Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance 2025
Complete guide featuring TWO FREE checked bags, generous carry on size limits, and no change fees
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Baggage Policy Overview 2025
POLICY CHANGE: Effective May 28, 2025
Southwest ended its universal "Bags Fly Free" policy after 54 years. Most passengers now pay $35 (first bag) and $45 (second bag).
Still FREE for: A-List Preferred, Business Select, Choice Extra, Military, Southwest Credit Cardholders (first bag), and bookings before May 28, 2025.
Carry On Baggage
Size Limits
Dimensions: 24 x 16 x 10 (61 x 41 x 26)
Weight: No limit
Pieces: 1 carry on bag + 1 personal item
Carry On Policy
- • Larger carry on size than most airlines
- • Must fit in overhead bin
- • Personal item goes under seat
- • No weight limit for carry ons
Checked Baggage
Checked Baggage Fees (Effective May 28, 2025)
First Bag: $35 (up to 50 lbs / 23 kg, 62 linear inches)
Second Bag: $45 (up to 50 lbs / 23 kg, 62 linear inches)
Third+ Bags: $75-$100 per bag (varies by destination)
Overweight (51-70 lbs): $75
Overweight (71-100 lbs): $100
Oversized (over 62 in, up to 80 in): $75
How to Get FREE Checked Bags
- • A-List Preferred & Business Select: 2 FREE bags
- • A-List & Southwest Credit Cards: 1 FREE bag (+ up to 8 companions)
- • Choice Extra fares: 2 FREE bags
- • Active-duty Military: 2 FREE bags (including oversized/overweight)
- • Getaways by Southwest packages: 2 FREE bags per traveler
- • Booked before May 28, 2025: Old free policy applies
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- • Get a Southwest credit card for free first bag (saves $35+ per flight)
- • Consider upgrading to Choice Extra for 2 free bags on frequent trips
- • Book vacation packages for automatic free baggage benefit
- • No change fees - still more flexible than most 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions 2025
What is included for checked bags?
Southwest's policy 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 applies to all fare types, making Southwest the best value for travelers with luggage.
Can I bring a laptop bag with my carry on?
Yes, the policy 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 both a carry on and personal item.
How much does Southwest charge for excess baggage?
While the first two bags are free, additional bags cost $125 each. Overweight bags (51-100 lbs) incur a $125 fee, and oversized bags (63-80 inches) also cost $125. Bags over 100 lbs or 80 inches won't be accepted.
What is the carry on size limit?
The 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. There's no weight limit for carry ons, making it very traveler-friendly.
Do Rapid Rewards members get extra baggage benefits?
The standard 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 policy is the same for everyone - a key differentiator from other airlines.
Can I bring sports equipment on Southwest?
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 fly free as checked bags if they meet standard limits. Oversized items like surfboards or bikes may incur additional fees.
How strict is Southwest with carry on size enforcement?
Southwest is generally relaxed about size 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, policies are among the most flexible in the industry.
What makes Southwest's baggage policy unique?
Southwest 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 allowance for all fare types, Southwest offers unmatched value. This customer-friendly policy is a major reason for their popularity.
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