Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

Southwest Airlines is the most cost-effective airline in the U.S. Also, it has the most crystal clear and cheapest baggage policy of any other airline. Will you be flying with Southwest sooner?

Here's a guide to the baggage policy of Southwest Airlines based on the information available. Please note that airline policies can change over time, so it's always a good idea to double-check with Southwest Airlines customer care for the most up-to-date information.

What is Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy?

Carry-On Baggage: Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard free of charge.

Carry-on bag: The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 10 x 16 x 24 inches (24 x 40 x 60 cm).

Personal item: The personal item should fit under the seat in front of you and can be a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or similar-sized item.

Note that Southwest flights do not have a weight restriction for carry-on bags, but you should be able to handle and store the bag in the overhead bin without assistance.

Checked Baggage
Southwest Airlines offers a checked baggage allowance as part of their fare policy. The number of checked bags and associated fees may vary depending on your fare type or if you are a Rapid Rewards member. Here are the general guidelines:

• Number of bags: Each passenger can check up to two bags.
• Size and weight: The maximum dimensions for checked bags are 62 inches (157 cm) in overall dimensions (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kilograms) per bag. Oversized and overweight baggage may invite added fees.
• Additional bags: If you need to check more than two bags, each additional bag will incur a fee. The fees vary, so checking with Southwest Airlines customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date information is best.

Special Items
Southwest Airlines also has a specific baggage policy for special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and other large or fragile items. These things could have extra necessities or fees. It's logical to talk to one of our travel experts directly to check for further details on how to transport these items.

It's imperative to recall that baggage policies can differ based on factors such as your destination, ticket type, and loyalty program status. Therefore, we recommend checking with their customer service for the most precise and up-to-date information concerning their baggage policy.

What is Southwest Airlines' Baggage Fee?

Southwest Airlines has a different tactic to baggage fees than many other airlines. While other airlines may charge fees for checked bags, Southwest Airlines offers a more liberal baggage policy.

Checked Baggage Fees
As per the baggage policy of Southwest Airlines, they allow each passenger to check up to two bags free of charge as part of their normal baggage allowance. This policy applies to both domestic and international flights operated by Southwest Airlines.

Additional Baggage and Oversized/Overweight Fees
If you need to check more than two bags or if your bags exceed the standard size and weight limits, Southwest Airlines has fees associated with these situations. However, please note that the fee information provided here is based on historical data and may have changed. It's always recommended to check the Southwest Airlines customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate fee information.

For additional checked bags beyond the two-bag allowance, Southwest Airlines historically charged the following fees:

• Bag 3: $75 USD per bag
• Bag 4 or more: $175 USD per bag

For oversized and overweight bags, Southwest Airlines flights historically charged the following fees:

• Oversized bags: $75 per bag
• Overweight bags: $75 per bag

Dimensions between 62 and 80 inches (157 and 203 cm) in overall dimensions (length + width + height).

According to Southwest baggage policy, bags weighing between 50 and 100 pounds (23 and 45 kg).

Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it's crucial to verify the most current information directly with your travel agent.

Furthermore, Southwest Airlines has a policy called ‘Bags Fly Free,’ which promotes the free checked bags allowance. This policy has been a notable feature of Southwest Airlines, but it's advisable to confirm its continued existence and any potential changes directly with the airline.

We recommend contacting Southwest customer service at FondTravels for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding baggage fees and policies.

How to avoid Southwest baggage fees?

To avoid Southwest Airlines baggage fees, you can follow these tips:

• Stick to the Carry-On Allowance
• Pack Light
• Join the Rapid Rewards Program
• Take Advantage of Exceptions
• Use a Southwest Airlines Credit Card

Remember, policies can change over time, so it's always a good idea to check the most up-to-date information directly with Southwest Airlines customer care at Fond Travels. Call +1-(571)-389-6426 to ensure you have the latest details on avoiding baggage fees and easy Southwest Airlines reservations.

Also, read our blog - How do I Contact Southwest Airlines?