South West Checked Bag Policy

So, you’re flying Southwest. Good call. You’ve heard the rumors about free bags, right? Let’s talk about the Southwest checked bag policy—because it’s almost too good to be true.

First things first: yes, you get two checked bags for free. No fees. No hidden charges. It’s like they’re handing out luggage space like candy at a parade. You could bring a third if you’re feeling wild—but that’ll cost you $75, plus tax. Steep, but hey, they warned you.

Every bag needs to weigh under 50 pounds. Fifty pounds—that’s like a small, very heavy toddler. Go over, and you’ll pay a $75 fee for overweight bags. Want to go heavier? Bags up to 100 pounds are a no-go; they’ll deny them at the counter. Don’t be that person trying to check a suitcase full of rocks.

Size limits apply too. Each bag must be under 62 inches when you add width, height, and depth. Think of it as a Golden Retriever’s worth of space. If your bag is bigger, it’s either oversized or you’re smuggling a small canoe. Oversized bags? Same $75 penalty.

The “Two Free Bags” Thing is Real

Let that sink in: two free bags per person. Most airlines charge $35 for the first one and $45 for the second. Southwest is basically the generous friend who picks up the tab. You can pack that extra pair of shoes, your inflatable paddleboard, or a year’s supply of your grandma’s jam.

But here’s a twist: weight limits apply per bag. You can’t just throw everything into one 48-pound monster and call it a day. Well, you can—if it’s under 50 pounds. But don’t try to combine them into one 100-pound behemoth. That’s a hard no.

Can I Check A Backpack On Southwest Airlines? Everything You Need To

Also, your carry-on is still allowed, and it’s also free. So you get a personal item, a carry-on, and two checked bags. Are you moving or just going to visit your mom?

What About Sports Equipment?

Oh, you’re a skier? A golfer? A surfer? Good news: Southwest treats sports gear like regular checked bags. So your skis, golf clubs, and surfboards are free as long as they fit the size and weight rules. Just don’t forget to pad them—nobody wants a broken surfboard. Unless you’re collecting broken surfboards. No judgment.

But wait—there’s a catch. Oversized or overweight sports gear still incurs that $75 fee if it’s over 50 pounds or over 62 inches. So check your gear’s specs before you pack. A pair of skis? Usually fine. A very tall surfboard? You might have to pay up.

The Fine Print (Because of Course)

Southwest allows medically necessary items and child car seats for free, even if they’re extra. But you can’t check a stroller at the gate—they’ll take it at the ticket counter. Wait, what? Yes, gate-checked strollers aren’t a thing here. You have to check them at the counter, then pick them up in the baggage claim. It’s a little weird, but it works.

Southwest Airlines Checked Bag Fees Live: Here's What You'll Pay - One

And really heavy bags (over 100 pounds) are flat-out denied. No exceptions. No negotiating. The bag is getting a time-out. You can’t check a firearm in a checked bag that’s over 50 pounds either—it has to be under the standard limit. Seriously, who brings a 60-pound gun case?

Let’s Talk About the “Free” Part Again

I know I said it, but it bears repeating: two free checked bags. That’s a savings of up to $70 per bag on other airlines. For a family of four, you’re looking at $280 in savings. That’s a whole dinner out—or, you know, a new suitcase. Priorities, people.

Now, Southwest’s policy is for domestic flights only. Flying to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Hawaii? The same free bag policy applies for those routes too. But if you’re going international beyond that—say, to Europe—you’ll need to check the fine print. Hawaii is domestic for Southwest, so two free bags still count. Lucky you.

Can I Check A Backpack On Southwest Airlines? Everything You Need To

What If You’re a Loyal Customer?

Got Southwest’s credit card? Rapid Rewards status? Then you’re in for even more love. A-List and Business Select travelers get priority boarding and free same-day standby. But the bag policy doesn’t change—everyone gets two free bags. Even your cat can have its own suitcase.

One more tip: check-in online and use a bag tag printer at the airport if you want to skip the counter. You can drop your bags without waiting in line. It’s magical. Like having a VIP pass to a very mundane experience.

Final Thoughts (and a Warning)

Don’t overpack just because it’s free. I know, I know—tempting. But your back will thank you. And remember: weight and size matter. A bag that’s half an inch too big or one pound over will cost you. Don’t test the limits.

So go ahead. Bring the kitchen sink. Bring your collection of inflatable flamingos. Southwest won’t charge you—unless they weigh more than a sack of potatoes. Two free bags. It’s the best thing since pretzels in a sky. And we all love pretzels.