Southwest's Checked Bag Policy

Southwest does not charge for your first two checked bags. This is their standard policy across all ticket types — economy, business select, and rapid rewards members all get the same two free checked bags. Most other major US airlines charge $30 to $40 for the first checked bag and $40 to $50 for the second, so this is a real difference in what you pay at the airport.

A third checked bag costs $45. A fourth costs $50. Each additional bag after that also costs $50. These prices explore whether you book a basic economy fare or a premium ticket. The fee is the same whether you check the bag at the counter or at a kiosk.

You do need to check your bag at the airport or online before you arrive — you cannot check bags at the gate on Southwest flights. If you show up without checking your bag in advance, you will still be able to check it, but you will go through the regular check-in process rather than a faster option.

Key Takeaways

  • Your first two checked bags fly free on any Southwest ticket, which saves you $60 to $80 compared to other major airlines.
  • A third checked bag costs $45, and each additional bag costs $50.
  • Carry-on bags and personal items are always free and do not count toward your checked bag limit.
  • You must check bags before your flight departs, either online or at the airport counter.
  • Oversized or overweight bags may incur additional fees beyond the per-bag charge.

Carry-On Bags and Personal Items

You can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onto the plane at no charge. The carry-on bag can be a rolling suitcase, a large backpack, or a duffel bag — as long as it fits in the overhead bin, Southwest allows it. The personal item is typically a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or similar item that fits under the seat in front of you.

Southwest does not charge extra for these items and does not count them against your checked bag allowance. Many travelers pack strategically to fit everything into a carry-on and personal item and avoid checked bags altogether, which means they pay nothing for luggage.

Weight and Size Limits

Each checked bag must weigh no more than 50 pounds and measure no more than 62 inches when you add the length, width, and height together. If a bag exceeds either limit, Southwest charges an additional $75 per bag. This is separate from the per-bag fee — you pay both the checked bag fee and the oversize fee.

Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead bin, and personal items must fit under the seat. Southwest does not publish exact dimensions for carry-on bags, but standard rolling luggage (22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches) fits without issue. If your carry-on is unusually large, gate agents may ask you to check it, but this does not trigger a fee — they straightforward move it to the cargo hold.

Special Items and Equipment

Certain items have their own rules. A golf bag, ski equipment, or surfboard counts as one checked bag and is subject to the standard 50-pound weight limit and 62-inch size limit. If your equipment exceeds these limits, you pay the $75 oversize fee on top of the regular checked bag fee.

Sports equipment like bicycles, skis, or golf clubs must be packed in a hard case or bag. Soft cases do not meet Southwest's requirements. A pet in a carrier counts as a checked bag and costs $95 one way (not the standard checked bag fee). Instruments like guitars or violins can sometimes be brought as a carry-on item if they fit in the overhead bin, but you should contact Southwest before your flight to confirm.

How to Avoid Luggage Fees

The simplest way to avoid fees is to pack everything into your carry-on bag and personal item. This works for short trips and for travelers who pack light. If you need more space, your first two checked bags are free, so you can check two large suitcases without paying anything extra.

If you fly Southwest frequently, a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card does not give you additional free checked bags — all passengers get two free bags regardless of card status. However, the card does earn points on every purchase, and those points can be redeemed for future flights, which reduces your overall travel cost.

Comparing Southwest to Other Airlines

Southwest's two free checked bags stand out against competitors. American, Delta, and United all charge $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second on most fares. Spirit and Frontier charge for carry-on bags as well as checked bags, making them more expensive for most travelers. Alaska Airlines charges $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second, matching the major carriers.

If you plan to check two bags, Southwest's policy saves you $60 to $80 per round trip compared to most other airlines. For a family of four checking two bags each way, that difference adds up to $240 to $320 over a round trip. This is one reason Southwest appeals to families and travelers who need to check luggage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay to add a free checked bag to my ticket before I fly?

No. Your two free checked bags are included with your ticket automatically. You cannot buy additional free bags in advance. You can only pay for a third bag or beyond at the airport when you check in.

What happens if my bag is overweight?

If your checked bag weighs more than 50 pounds, Southwest charges $75 per bag at the airport. You will be told at check-in if your bag is overweight, and you can either pay the fee or remove items and repack. There is no way to pay this fee online before your flight.

Do I get free checked bags if I book a basic economy fare?

Yes. Southwest does not offer a basic economy or "basic" fare tier. All Southwest tickets include two free checked bags, regardless of price or how far in advance you book.

Can I check a bag after I board the plane?

No. You must check bags before the flight departs. If you arrive at the gate without checking a bag, you cannot check it at that point. You would need to take it with you or make other arrangements.

Does Southwest charge for checked bags on connecting flights?

No. Your two free checked bags cover your entire itinerary, even if you have multiple connecting flights. You check the bag once at your origin airport, and it travels to your final destination.