Confused about the Southwest Airlines checked baggage rules? It is wise to check them before reaching the airport to save you both time and unexpected fees.
Standard checked baggage on Southwest Airlines may weigh up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg) per bag and must not exceed 62 total linear inches (157 cm); the combined length, width, and height, including wheels and handles. Generally, the fee is $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second. However, certain fares, memberships, credit cards, and military status can qualify travelers for free checked bags.
Before packing, have a look at the important details in the following section.
Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Size and Weight
Southwest applies specific limits to standard checked luggage. Staying within these limits helps avoid additional charges.
Standard Size Limit:-
A standard checked bag can measure up to 62 linear inches, calculated by adding the length, width, and height together. Wheels and handles must be included when measuring the suitcase.
Standard Weight Limit:-
Each standard checked bag can weigh up to 50 pounds. Bags exceeding the standard weight or size limits may be subject to additional fees.
Southwest also has baggage embargoes for certain destinations, which can place restrictions on oversized, overweight, or additional bags.
A Look at Southwest Checked Baggage Fees
The standard charges for checked baggage on Southwest flights are:-
- First and Second Bags:- Standard fees are typically $45 for the first bag and $55 for the second bag on basic/standard fares (with some fares or ticket types starting around $35 for the first bag).
- Overweight and Oversized Fees:- Extra, overweight, or oversized bags incur additional fees starting around $100 to $200 depending on the exact weight and dimension tier.
- Maximum Bag Count:- Passengers are generally limited to a maximum of 20 checked bags per flight.
Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags on Southwest?
Not every traveler has to pay the standard baggage fees. Eligible customers may receive free checked bags depending on their fare or status.
| Fare Category | Allowance |
| Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members | Two free checked bags |
| Rapid Rewards A-List Members | First checked bag free |
| Choice Extra Fares | Two free checked bags |
| Rapid Rewards Credit Card members | First checked bag free when the Rapid Rewards account number is included at booking. |
| Active-duty military customers | Free checked bags under the applicable military baggage policy |
| Getaways by Southwest vacation bookings | First and second checked bag free for each person on the booking |
Baggage-Related Issue? Resolve Now!
Need to manage your luggage before or after your trip? These resources can make the process easier:
| Check Southwest Bags Online | https://www.southwest.com/air/baggage/ |
| Track Your Luggage | https://southwest-bags.com/?clk=HC_Bags_1302_TRKBAGS&returnToURL=https%3A%2F%2Fsouthwest%2Ecom%2F&helpCenterURL=https%3A%2F%2Fsouthwest%2Ecom%2Fhelp%2Fbaggage%2Fchecked-baggage |
| Missing, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage | https://app.nettracer.aero/pax/southwest/bso/login?src=HLP |
| Know Southwest Carry On Limits | https://www.baggagepolicie.com/carry-on/southwest-airlines-carry-on-baggage/ |
Commonly Asked Questions!
The standard maximum size is 62 linear inches, including the suitcase’s wheels and handles.
Yes. Eligible Choice Extra customers, A-List Preferred members, certain Rapid Rewards Credit Card members, as well as active-duty military customers, can receive free checked bags under the applicable rules.
Generally, the first checked bag costs $45 and the second costs $55 on applicable standard fares. Plus, a third or additional bag generally costs $150.
You can manage and review baggage information online through Southwest’s official website. At the airport, you may still need to complete the required bag-drop process before your flight.
A standard checked bag can weigh up to 50 pounds. Bags weighing 51–70 pounds or 71–100 pounds may incur additional charges.