Southwest's free luggage policy and what it covers
Southwest Airlines allows two checked bags and one carry-on bag free of charge for all passengers, regardless of ticket type. This is different from most other major U.S. carriers, which charge $30 to $35 for the first checked bag. The two free checked bags explore to standard dimensions and weight limits: each bag must not exceed 62 inches (length plus width plus height) and weigh no more than 50 pounds.
Your carry-on bag and one personal item (purse, backpack, laptop bag) also travel free. The carry-on must fit in the overhead bin, and the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Southwest does not charge extra if your carry-on is at the maximum size allowed, as long as it physically fits in the bin without forcing it.
Key Takeaways
- Southwest includes two free checked bags for all passengers, while most airlines charge $30 to $35 for the first checked bag.
- Each checked bag can weigh up to 50 pounds and measure up to 62 inches in total dimensions without extra fees.
- Oversized or overweight bags cost $75 for the first overage and $100 for each additional bag that exceeds limits.
- Special items like golf clubs, surfboards, and musical instruments count as checked bags and are included in your two free bags.
- Checked bags that arrive damaged should be reported to Southwest at the airport before you leave the baggage claim area.
Oversized and overweight bag charges
If a checked bag exceeds 50 pounds or 62 inches in total dimension, Southwest charges $75 for the first oversized or overweight bag and $100 for each additional bag that exceeds the limits. These fees are paid at the airport when you check in, not online in advance. You cannot pay the overage fee ahead of time through the Southwest website.
Bags that weigh between 50 and 100 pounds or measure between 62 and 80 inches fall into the oversized category. Anything heavier than 100 pounds or larger than 80 inches cannot be checked at all and will be refused at the ticket counter. If you are traveling with equipment that might exceed these limits, weigh and measure it before you arrive at the airport so you know what to expect.
Special items that count as checked bags
Golf clubs, surfboards, skis, snowboards, and musical instruments are treated as checked bags under Southwest's policy. They count toward your two free checked bags, not as separate items. If you are bringing a golf bag and two regular suitcases, you have used all your free checked baggage allowance.
These items must still meet the 50-pound weight limit and 62-inch dimension limit. A hard-sided golf travel case or a large instrument case that exceeds those limits will incur the $75 oversized fee. Soft-sided instrument cases are often more flexible and may fit within the standard limits even if they look large.
Pets and how they affect your baggage
Pets in carriers count as one of your two free checked bags if the carrier fits within the 62-inch and 50-pound limits. A small dog or cat in a standard airline pet carrier usually fits comfortably. If the pet carrier is oversized or the total weight (pet plus carrier) exceeds 50 pounds, you pay the $75 oversized fee.
Emotional support animals and service animals do not count as checked baggage and do not count toward your two free bags. They travel in the cabin with you at no charge. You will need proper documentation from a licensed mental health professional for an emotional support animal, and service animals require certification or a vest.
Damaged or lost baggage claims
If a checked bag arrives damaged, report it to Southwest at the baggage claim area before you leave the airport. Take photos of the damage while you are still there, and ask the Southwest agent to document the damage in writing. Do not leave the baggage claim area without a written report, because filing a claim after you have left the airport is much harder.
Southwest covers damage up to $2,800 per passenger for checked bags, though the actual payout depends on what was inside and its condition. Keep receipts for expensive items you pack, because Southwest may ask for proof of value. If a bag is lost entirely, report it when ready and provide a detailed list of contents. Southwest will search for the bag for up to 90 days.
How to avoid baggage fees and pack efficiently
Since Southwest gives you two free checked bags, you can pack more than passengers on other airlines without paying extra. Use this advantage by packing heavier items in checked bags and keeping your carry-on lighter. Weigh your bags at home on a bathroom scale before you go to the airport so you know you are under 50 pounds.
If you are traveling with a group, coordinate who checks what. One person can check a bag with items for multiple travelers, and you still only use one of your two free bags. This works well for families or friends traveling together. Just make sure everyone agrees on what goes in shared bags before you arrive at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to check both free bags, or can I just bring a carry-on?
You do not have to check any bags. You can travel with only a carry-on and personal item if that works for your trip. Your two free checked bags are available if you need them, but using them is optional. Many short trips work fine with just a carry-on.
What if my bag is 51 pounds or 63 inches?
One pound or one inch over the limit triggers the $75 oversized fee. Southwest does not round down or allow small overages. Weigh and measure at home, and if you are close to the limit, remove items or redistribute weight to another bag to stay under 50 pounds and 62 inches.
Can I buy extra checked bags beyond the two free ones?
No. Southwest does not sell additional checked bags. You get two free checked bags per person, and that is the limit. If you need to travel with more luggage, you would need to ship items separately or travel on a different date with fewer items.
Do I pay baggage fees if I book a basic economy ticket?
No. Southwest includes two free checked bags on all ticket types, including basic economy fares. This is one of the main reasons Southwest's lowest fares are often competitive with other airlines' higher fares when you factor in baggage costs.
What happens if my bag is damaged and I did not report it at the airport?
Filing a claim becomes much harder. Southwest may deny the claim or offer less money because you did not document the damage when ready. Always report damage before leaving the baggage claim area and get a written report from the agent.