You're about to embark on a trip with Southwest Airlines, and you're wondering, how much is an extra piece of baggage on Southwest Airlines? Well, you've come to the right place! Southwest's baggage policy has recently seen some significant changes, so it's more important than ever to understand the ins and outs to avoid any unwelcome surprises at the airport. Let's dive in and break down everything you need to know, step by step, to ensure your travel experience is as smooth as possible.
Understanding Southwest's Evolving Baggage Policy: A Crucial First Step!
Hey there, fellow traveler! Before we even talk about extra bags, it's absolutely vital to grasp the core of Southwest's baggage policy, especially with the recent updates. For a long time, Southwest was celebrated for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, allowing two checked bags for free for all passengers. This was a huge differentiator! However, as of May 28, 2025, this has largely changed.
Are you ready to understand these changes and save yourself some money and hassle? Let's get started!
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| How Much Is An Extra Piece Of Baggage On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Grasping the New Standard Baggage Fees
The biggest change is that for most passengers, the days of two free checked bags are now a thing of the past. It's crucial to know which fare class you've booked, as this will significantly impact your initial baggage costs.
1.1. Identifying Your Fare Class
Southwest offers several fare options, and your baggage allowance depends on which one you chose:
Basic Fare: This is Southwest's new basic economy offering. For flights booked on or after May 28, 2025, you will not get free checked bags.
Wanna Get Away Plus® Fare: Similar to the Basic Fare, checked baggage fees now apply to this tier as well.
Anytime Fare: Again, for flights booked after May 28, 2025, you will generally incur baggage fees for your first and second checked bags.
Business Select® Fare: Good news here! Passengers on Business Select fares still enjoy two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: If you're an A-List Preferred member, you also get two checked bags for free.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members are now eligible for one free checked bag.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you hold a Southwest co-branded credit card, you'll also get one free checked bag.
1.2. The New Standard Fees for the First Two Bags
For those fare classes that no longer include free checked bags, here are the typical fees you can expect:
First Checked Bag: Typically $35
Second Checked Bag: Typically $45
Keep in mind these fees are per bag, each way. So, if you're checking two bags on a round trip and paying for them, that's four separate charges!
Step 2: Calculating the Cost of Your Extra Piece of Baggage (The Third Bag and Beyond)
Now, let's get to the heart of your question: how much is an extra piece of baggage on Southwest Airlines? Once you've accounted for your first two bags (whether they were free or you paid for them), any additional bag beyond that is considered an "extra" piece of baggage.
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
2.1. The Third Checked Bag Fee
Southwest Airlines charges a flat fee for your third checked bag and any subsequent bags.
Third (+) Checked Bag: Typically $150 per bag
This fee applies to each additional bag you check beyond your first two, assuming they meet standard size and weight requirements. So, if you check a third bag, that's $150. If you check a fourth, that's another $150, and so on.
2.2. Standard Size and Weight Limits
It's crucial to remember that these "extra bag" fees are in addition to any charges if your bags are oversized or overweight. For a bag to be considered "standard" and subject only to the base fee:
Maximum Weight: Your bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Maximum Size: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of your bag must not exceed 62 inches (157 cm).
Step 3: Understanding Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees
Even if it's your first, second, or third bag, if it doesn't meet the standard weight and size limits, you'll incur additional fees. These fees are charged per item and are in addition to any standard or excess baggage fees.
3.1. Overweight Baggage Fees
For bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds (23.1 kg - 31.8 kg): Typically $100 per bag
For bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds (31.9 kg - 45.4 kg): Typically $200 per bag
Bags exceeding 100 pounds (45.4 kg) are generally not accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
3.2. Oversized Baggage Fees
For bags exceeding 62 linear inches (157 cm) but not more than 80 linear inches (203 cm): Typically $200 per bag
Bags exceeding 80 linear inches (203 cm) are generally not accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
3.3. Combined Overweight and Oversized Fees
If your extra piece of baggage (or any bag, for that matter) is both overweight and oversized, Southwest generally applies the single highest applicable fee rather than stacking them, provided the bag does not exceed 100 lbs. However, it's always best to confirm this directly with Southwest or review their official policy, as nuances can exist.
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
Step 4: Special Considerations and Exceptions
Southwest does have some special policies that can affect baggage fees.
4.1. Active Duty Military Personnel
Great news for our service members! Active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID are typically 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 in weight and 80 inches in size. Always carry your military ID!
4.2. Sporting Equipment
Many types of sporting equipment are accepted as checked baggage. However, they are still subject to standard baggage fees, and sometimes overweight charges. Oversize fees are often waived for certain sporting equipment (like skis or surfboards) as long as they meet specific criteria, but overweight fees may still apply. Always check Southwest's official website for specific rules regarding your particular sporting equipment.
4.3. Pre-Paying for Baggage
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As of now, Southwest Airlines does not allow you to prepay for luggage online. All baggage fees must be paid at the airport when you check in your bags. This means you'll pay at the ticket counter or a self-tagging kiosk.
Step 5: How to Potentially Avoid or Minimize Extra Baggage Fees
While the new policies mean "Bags Fly Free" is largely gone for many, there are still strategies to reduce or avoid extra baggage costs:
5.1. Pack Smart and Light
Consolidate your belongings: Can you fit everything into two standard-sized bags?
Utilize your personal item and carry-on: Southwest still allows one free carry-on bag and one personal item (purse, laptop bag, small backpack). Make the most of this space! Ensure your carry-on fits within 10 x 16 x 24 inches and your personal item fits under the seat.
Wear your heaviest items: If you have bulky items like jackets or heavy boots, wear them on the plane instead of packing them.
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
5.2. Consider Upgrading Your Fare or Loyalty Status
If you frequently fly Southwest and check bags, upgrading to a Business Select fare for a trip, or working towards Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List status, could save you money in the long run.
Applying for a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card can also grant you one free checked bag, which can be a significant saving if you travel with checked luggage frequently.
5.3. Ship Your Luggage
For truly excessive or oversized items, consider using a luggage shipping service. While this might seem unconventional, it can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline fees, especially for multiple heavy or large items.
Step 6: At the Airport - What to Expect
When you arrive at the airport with your extra bags:
6.1. Head to the Check-in Counter or Kiosk
You won't be able to pay for extra bags at the gate. You'll need to go to the Southwest check-in counter or use one of their self-tagging kiosks (if available at your airport).
6.2. Be Prepared for Measurement and Weight
Your bags will be weighed and potentially measured. If they exceed the standard limits, the agent will inform you of the additional fees.
6.3. Keep Your Receipts
Always keep your baggage claim checks and payment receipts as proof, just in case there are any issues with your bags later on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, starting with 'How to', along with quick answers:
How to calculate the total baggage cost for my Southwest flight?
Quick Answer: Start with your fare class to determine free bag allowance. Then, add $35 for the first paid bag, $45 for the second paid bag, and $150 for each additional bag (third, fourth, etc.). Don't forget to add $100 (51-70 lbs) or $200 (71-100 lbs) for overweight bags, and $200 for oversized bags (63-80 inches), if applicable.
How to avoid Southwest Airlines baggage fees entirely?
Quick Answer: Book a Business Select fare, become a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member, or try to fit all your belongings into one carry-on and one personal item. Active-duty military personnel are also exempt.
How to measure my baggage to ensure it meets Southwest's size limits?
Quick Answer: Use a tape measure to get the length, width, and height of your bag. Add these three dimensions together. The sum should not exceed 62 linear inches (157 cm) for standard checked bags. Include wheels and handles in your measurements.
How to check my bag's weight at home before going to the airport?
Quick Answer: Use a luggage scale, which can be purchased affordably online or at travel stores. Alternatively, weigh yourself on a bathroom scale, then weigh yourself holding your bag, and subtract your weight to get the bag's weight.
How to get a free checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
Quick Answer: Fly on a Business Select fare, hold Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred status, be an A-List member (one free bag), or be a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (one free bag). Active-duty military personnel also get free bags.
How to pack efficiently to minimize baggage?
Quick Answer: Roll your clothes tightly, use packing cubes, wear bulky items on the plane, and prioritize multi-use items. Consider solid toiletries to save space and weight.
How to confirm the exact baggage policy for my specific Southwest itinerary?
Quick Answer: Always refer to the "Optional Travel Charges" or "Checked Bag Policy" section on Southwest Airlines' official website (southwest.com) or contact their customer service directly. Policies can have specific nuances.
How to handle oversized sporting equipment on Southwest?
Quick Answer: Sporting equipment like skis and surfboards generally count as one checked bag and may have oversized fees waived, but overweight fees can still apply. Always check Southwest's specific sports equipment policy online.
How to pay for extra baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Quick Answer: You must pay for extra baggage at the airport check-in counter or a self-tagging kiosk. Southwest does not allow prepayment for checked bags online.
How to track my checked baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Quick Answer: Southwest offers digital bag tracking through their mobile app or website after you've checked your bags. Ensure you receive a baggage claim check at the airport.
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