Navigating the Skies with Southwest: Your Ultimate Guide to Baggage Weight Limits!
Ever found yourself frantically repacking at the airport, hoping to avoid those dreaded overweight baggage fees? You're not alone! Airline baggage policies can be a labyrinth, and Southwest Airlines, while known for its unique approach, has recently made some significant changes. So, how many pounds can you really carry on Southwest Airlines without breaking the bank or running into last-minute hassles? Let's dive in and unravel the mystery, step by step!
Step 1: Let's Get Real About Your Travel Style!
Before we even talk numbers, let's take a moment to consider your travel habits. Are you a minimalist packer, or do you believe in bringing every possible outfit for every conceivable scenario? Do you travel for quick weekend getaways or extended international adventures? Understanding your packing philosophy is the first crucial step to mastering airline baggage allowances. Are you nodding your head in recognition? Great! Let's move on to the specifics.
Step 2: Deciphering Southwest's Checked Baggage Policy
Southwest Airlines, historically famous for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, has changed its tune for most travelers for bookings made or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. This is a critical date to remember!
Sub-heading 2.1: Standard Checked Bag Allowance and Fees
For most passengers on Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares booked or changed on or after May 28, 2025:
First Checked Bag: ~$35
Second Checked Bag: ~$45
Each standard checked bag must adhere to the following limits:
Weight Limit: Each bag must not exceed 50 pounds (approx. 22.7 kg).
Size Limit: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 62 inches (approx. 157 cm), including handles and wheels.
Remember: These fees are per bag, per way. So, a round trip with two checked bags could add up!
Sub-heading 2.2: Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags?
While the "Bags Fly Free" era has largely ended for the general public, some passengers can still enjoy complimentary checked baggage:
Business Select® Fare Holders: If you book the more expensive Business Select fare, you still receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: These elite members get their first and second checked bags for free. This also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation!
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members and Southwest Credit Card Holders: If you're an A-List member or hold a Southwest co-branded credit card, you typically receive one free checked bag or a bag credit.
Always double-check your specific fare type and Rapid Rewards status before you fly to confirm your baggage benefits.
Step 3: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Exceeding the standard weight or size limits will incur additional charges. These fees are generally applied in addition to any standard checked bag fees that may apply to your fare.
Sub-heading 3.1: Overweight Baggage Charges
If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds, be prepared for extra fees:
51 to 70 pounds (approx. 23.1 to 31.8 kg): An additional fee of ~$150 per bag.
71 to 100 pounds (approx. 32.2 to 45.4 kg): An additional fee of ~$200 per bag.
Bags exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo, which has entirely different rules and costs.
Sub-heading 3.2: Oversized Baggage Charges
If your checked bag exceeds the 62 linear inch (length + width + height) limit:
63 to 80 inches (approx. 160 to 203 cm): An additional fee of ~$200 per bag.
Bags exceeding 80 inches will generally not be accepted as checked baggage.
Important Note: If a single bag is both overweight and oversized, you will typically only be charged one of the higher applicable fees, not both, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs. Always verify the most current fees on Southwest's official website or by contacting their customer service.
Sub-heading 3.3: Exceptions for Military Personnel
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 that none of the pieces of baggage exceeds 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H). Thi
Step 4: Mastering Carry-On and Personal Item Allowances
Even with changes to checked baggage, Southwest's carry-on policy remains quite generous.
Sub-heading 4.1: Carry-On Bag
You are permitted to bring one carry-on bag onboard, free of charge. This bag is intended to be stowed in the overhead bin.
Size Limit: The carry-on bag must not exceed 24 inches (L) + 16 inches (W) + 10 inches (H) (approx. 61 x 41 x 25 cm). This includes wheels and handles.
Weight Limit: There is generally no stated weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself without assistance.
Sub-heading 4.2: Personal Item
In addition to your carry-on bag, you can bring one smaller personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you.
Examples: Purses, briefcases, laptop computer cases, small backpacks, and camera bags typically qualify as personal items. Neck pillows and blankets do not count towards your carry-on limit.
Size Limit: While Southwest doesn't have a rigid maximum size listed on their main policy page, generally, personal items should be around 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches (approx. 47 x 34 x 22 cm) to comfortably fit under the seat.
Weight Limit: Similar to carry-on bags, there's no specific weight limit for personal items, but it should be manageable.
Pro Tip: Always test your carry-on and personal item in the sizing bins at the airport to avoid any last-minute surprises at the gate!
Step 5: Smart Packing Strategies to Avoid Fees!
Now that you know the numbers, here are some actionable tips to keep your luggage within limits and your wallet happy:
Sub-heading 5.1: Weigh Your Bags at Home
Before you even leave for the airport, weigh your checked bags using a luggage scale. This simple step can save you significant time, stress, and money. If you're close to the limit, shift heavier items to your carry-on or personal item, or consider leaving non-essential items behind.
Sub-heading 5.2: Roll, Don't Fold
This classic packing tip truly works! Rolling your clothes tightly can maximize space and potentially reduce the overall bulk of your bag, helping you stay within size limits.
Sub-heading 5.3: Wear Your Heaviest Items
If you're teetering on the edge of an overweight bag, wear your heaviest shoes, jacket, or bulky clothing items onto the plane. This doesn't count towards your baggage allowance!
Sub-heading 5.4: Utilize Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a game-changer for organization and compression. They can help you fit more into your bags efficiently, making it easier to stay within limits.
Sub-heading 5.5: Consider Shipping or Mailing
For very heavy or numerous items, especially on long trips, it might be more cost-effective to ship them via a courier service or postal mail rather than paying airline baggage fees. Research this option in advance.
Sub-heading 5.6: Know Your Fare Type and Status
As highlighted in Step 2, your fare type and Rapid Rewards status play a huge role in how much you can carry for free. Always verify your benefits before you pack!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about Southwest Airlines baggage, with quick answers:
How to Check My Bag Weight Before Going to the Airport? Use a luggage scale at home. You can find affordable, portable ones online or at travel stores.
How to Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees on Southwest? Weigh your bags at home, pack light, wear your heaviest items, and consider shipping excess luggage if needed.
How to Know if My Carry-On Bag Fits Southwest's Dimensions? Measure your bag (including wheels and handles) to ensure it's within 24" (L) + 16" (W) + 10" (H). Use the sizing bins at the airport if unsure.
How to Pack a Personal Item for Southwest? Choose a compact bag like a purse, small backpack, or laptop case that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you (approx. 18.5" x 13.5" x 8.5").
How to Get Free Checked Bags on Southwest? Book a Business Select fare, achieve Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, or hold a Southwest co-branded credit card.
How to Handle Bags Over 100 Pounds on Southwest? Bags over 100 pounds are generally not accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped via Southwest Cargo or another freight service.
How to Pay for Southwest Baggage Fees? Baggage fees are typically paid at the airport when you check your bags at the counter or kiosk. Southwest generally does not allow pre-payment of checked baggage fees.
How to Check Bags for International Southwest Flights? You must check luggage at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter for international itineraries. Allow extra time, especially for flights departing Aruba (75 mins minimum) or other international destinations (60 mins minimum).
How to Track My Checked Baggage on Southwest? You can track your checked bags digitally through the Southwest Airlines app or website using your baggage claim check number.
How to Know the Latest Southwest Baggage Policy Updates? Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website's "Checked Bag Policy" and "Optional Travel Charges" pages, as policies can change.