Traveling with Southwest Airlines comes with one of the most traveler-friendly baggage policies in the industry, but understanding Southwest baggage weight limits and rules is essential to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
Southwest allows two free checked bags, each with a maximum weight of 50 lbs, making it ideal for families, long trips, or travelers carrying extra items.
However, overweight or oversized baggage can incur additional fees, and knowing the Southwest carry-on weight and size limits ensures a smooth boarding process.
From personal item rules to special items like sports equipment or musical instruments, Southwest has clear guidelines that can save travelers time and money.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover every aspect of Southwest baggage allowance, including overweight fees, size restrictions, military baggage benefits, medical device policies, and tips to avoid extra charges. By the end, you’ll be fully prepared to pack smart and travel stress-free.
Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy Overview
Southwest Airlines is well-known for having one of the most generous baggage policies among U.S. carriers. Unlike many airlines that charge for every checked bag, Southwest allows two free checked bags per passenger, each weighing up to 50 lbs and measuring no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This policy makes Southwest an attractive choice for families, budget travelers, and anyone who tends to pack heavier or larger items.
In addition to checked bags, Southwest permits one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. While there is no strict weight limit for carry-ons, size restrictions do apply, ensuring your bag fits comfortably in the overhead bin. Personal items include backpacks, purses, briefcases, or small laptops, and they must fit under the seat in front of you.
Southwest also has clear guidelines for overweight and oversized bags, which can incur fees ranging from moderate to higher amounts depending on the weight or size. Special items, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, or strollers, have their own set of rules and allowances.
Overall, understanding Southwest’s baggage allowance, carry-on policies, and special item rules is crucial for avoiding surprise fees and ensuring a smooth travel experience. Knowing these details ahead of time allows travelers to pack efficiently, avoid overweight charges, and make the most of Southwest’s traveler-friendly baggage policies.
Southwest Checked Baggage Weight Limit
When flying with Southwest Airlines, understanding the checked baggage weight limit is essential to avoid extra fees and airport delays. Each passenger is allowed two free checked bags, and each bag can weigh up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms). This weight limit applies to standard checked luggage, including suitcases, duffel bags, and similar items. Exceeding this limit triggers overweight baggage fees, so it’s important to weigh your bags before arriving at the airport.
In addition to weight, Southwest enforces size restrictions. Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches—the sum of length, width, and height. Bags larger than this are considered oversized and are subject to additional fees. For example, a bag measuring 30 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 15 inches high equals 65 linear inches, which exceeds the limit.
Southwest allows bags weighing 51–70 pounds for an extra fee, while bags between 71–100 pounds incur a higher fee. Bags over 100 pounds are not accepted under any circumstances. This means travelers carrying heavy items, sports equipment, or souvenirs must plan accordingly.
To make packing easier, travelers can invest in lightweight luggage or distribute weight between two bags. Using a home luggage scale ensures your bags comply with Southwest’s baggage allowance. By staying within the 50-pound limit and adhering to size restrictions, you can enjoy a smoother check-in experience and avoid costly overweight fees.
Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees on Southwest
While Southwest Airlines allows two free checked bags, exceeding the weight or size limits can result in additional charges. Knowing these fees ahead of time helps travelers avoid surprises at the airport.
For overweight baggage, the charges depend on the bag’s weight:
- 51–70 lbs (23–32 kg): $75 per bag
- 71–100 lbs (32–45 kg): $100 per bag
- Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted under any circumstances.
In terms of oversized baggage, any bag exceeding 62 linear inches (length + width + height) is considered oversized. Southwest charges $75 per oversized bag, and this fee is separate from overweight charges. For bags that are both overweight and oversized, both fees apply, so it’s essential to measure and weigh your luggage carefully before traveling.
Special items like golf clubs, skis, or musical instruments also have unique rules. Some may be considered oversized but can be checked for an additional fee, while others may require separate arrangements.
Practical tips to avoid fees include using a luggage scale at home, packing lighter by redistributing items between two bags, and opting for soft-sided luggage to stay within size limits. Travelers should also be aware that airport staff enforce these rules strictly, especially at busy terminals.
By understanding Southwest’s overweight and oversized baggage fees, you can plan your packing efficiently, avoid unnecessary expenses, and ensure a smooth check-in process. Preparing in advance saves time, money, and stress at the airport.
Carry-On Baggage Weight & Size Limits
Southwest Airlines makes traveling convenient with its carry-on baggage policy, but understanding the rules is important to avoid complications at the gate. Each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a backpack, purse, briefcase, or small laptop bag. Unlike checked baggage, Southwest does not enforce a strict carry-on weight limit, but your bag must fit comfortably in the overhead bin, and personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
The carry-on bag dimensions must not exceed 10 x 16 x 24 inches. Soft-sided luggage is often easier to fit, especially on crowded flights. Personal items can include laptops, purses, or small backpacks, but they cannot be used to circumvent the free checked baggage allowance.
Although Southwest generally does not weigh carry-ons, airports may enforce size restrictions, especially if the flight is full or the overhead bins are limited. Overstuffed bags or oversized items may need to be checked at the gate, potentially incurring fees.
Travelers can avoid issues by measuring their carry-on in advance and choosing luggage designed to meet Southwest’s size guidelines. Placing heavier items closer to the wheels of rolling carry-ons and keeping personal items organized ensures smooth boarding. Understanding the Southwest carry-on weight and size limits allows travelers to pack efficiently, reduce stress, and make the most of the airline’s generous baggage policies.
Special Baggage Items and Sports Equipment
Southwest Airlines provides clear guidelines for special baggage items, making it easier for travelers with sports gear, musical instruments, or baby equipment to plan ahead. While standard checked and carry-on bags follow the usual weight and size limits, special items often have unique rules and fees.
For sports equipment, Southwest allows items such as golf clubs, skis, snowboards, surfboards, and bicycles to be checked, though fees may apply. Golf clubs and bicycles generally require an oversized baggage fee if they exceed the standard 62 linear inches. Skis and snowboards may also be subject to size restrictions, so measuring your bag before traveling is recommended. Properly packing gear in padded cases not only protects it but also ensures it meets Southwest’s guidelines.
Musical instruments can typically be brought as carry-ons if they fit within the standard size limits or checked as baggage for a fee. Some instruments may require purchasing an additional seat, especially larger items like cellos or double basses.
For families traveling with young children, strollers, car seats, and diaper bags are considered special items and can be checked free of charge. Southwest encourages passengers to bring these items to the gate and check them with gate agents, ensuring safety and convenience.
Understanding Southwest’s special baggage rules allows travelers to avoid extra fees, protect valuable equipment, and make travel less stressful. Planning ahead ensures your sports gear, instruments, and baby items arrive safely and without hassle.
Military Baggage Allowance on Southwest
Southwest Airlines offers special benefits for active-duty military personnel, making travel easier for service members and their families. Military passengers are allowed additional baggage beyond the standard two free checked bags, which can be especially helpful for deployments, relocations, or long-term assignments.
Active-duty service members can check up to five bags free of charge, each with a maximum weight of 70 pounds, exceeding the standard 50-pound limit for regular passengers. This increased weight allowance helps accommodate military gear, personal items, and family luggage. Bags must still comply with size restrictions, measuring no more than 62 linear inches, unless they qualify as oversized baggage with separate fees.
To access these benefits, travelers must present a valid Department of Defense identification card or other official military documentation at check-in. This ensures that the airline correctly applies the military baggage rules and waives any fees associated with extra bags within the allowance.
Southwest’s military baggage policies also extend to carry-on items and personal items, which follow the standard size limits but are generally easier to manage due to the generous checked baggage allowance. Special items like musical instruments or sports equipment may still be subject to size restrictions, but the overall flexibility makes Southwest a preferred choice for military travelers.
By understanding these military baggage allowances, service members can plan their packing efficiently, avoid fees, and enjoy a smoother airport experience. Southwest’s policy demonstrates its commitment to making travel more convenient and affordable for those serving in the armed forces.
Medical Devices and Mobility Aids
Southwest Airlines recognizes the importance of medical devices and mobility aids for travelers with health needs and offers generous allowances to ensure accessibility and comfort. Items such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches, and oxygen equipment are not subject to standard baggage limits and can usually be brought free of charge. This policy allows passengers to travel safely without worrying about additional fees or weight restrictions.
Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be checked at the gate or as checked baggage, depending on the type and size. Southwest staff assists with boarding and ensures these devices are handled carefully, helping travelers maintain independence during their journey. Passengers are encouraged to notify the airline in advance if special assistance is needed.
Medical devices like CPAP machines, nebulizers, and portable oxygen units are considered essential health equipment and can also be carried on board in addition to regular carry-ons. TSA security procedures may require inspection, but the items are generally exempt from size and weight restrictions.
For passengers traveling with mobility aids or other medical equipment, it is recommended to contact Southwest ahead of time to ensure proper accommodations. Having proper documentation or prescriptions for certain devices may be helpful.
By understanding Southwest’s medical device and mobility aid policies, travelers can confidently plan their trips, avoid unnecessary fees, and ensure that essential health equipment arrives safely and is ready for use upon arrival. These policies demonstrate Southwest’s commitment to accessibility and passenger c
FAQs:
1. What is the weight limit for Southwest checked baggage?
Each checked bag can weigh up to 50 lbs (23 kg). Bags over this limit incur overweight fees, and bags over 100 lbs are not accepted.
2. How much does Southwest charge for overweight bags?
- 51–70 lbs: $75 per bag
- 71–100 lbs: $100 per bag
3. Can I bring two 50 lb bags for free?
Yes! Southwest allows two free checked bags, each up to 50 lbs and 62 linear inches in size.
4. Is a backpack considered a personal item?
Yes. Personal items include backpacks, purses, briefcases, or small laptop bags and must fit under the seat in front of you.
5. Does Southwest weigh carry-on luggage?
Southwest does not enforce a strict carry-on weight limit, but size restrictions apply. Oversized items may need to be checked at the gate.
6. Can I combine weight between two bags?
No. Each bag must meet the individual weight limit. You cannot redistribute weight to avoid overweight fees.
7. What if my bag is 1 pound over 50 lbs?
Even 1 pound over the limit requires paying the overweight baggage fee. It’s best to use a home luggage scale before leaving for the airport.
8. Are sports equipment or musical instruments treated differently?
Yes. Items like golf clubs, skis, or instruments may have special rules and fees, depending on size and weight.
9. Are medical devices exempt from weight limits?
Yes. Wheelchairs, CPAP machines, oxygen devices, and mobility aids are generally exempt and do not count toward checked baggage limits.
10. Does Southwest offer additional baggage for military personnel?
Yes. Active-duty military can check up to five bags free, each weighing up to 70 lbs.
Conclusion
Understanding Southwest baggage weight limits and policies is essential for a smooth, stress-free travel experience. With two free checked bags up to 50 lbs each, Southwest Airlines offers one of the most generous baggage allowances in the U.S., making it ideal for families, frequent travelers, and anyone carrying extra luggage.
Knowing the rules for overweight and oversized bags, carry-on limits, and special items like sports equipment, musical instruments, or baby gear can save time and money at the airport.
Active-duty military personnel enjoy additional benefits, including up to five free checked bags with higher weight limits, while passengers with medical devices or mobility aids can travel without worrying about fees or restrictions.
By planning ahead, measuring your luggage, and using lightweight bags, travelers can avoid overweight charges and make the most of Southwest’s traveler-friendly policies.
Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, being familiar with Southwest’s baggage allowance, fees, and special item rules ensures a smoother check-in, boarding, and overall travel experience.
With the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you’ll be fully prepared to pack smart, avoid surprises, and enjoy a hassle-free journey with Southwest Airlines.
I’m a writer at Talk2Flirt.com, where I enjoy creating playful, engaging, and relatable content that inspires confidence, laughter, and genuine connections.
