Traveling with Southwest Airlines used to be synonymous with "Bags Fly Free," a truly unique perk in the airline industry. However, as of May 28, 2025, that era has largely come to an end. Understanding Southwest's current baggage policy is crucial for avoiding unexpected fees and ensuring a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how many bags you can check with Southwest Airlines, including size and weight limits, fees, and exceptions.
Let's dive in and make sure you're fully prepared for your next Southwest adventure!
Step 1: Identify Your Fare Type and Status – This is Your Starting Point!
Before you even think about packing, the very first thing you need to determine is what kind of Southwest fare you've booked and what your Rapid Rewards status is (if any). This is because Southwest's checked bag allowance now largely depends on these factors.
Why is this important? Your fare type and status directly dictate whether you get any free checked bags or if you'll be paying from the get-go. Missing this step can lead to a surprise at the airport!
Sub-heading: Understanding the New Fare Structure
Southwest has introduced changes to its fare structure concerning checked bags. Here's a breakdown:
Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: For reservations booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, these fares now incur fees for both the first and second checked bag.
Business Select® Fares: Good news! If you've booked a Business Select fare, you still receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: Another win! A-List Preferred members also receive their first and second checked bags for free.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members will get their first checked bag for free.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: Primary Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers are eligible for their first standard checked bag free. This benefit applies to the primary cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided the cardmember's Rapid Rewards account number is included in the booking.
Active Duty Military Personnel: This is a big one! Active-duty military passengers with a valid military ID are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches (L+W+H). This is a significant perk!
Hawaii Residents (inter-island travel): If you're a Hawaii resident traveling between the islands, you continue to receive two free checked bags.
Step 2: Know the Standard Bag Dimensions and Weight Limits – Size and Weight Matter!
Regardless of whether your bags are free or you're paying a fee, all checked bags must adhere to Southwest's standard size and weight limitations. Exceeding these limits will result in additional charges.
Sub-heading: The Golden Rules for Your Luggage
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Maximum Size: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This includes handles and wheels!
Pro-Tip: Always measure your bag with a tape measure to be sure. Don't just eyeball it! A few extra inches or pounds can cost you significantly.
Step 3: Calculate Potential Fees for Additional, Overweight, or Oversized Bags – Don't Get Surprised!
Once you understand your free bag allowance, it's time to consider what happens if you need to check more bags or if your bags are heavier/larger than the standard limits. These fees can add up quickly!
Sub-heading: Decoding the Fee Structure (as of May 28, 2025 bookings):
First Checked Bag: $35
Second Checked Bag: $45
Third Checked Bag and Beyond (3rd+): $150 per bag
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees:
If your bag exceeds the standard 50-pound weight limit, you'll incur an overweight fee in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
51-70 pounds (24-32 kg): $150 per bag
71-100 pounds (33-45 kg): $200 per bag
Bags over 100 pounds (45 kg): Will not be accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as air cargo.
Important Note: If your bag is both oversized AND overweight, you'll generally pay only one of the highest applicable fees, not both, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs. For example, if a bag is 65 inches and 60 pounds, you'd pay the $150 overweight fee, not an additional $200 for oversized.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees:
If your bag exceeds the 62-linear-inch size limit, you'll incur an oversized fee in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
63-80 linear inches: $200 per bag
Bags over 80 linear inches: Will not be accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as air cargo.
Step 4: Consider Special Items and Sports Equipment – Don't Just Throw it In!
Southwest has specific policies for sports equipment and other special items. While some items may have oversized fees waived, others will still incur weight and standard bag fees.
Sub-heading: General Sports Equipment Guidelines:
Most standard sports equipment (like skis, golf clubs, fishing equipment) counts as one checked bag. If it's within the 50 lbs and 62 linear inches limits, it counts towards your allowance. However, if it exceeds these limits, specific fees apply:
Oversized (63"-80") sports equipment: The oversized fee ($200) may be waived for certain sports equipment, but the standard checked bag fee (if applicable based on your fare/status) and overweight fees will still apply.
Overweight (51-70 lbs) sports equipment: $150 per item.
Overweight (71-100 lbs) sports equipment: $200 per item.
Always check Southwest's "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" page on their official website for the most up-to-date and specific rules for your particular item. Policies can vary by equipment type (e.g., surfboards, bicycles, musical instruments).
Step 5: Check-in Procedures and Payment – Where and When to Pay
Southwest does not allow you to prepay for checked baggage online for most fares. Baggage fees (if applicable) are paid at the airport.
Sub-heading: Options for Checking Your Bags:
Self-Tagging Kiosks: At select airports, you can use self-tagging kiosks to print your bag tags and pay applicable fees. This can save you time.
Ticket Counter: You can always check your bags and pay any fees with a Southwest Agent at the airport ticket counter.
Curbside Check-in: Be aware that if any portion of your itinerary includes an international flight, you cannot check in or check luggage at the curbside. You'll need to go to the ticket counter.
Sub-heading: Important Timing for Baggage Check-in:
Allow sufficient time for your baggage to be processed and placed on your flight.
Baggage checked in 45 minutes or less before the scheduled or posted departure time (whichever is later) is considered "Late Check." While Southwest will try to get it on your flight, they won't assume delivery charges if it doesn't arrive with you.
For flights departing Aruba, the minimum check-in time for passengers (with or without checked baggage) is at least 75 minutes before scheduled departure.
For all other international flights, passengers and their baggage must be checked in 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.
Step 6: Review Prohibited Items and Travel Restrictions – Safety First!
Familiarize yourself with items that are prohibited in both checked and carry-on baggage by both Southwest Airlines and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This prevents delays and potential confiscation of your belongings.
Examples of commonly restricted items: self-defense sprays, explosives, flammable liquids. Always check the TSA website for a comprehensive list.
Step 7: Consider Travel Insurance or Credit Card Benefits – Protect Your Investment!
Some travel credit cards offer benefits like baggage delay or loss protection, and some may even reimburse baggage fees. Additionally, travel insurance can provide broader coverage for your luggage.
Consult your credit card provider or insurance policy details to understand what benefits you might have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to calculate the linear inches of my bag?
To calculate 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 avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
You can avoid checked baggage fees by booking a Business Select® fare, being a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member (two free bags), being a Rapid Rewards A-List member or Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (one free bag), or being active-duty military personnel.
How to check bags that are heavier than 100 pounds with Southwest?
Bags exceeding 100 pounds are not accepted as checked baggage by Southwest Airlines and must be shipped as Air Cargo, for which different rules and requirements apply (e.g., being a "Known Shipper" as defined by the TSA).
How to get a baggage claim check?
When you check your luggage at the ticket counter or bag drop, ensure you receive a separate claim check for each piece of baggage you've checked. Verify that the city shown on the claim check matches your final destination.
How to track my checked bag with Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines offers digital bag tracking services. You can often track your bags through their mobile app or website using your flight information or baggage tag number.
How to handle damaged or lost baggage with Southwest?
Damaged or lost baggage must be reported, in person, within four hours of your arrival at your destination to a Southwest Airlines representative.
How to check sports equipment like skis or golf clubs?
Most sports equipment counts as one checked bag. While oversized fees may be waived for some equipment types, standard bag fees (if applicable) and overweight fees will still apply if the item exceeds 50 pounds. Always consult Southwest's specific sports equipment policy online.
How to check if my international flight has different baggage rules?
Yes, international flights often have specific baggage rules. If any portion of your itinerary contains an international flight, you will be required to check your luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter upon arrival at the airport. Additionally, baggage embargoes may apply to certain international destinations, limiting extra, oversized, or overweight bags.
How to find the most current Southwest baggage policy?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (southwest.com) under their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections for the most up-to-date and definitive information, as policies can change.
How to check multiple bags if I'm active duty military?
Active-duty military personnel with a current, valid military ID are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided none of the pieces exceeds 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H).
