Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees: Checked Bag Costs and Policy Explained
Travelers comparing airlines can review our guide to compare airline baggage fees across major carriers.
Last Updated: March 2026
Southwest Airlines recently changed its long-standing baggage policy. For Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares, checked baggage fees now apply starting May 28, 2025. Choice Extra fares, Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred members, and co-branded credit card holders still qualify for free checked bags.
Understanding the current Southwest Airlines baggage fees before you fly helps avoid unexpected charges at the airport. This guide explains Southwest checked baggage fees, carry-on rules, baggage weight limits, size limits, and who may still qualify for free checked bags.
This guide is based on publicly available Southwest Airlines baggage policy information and standard airline industry practices.
Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees Overview (2026)
| Baggage Type | Most Fares | Exceptions |
| Carry-on + Personal | Free | Free |
| 1st Checked Bag | $35 | Free |
| 2nd Checked Bag | $45 | Free |
| 3rd+ Bag | $150 | $150 |
*Exceptions: Choice Extra, A-List Preferred (2 free bags), A-List/Credit Card (1st free)*
Why Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy Is Different
For many years, Southwest Airlines was known for its “Bags Fly Free” policy, one of the few major U.S. carriers that included two free checked bags for all passengers regardless of fare type. This policy made Southwest a popular choice for travelers who regularly checked luggage.
The change introduced in 2025 brings Southwest closer in line with other major carriers like Delta, American, and United, where checked baggage fees apply to most standard economy fares. The key difference that remains is that Southwest’s top loyalty tier, Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred, still extends free bag benefits to up to eight companions on the same booking, which is more generous than most competing programmes.
Understanding this shift helps travelers compare total travel costs across airlines more accurately. For a broader comparison, see our airline baggage fee comparison guide.
First Checked Bag
$35 for Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares. This is the new standard Southwest first checked bag fee. Your bag must be under 50 lbs and 62 linear inches. The free allowance is now tied to your fare type or loyalty status.
Second Checked Bag
$45 for Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares. This is the new Southwest second checked bag fee. Like the first, it must be under 50 lbs and 62 linear inches.
Third Checked Bag
$150 for any bag checked after the second one. A third bag (and any more after that) will incur this excess baggage charge. Travelers may avoid excess baggage charges by reducing the number of checked bags.
| Bag Type | Typical Fee | Notes |
| First Checked Bag | Around $35 | Depends on fare type |
| Second Checked Bag | Around $45 | Same weight and size limits |
| Additional Bags | $150+ | Considered excess baggage |
These fees are based on publicly available Southwest Airlines fare information and may vary. Confirm current fees directly with Southwest before travel.
Southwest Airlines Baggage Weight and Size Limits
Understanding weight and size limits helps avoid additional charges at check-in.
- Standard weight limit: 50 lbs (23 kg) per checked bag
- Maximum size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
- Overweight bags (51–70 lbs): Additional overweight fee applies
- Oversized bags (over 62 linear inches): Additional oversized baggage charges may apply depending on route and ticket conditions.
- Bags over 100 lbs or 80 linear inches: Generally not accepted as standard checked baggage
Weigh and measure your bag at home before heading to the airport. Overweight and oversized fees apply on top of the standard checked bag fee.
Southwest Airlines Carry-On Baggage Policy
Southwest allows all passengers to bring the following into the cabin at no charge:
- One carry-on bag — maximum size 24 x 16 x 10 inches, must fit in the overhead bin
- One personal item — must fit under the seat in front of you
There is no published weight limit for carry-on bags on Southwest, though passengers must be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin unassisted. Liquids must follow standard TSA rules — containers of 100 ml or less stored in a single clear 1 litre bag.
For a broader overview of carry-on rules across airlines, see our carry-on and checked baggage rules guide.
Who Gets Free Checked Bags on Southwest Airlines
Here are some categories of customers who are still eligible for the Southwest Airlines free checked baggage policy on most flights:
| Exception Category | Allowance for Checked Baggage | Conditional Rules |
| Choice Extra Fare | 2 Free Checked Bags (up to 50 lbs each) | This premium fare offers the maximum checked baggage allowance. |
| Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred | 2 Free Checked Bags (up to 50 lbs each) | The highest status tier includes 2 free checked bags for the member, with benefits that may extend to companions on the same reservation as per current Southwest rules. |
| Rapid Rewards A-List | 1 Free Checked Bag (up to 50 lbs) | Mid-tier status members receive one free checked bag. |
| Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember | 1 Free Checked Bag (up to 50 lbs) | Eligibility requires an active co-branded Southwest Credit Card. |
| Active-Duty Military | 2+ Bags (Waived) | Active-duty military personnel can check more than 2 bags for free and are exempt from overweight/oversize fees, provided bags are under 100 lbs and 80 in. |
Tips to Avoid Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees
Check your fare type before booking. Some fare categories include free checked baggage.
Weigh your luggage before traveling. Bags over the 50 lb weight limit may incur additional charges.
Review Rapid Rewards benefits. Elite members may receive free checked baggage depending on their status.
Pack strategically. Reducing the number of checked bags can help avoid excess baggage charges.
You can also explore general airline travel tips before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the carry-on size limit for Southwest Airlines?
The Southwest Airlines carry-on size limit is 24 x 16 x 10 inches, and passengers may also bring one personal item such as a purse, backpack, or laptop bag.
Can I bring a musical instrument on the plane?
Yes. Small instruments that meet the carry-on size limits (24 x16x 10 inches) can be brought as your carry-on item. Larger instruments may be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or an empty seat, but if they are too big for the cabin, then you need to check them in. Checked instruments are subject to the same airline baggage fees and size/weight limits for domestic/international flights.
How many bags are free on Southwest Airlines?
The number of free checked bags depends on the fare type and Rapid Rewards status. Some premium fares and loyalty members may still qualify for free checked baggage.
How does Southwest handle sports equipment like golf bags or ski equipment?
For standard sports equipment like golf clubs, ski equipment, and snowboards, the airline will accept one equipment bag/case as a substitute for one piece of checked luggage. Standard Southwest Airlines baggage fees apply here, but oversized fees are often waived for this specialized gear, though overweight fees still apply.
Can I travel with a stroller or car seat for my child for free?
Yes, you can bring a stroller and car seat for free on Southwest Airlines. Each ticketed passenger can check one of each at the ticket counter, curb, or gate. If you check them at the curb or counter, you’ll pick them up at baggage claim after the plane lands. If you check them at the gate, you’ll receive them at the jet bridge when you arrive. Other baby items, like portable cribs or pack-and-plays count as regular checked bags only.
Does Southwest charge for overweight baggage?
Yes. Bags exceeding the 50 lb weight limit are subject to an overweight fee. Bags over 62 linear inches also incur an oversized charge. These fees apply in addition to the standard checked bag fee. Travelers can weigh and measure luggage at home to reduce the chance of overweight or oversized baggage charges.
MyBaggageInfo provides independent travel guidance and is not affiliated with Southwest Airlines.
Key Takeaways
Southwest Airlines remains one of the most traveler-friendly airlines in the United States when it comes to baggage. With free checked bags still available for Choice Extra fares and many elite and credit‑card customers, Southwest remains more generous than many competitors, even though most Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred passengers now pay standard checked bag fees. However, travelers should always review the latest Southwest Airlines baggage fees and policy details before flying to avoid unexpected charges.
Disclaimer: All information on MyBaggageInfo is provided for general travel guidance only. Airline policies, baggage rules, and fees can change at any time without prior notice. While we strive to keep our content accurate and updated, travelers should always verify details directly with the airline before their journey. MyBaggageInfo is not responsible for any errors, delays, or decisions made based on the information provided.
