Southwest Baggage Policy

Southwest Baggage Policy: Updated 2025

Searching for the flexibility regarding baggage for your next trip with Southwest? Discover everything you must be aware of about Southwest Baggage Policy, allowances, restrictions, fees, and more!

When it comes to baggage, Southwest Airlines provides flexibility and convenience with its comprehensive baggage allowance policy. Stuffing your luggage is the exciting thing, but knowing what you can pack, what you should, and how much quantity you should pack to avoid additional charges is essential to have a seamless and stress-free travel experience. For quick personalized assistance, you can connect with a representative at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA).

Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

The further long and descriptive read below will help you understand in depth about Southwest Airlines baggage rules and guidelines to pack smarter before you go on board!

Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy—A Brief Overview

As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has updated its baggage policy, ending the “two bags fly free” benefit for most passengers. Travelers should familiarize themselves with the new guidelines to avoid unexpected fees.

What is the updated Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy?

Southwest Airlines baggage policy defines the set of rules and guidelines regarding how much luggage you can bring on board. It covers size, weight, and other restrictions and allowances for carry-on, personal items, and checked baggage. Moreover, it may vary based on factors like fare class, cabin class, frequent flyer status, and flight route.

Here’s a more detailed write-up for Southwest baggage policy:-

Checked baggage is chargeable for the bookings made with Wanna Get Away Fares, Anytime Fares, and Basic fares.
Business select fare holders can bring up to two checked bags for free.
You can bring one free carry-on bag.
Each category of baggage must meet the standard size and weight restrictions.
Exceeding the size and weight limits for baggage will incur additional fees.
You can bring special items or sports equipment as carry-on or checked baggage, depending on the size.
Golf clubs and skis can be checked within the free baggage allowance.
Certain items, like hazardous materials, are prohibited from being checked or carried on.
Passengers may be required to show identification when checking baggage.

What is the Southwest Carry-on baggage policy?

Upon reading through the aforementioned information, if you are wondering about the Southwest Carry-on and Personal Item Policy, consider the information below—

Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag (such as a roller bag or small suitcase) and one personal item (such as a laptop bag, handbag, or backpack) at no additional cost. This policy is very convenient for passengers, especially those who travel with only light luggage.

But, still, there are certain size and weight limits and other guidelines for these items, which are important to know to avoid any hassle at the airport.

Your carry-on baggage must fit in the overhead bin and a small personal item beneath the seat in front of you.
Carry-on should not exceed the size limits [24” (L) + 16” (W) + 10” (H)] including wheels, handles, and attachments.
If your carry-on item exceeds the standard size limit, it will be required to be checked in.
The personal items that you can bring on board for free could be a briefcase, laptop computer case, backpack, blanket, camera, and many more.

What is the Southwest Checked Baggage Policy?

Southwest Airlines has ended its long-standing “Bags Fly Free” policy effective May 28, 2025. Now, most passengers will have to pay a fee for checked bags, while passengers with selected fare categories are exempt.

You can bring two free checked bags, only if you are a Rapid Rewards A-List member or you purchased a Business Select ticket.
Passengers with Wanna Get Away Fares, Anytime Fares, and Basic fares will be charged a fee for the first and second checked bags.
A fee of $35 will apply for the first bag and $45 for the second bag.
Each checked bag must not exceed the weight limit of 50 pounds (22.7 kg) and a maximum size of 62 inches (157.5 cm).
You will be required to pay extra for the third and fourth bags.

How to add Southwest checked baggage after booking?

If you didn’t add your baggage during booking, it’s not a big deal. You can conveniently do so via “Manage Booking” online or using the mobile app, or by calling Southwest Airlines directly at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA).

Here’s how you can do so——

1: Adding Checked Baggage At Southwest Online

Browse to the Southwest Airlines website.
Locate the “Manage Booking” section.
Sign in to your account to easily access your bookings or add your reservation number and last name.
Select your booking for which you want to add baggage.
Click on the “Add Baggage” or “Modify Baggage” option.
Select the number of bags you would like to check in.
Review the applicable fees and confirm your changes or add-ons.
At last, pay for the confirmation.

2: Adding Baggage at Kiosk

If you are at the airport, you can use the self-service kiosk.
At first, check in at the Kiosk.
Select “Add Baggage.”
Opt for the number of bags you want to check.
At last, make the payment, print the tags, and attach them to your bags.

3: Calling Southwest Customer Service

Call the Southwest Airlines Customer at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA).
Choose your language and opt for the baggage option from the IVR menu.
Be prepared with your confirmation number or ticket number ready.
Request the agent to add the checked baggage to your booking.
Pay for any applicable baggage fees.

When should you add your baggage?

If you’re carrying checked bags while traveling with Southwest Airlines, it’s important to know when and how to add a bag. The best part about Southwest is that they allow two checked bags for free, but not only for Business Select fare holders. For other fares, adding baggage at the right time can save you a lot of trouble and more costly additional charges.

If you plan ahead, it’s easy and convenient to add your bags at check-in or beforehand during booking.
You can add your bag at check-in on Southwest’s website or mobile app.
At the airport, bags can also be added through the ticket counter or a self-tagging kiosk. But this can be costlier as compared to do so during booking or check-in.
Online check-in begins 24 hours before flight departure.

Note: Make sure to measure and weigh your bag correctly before leaving home to avoid extra fees. And try adding your baggage during booking to save more on your travel expenses.

What if my checked baggage is found to be overweight at the airport?

If your Southwest Airlines checked bag is found to be overweight at the airport, you will have to pay an extra fee. Southwest has a weight limit of 50 pounds (22.7 kilograms) per bag. If your bag is over this limit, the airline considers it overweight and will impose the additional charges. Therefore, it’s always recommended to check the weight of your bag before traveling to avoid unexpected expenses.

Up to 50 pounds (22.7 kilograms) per bag is allowed free (or at a basic fee).
Overweight fee (between 51–100 pounds): $100 extra per bag.
Above 100 pounds: Bags are not accepted.

In case your bag exceeds the weight limit of 100 pounds, you can either remove some items from the bag or transfer them to another bag (if possible).

What are the updated Southwest Baggage Fees?

Upon having read through the write-ups above, are you wondering, “How much will you need to pay for your bags on Southwest now?” The airline has made changes to its baggage policy and fees that may affect your travel budget. So you must be aware of.

Look at the table below for a quick overview of the Southwest updated baggage fees.

Checked Bags	Carry-on + Personal Item	1st Checked Bag	2nd Checked Bag
Basic Fare	Free	$35	$45
Wanna Get Away Plus® Fare	Free	$35	$45
Anytime Fare	Free	$35	$45
Business Select® Fare	Free	Free	Free
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members	Free	First checked baggage and that for up to eight additional travellers at no cost on the same reservation.	Second checked bag baggage and that for up to eight additional travellers at no cost on the same reservation.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members	Free	The first checked bag for up to eight additional Passengers is free.	$35
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers	Free	First checked bag is free for Cardholders and also up to up to eight additional travelers on the same reservation. Note: You must add your Rapid Rewards® account number during the reservation.	$45
Active-duty military Customers5	Free	Free	Free

Note: Always verify with the official Southwest Airlines website, as fees and policies can change without notice.

What is Southwest’s Baggage Policy for lost/delayed/damaged baggage?

Unfortunately, if you have lost your baggage or you find it damaged and delayed in the possession of Southwest Airlines baggage department, the airline has a structured and comprehensive policy, including liability limitations and reporting procedures to help resolve such issues efficiently.

Here’s what you need to know:

Reporting Lost/Delayed/Damaged Baggage Procedure:

For a Domestic Flight, you can report damage or loss within four hours after your arrival. To lodge a complaint, you can either do so at the baggage service office, using a QR code on signage outside the office, or by calling the Southwest customer service at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA).
For an International Flight, you can report damage within seven days and delay within 21 days upon arrival.

Moreover, if you’ve already left the airport, you can file a report online on the Southwest Airlines website or just by calling the officials at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA).

Lost Item During Travel:

Are you wondering, “What to do if I lost my carry-on or your personal item during travel?” If so, here’s your answer—

In case you find that you have left your personal belongings or a carry-on luggage on the plane, here’s what you need to do on an urgent basis—

Speak with a live customer service representative at the airport.
You can also make a phone call to the Southwest customer service toll-free digits at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA).

If you have left the airport or are unable to get help at the airport, you can file a “Lost & Found” report through the official website.

Final Verdict:

In conclusion, understanding the Southwest baggage policy can make your travel experience smoother and more hassle-free. With two free checked bags, minimal additional fees, and clear guidelines on carry-on, personal items, and checked baggage. Southwest Airlines stands out among major airlines for its passenger-friendly approach.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your first trip, being familiar with the Southwest Airlines baggage policy and rules ahead of leaving for the airport can help you pack smarter and avoid surprise fees or charges at the airport.

If you are left with any queries or questions, visit the official Southwest Airlines website or call their customer contact centre at Southwest Customer Service number +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA).

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the new baggage policy for Southwest?

As of the latest update, Southwest baggage policy on May 28, 2025, passengers on Basis, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime Fares will be required to pay for their first and checked baggage.

How many bags can you take for free on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines baggage policy allows each passenger to bring one carry-on, one personal item, and up to two checked bags.

How can I track my baggage at Southwest Airlines?

If you need to track your baggage, you can conveniently do so through the official site, or you may call the representative directly at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA). The helplines are reachable 24 hours a day throughout the week without any interruption. While tracking, you can see when it’s being loaded and unloaded from the aircraft.

How to contact Southwest Airlines Customer Service?

If you need to get through the Southwest Airlines customer service, you can connect using a phone call at +1-800-FLY-SWA-435-9792 or +1-877-830-6456 (OTA) in the United States. Moreover, you can also reach out via live chat, email, social media, or get help through the online help center and FAQs.

Can I have two carry-on bags on Southwest?

No, you can’t! Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item for free.

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Southwest Baggage Policy