Everything You Need To Know About Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

When it comes to going on a flight, one thing that always bothers us is packing. It makes the trip stressful, but not with Southwest Airlines, because this airline offers the most flexible baggage policy. It allows you to take two free bags instead of one, like other airlines.
Whether you are going for a long trip or a weekend, multiple bags are created even when we try to reduce the baggage, but we can't. Southwest Airlines helps us to avoid surprise fees, smart packing, and easy boarding. In this detailed guide, we are going to discuss everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' Baggage Policy. Stay Connected.

Overview of Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is one of the best airlines that offers flexibility in baggage allowance. It is an airline that carries the most genuine baggage policy among the U.S. Carriers. This airline also allows two checked baggage without paying any extra charges. Let's see some key features of Southwest Airlines:

• Two free checked baggage
• No change fee
• Open seating policy
• Rapid reward loyalty programs
• Free in-flight entertainment programs
• Wifi Available

Southwest Airlines primarily flies within the Continental U.S. but now also offers international service to: Jamaica, Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, Aruba, and many more.

What are the Recent Policy Update of 2025 to 2026?

You should remember that the bags fly free policy is no longer in effect. As of May 28, 2025, the airline began charging for it. $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second bag on most fares. This is what makes Southwest Airlines more like other airlines in the U.S. They also charge for bags as such.

Source: CNBC

Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

If you are also planning to fly with Southwest Airlines, then you should know about the baggage policies of Southwest Airlines. Let's start:

Carry-on Baggage Policy

In Southwest Airlines, the carry-on baggage policy allows:

• carry-on bag
• 1 personal item

24 length x 16width x 10height is the size limit for carry-on bags, and the carry-on bag should fit in the overhead bin.

Checked Baggage Policy

At Southwest Airlines, two checked bags are free per passenger. Let's see the weight and size limits:
The maximum weight for checked baggage should be 50lbs, whereas the maximum size for checked baggage should be 62 inches. If the bag exceeds this limit, then you will incur extra charges.

Overweight & Oversized Baggage Fees

In case you are overweight with your checked baggage, you have to pay some extra charges. Let's give a detailed breakdown of this:

• Weight Type Cost
• 51-70 lbs per bag
• 71-100lbs $125 per bag
• Over 62 inches $100 per item
• Over 80 inches Not Accepted

Special Item & exceptions

In Southwest Airlines, some special items are allowed to be carried, and some are not. In this blog, we will only discuss the special item allowance. Let's see:
Infant & Child Items
If you are travelling with an infant or child, then the Airline allows you to take a stroller or car seat with you without any extra charges. These items do not count in checked baggage.
Sports Equipment
Travelling with sports equipment such as golf clubs, a bicycle, skis, fishing gear, and many more, Southwest Airlines allows this type of sports equipment. But for that, it is important to follow the weight and size rules.
Musical Instruments
Small musical instruments like guitars can be carried as a carry-on bag if they easily fit in overhead bins. But for large instruments, you have to purchase an extra seat.

What Are The Southwest Baggage Claims & Liability?

Travel with Pets in Southwest Airlines: Allow or Not?

Most people have doubts related to the pet travel allowance, and it is the most asked question by every passenger. In this detailed guide, we will also discuss the pet travel allowance. Let's see:
Allowed Pets

• Small-sized cats and dogs are allowed for travel
• Pet's age- 8 Weeks or more.

Requirements for Pet Travel

• The pet's size should fit in the seat
• Only one pet is allowed per passenger.

Exclusive Tips for Avoiding Extra Baggage Fees

Trip Formers is now sharing some exclusive tips with you for avoiding extra baggage fees. Let's see:
Understand Airlines' Baggage Policy
To avoid extra baggage fees, it is most important to understand the airline's baggage policy. As this policy is flexible, if you are aware of the policies, then you can easily pack your bag.

Pack Light & Smart
Always keep the strict weight and size in mind, and after that, pack your bag lightly and in a smarter way. You can use packing cubes and compression bags for smart bag packing. You can also follow rolled clothes instead of wrapping.

Use the Airlines Credit Card
If you have an airline's credit card, then always prioritize using it because it allows you to add one more checked baggage as a bonus or for free. It also offers you a chance to save $30-$60 by using the right card.

Pay for Bags in Advance
If you have overweight bags or oversized items, then you prefer to make the payments online because it is cheaper and affordable than paying at the airport.

Wear Bulky Items
While going to the airport, always try to wear bulky clothes or heavy shoes, so that you can add more belongings to your bag easily without space issues. You can use the jacket pocket to adjust small essentials.

Important Things Travelers Should Know

• Overweight and oversized fees are charged per bag, per flight
• A bag that is both overweight and oversized may be charged both fees
• These charges are separate from standard checked bag fees
• Fees apply on both domestic and international Southwest flights
• Some sports equipment and special items may follow different rules