Southwest Airlines historically separated itself from other domestic carriers through its "Bags Fly Free" marketing campaign. However, a significant shift in the company's business model took effect for reservations booked on or after May 28, 2025. Passengers must now distinguish between legacy rules and the new fee-based structure to avoid unexpected costs at the airport.

For quick reference, the current standard fees for most economy-level fares booked after the policy change are $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag. These bags must remain within the 50-pound weight limit and the 62-linear-inch size limit.

The Critical Booking Date of May 28 2025

The most important factor in determining baggage costs is not when a passenger flies, but when the ticket was purchased and ticketed.

Reservations Booked Before May 28 2025

Passengers who secured their reservations prior to this date are generally grandfathered into the classic Southwest policy. This allows for two checked bags free of charge, provided they meet standard weight and size requirements. Even if the actual travel occurs late in 2025 or into 2026, the terms at the time of purchase remain valid.

Reservations Booked On or After May 28 2025

This is the group affected by the new ancillary revenue strategy. For these travelers, the "free" status of checked luggage depends entirely on fare class, loyalty status, or military standing. If a passenger changes an existing reservation after this date, the new baggage rules may apply to the updated itinerary, depending on the nature of the change and re-ticketing process.

Checked Bag Fees by Fare Type

Southwest has restructured its fare categories to align more closely with industry standards. The impact on baggage allowances varies significantly across these classes.

Basic and Wanna Get Away Fares

These entry-level fares are the most restricted under the new policy.

  • First Checked Bag: $35
  • Second Checked Bag: $45
  • Third Bag and Beyond: $150 per bag

Choice and Choice Preferred Fares

Introduced as mid-tier options, these fares also require payment for checked luggage for standard passengers.

  • First Checked Bag: $35
  • Second Checked Bag: $45
  • Additional Bags: $150 per bag

Business Select Fares

The premium tier remains the primary sanctuary for free luggage. Business Select passengers retain the benefit of two free checked bags. This fare is designed for corporate travelers who require maximum flexibility and no-cost baggage handling.

Choice Extra Fares

Expected to fully launch in the third quarter of 2025, this specific fare bundle is designed to include two free checked bags as part of the higher ticket price, providing a middle ground between Choice and Business Select.

Understanding Weight and Size Allowance Limits

Even when a passenger qualifies for free bags, they must adhere to specific physical dimensions to avoid heavy surcharges.

The 50-Pound Weight Standard

Every checked bag is weighed during the drop-off process. The limit is exactly 50 pounds (approximately 23 kg). If a bag weighs 50.1 pounds, it is technically subject to overweight fees. It is highly recommended that travelers use a calibrated luggage scale at home before heading to the airport.

The 62-Linear-Inch Measurement

Size is determined by "linear inches," which is the sum of the bag’s length, width, and height (L + W + H). This measurement must include protruding parts such as wheels, handles, and side pockets.

  • Calculation Example: A suitcase that is 28 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 12 inches deep equals 58 linear inches (28+18+12). This fits within the 62-inch limit.
  • Oversized Threshold: Any bag exceeding 62 inches but measuring 80 inches or less is considered oversized and will incur significant fees.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Surcharges

When bags exceed the standard limits, Southwest applies a tiered fee structure. These fees are cumulative, meaning a bag could potentially be both overweight and oversized, leading to multiple charges.

Overweight Categories

  1. 51 to 70 pounds: This tier typically incurs a fee of $100 in addition to any standard checked bag fee.
  2. 71 to 100 pounds: This tier typically incurs a fee of $200 in addition to any standard checked bag fee.
  3. Over 100 pounds: Southwest will not accept bags heavier than 100 pounds as standard checked luggage. These must be shipped via Southwest Cargo.

Oversized Category

  • 63 to 80 linear inches: A flat fee of $200 is applied.
  • Over 80 linear inches: Items exceeding this size cannot be checked and must be handled by Southwest Cargo, provided the customer is a "known shipper" as defined by the TSA.

Exemptions for Elite Status and Credit Card Holders

Loyalty to the Southwest brand still offers a path to avoiding baggage fees, even on the lowest fare classes.

Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members

These elite members receive two checked bags free of charge on every flight, regardless of the fare type purchased. This benefit extends to up to eight additional passengers traveling on the same reservation, making it a highly valuable perk for families.

Rapid Rewards A-List Members

Standard A-List members receive their first checked bag free. However, the second checked bag follows the standard $45 fee unless they are flying on a Business Select or Choice Extra fare.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers

Holders of co-branded Chase Southwest credit cards receive their first checked bag free. It is important to ensure the Rapid Rewards number associated with the card is linked to the flight reservation for this benefit to be automatically applied during check-in.

Special Provisions for Military Personnel

Active-duty military personnel receive the most generous baggage allowances on Southwest, recognizing their unique travel needs.

  • Exemption from Fees: Active-duty military members with valid ID are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit.
  • Increased Limits: They are not subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges for bags up to 100 pounds and 80 linear inches.
  • Restrictions: This exemption does not apply to items exceeding 100 pounds or 80 inches, which must still be handled as cargo.

Policy for Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Many travelers carry items that do not fit the "standard suitcase" profile. Southwest has specific rules for these items.

Golf Bags and Skis

Southwest typically accepts one golf bag or one pair of skis (including poles and boots) as a checked bag. If the passenger’s fare allows for free bags, these items may count toward that allowance. While they are often oversized by linear inch standards, Southwest frequently waives the "oversize" fee for these specific items, though weight limits (50 lbs) still apply.

Surfboards and Bicycles

These items are generally subject to a $75 to $200 flat fee depending on the specific dimensions and the route. They must be packed in protective containers or bags designed specifically for transit.

Musical Instruments

Small musical instruments (like violins or small guitars) may be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin. Larger instruments (like cellos or basses) must be checked. They will count as a checked bag and are subject to all overweight and oversize fees. Southwest’s liability for these items is limited, so additional third-party insurance is often recommended for high-value instruments.

International Travel Requirements

Flying to international destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America involves stricter check-in procedures regarding luggage.

  1. Ticket Counter Check-in: For international itineraries, passengers must check their bags at the Southwest ticket counter. Curbside check-in is not available for these flights.
  2. Time Constraints: For most international flights, passengers and their baggage must be checked in at least 60 minutes prior to departure. For flights departing Aruba, this requirement increases to 75 minutes.
  3. Re-checking in the U.S.: When returning to the United States, passengers must claim all luggage at their first point of entry to clear Customs. After clearing, they must re-check the bags with a Southwest agent before proceeding to their connecting flight.

Baggage Liability and Claims Process

Understanding the airline's responsibility for lost or damaged items is crucial for frequent travelers.

Liability Limits

Southwest Airlines’ liability for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage is limited to $3,800.00 per fare-paying customer for domestic travel. For international travel, the limits are governed by the Montreal Convention.

Reporting Requirements

If a bag is damaged or lost, the passenger must report the issue in person at the airport within four hours of arrival at the destination. Failure to report within this window significantly weakens the passenger's ability to claim compensation.

Conditional Acceptance

Southwest often uses "Limited Release" tags for items that are improperly packed or inherently fragile (like strollers or unboxed electronics). By signing this tag, the passenger acknowledges that the airline is not responsible for damage to those specific items during transit.

Strategies to Minimize Baggage Costs

With the 2025 policy shift, travelers should adapt their packing and booking habits to avoid unnecessary fees.

1. Leverage Carry-on Allowances

Southwest still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. The carry-on must fit in the overhead bin (dimensions roughly 24x16x10 inches), and the personal item must fit under the seat. Maximizing these spaces can eliminate the need for a checked bag entirely.

2. Consolidate into One Bag

Since the first bag is $35 and the second is $45, it is cheaper to check one 48-pound bag than two 20-pound bags. If traveling with a companion, consider sharing one large suitcase that stays under 50 pounds.

3. Use Self-Tagging Kiosks

At many airports, Southwest offers self-tagging kiosks. This allows passengers to print their own bag tags and drop them at a designated express counter. While it doesn't change the fee, it significantly reduces the time spent in the lobby, which is expected to see increased transaction times due to the new fee processing.

4. Digital Check-in

Pay for baggage fees during the online check-in process (starting 24 hours before flight). While the price is the same as at the airport, it streamlines the experience. Note that some airport counters may only accept physical credit cards for payment and might not support mobile wallets like Apple Pay.

5. Evaluate Fare Bundles

When booking, compare the cost of a "Basic" fare plus baggage fees versus a "Choice Extra" or "Business Select" fare. In some cases, the higher fare class might only be $50 more than the Basic fare but includes $80 worth of baggage benefits, plus early boarding and extra points.

How Southwest Compares to Other Airlines

Even with the new fees, Southwest’s structure remains somewhat competitive in the U.S. market.

  • Delta and United: Typically charge $35-$40 for the first bag on basic economy fares.
  • American Airlines: Charges similar rates but often restricts carry-ons for the lowest fare tiers.
  • Spirit and Frontier: Charge for both carry-on and checked bags, with prices that fluctuate based on when you pay.

Southwest’s decision to keep free carry-ons and maintain a flat $35 fee for the first bag positions it similarly to the "Big Three" legacy carriers, but it loses the unique market advantage it held for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Southwest still allow two free checked bags for everyone?

No. For tickets booked on or after May 28, 2025, only Business Select, Choice Extra fares, and certain elite status members or military personnel receive two free bags. Basic and Choice fares now incur fees.

What happens if my bag is 52 pounds?

You will likely be charged a $100 overweight fee in addition to the standard $35 or $45 checked bag fee. Southwest agents are generally strict about the 50-pound limit.

Can I pay for my bags with Rapid Rewards points?

Currently, Southwest requires baggage fees to be paid in currency (credit card). Points are generally reserved for fare redemption and certain inflight purchases, not for ancillary baggage fees.

Are strollers and car seats free to check?

Yes, Southwest typically allows one stroller and one car seat to be checked free of charge per child. These do not count toward your checked bag allowance and can be checked at the ticket counter or the gate.

What is the fee for a third checked bag?

A third checked bag, and any subsequent bags, will cost $150 each. This is a significant jump from the second bag fee of $45, designed to discourage passengers from bringing excessive luggage on narrow-body aircraft.

Summary of Southwest's 2025 Baggage Policy

The transition of Southwest Airlines to a fee-based baggage model marks the end of an era in American aviation. Passengers flying in 2025 must be diligent about checking their "Date of Booking" to know which rules apply.

  • Booked before May 28, 2025: 2 bags free.
  • Booked after May 28, 2025: $35 for the 1st bag, $45 for the 2nd bag (on standard fares).
  • Always Free: Carry-on bag, personal item, and Business Select checked bags.
  • Status Benefits: A-List and Credit Card holders get the 1st bag free; A-List Preferred gets 2 bags free.

By understanding the linear inch requirements and the 50-pound weight ceiling, travelers can navigate these changes without depleting their travel budget. Always confirm your specific baggage allowance through the "Manage Booking" section on the Southwest mobile app before arriving at the terminal.