Southwest Airlines Baggage Fee: What You Need to Know Before Flying

Southwest Airlines Baggage Fee: What You Need to Know Before Flying

When planning your next trip with Southwest Airlines, understanding their baggage policies can help you avoid unexpected costs. With many airlines imposing strict baggage limits and extra fees, Southwest Airlines stands out by offering a more traveler-friendly approach to baggage fees. This guide will break down everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines baggage fee policies, ensuring you're well-prepared for your journey.

Why Choose Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines is one of the most popular low-cost carriers in the U.S., known for its flexibility and customer-friendly services. One of the biggest draws is their lenient baggage policy, which is significantly more generous than most other major airlines.

Understanding the Free Baggage Allowance

The most remarkable aspect of Southwest Airlines' baggage policy is that the first two checked bags are free for each passenger. Yes, you read that right—two free checked bags! This sets Southwest apart from competitors, where even the first bag often comes with a fee.

Here’s what you need to know about the free checked baggage:

1. First two checked bags are free: Each passenger is allowed to check up to two bags free of charge.
2. Weight and size limits: Each of these two bags must not exceed 50 pounds in weight and 62 inches in combined dimensions (length + width + height).
3. Exceptions: If your bag exceeds these limits, you may be charged an additional fee (more on this below).

This generous policy is ideal for families, frequent travelers, or anyone who needs to bring more luggage on their trip without the added stress of paying baggage fees.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees

While the first two bags are free, there are still fees to be aware of if your luggage exceeds certain size or weight limits. Here's what to keep in mind:

1. Overweight bags: Bags weighing between 51-100 pounds will incur a fee of $75 per bag. Bags that weigh over 100 pounds are not accepted as checked baggage.
2. Oversized bags: If your bag’s dimensions exceed 62 inches (but are under 80 inches), an oversized fee of $75 applies. Bags larger than 80 inches in combined dimensions are not accepted.

By carefully weighing and measuring your bags before arriving at the airport, you can avoid these additional charges.

Carry-On Baggage Policy

In addition to the free checked baggage, Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard for free.

• Carry-on bag: Must fit in the overhead bin and not exceed 10 x 16 x 24 inches.
• Personal item: Must fit under the seat in front of you and can include items like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack.

It’s important to note that there are no weight restrictions for carry-on or personal items, but they must adhere to the size requirements. This can be a big plus for travelers who want to avoid checking luggage altogether.

Special Items and Sporting Equipment

Southwest Airlines has specific policies for travelers with special items or sporting equipment. Some items, such as wheelchairs or assistive devices, do not count toward your baggage allowance and are free of charge.

For sports equipment like golf bags, skis, or bicycles, Southwest generally allows these to be checked in as part of your two free checked bags, provided they fall within the weight and size limits. However, if they exceed those limits, the overweight and oversized fees will apply.

Here are some key details:

• Golf bags: Allowed as part of your checked baggage. If they exceed the weight limit, the $75 fee applies.
• Bicycles: Must be packed in a proper case, and if oversized or overweight, the same fees apply.
• Skis or snowboards: These can be checked in as one of your two free bags, with the same weight and size restrictions.

Tips to Avoid Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees

Although Southwest Airlines is known for its generous baggage policies, it’s still a good idea to follow these tips to avoid any extra charges:

1. Weigh your bags before heading to the airport: Use a luggage scale to ensure your bags are under the 50-pound limit to avoid the overweight baggage fee.
2. Measure oversized items: Make sure your bag doesn’t exceed 62 inches in total dimensions to steer clear of oversized fees.
3. Pack smart for carry-on: If you want to avoid checking bags altogether, take advantage of Southwest’s generous carry-on and personal item allowance.
4. Be mindful of sports equipment: If you’re traveling with sports equipment, ensure it’s packed appropriately and doesn’t exceed weight limits to avoid extra charges.

International Travel Considerations

For those flying internationally, Southwest Airlines still maintains its two-free-checked-bags policy. However, different rules might apply for international destinations, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific baggage policies for your destination before you fly.

International travelers should also be aware that items like duty-free purchases must fit within your carry-on allowance.

Additional Baggage Fees: What You Might Encounter

While the first two checked bags are free, additional checked bags will incur a fee of $75 per bag. This is consistent for both domestic and international flights.

Here’s a breakdown of Southwest Airlines baggage fees:

• First two checked bags: Free
• Third checked bag and beyond: $75 per bag
• Overweight fee (51-100 pounds): $75 per bag
• Oversized fee (63-80 inches): $75 per bag
• Carry-on bags: Free

It’s also important to note that Southwest Airlines does not charge fees for changing or canceling your flight. So if your plans change, you can rest assured that you won’t face additional penalties.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines' baggage policies are among the most traveler-friendly in the industry, especially when compared to many other airlines that charge fees for even a single checked bag. With two free checked bags, a generous carry-on policy, and reasonable fees for overweight or oversized items, Southwest offers significant savings for those who need to bring extra luggage.

When flying with Southwest, simply be mindful of the size and weight of your baggage to avoid unnecessary fees. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or with family, understanding the Southwest Airlines baggage fee structure can make your trip smoother and more affordable.