Southwest baggage policy changed significantly after the airline ended its famous two free checked bags benefit for most travellers. If you’re flying Southwest in 2026, understanding baggage fees, carry-on rules, baggage limits, and who still qualifies for free checked bags can help you avoid unexpected airport costs.
While Southwest still offers one of the friendliest carry-on policies among major U.S. airlines, checked baggage is no longer automatically free for everyone. This guide explains Southwest baggage fees, carry-on allowances, weight limits, and the best ways to avoid paying more than necessary.
Quick Answer: What Is Southwest’s Baggage Policy in 2026?
If you’re wondering about the current Southwest baggage policy, here’s the short answer:
- ✔ One carry-on bag is free
- ✔ One personal item is free
- ✔ First checked bag: $45
- ✔ Second checked bag: $55
- ✔ Choice Extra passengers still receive free checked bags
- ✔ Eligible Rapid Rewards credit cardholders and elite members may still qualify for free checked bags
Southwest no longer offers two free checked bags to most passengers. However, it remains one of the few major U.S. airlines that still includes a free carry-on bag on every fare.
Does Southwest Still Have Free Checked Bags?
This is the most common question travellers ask.
The answer is: not for most passengers.
Southwest ended its long-standing two free checked bags policy in 2025. Today, passengers on standard fares generally pay checked baggage fees unless they qualify through elite status, fare type, or a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card.
Passengers who may still receive free checked bags include:
Choice Extra Fare Passengers
The highest Southwest fare category includes complimentary checked baggage benefits.
A-List Preferred Members
Receive free checked bags on eligible Southwest flights.
A-List Members
May receive baggage benefits depending on their status level and booking.
Rapid Rewards Credit Card Holders
Eligible cardholders may receive free checked baggage benefits for themselves and qualifying travellers on the same reservation.
How Much Does Southwest Charge for Checked Bags?
Under the current Southwest baggage policy, most travellers pay checked baggage fees unless they qualify for exemptions.
| Checked Bag | Fee |
| First Checked Bag | $45 |
| Second Checked Bag | $55 |
| Overweight Bag (51–100 lbs) | Additional $75 |
| Oversized Bag | Additional $75 |
Flying Tip: Before paying baggage fees, compare the cost of upgrading your fare. Sometimes upgrading can cost less than paying for multiple checked bags separately.
Southwest Carry-On Policy
One of Southwest’s biggest advantages is that every traveller still receives:
- ✔ One free carry-on bag
- ✔ One free personal item
Unlike some competitors, Southwest has not removed carry-on privileges from its lowest fare categories.
Carry-On Size Limit
Maximum dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
Including wheels and handles.
Personal Item Examples
- Small backpack
- Purse
- Laptop bag
- Briefcase
The personal item must fit underneath the seat in front of you.
Planning to fly Southwest? Read our guide on Southwest Airlines Seat Selection to understand how the airline’s new assigned seating system works. Call us for further info at our phone.
How to Avoid Southwest Baggage Fees?
If you’re trying to reduce travel costs, there are several ways to avoid Southwest baggage fees.
Travel With Carry-On Only
Southwest still includes one carry-on and one personal item free with every fare.
Use a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card
Many Southwest credit cards provide baggage benefits that can offset checked bag costs.
Earn A-List Status
Frequent Southwest travellers may qualify for baggage benefits through elite status.
Compare Fare Types Before Booking
If you plan to check multiple bags, a higher fare category may actually provide better overall value.
Sports Equipment & Special Item Fees on Southwest
| Item | Fee | Notes |
| Golf clubs | Counts as 1 checked bag ($35 or free) | Must be in a travel bag. Standard bag weight/size limits apply. |
| Skis and snowboards | Counts as 1 checked bag ($35 or free) | Ski bag + boots count as one item if in the same bag |
| Bicycles | $75 per direction | Must be in a hard-sided case. In addition to standard bag fee if applicable. |
| Surfboards (under 62 linear inches) | Standard checked bag fee | Boards over 62 linear inches get $75 oversized fee |
| Strollers and car seats | Free | Gate-checked at no charge. Does not count toward bag allowance. |
| CPAP machines | Free | Carry-on. Does not count toward carry-on allowance. |
| Musical instruments | Free if fits overhead | Must fit in overhead bin. Does not count as carry-on. |
How to Pay for Checked Bags on Southwest
- During online booking at southwest.com: add bags when selecting your fare. Fees charged at current rate.
- Via the Southwest app: add bags through Manage Reservations after booking.
- At the airport check-in counter: bags can be added here but there is no price advantage to waiting. Pay the same rate as booking.
- Southwest does not offer a pre-pay discount for bags like some other airlines (Frontier, Spirit). The fee is the same whether you add at booking or at the airport.
Tip: If you have a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card and forgot to link it to your booking, contact Southwest before you fly. The free bag benefit requires your Rapid Rewards number to be in the reservation at time of travel.
Southwest Baggage Policy vs Other Airlines
Many travellers compare Southwest baggage policy against other major U.S. airlines before booking.
| Airline | First Bag | Second Bag | Carry-On Included |
| Southwest | $45 | $55 | Yes |
| American Airlines | $45 | $55 | Yes |
| Delta Air Lines | $45 | $55 | Yes |
| United Basic Economy | $35–$45 | $45–$55 | Limited |
| Frontier | Higher | Higher | No |
| Breeze Airways | Varies | Varies | No |
Southwest’s biggest remaining advantage is its free carry-on policy across all fare categories.
Need to modify your reservation? Read our complete guide to Southwest Airlines Manage Booking for flight changes, cancellations, and travel credits.
Final Thoughts
Southwest baggage policy is very different from what travellers were used to just a few years ago. While most passengers now pay checked bag fees, Southwest still offers benefits that many competitors do not, including a free carry-on bag on all fares.
Before booking, always compare the total trip cost, including baggage fees, fare upgrades, and loyalty benefits. Travellers who plan ahead can often reduce or avoid baggage charges altogether.
Planning a bigger trip? Learn the Best Time to Book Southwest Flights and avoid paying peak-season airfare.
Need help booking Southwest with the best bag deal? Call Flying Getaway at [tfn]. We compare Southwest fares including total bag costs against other airlines to find your lowest all-in price.FAQs
Does Southwest still offer free checked bags in 2026?
Not for most travellers. Southwest ended its two free checked bags policy in 2025. Standard fares now pay baggage fees, while eligible credit cardholders, certain elite members, and premium fare passengers may still qualify for free checked baggage benefits.
How much is a checked bag on Southwest?
The first checked bag costs $45, and the second costs $55 under Southwest’s current baggage policy. Additional charges may apply for overweight or oversized luggage.
Is carry-on still free on Southwest?
Yes. Every passenger receives one free carry-on bag and one free personal item regardless of fare type. This remains one of Southwest’s strongest advantages compared with many low-cost airlines.
What is Southwest’s baggage weight limit?
The standard checked baggage weight limit is 50 pounds. Bags weighing between 51 and 100 pounds may incur overweight charges. Bags over 100 pounds are generally not accepted. Call us to book your southwest airlines flight booking at our phone.
How can I avoid Southwest baggage fees?
You can avoid baggage fees by travelling with only a carry-on, using an eligible Southwest credit card, earning elite status, or booking a fare that includes checked baggage benefits.
Is Southwest baggage policy still better than other airlines?
For travellers who fly with only a carry-on, yes. Southwest continues to include a free carry-on and personal item on all fares, while several low-cost airlines charge extra for cabin baggage.
