Oh, hello there, fellow traveler! Are you planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about their baggage policy? You've come to the right place. For years, Southwest was famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, setting it apart from many other airlines. However, as of May 28, 2025, things have changed significantly. Let's dive deep into the current Southwest baggage policy so you can travel prepared and avoid any surprises.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' Current Baggage Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle. But don't worry, we're going to break down Southwest's current rules into easy-to-understand steps.
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| How Many Bags Does Southwest Airlines Allow For Free |
Step 1: Ditching the "Bags Fly Free" Myth (for most!)
Let's address the elephant in the room right away. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has ended its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy for most travelers. This is a major shift, and it means that for the majority of passengers, checked bags are no longer complimentary.
What this means for you: If you're booking a new flight or voluntarily changing an existing one on or after May 28, 2025, you'll likely be paying for your checked bags. This brings Southwest's policy more in line with other major US carriers.
Step 2: Understanding Standard Checked Baggage Fees
Now that we know checked bags aren't universally free, let's look at the standard costs.
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
First Checked Bag: For most travelers, the first checked bag will now cost $35.
Second Checked Bag: The second checked bag will cost $45.
Third or More Checked Bags: If you need to check a third bag or more, the fee jumps to $150 per bag.
Important Note: These fees are per bag, per way. So, a round trip with two checked bags would cost $35 (outbound first) + $45 (outbound second) + $35 (return first) + $45 (return second) = $160.
Step 3: Dimensions and Weight Limits for Checked Bags
Even with fees, there are still rules about the size and weight of your bags. Adhering to these limits is crucial to avoid additional charges.
Maximum Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
Maximum Size: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm).
Bags exceeding these limits will incur additional fees.
Sub-heading: Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bags are a bit too heavy or a little too large, be prepared for extra charges:
Overweight Baggage:
Bags weighing between 51 and 100 pounds (23 and 45 kg) will incur an additional fee of $75 per bag.
Any item weighing over 100 pounds will not be permitted as checked baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo.
Oversized Baggage:
Bags measuring between 63 inches and 80 inches (157.5 cm and 203 cm) in total linear dimensions will incur an additional fee of $75 per bag.
Bags measuring over 80 inches in total linear dimensions cannot be checked.
These fees are in addition to the standard checked bag fees. So, if your first bag is both overweight and oversized, you'd pay the initial $35, plus $75 for being overweight, plus $75 for being oversized. That can add up quickly!
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
Step 4: Carry-on and Personal Item Allowance (Still Free!)
Good news! While checked bag policies have changed, Southwest still allows you to bring carry-on items for free. This is a great way to save on baggage fees if you can pack light.
One Carry-on Bag: You are allowed one carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin.
Size Limits: The maximum size for a carry-on bag is 24" (L) + 16" (W) + 10" (H). Remember, wheels, handles, and attachments count towards these dimensions.
One Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on, you can bring one personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.
Examples: This can include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack, or a camera bag. There are no specific dimensions listed, but it should be small enough to fit under the seat.
There is no specified weight restriction for carry-on items, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unaided.
Step 5: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags? (The Exceptions!)
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is largely gone, there are still some special categories of travelers who receive complimentary checked baggage. If you fall into one of these groups, you're in luck!
Business Select Travelers: If you purchase a Business Select fare, you are entitled to two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: Passengers with Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status will continue to receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: If you have Rapid Rewards A-List status, you get one free checked bag.
Southwest Credit Cardholders: Many Southwest co-branded credit cardholders also receive one free checked bag. Check the specific benefits of your card.
Active-Duty Military Personnel: This is a fantastic perk! 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 each piece does not exceed 100 pounds (45 kg) in weight and 80 inches (203 cm) in total linear dimensions.
Hawaii Residents (Inter-island travel): Residents of Hawaii traveling between the islands may also be allowed two free checked bags.
Step 6: Traveling with Special Items
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
Southwest has specific policies for various special items, including sports equipment, musical instruments, and assistive devices.
Sports Equipment: Many common sports items (like golf clubs, skis, or snowboards) can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance, but some larger or heavier items might incur oversized or overweight fees. Always check Southwest's website for specific item policies.
Musical Instruments: Small instruments can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require the purchase of an additional seat or be checked as baggage, subject to size and weight limits and potential fees.
Assistive Devices: Wheelchairs, crutches, and other assistive devices are generally carried free of charge and do not count towards your baggage allowance.
Children's Items: When traveling with a child, you can typically check one stroller and one car seat/child restraint system free of charge, in addition to your regular baggage. Portable cribs or "pack and plays" usually count as regular checked bags.
Step 7: Paying for Your Baggage
Southwest Airlines does not typically allow you to prepay for checked luggage online. You will need to pay for your checked bags at the airport during check-in, either at the self-service kiosk or at the ticket counter.
FAQs: Your Quick Answers to Baggage Questions
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to Southwest Airlines baggage, with their quick answers:
How to check if I still get free bags on Southwest? Check your fare type (e.g., Business Select) or your Rapid Rewards elite status (A-List, A-List Preferred). If you have a Southwest co-branded credit card, review its benefits. Active-duty military also get special allowances.
How to avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest? Consider packing light and utilizing your free carry-on and personal item allowance. If you fly frequently, aim for A-List or A-List Preferred status, or get a Southwest co-branded credit card. For occasional travel, if you have a lot of bags, sometimes shipping them separately might be a cost-effective alternative.
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
How to measure my bag to ensure it's within limits? For checked bags, use a measuring tape to determine the length, width, and height. Add these three measurements together to get the total linear inches. For weight, use a luggage scale. For carry-on, ensure it fits the stated dimensions and can easily go into the sizer at the airport.
How to pack a carry-on efficiently for Southwest? Roll your clothes tightly, use packing cubes, wear your bulkiest items, and prioritize essentials. Research liquid restrictions for carry-on bags (3-1-1 rule).
How to find the latest Southwest baggage policy? Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly. Policies can change, so checking the most up-to-date information is crucial.
How to travel with sports equipment on Southwest? Check Southwest's "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" section on their website for specific guidelines on your item. Many common items count as a standard checked bag, but others may have specific handling instructions or incur additional fees.
How to travel with a car seat and stroller on Southwest? You can typically check one stroller and one car seat/child restraint system per ticketed child for free, in addition to your regular baggage allowance.
How to handle overweight or oversized bags at the airport? If your bag is overweight or oversized, you will be assessed the applicable fees at the airport check-in counter. Be prepared to pay these fees, or consider repacking/removing items if possible to avoid them.
How to redeem Rapid Rewards points for baggage benefits? Rapid Rewards points themselves don't directly pay for baggage fees. Instead, achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status through earning Rapid Rewards points (or flight segments) is what grants you free checked baggage.
How to get military baggage benefits on Southwest? Present your valid active-duty military ID at the Southwest Airlines check-in counter. This exempts you from the standard checked bag limits and associated overweight/oversized fees, provided your bags meet the higher military limits.
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