Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees: 2026 Guide to Checked Bag Costs

Southwest Airlines has shifted its longstanding policy by introducing fees for checked baggage effective May 28, 2025, marking the end of free bags for most passengers. The first checked bag now costs $45, the second $55, and additional bags $150 each, though certain travelers still qualify for waivers.

Understanding Southwest’s Core Baggage Rules

Southwest maintains generous carry-on allowances while tightening checked bag access. Passengers can bring one carry-on bag plus one personal item at no charge, a policy unchanged amid the checked bag fee rollout. Checked bags must not exceed 50 pounds in weight or 62 linear inches (length + width + height) to avoid extra penalties.

These dimensions ensure bags fit standard aircraft holds without issues. Exceeding limits triggers surcharges added to base fees, emphasizing the need for precise packing.

Checked Baggage Fees Breakdown

Standard fees apply unless waived through status, fare class, or other perks. Payments occur at the airport; prepayment options are unavailable.

Data reflects U.S. mainland and Hawaii-specific rates as of flights booked after April 9, 2026.

Who Gets Free Checked Bags?

• Elite Status Holders: Rapid Rewards A-List members receive one free checked bag; A-List Preferred gets two.
• Credit Card Perks: Holders of Southwest co-branded cards (e.g., Rapid Rewards Priority) enjoy one or two free bags.
• Fare Upgrades: Choice Extra bundles include two complimentary checked bags.
• Military Personnel: Active-duty U.S. military and dependents check up to five bags free, with reduced excess fees.
• Hawaii Travel: Residents fly with two free bags universally; intra-island non-residents pay discounted rates.

Combining perks, such as elite status with a premium fare, maximizes savings on luggage costs.

Excess Baggage Penalties Explained

Bags over standard limits face tiered surcharges atop base fees. Maximum accepted weight is 100 pounds, and size up to 80 linear inches; beyond that, cargo shipping is required.

U.S. Mainland Excess Fees (Per Bag, Per Direction)

Hawaii-Specific Excess Fees

Sports equipment and certain media gear often qualify for waivers on size/weight penalties, paying only standard fees.

Southwest Carry-On and Personal Item Policy

Unlike many carriers, Southwest permits a full-size carry-on (up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches) and personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag fitting under seat) free for all. This flexibility suits light packers avoiding checked fees entirely. Gate agents may enforce sizes during boarding, so compliant bags prevent rechecks at extra cost.

Strategies to Minimize or Avoid Fees

Smart planning offsets new charges:

• Pack Light: Utilize free carry-on to consolidate items, checking zero bags.
• Earn Status: Fly frequently for A-List (35,000 tier points) or Preferred (100,000 points) to unlock free bags.
• Get a Card: Southwest Rapid Rewards cards offer free first or second bags for cardholders and up to 8 companions.
• Book Choice Extra: For $99-$149 extra per leg, gain two free checked bags plus priority boarding.
• Ship Bags: Services like LugLess deliver door-to-door from $25-$45, bypassing airport lines.
• Hawaii Focus: Leverage resident perks or intra-island discounts for Pacific trips.

Weigh bags pre-travel using home scales to dodge overweight surprises.

Special Item Handling Rules

Southwest accommodates gear with leniency:

• Sports Equipment: Skis, bikes, golf clubs count as standard checked bags; oversize fees waived up to 115 inches.
• Musical Instruments: Cabin-sized instruments fly free as carry-ons; larger ones check at standard fees.
• Medical Devices: Wheelchairs, oxygen tanks travel free without counting toward allowances.
• Firearms: Unloaded in locked cases, checked as standard bags with declaration.

Verify specifics via Southwest’s site for prohibited items like lithium batteries over limits.

How Fees Changed: Historical Context

From 1971 to May 2025, Southwest pioneered two free checked bags, differentiating from fee-heavy rivals. Rising costs prompted the shift, aligning with industry norms while preserving carry-ons and waivers. Third-bag fees rose from $75 previously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Southwest charge for carry-on bags?

No, one carry-on and one personal item remain free.

Can I prepay baggage fees online?

No, fees pay at check-in or bag drop.

What if my bag is slightly over 62 inches?

Expect $200 oversize fee plus base charge.

Do families get extra free bags?

No group waivers beyond military; per-passenger rules apply.

Are fees refundable if unused?

Paid fees non-refundable unless waived via status.

How many bags can I check?

Up to 20 per ticket, with escalating fees.

Planning Your Southwest Trip with Luggage in Mind

Review your fare, status, and card benefits before booking. Digital check-in 24 hours prior allows fee prep via app, streamlining airport process. For heavy packers, weigh cost-benefit of shipping versus checking. This policy evolution rewards loyalists while charging casual flyers fairly.

Stay updated via official channels, as fees adjust periodically (e.g., post-April 2026 tweaks).