Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance 2025
Complete Southwest Airlines baggage allowance guide featuring TWO FREE checked bags, generous carry on size limits, and no change fees
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Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance Overview 2025
Industry-Leading Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance
Southwest offers TWO FREE checked bags per passenger - the best Southwest Airlines baggage allowance in the US airline industry!
Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance - Carry On
Size Limits
Dimensions: 24 x 16 x 10 (61 x 41 x 26)
Weight: No limit
Pieces: 1 carry on bag + 1 personal item
Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance - Carry On Policy
- • Larger carry on size than most airlines per Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
- • Must fit in overhead bin per Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
- • Personal item goes under seat per Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
- • No weight limit for carry on in Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance - Checked
FREE Checked Bags Policy
First Bag: FREE - 23 kg (50 lbs)
Second Bag: FREE - 23 kg (50 lbs)
Third+ Bags: $125 each
Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance - Checked Benefits
- • TWO free checked bags per Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
- • Maximum 62 linear inches per Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
- • 50 lbs (23 kg) weight limit per bag in Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
- • Best value among US carriers for Southwest Airlines baggage allowance
Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance by Fare Type 2025
| Fare Type | Carry On Size | Personal Item | Checked Bags | Special Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wanna Get Away | 24 x 16 x 10 | 1 personal item | 2 FREE bags | No change fees |
| Wanna Get Away Plus | 24 x 16 x 10 | 1 personal item | 2 FREE bags | Same-day standby |
| Anytime | 24 x 16 x 10 | 1 personal item | 2 FREE bags | Refundable |
| Business Select | 24 x 16 x 10 | 1 personal item | 2 FREE bags | Priority boarding + Premium drink |
Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance FAQ 2025
What is the Southwest Airlines baggage allowance for checked bags?
The Southwest Airlines baggage allowance is the most generous in the US airline industry - you get TWO FREE checked bags per passenger. Each bag can weigh up to 23 kg (50 lbs) and measure up to 62 linear inches. This Southwest Airlines baggage allowance applies to all fare types, making Southwest the best value for travelers with luggage.
Does Southwest Airlines baggage allowance include a laptop bag?
Yes, the Southwest Airlines baggage allowance permits a personal item (like a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack) in addition to your main carry on bag. The personal item must fit under the seat, while your carry on goes in the overhead bin. All fare types include this Southwest Airlines baggage allowance for both carry on and personal item.
How much does Southwest charge for excess baggage?
While the first two bags are free under Southwest Airlines baggage allowance, additional bags cost $125 each. Overweight bags (51-100 lbs) incur a $125 fee, and oversized bags (63-80 inches) also cost $125. The Southwest Airlines baggage allowance doesn't cover bags over 100 lbs or 80 inches, which won't be accepted.
What is Southwest Airlines' carry on size limit?
Southwest Airlines carry on size limit is 24 x 16 x 10 or 61 x 41 x 26 including wheels and handles. This is larger than most other airlines' limits. The Southwest Airlines baggage allowance for carry on has no weight limit, making it very traveler-friendly.
Does Southwest Airlines baggage allowance differ for Rapid Rewards members?
The standard Southwest Airlines baggage allowance of two free checked bags applies to all passengers regardless of Rapid Rewards status. However, A-List and A-List Preferred members get priority boarding, ensuring overhead bin space for carry ons. The generous Southwest Airlines baggage allowance is the same for everyone - a key differentiator from other airlines.
Can I bring sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest accepts sports equipment, and many items count as one of your two free checked bags if within size and weight limits. Golf bags, skis, and fishing equipment meeting Southwest Airlines baggage allowance limits fly free as checked bags. Oversized items like surfboards or bikes may incur additional fees beyond the standard Southwest Airlines baggage allowance.
How strict is Southwest with carry on size enforcement?
Southwest is generally relaxed about Southwest Airlines baggage allowance enforcement compared to other airlines, but they do check if bags appear oversized. The generous 24 x 16 x 10 carry on limit means most bags fit. With open seating and no Basic Economy restrictions, Southwest Airlines baggage allowance policies are among the most flexible in the industry.
What makes Southwest Airlines baggage allowance unique?
Southwest Airlines baggage allowance stands out with TWO FREE checked bags for all passengers - saving families hundreds of dollars compared to other airlines. Combined with no change fees, generous carry on sizes, and the same Southwest Airlines baggage allowance for all fare types, Southwest offers unmatched value. This customer-friendly Southwest Airlines baggage allowance policy is a major reason for their popularity.
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