Bags
What happens if your bag is heavier or larger than the standard limits, or if you need to check more than two bags? Southwest has specific fees for these scenarios.
Tip: Write down what you learned.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds (23 kg) but does not exceed 100 pounds (46 kg), you'll incur an overweight fee in addition to any standard bag fees.
51 to 70 pounds (24-32 kg): $100 USD extra per bag, per way (plus standard fee if applicable).
71 to 100 pounds (33-46 kg): $200 USD extra per bag, per way (plus standard fee if applicable).
Bags exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches (length + width + height) but does not exceed 115 linear inches (292 cm), an oversized fee will apply in addition to any standard bag fees.
63 to 115 linear inches (160-292 cm): $200 USD extra per bag, per way (plus standard fee if applicable).
Bags greater than 115 linear inches will generally not be accepted.
Important Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, only one additional fee (the higher of the two) will typically be charged, provided the bag doesn't exceed 100 lbs. Always confirm with Southwest directly for the most precise figures, as policies can be subject to change.
Sub-heading: Third+ Checked Bag Fees (Excess Baggage)
If you need to check a third bag or more, you'll pay an excess baggage fee per additional bag.
Third Bag and Any Additional Bags: $150 USD per bag, per way.
This fee applies regardless of whether your first two bags were free or paid. For example, if you paid for your first two bags, and then checked a third, you'd pay $35 + $45 + $150.
Step 5: Special Items and Sports Equipment
Traveling with unique items or sports gear? Southwest has specific policies and fees for these. Generally, most sports equipment counts as one checked bag and will be subject to the standard baggage fees (or free allowance) and any applicable overweight/oversized fees.
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Common examples include: Golf clubs, skis/snowboards, fishing equipment, hockey equipment.
Bicycles: Often accepted but require proper packing in a bike box and may incur oversized/overweight fees.
Surfboards: Typically incur a $75 USD fee per item each way, unless flying Hawaiian inter-island where they may travel free when substituted as one of your two free bags. Overweight fees may also apply.
Musical Instruments: Can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require purchasing an additional seat or checking them, incurring standard baggage fees and potentially oversized/overweight fees.
It's always recommended to check Southwest's official website or contact their customer service directly for specific information regarding your particular sports equipment or special item. Policies can vary and may have unique packing requirements.
Step 6: Carry-on and Personal Items – Still Free!
Here's some good news! Southwest Airlines still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger fee-free.
Carry-on Bag: This typically goes in the overhead bin.
Maximum Dimensions: 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H) or 61 cm (L) x 41 cm (W) x 28 cm (H) (including handles and wheels).
Personal Item: This must fit under the seat in front of you.
Examples: Purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack.
There isn't a specific published size for personal items, but it must be able to fit under the seat.
Maximizing your carry-on allowance can be a great way to avoid checked baggage fees, especially if you're a light packer.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Step 7: How and When to Pay Baggage Fees
Southwest Airlines does not allow pre-payment for checked luggage online. All applicable baggage fees must be paid at the airport at the time of check-in.
You can pay at the self-tagging kiosks (where available) or with a Southwest® Agent at the ticket counter.
Accepted payment methods typically include major credit cards.
Step 8: Pet Travel
If you're traveling with a furry friend, Southwest has a separate policy for pets.
In-Cabin Only: Southwest generally only allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in the cabin. They do not accept pets in cargo.
Pet Carrier: Your pet must be in an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag.
Fee: The pet fare is typically $125 USD per carrier, each way, for domestic flights. This fee is subject to change.
Limitations: Space for pets is limited (usually six carriers per flight), so it's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance by calling Southwest. Pets are not allowed on international flights or flights to/from Hawaii (except for inter-island flights).
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines luggage, with quick answers to help you on your way:
How to avoid Southwest baggage fees?
You can avoid Southwest baggage fees by:
Holding a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card (for one free checked bag for you and up to 8 companions).
Achieving Rapid Rewards A-List (one free bag) or A-List Preferred (two free bags) elite status.
Booking a Business Select® fare (two free bags).
Being active duty U.S. military personnel with a valid ID.
Packing light enough to only use your free carry-on and personal item.
How to measure and weigh your luggage for Southwest?
Use a measuring tape to determine the length, width, and height of your bag, then sum these three dimensions for the linear inch total. Use a bathroom scale or luggage scale to weigh your bag. Ensure checked bags are within 62 linear inches and 50 pounds (23 kg) to avoid extra fees.
How to check more than two bags on Southwest Airlines?
You can check a third bag and any additional bags, but each will incur an excess baggage fee of $150 USD per bag, per way, in addition to any other applicable fees.
Tip: Break down complex paragraphs step by step.
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment counts as one checked bag. Standard baggage fees (or your free allowance) and applicable overweight/oversized fees will apply. Check Southwest's website for specific items like surfboards ($75 fee) or bicycles (requiring a box).
How to bring a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin for a $125 USD one-way fee. Your pet must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat, and the carrier counts as your carry-on or personal item. Book pet travel in advance by calling Southwest.
How to pack a carry-on bag for Southwest Airlines?
Ensure your carry-on bag does not exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H) and that your personal item fits under the seat in front of you. Pack essentials, valuables, and medications in your carry-on.
How to pay for overweight baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Overweight baggage fees (ranging from $100-$200 USD depending on weight) are paid at the airport ticket counter or self-tagging kiosks during check-in.
How to find the most up-to-date baggage policy for Southwest Airlines?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website's "Optional Travel Charges" or "Baggage Policy" sections for the most current and detailed information, as policies can change.
How to qualify for military baggage benefits on Southwest Airlines?
Be active duty U.S. military personnel (including reservists, National Guard, and Coast Guard with active orders) and present a valid military ID at check-in. This exempts you from standard limits and most baggage fees (up to 100 lbs and 80 inches).
How to change a flight booking that affects baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
If you voluntarily change a reservation booked on or before May 27, 2025, to a new reservation on or after May 28, 2025, the new baggage fee policy for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares will apply to your changed itinerary.
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