What's The Bag Policy For Southwest
There’s something genuinely refreshing about flying Southwest, and a big part of that joy comes from their famously generous bag policy. Unlike many carriers that nickel-and-d...
There’s something genuinely refreshing about flying Southwest, and a big part of that joy comes from their famously generous bag policy. Unlike many carriers that nickel-and-dime you for every suitcase, Southwest lets you breathe easy. The main purpose of this policy is simple: travel should be less stressful. For families hauling strollers and beach gear, for business travelers with a garment bag and a laptop, or for solo adventurers packing a little too enthusiastically—everyone wins. You can actually bring two full-sized checked bags for free, and that’s a rarity in today’s sky.
Let’s break down the best part: your carry-on and personal item. Southwest allows one carry-on bag (stored in the overhead bin) and one smaller personal item (like a purse or backpack) that fits under the seat. This is standard, but the real magic is their two free checked bags. Each checked bag can weigh up to 50 pounds with no fee. For a family of four, that’s up to eight free suitcases—imagine the savings on a beach vacation compared to other airlines.
If you’re a frequent flyer, this policy is a game-changer. Need to bring sport equipment? A golf bag or ski case counts as one of your two free checked bags (as long as it’s under 50 pounds). No oversize fees for those common items, though they do have size limits—typically 62 linear inches (length + width + height). For travelers, this means you can pack your hobby without a second thought. It’s a perk that keeps Southwest loyalists coming back.
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Getting started is easy: just know your exceptions. Overweight bags (50–100 pounds) cost $75 to $125, and oversized items over 62 inches incur a similar fee. But for 95% of travelers, those rules never apply. Also, military personnel and certain credit card holders get even more flexibility, like two additional free bags. Check the app or website before your trip for the latest tweaks.
To make the most of it, pack smart. Use the two free checked bags for heavy items like books or souvenirs, and keep your carry-on light for easy overhead bin access. Need a quick tip? Weigh your bags at home—a small bathroom scale can save you from surprise fees at the counter. And remember, Southwest’s policy encourages you to bring what you need, not what you’ll later regret. So enjoy the freedom, pack that extra pair of shoes, and let Southwest carry the load without the extra cost.
