When it comes to airline baggage fees, Southwest Airlines continues to stand out from the competition. Known for its two free checked bags policy, Southwest saves travelers significant money compared to other U.S. carriers. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your first trip with Southwest, understanding Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy, size and weight limits, fees, and allowances will ensure a smooth travel experience.
1. Overview of Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy
Southwest Airlines has one of the most generous baggage allowances in the airline industry:
- Two checked bags – FREE for every passenger
- Applies to all ticket types and routes (domestic and international)
- No membership, loyalty status, or extra fees required
This is a huge perk compared to airlines that charge $30–$40 for the first bag and even more for the second.
2. Southwest Airlines Checked Bag Size & Weight Limits
While Southwest offers free checked bags, they must still meet the airline’s size and weight restrictions to avoid additional charges:
- Maximum weight: 50 pounds (22.68 kg) per bag
- Maximum size: 62 linear inches (Length + Width + Height)
If your bag exceeds these limits, overweight or oversize baggage fees will apply.
3. Extra Baggage Fees on Southwest Airlines
If you bring more than two checked bags or exceed size/weight limits, here’s what you can expect to pay (per one-way flight):
Baggage Type
Fee
Third (or additional) checked bag
$75
Overweight bag (51–100 lbs)
$75
Oversized bag (63–80 linear inches)
$75
Important: Southwest does not accept any bag weighing over 100 lbs or larger than 80 linear inches as checked baggage.
4. Southwest Airlines Special Items Policy
Southwest allows many special and oversized items to be checked as part of your baggage allowance:
- Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, golf clubs, surfboards, bicycles (must be packed properly)
- Musical Instruments: Allowed as checked luggage if securely packed
- Child Equipment: Strollers and car seats are checked for free, in addition to your two-bag limit
Some sports gear, like surfboards, may be exempt from oversize fees when flying to/from certain destinations (e.g., Hawaii).
5. Military Baggage Allowance on Southwest
Southwest offers enhanced baggage benefits for active-duty U.S. military members:
- Two free checked bags up to 100 lbs and 80 inches each
- Additional free bags when traveling on official military orders
- Must show valid military ID at check-in
6. Checked Baggage Policy for International Flights
Southwest’s two free checked bags policy applies to both domestic and international flights. However, when traveling internationally (e.g., Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean), keep in mind:
- Customs inspections may delay baggage claim
- Some countries have agricultural restrictions on food items
- Duty-free allowances vary by destination
7. Prohibited Items in Checked Baggage
Southwest follows TSA and FAA regulations for checked luggage. Items not allowed include:
- Explosives or flammable liquids
- Certain lithium batteries
- Weapons without proper declaration and packaging
- Unprotected perishable goods
8. How to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees on Southwest
Although Southwest’s policy is generous, you can still be charged if you exceed size or weight limits. Here are tips to avoid baggage fees:
- Weigh your bags at home before leaving for the airport
- Use lightweight suitcases to maximize weight allowance for clothes/items
- Distribute heavy items between bags to avoid overweight fees
- Check dimensions for oversized gear in advance
- Pack essentials in carry-on to reduce checked baggage weight
9. Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage
If your checked baggage is delayed, lost, or damaged:
- Report it immediately at the Southwest baggage service office at your destination
- Provide your baggage claim tag and a detailed description of the bag
- Keep receipts for any emergency purchases while waiting for your bag
For domestic flights, Southwest compensates up to $3,800 per passenger in accordance with U.S. DOT rules.
10. Why Southwest’s Checked Baggage Policy Is the Best in the U.S.
Compared to most U.S. airlines, Southwest’s policy saves travelers significant money:
- American Airlines: First bag $35, second $45 (one-way)
- Delta: First bag $35, second $45 (one-way)
- United: First bag $35, second $45 (one-way)
- Southwest: Two bags free – every time
For families, sports teams, or long-term travelers, these savings add up quickly. This customer-friendly approach reflects Southwest’s “Transfarency®” philosophy—transparent pricing without hidden costs.
Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy – Quick Reference
Feature
Policy
Free checked bags
2 per passenger
Max weight per bag
50 lbs
Max size per bag
62 linear inches
Extra bag fee
$75
Overweight fee
$75
Oversize fee
$75
Prohibited items
TSA guidelines
Military benefit
2 free bags up to 100 lbs each
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines offers the most generous checked baggage policy in the U.S. airline industry, with two free checked bags on every flight. By understanding the size, weight, and prohibited item rules, you can avoid all baggage fees and travel stress-free.
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