Southwest Airlines maintains its distinctive policy, allowing every passenger to check two bags for free on all flights.
Understanding airline baggage policies can often feel like navigating a maze, with fees and restrictions varying widely. Southwest Airlines stands out with a consistent approach to checked luggage, making travel planning simpler for many. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about their baggage rules.
Southwest’s Baggage Policy: The Two-Bag Advantage
Southwest Airlines offers a significant perk: each passenger can check two bags without charge. This policy applies to all fare types and destinations within their network. It’s a key differentiator, especially when comparing overall travel costs with other carriers that often charge for even the first checked bag.
This allowance helps travelers pack more generously without the added stress of unexpected fees at the airport. You can bring essentials and extras, making trips more comfortable and convenient.
Standard Checked Bag Allowances
Each of your two free checked bags must adhere to specific size and weight limits. The maximum weight for each bag is 50 pounds (23 kg). For dimensions, each bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Bags exceeding these limits will incur additional fees.
These limits are standard across the airline industry for checked luggage. Always measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport to avoid any surprises. A small luggage scale can be a very useful tool for home preparation.
Carry-On and Personal Item Rules
Beyond the two free checked bags, Southwest also permits one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, typically measuring no more than 24″ (L) x 16″ (W) x 10″ (H). The personal item, like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack, must fit under the seat in front of you.
These items do not count towards your two free checked bags. They provide additional space for immediate necessities, electronics, or valuables you prefer to keep with you in the cabin.
Understanding Weight and Size Restrictions
Adhering to Southwest’s weight and size limits for checked bags is crucial for a smooth check-in experience. Each bag must be 50 pounds or less and 62 linear inches or less. Linear inches are calculated by adding the length, width, and height of your bag together.
If a bag exceeds either the weight or size limit, it will be subject to an overweight or oversize fee. These fees apply per bag, per direction of travel. It’s a good practice to distribute items across both your free checked bags if one is getting close to the limit.
For instance, a suitcase measuring 27 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 17 inches high totals 62 linear inches, which is within the limit. A bag exceeding this total by even an inch would be considered oversized. Always double-check your luggage dimensions, including wheels and handles, before departure.
Special Items and Exceptions
Traveling with special items often requires specific knowledge of airline policies. Southwest accommodates various items, but some may count towards your two free bags, while others travel free in addition to your allowance.
Sporting equipment like skis, golf clubs, and surfboards are generally accepted but must meet specific packaging requirements. These items usually count as one of your two free checked bags, provided they meet the weight and size limits for standard luggage, or specific oversized allowances for certain sports gear.
Sporting Equipment Specifics
Southwest has detailed guidelines for different types of sporting equipment. For example, a ski bag containing skis, poles, and boots counts as one checked bag. A golf bag containing clubs, balls, and shoes also counts as one checked bag. These items must be properly encased to prevent damage.
If the sporting equipment exceeds the standard 50-pound weight limit or 62-linear-inch size limit, overweight or oversize fees will apply, even if it’s your first or second checked item. Always review Southwest’s specific sport equipment rules on their website before packing.
Traveling with Children’s Gear
When traveling with infants or children, certain items are typically allowed free of charge in addition to your standard baggage allowance. This includes one car seat and one stroller per child. These items can be checked at the curb, ticket counter, or gate.
This policy provides significant relief for families, as car seats and strollers are often bulky and essential. Medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or portable oxygen concentrators, also generally travels free and does not count towards your checked bag allowance, but may require advance notification to the airline.
Navigating Overweight and Oversize Fees
Despite the generous free baggage allowance, it’s possible to incur fees if your bags exceed the specified limits. Southwest charges a flat fee for bags between 51-100 pounds (24-45 kg) and for bags between 63-162 linear inches. Bags over 100 pounds or 162 linear inches are not accepted as checked luggage.
These fees are applied per bag, per direction. A bag that is both overweight and oversized will only be charged one fee, typically the higher of the two. Planning carefully can help you avoid these extra costs, allowing you to save money for your trip experiences.
| Bag Type | Weight/Size Limit | Fee (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|
| First Checked Bag | Up to 50 lbs & 62 linear inches | Free |
| Second Checked Bag | Up to 50 lbs & 62 linear inches | Free |
| Overweight Bag | 51-100 lbs | $100 |
| Oversize Bag | 63-162 linear inches | $100 |
Packing Smart: Tips for Maximizing Your Free Allowance
Making the most of Southwest’s two free checked bags involves strategic packing. Start by making a list of what you truly need. Distribute heavier items across both bags to keep each within the 50-pound limit. Rolling clothes can save space, and using packing cubes can help organize items and compress them.
For your carry-on, prioritize valuables, medications, and a change of clothes. This ensures you have essentials even if your checked bag is temporarily delayed. Remember that liquids in carry-on bags are subject to specific rules, generally limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container, all fitting within a single quart-sized bag, as per TSA guidelines.
When packing electronics with lithium-ion batteries, like laptops and power banks, always place them in your carry-on luggage. These items are prohibited in checked bags due to fire safety concerns, a rule enforced by the FAA for air travel safety. Always check the battery’s watt-hour rating to ensure it meets airline limits.
Checking Bags: Process and Timing
Checking your bags with Southwest is a straightforward process, but timing is important. You can check bags at the curbside check-in, at the ticket counter, or at a self-tagging kiosk. Curbside check-in is convenient for quick drop-offs, but it’s not available at all airports or during all hours.
For domestic flights, Southwest recommends checking your bags no later than 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time. For international flights, this window extends to 60 minutes. Arriving well in advance allows ample time for any unexpected lines or issues.
Ensure your bags are clearly labeled with your name and contact information, both inside and outside. Southwest provides bag tags at the check-in counter if you do not have your own. Keep your baggage claim checks safe, as they are essential if you need to track a delayed or lost bag.
| Category | Key Items to Remember |
|---|---|
| Documents & Valuables | ID, tickets, wallet, medications, electronics (in carry-on) |
| Clothing | Rolled items, packing cubes, outfits for each day, layers |
| Toiletries | Travel-sized liquids (carry-on), full-sized items (checked) |
Comparing Southwest’s Policy to Other Carriers
Southwest’s two free checked bags policy is a significant advantage when compared to many other major airlines. Most competitors charge for the first checked bag, typically ranging from $30-$40 for domestic flights, and often more for a second bag. These fees can quickly add up, especially for families or longer trips.
For example, a family of four flying roundtrip on an airline that charges $35 per checked bag would pay $280 just for two checked bags each way. With Southwest, that same family pays nothing for their first two bags per person. This difference can represent substantial savings, making Southwest an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
When evaluating ticket prices, it’s always wise to factor in the total cost, including baggage fees. A seemingly lower fare on another airline might become more expensive once checked bag fees are added. Southwest’s transparent and consistent policy simplifies this comparison, offering clear value from the start.