Have you ever stood at the airport check-in counter, nervously eyeing your luggage, wondering if it's going to cost you an arm and a leg to get it on the plane? With Southwest Airlines, a recent policy shift means that the days of "Bags Fly Free" for everyone are largely a thing of the past. So, if you're planning a trip with Southwest, understanding their updated extra baggage fees is more important than ever!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' extra baggage fees in 2025, offering a step-by-step approach to help you avoid unwelcome surprises at the airport.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' New Baggage Policy: A Detailed Guide
Southwest Airlines, renowned for its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy, implemented significant changes effective May 28, 2025, for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after that date. This means that for most travelers, checked bags are no longer complimentary. Let's break down how this impacts you.
 |
| How Much Is Extra Baggage On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Determine Your Fare Type and Status – Your First Key to Savings!
The first and most crucial step in understanding your potential baggage costs is to identify your fare type and any special status you might hold with Southwest's Rapid Rewards program or co-branded credit cards. This will tell you if you're eligible for any free checked bags.
1.1. Fare Categories and Their Baggage Allowances:
Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime Fares: These are the fare types where you'll typically incur checked baggage fees. For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, you will pay for your first and second checked bags.
Business Select® Fares: Good news for Business Select travelers! You continue to receive two free checked bags. This premium fare offers the traditional "Bags Fly Free" perk.
1.2. Rapid Rewards Status and Credit Card Benefits:
Southwest values its loyal customers and credit cardholders, offering them some relief from the new baggage fees:
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved A-List Preferred status, you receive your first and second checked bags for free. This benefit also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members are entitled to their first checked bag for free. This benefit also applies to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation. However, a second checked bag will incur a fee.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: As a primary Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, you are eligible to receive your first standard checked bag free, provided your Rapid Rewards account number is included in the reservation. This benefit applies to you and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
1.3. 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, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided no single piece of baggage exceeds 100 pounds and 80 inches (length + width + height). This is a significant perk!
Step 2: Understand the Standard Checked Baggage Fees – What You'll Likely Pay
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
For those whose fare type or status doesn't include free checked bags, here's what you can expect to pay for standard-sized and weighted bags:
First Checked Bag: $35 per bag, one way.
Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag, one way.
Third and Subsequent Checked Bags: A hefty $150 per bag, one way. This is where costs can really add up, so plan carefully!
Important Note: These fees are for bags that adhere to Southwest's standard size and weight limits. We'll delve into those limits and associated fees next.
Step 3: Know Your Limits! – Standard Size and Weight
Even if your bags are free, they still need to meet Southwest's standard dimensions and weight to avoid additional charges.
3.1. Standard Checked Bag Dimensions:
Each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm) in total linear dimensions (length + width + height). This is measured by adding the length, width, and height of your bag.
3.2. Standard Checked Bag Weight:
Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
Step 4: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees – The Costly Extras
This is where "extra baggage" truly comes into play. If your bags exceed the standard limits, prepare for additional fees.
4.1. Overweight Baggage Fees:
51 to 70 pounds (23.1 to 31.8 kg): An additional $100 per bag, one way. This is on top of the standard checked bag fee if applicable.
71 to 100 pounds (32.2 to 45.4 kg): An additional $200 per bag, one way. Again, this is in addition to any standard checked bag fee.
Items over 100 pounds must be shipped as Air Cargo, and you generally need to be classified as a "Known Shipper" by the TSA or use a TSA-approved Indirect Air Carrier. This is a whole different ballgame for very heavy items.
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
4.2. Oversized Baggage Fees:
63 to 80 inches (160 to 203 cm) in linear dimensions: An additional $200 per bag, one way. This is also on top of any standard checked bag fee.
Bags exceeding 80 inches in linear dimensions cannot be checked as baggage but may be shipped as cargo under the same conditions as overweight items over 100 pounds.
4.3. Combining Overweight and Oversized:
If your bag is both overweight and oversized, you will typically only pay one additional charge – the higher of the two applicable fees – as long as the bag doesn't exceed 100 lbs and 80 linear inches. For example, if a bag is 65 inches and 60 pounds, you'd pay the $200 oversized fee, plus the standard bag fee if applicable.
Step 5: Special Baggage and Sports Equipment – Unique Considerations
Southwest generally treats many sporting equipment and musical instruments as standard checked bags, but there are important nuances.
5.1. Sporting Equipment:
Most sporting equipment can be checked as part of your baggage allowance, provided it adheres to the 50 lbs (22.7 kg) and 62 inches (157.5 cm) limits. If it exceeds these, overweight/oversized fees will apply.
Specific items like surfboards (excluding inter-island Hawaii travel where they can substitute a free checked bag) or bicycles (which must be in a hard-sided box) may have specific handling fees or dimension considerations. Always check Southwest's official policy for your specific equipment. For instance, a surfboard over 62 inches but not more than 115 inches may have the oversized fee waived, but overweight fees would still apply.
5.2. Musical Instruments:
Carry-on: Smaller instruments that fit within the standard carry-on dimensions (24" L x 16" W x 10" H) can be brought onboard if space is available.
Purchasing a Seat: Larger instruments that won't fit in the overhead bin or under a seat can have a seat purchased for them. They must fit in the seat, be secured, and not block any signage.
Checked Baggage: Instruments checked as baggage are subject to the standard weight and size limits. If they exceed these, overweight/oversized fees will apply. Note: Instruments transported in soft-sided cases may be subject to a "limited release of liability," meaning Southwest won't be responsible for damage.
Step 6: How and When to Pay Baggage Fees – The Practicalities
Unlike some airlines, Southwest typically does not allow you to prepay for baggage online.
6.1. Payment Location:
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
You will pay for applicable baggage fees at the airport.
This can be done at the self-tagging kiosks (where available) or directly with a Southwest Agent at the ticket counter.
6.2. Late Check-In:
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 your late-checked bags on your flight, they will not assume delivery charges if your baggage does not arrive with you at your destination. So, arrive early!
Step 7: Tips for Minimizing Extra Baggage Costs – Be a Savvy Traveler!
Pack Light: The most obvious solution! Can you really live without that third pair of shoes?
Utilize Your Carry-On Allowance: Southwest allows one carry-on bag (max 24" x 16" x 10") and one personal item (fits under seat) for free. Pack efficiently to maximize this space.
Weigh Your Bags at Home: Invest in a luggage scale! Knowing your bag's weight before you leave for the airport can save you from costly surprises.
Consider Shipping: For very heavy or numerous items, especially if you're staying for an extended period, consider shipping your luggage via a third-party service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline fees.
Check Your Fare Type/Status: Reiterate this point! If you're A-List, A-List Preferred, or a Southwest credit cardholder, ensure your Rapid Rewards number is linked to your booking to get your free bag allowance.
Consolidate: If traveling with family or friends, can you consolidate items into fewer, larger bags that remain within limits, or share the cost of a third bag?
Wear Heavier Items: If you have particularly bulky or heavy clothing items, consider wearing them on the plane rather than packing them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to further clarify Southwest Airlines' extra baggage policies:
How to calculate the linear dimensions of my bag?
To calculate the linear dimensions, simply add the length, width, and height of your bag (L + W + H). For example, a bag that is 20 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 8 inches high has linear dimensions of 40 inches.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards status includes free bags?
You can check your current Rapid Rewards status by logging into your Southwest Airlines account online or through the mobile app. Your status (A-List or A-List Preferred) will be clearly displayed, along with associated benefits like free checked bags.
How to link my Rapid Rewards credit card to my booking for free bags?
When booking your flight, ensure your Rapid Rewards account number is entered in your reservation. If you've already booked, you can often add or verify your Rapid Rewards number through the "Manage Reservation" section on Southwest's website or by calling customer service. The free bag benefit is typically automatically applied if your account is linked and you are the primary cardmember on the reservation.
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
How to pay for extra baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Baggage fees for extra, overweight, or oversized bags are paid at the airport. You can use the self-tagging kiosks (if available) or speak directly with a Southwest Airlines agent at the check-in counter.
How to handle oversized sports equipment like surfboards?
Oversized sports equipment, such as surfboards, generally incurs an oversized baggage fee of $200. However, on flights between the Hawaiian islands, a surfboard can substitute one of your two free checked bags. Always check Southwest's specific sports equipment policy for detailed rules on your item.
How to know if my musical instrument can be a carry-on?
Your musical instrument can be a carry-on if its dimensions (including case) are within the standard carry-on limits: 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H). It must also fit securely in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees?
The best way to avoid overweight baggage fees is to weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport. If a bag is over 50 pounds, consider shifting items to another bag, your carry-on, or mailing them separately.
How to check bags late and what are the consequences?
Bags checked 45 minutes or less before your scheduled departure are considered "Late Check." While Southwest will try to get them on your flight, they are not responsible for delivering them to you if they miss your flight. Always allow ample time for bag check-in.
How to find the most up-to-date baggage policy for Southwest Airlines?
For the absolute latest and most detailed information, always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) under their "Baggage" or "Optional Travel Charges" sections. Policies can be subject to change.
How to manage multiple bags for a family when some have free allowances?
If you're traveling as a family and some members have free bag allowances (e.g., A-List Preferred, credit cardholders), ensure those individuals are linked to the reservation. The free bag benefit typically applies to the primary cardmember or A-List status holder and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, maximizing your collective free baggage allowance.
 |
