Does Southwest Charge for Bags Now? A Complete Update on Their New Policy

flightshelpcenters
25 minutes ago
5 min read

If you're preparing to fly with Southwest Airlines, it’s essential to become familiar with Southwest Baggage Fees, including the updated cost structure, exemptions, and how the changes might affect your travel budget. Knowing the policy ahead of time helps you avoid surprise charges at the gate. Below, we’ll explore the airline’s policy in depth — from size limits and checked-bag guidance to how you can avoid or minimize fees.

Quick Overview

Here’s a snapshot of the major highlights of the Southwest Baggage Fees:

As of travel booked and ticketed on or after May 28, 2025, checked bags for many passengers on Southwest will incur fees.
The first checked bag is now typically $35, and the second is $45.
Some fare types, loyalty status tiers, and credit-card holders may still get checked-bag fees waived.
Carry-on and personal items still remain free under defined size limits.
Overweight, oversized, and additional checked-bag fees apply beyond the standard allowances.

With that in mind, let’s dig into the full details of the airline’s policy, compare how it stacks up with other carriers, provide guidelines for travellers, and answer the most frequently asked questions.

Detailed Policy — What You Need to Know

1. Checked Bag Fees & Fare Types

Under the updated policy, the airline’s standard fee schedule applies to flights booked and ticketed on or after May 28, 2025. The standard fees:

First checked bag: $35
Second checked bag: $45
For the third bag and beyond, oversized or overweight bags: additional fees apply.

2. Who Gets Free Bags?

Not everyone pays. Some passengers may still qualify for waived fees. For example:

Fare types such as Business Select, Choice Extra, or higher may still include two free checked bags.
Members of the Rapid Rewards® loyalty program with A-List Preferred status and certain other statuses may receive free bags. I
Holders of certain co-branded credit cards may receive a free checked bag benefit.

Make sure to check your booking details under “Checked Bag Policy” in your reservation to confirm any free-bag eligibility.

3. Carry-On & Personal Item Policy

Regarding carry-ons, the airline policy remains generous:

One free carry-on bag (roller bag, tote, garment bag) not exceeding external dimensions of 10″ × 16″ × 24″.
One free personal item (briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack) that fits under the seat.

Thus, the basic carry‐on allowance remains the same under the Southwest Luggage Guidelines.

4. Overweight, Oversize & Additional Bags

Beyond the standard limits, additional fees apply:

Oversized baggage (more than 62″ but up to 80″): $200 plus standard fee.
Overweight checked bags (51-70 lbs): $150; (71-100 lbs): $200.
3rd and additional checked bags: $150 each (according to one schedule) for bookings after the new policy.

5. When the Old Policy Applies

If your flight was booked and ticketed before May 28, 2025, the old rules may still apply (two free checked bags for many fare types). Make sure to check your fare conditions if your ticket was issued earlier.

6. How to Avoid Unexpected Charges

Book your check-in baggage early (online) to avoid higher airport or gate fees.
Confirm your fare type and any free-bag benefit from loyalty status or credit card.
Stay within size and weight limits to avoid overweight/oversize surcharges.
Consider packing lighter if possible and use your carry-on allowance.
If you hold A-List or higher status (or card holder) verify that your benefits are applied.
Call Southwest’s official contact number +1 (866) 558-3017 to clarify your baggage allowance and check for any special exemptions.

Comparison Table: How Southwest’s Checked Bag Fees Stack Up

Airline	First Checked Bag Fee	Second Checked Bag Fee	Remarks on Free Bag Policy
Southwest Airlines	$35 (for eligible customers) Reuters+1	$45 Reuters+1	Two free bags only for certain fare types or loyalty members.
Other major U.S. carriers (e.g., Delta Air Lines, American Airlines)	Approx. $35–$40	Approx. $45	Fee structure similar for economy fares. Investopedia

Guidelines & Tips for Travelers

Check your booking date and fare type: If you booked before May 28, 2025 you may still have the older free-two-bags allowance under the “Does Southwest Charge For Bags” legacy policy.
Verify membership/benefit: If you are a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred member, or a Southwest credit card holder, you may have free checked bags included.
Pack within weight and size limits: Standard checked bag limit is up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62″ total dimensions (length + width + height). Oversize/overweight charges apply.
Use carry-on effectively: You still get a free carry-on and personal item per the Southwest Luggage Guidelines — pack smartly.
Pay early if checking bags: Online or in advance payment may help avoid last-minute fees or complications.
Call the official number for clarifications: For any questions or ambiguities about your allowances, call +1 (866) 558-3017 and ask about your specific booking.
Budget for extra fees: If you’re checking a third bag or have oversized/overweight items, make sure to account for those costs in your travel budget.
Update your loyalty status: If you frequently fly with Southwest, attaining A-List or higher status can provide meaningful perks including free checked bags.
Check for special policies: Active-duty military, inter-island Hawaii travel, sports equipment, etc., may have alternate allowances.
Stay updated: Airline baggage policies can change — always verify right before your travel date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are ten common questions and answers about the Southwest Baggage Fees and related policies:

Q: What are the standard checked bag fees for Southwest?
A: For flights booked and ticketed May 28, 2025 and later, the first checked bag is $35, the second is $45 (for most customers). Additional or oversized/overweight bags incur higher fees.
Q: Does Southwest still allow two free checked bags?
A: Not for all fare types. Free checked bags are now limited to certain fare classes (e.g., Business Select, Choice Extra) or passengers with certain loyalty/credit card benefits.
Q: Are carry-on bags free on Southwest?
A: Yes. Under the Southwest Luggage Guidelines, you’re allowed one free carry-on bag (within size limits) plus one personal item.
Q: What happens if my checked bag is overweight or oversized?
A: Overweight (51-70 lbs) may incur ~$150, 71-100 lbs ~$200. Oversized (more than 62″ up to 80″) may incur ~$200 plus the standard fee.
Q: How do I know if my ticket qualifies for free bags?
A: Check your fare type, loyalty status, or credit card benefit. You can also confirm by calling +1 (866) 558-3017 and asking about your specific reservation’s baggage allowance.
Q: If I booked before May 28, 2025, do I still get free bags?
A: Possibly yes—if your ticket was booked and ticketed before the change, the old allowance (two free checked bags) may apply. Confirm your booking details.
Q: How does Southwest’s baggage fee compare to other airlines?
A: It’s broadly in line with major U.S. carriers: ~$35 for first bag, ~$45 for second.
Q: What about 3rd and additional checked bags?
A: Additional bags beyond the second will incur higher fees. For example, one published chart shows $150 for the third bag.
Q: Are there special exemptions (military, Hawaii inter-island, sports equipment)?
A: Yes. Active-duty military members, Hawaii-resident inter-island flyers, and certain sports equipment may qualify for waived or reduced fees.
Q: Who should I call if I have questions about bags?
A: For any baggage-fee or allowance questions with Southwest, call +1 (866) 558-3017. Make sure your booking reference is handy when you call.

Conclusion

The shift in the Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees marks a significant change in how travelers flying with Southwest plan for luggage. Whereas two free checked bags were once standard, now many passengers will incur fees — unless their fare class, loyalty status, or credit-card benefit provides an exemption. With cost-effective fees ($35 for the first bag and $45 for the second) and the still-free carry-on allowance, you can manage your travel budget with a little foresight.

Always check your fare type, weight and size limits, and any potential exemptions before you travel. If you’re uncertain, don’t hesitate to call the airline at +1 (866) 558-3017 for clarification. By doing so, you’ll avoid surprise charges, know exactly what you’re paying for, and make your travel day a smoother experience. Safe travels!