Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees and Policy Guide

For a long time, Southwest Airlines had a “Bags Fly Free” policy. However, starting May 28, 2025, the airline introduced a new fare structure where
fees apply to checked bags for most customers on certain fares. You need to check your specific ticket type to know for sure, but
here is a simple overview of the new Southwest checked baggage policy.

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

$75 for any bag checked after the second one. A third bag (and any more after that) will incur this excess baggage charge. Packing less can help you avoid this charge, or you can consider shipping extra luggage if necessary.

Note: Always check the rules with our support agents( +1-855-510-5187) for the specific fare you purchased.

Exceptions to Southwest Airlines’ Checked Baggage

Here are some category 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 and up to eight other people on the same reservation.
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 2bags for free and are exempt from overweight/oversize fees, provided bags are under 100 lbs and 80 in.

Tips to Manage Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees

Weigh Your Luggage at Home using a Scale: Be careful of bags that exceed the standard 50 lb weight limit or the 62 linear inch size limit. These will incur steep Southwest Airlines oversized baggage fees (may range from $150 to $200) in addition to the standard checked bag charge.

Attain and Maintain Rapid Rewards Elite Status: Frequent Southwest flyers can save on baggage fees by earning Rapid Rewards Elite Status.

A-List Preferred requires 40 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) and offers two free checked bags for you and up to eight people on the same booking. A-List status needs 20 flights or 35,000 TQPs and includes one free checked bag for you and your group. To enjoy the benefits of it, meet the flight or TQP goals, which you can also earn through an eligible Rapid Rewards Credit Card.

Note that elite status benefits override credit card perks—so if you are A-List Preferred, you’ll get two free bags no matter what.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the limits for carry-on luggage with Southwest Airlines?

You are allowed one carry-on bag (max 24 x16 x 10 inches) and one personal item (that must fit under the seat). The airline does not have a weight restriction for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.

Q3: 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.

Q2: 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 (2025) apply here, but oversized fees are often waived for this specialized gear, though overweight fees still apply.

Q4. 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.