The End of an Era: Navigating Southwest Airlines' New Checked Bag Fees
For years, Southwest Airlines was the beloved outlier, famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy. It was a refreshing perk in an industry increasingly nickel-and-diming passengers for every little extra. However, as of May 28, 2025, that era has largely come to an end. Most Southwest passengers will now need to pay for their checked bags. But don't worry, this comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to pay for your checked bags on Southwest Airlines, ensuring a smooth journey.
Step 1: Understand the New Baggage Policy (And See If You're Exempt!)
Before you even think about pulling out your wallet, the very first thing you need to do is understand Southwest's updated baggage policy and determine if you're one of the lucky few still eligible for free checked bags. This is crucial as it can save you both time and money!
Sub-heading: Who Still Gets Free Bags?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is mostly gone, some passengers are still exempt from the new fees for their first and second checked bags. Check if you fall into any of these categories:
Business Select Fares: If you've booked a Business Select fare, you're in luck! You still receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: These elite flyers also continue to enjoy two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: If you're an A-List member, you get your first checked bag free.
Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: Primary credit cardmembers of a Southwest co-branded credit card, along with up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation (provided your Rapid Rewards account number is included at booking), are eligible for their first standard checked bag free.
Hawaii Residents: Residents traveling between the islands of Hawaii continue to receive two free checked bags.
Active Duty Military: Active duty military personnel are generally exempt from excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, providing their bags don't exceed 100 lbs or 80 inches in total dimensions.
Sub-heading: What Are the New Fees?
For most other passengers, here's what you can expect to pay for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025:
First Checked Bag: ~$35
Second Checked Bag: ~$45
Third+ Checked Bag: ~$150 (per bag)
Overweight Baggage (51-70 lbs): ~$100 + Standard Fee
Overweight Baggage (71-100 lbs): ~$200 + Standard Fee
Oversized Baggage (63-80 inches): ~$200 + Standard Fee (if both oversized and overweight, typically only one $200 charge applies, assuming it's under 100 lbs)
Important Note: These fees are subject to change, so always check the official Southwest Airlines website for the most up-to-date information before your flight.
Step 2: Know WHEN and WHERE to Pay
This is a critical distinction with Southwest compared to many other airlines. Unlike some carriers that allow you to prepay for bags online during booking or even after, Southwest's current system for basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares is airport-only for checked bag payments.
Sub-heading: Payment Location Options at the Airport
You have a couple of convenient options at the airport:
Southwest Self-Tagging Kiosks (Recommended for Speed!): At many airports, Southwest offers self-tagging kiosks. These are often the fastest and most efficient way to check in and pay for your bags.
Southwest Ticket Counter: If you prefer a more traditional approach or need assistance, you can always go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter and speak with an agent.
Curbside Check-in (Domestic Flights Only, Where Available): For domestic flights, some airports offer curbside check-in where you can drop off your bags and pay any applicable fees. Always confirm availability at your specific airport beforehand.
Crucial Detail: You cannot currently add and pay for checked bags online through Southwest's website or mobile app during the booking process or even after you've booked your flight. All checked bag transactions for standard fares will occur at the airport.
Step 3: The Step-by-Step Payment Process at the Airport
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to actually pay for your checked bag at the airport.
Sub-heading: Using a Self-Tagging Kiosk
Locate a Kiosk: Upon arrival at the airport, look for the Southwest Airlines self-tagging kiosks. They are usually brightly colored and easy to spot.
Start Your Check-in: Follow the on-screen prompts. You'll typically need to enter your confirmation number or Rapid Rewards number and your last name.
Indicate Number of Bags: During the check-in process on the kiosk, you'll be asked to indicate the number of bags you (and each customer in your party) would like to check.
Review Applicable Charges: The kiosk will display any applicable bag charges based on your fare type and the number of bags.
Pay with Credit Card: You'll be prompted to pay the baggage fees using a credit card. Southwest accepts major credit cards such as American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and others. Cash is generally only accepted at airport ticket counters for international locations.
Print Bag Tags: Once payment is confirmed, the kiosk will print your baggage claim tag(s).
Attach Tags Securely: Carefully peel back the adhesive area on the back of the tag and slide it through the handle of your bag, matching the adhesive ends together. Make sure the tag is firmly attached.
Proceed to Bag Drop: Once your bag(s) are tagged, proceed to the designated bag drop area, where a Southwest employee will accept your luggage.
Sub-heading: Paying at the Ticket Counter
Approach the Counter: Head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
Provide Your Information: A Southwest Agent will ask for your flight information (confirmation number, names, etc.).
Declare Checked Bags: Inform the agent how many bags you intend to check.
Agent Will Advise Fees: The agent will inform you of the total baggage fees based on your fare and bag count.
Payment: You can pay with a credit card, Southwest gift cards, or Southwest LUV Vouchers. Cash is also accepted at international airport ticket counters.
Bags Weighed and Tagged: Your bags will be weighed and measured to ensure they meet the size and weight limits. The agent will then print and attach the baggage tags.
Receive Your Receipt: You'll receive a receipt for your baggage fees.
Step 4: Consider Your Payment Methods
Southwest offers a variety of payment methods for baggage fees at the airport.
Sub-heading: Accepted Payment Methods for Baggage Fees
Credit Cards: The most common and convenient method. Southwest accepts American Express, Optima, MasterCard, Visa, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover Card, Access, Japan Credit Bureau, and China Union Pay.
Southwest Gift Cards: You can use Southwest gift cards for passenger travel, including baggage fees. You'll need both the 16-digit card number and the four-digit security code.
Southwest LUV Vouchers: These can also be used for baggage fees. Ensure you have the voucher number and security code.
Cash (International Locations Only): If you are checking bags at an airport ticket counter in an international location, cash may be an accepted form of payment. For domestic flights, it's best to rely on credit cards or gift cards/vouchers.
Important Payment Tip: While Southwest accepts multiple forms of payment for a single reservation, only one credit card can be used per reservation. Also, you generally cannot combine PayPal, Apple Pay, or Flex Pay (formerly Uplift Pay Monthly) with funds from another credit card. These online payment methods are primarily for booking flights, not for bag fees paid at the airport.
Step 5: Double-Check Bag Dimensions and Weight
To avoid unexpected overweight or oversized baggage fees, it's highly recommended that you measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport.
Sub-heading: Southwest's Standard Baggage Limits
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (23 kg) per checked piece of luggage.
Maximum Size: 62 inches (length + width + height) per checked piece of luggage. This includes wheels and handles.
If your bag exceeds these limits, you will incur additional fees as outlined in Step 1.
Congratulations! You're Ready to Fly (with your checked bags)!
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to pay for your checked bags on Southwest Airlines and navigate their updated policies with ease. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions (Starting with 'How to') with Quick Answers:
How to avoid paying for checked bags on Southwest Airlines? You can avoid fees if you are a Business Select fare holder, Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member (two free bags), Rapid Rewards A-List member or Southwest credit card holder (first bag free), or a Hawaii resident traveling inter-island. Active duty military also receive exemptions.
How to check if my Southwest flight is subject to bag fees? Bag fees apply to flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares. Check your booking details or contact Southwest if you're unsure.
How to measure and weigh my checked bag for Southwest? Use a tape measure to calculate the sum of the length, width, and height of your bag. Use a luggage scale to confirm it's under 50 pounds. This helps avoid overweight/oversized fees.
How to add checked bags to my Southwest reservation online? Currently, you cannot add and pay for checked bags online with Southwest. Payment and tagging must be done at the airport.
How to pay for an overweight or oversized bag on Southwest? Overweight and oversized bag fees are paid at the airport when you check your bags, either at a self-tagging kiosk or the ticket counter, using a credit card or other accepted airport payment methods.
How to use a Southwest LUV Voucher for baggage fees? Present your Southwest LUV Voucher number and security code to the Southwest agent at the ticket counter when paying for your checked bags.
How to self-tag my bags at a Southwest kiosk? At a kiosk, check in for your flight, indicate the number of bags, pay any fees with a credit card, print the bag tags, and securely attach them to your luggage before proceeding to the bag drop.
How to find out the exact baggage fees for my specific Southwest flight? The most accurate way is to check the "Optional Travel Charges" page on the official Southwest Airlines website, or inquire directly with a Southwest representative when you check in at the airport.
How to get a receipt for my checked bag payment on Southwest? If paying at a kiosk, a receipt option will usually be presented. If paying at the ticket counter, the agent will provide you with a printed receipt.
How to know if my Southwest flight allows curbside check-in for bags? Curbside check-in is generally available for U.S. domestic flights at most U.S. airport locations. Check the Southwest Airlines website or your specific airport's information for details on availability and operating hours.
