Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy- Learn about the Latest Baggage Allowance

When you pack your bags for the upcoming trip, you must pack them wisely, as there are limitations on every airline about your baggage allowance. However, with the Southwest Airlines baggage policy, you can check all the allowances of your baggage weight and size according to your fare and class type.

Somehow, if you exceed the weight or the size of the baggage, you have to pay an extra baggage fee. Thus, if you fail to understand the baggage policy on Southwest Airlines, you can make a call to our toll-free number and we will guide you through the process.

What is the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy?

Further, following the Southwest Airlines baggage policy, you can bring carry-on baggage, one personal item, and two free checked baggage. The weight and size must be within the standard allowance, else you will have to pay a baggage fee.

• Carry-on Baggage: 10 x 16 x 24 inches
• One Personal Item: 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (purse, laptop bag, or briefcase).
• Checked Baggage: two checked baggage of up to 23 kg each.

Carry-on Baggage Policy on Southwest Airlines 

Moreover, Southwest Airlines allows you to bring free carry-on items, including one personal item and one carry-on bag. Hence, you do not have to pay for the baggage if it is under the standard allowance.

Personal Item

The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and be smaller, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. Meanwhile, the required dimensions are usually restricted to 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches and there’s no weight limit, but it should be small enough to fit comfortably under the seat.

Carry-On Baggage

Your carry-on baggage must fit in the overhead bin and it can be a roller bag or a larger backpack with dimensions of 10 x 16 x 24 inches. This is free of charge, and while there’s no specific weight limit, it should be manageable for overhead storage.

Checked Baggage Policy on Southwest Airlines 

Nevertheless, you can bring up to two checked baggage for free of up to 23 kg weight each with a maximum size limit of 62 linear inches.

First Two Baggage Complimentary

Southwest allows you to check two bags free of charge, checked bags can weigh up to 50 pounds (23 kg). Thus, bags exceeding the weight limit may incur additional fees.

Dimensions Allowance 

Meanwhile, the combined dimensions of each checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm). Additional fees will be chargeable in case the bag is oversized, so it’s essential to measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport.

Additional Bags

For instance, if you need to carry more than two bags, there is a fee for each additional bag. Per the Southwest Airlines baggage policy, the fee for the third or more bags is $75 each, and they are subjected to the same size and weight restrictions.

Special Items and Sports Equipment on Southwest 

Somehow, Southwest Airlines offers flexibility to you when you need to travel with special items or sports equipment which includes items like bicycles, surfboards, golf clubs, and musical instruments.

• Fee for Special Item: Many special items are subject to a $75 fee each way. Thus, it is important to inform Southwest Airlines in advance if you plan to bring any of these items, as they often need to be checked at the ticket counter instead of at the gate.

• Musical Instruments: Southwest allows small musical instruments that can fit in the overhead bin, so you may carry on as part of your two free carry-on items. Whereas, larger instruments can be checked as luggage, but you should contact Southwest in advance to ensure proper handling.

Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy on Excess, Oversize, and Overweight

However, Southwest Airlines has specific conditions if your baggage exceeds from the standard allowance, per the baggage policy. Therefore, a baggage fee will also be charged for extra baggage.

Excess Baggage Fees

Meanwhile, baggage beyond the two free checked bags is charged at $75 each. So, it is crucial to pack efficiently to avoid these extra fees.

Oversize and Overweight Fees

However, bags exceeding 62 inches in total dimensions or 23 kg in weight incur additional charges. The fee for overweight bags (between 51-100 pounds) is $75 per bag, while oversized bags (between 63-80 inches) incur a $75 fee as well.

How to Add Baggage on Southwest Airlines?

Furthermore, you can add your baggage through various modes, including the official website, phone, or at the Southwest counter. You can add it while booking or after booking the tickets.

Add a Baggage Using the Manage Booking Option

• You will have to visit Southwest Airlines’ official website.
• Or, you can directly go to Southwest Airlines manage my booking.
• Now, you will have to mention the flight and your details.
• Further, you can choose to add a baggage option from the menu section.
• Now, you will have to enter the weight and size of your baggage.
• If your baggage exceeds more than the standard size, you will have to pay a fee.
• Hence, a confirmation email will be sent to the mail address.

Dial the Toll-free Number to Add Baggage 

• The second option you have is to call the Southwest helpline number to add the baggage.
• When you make a call, the IVR instructions will start, and you can choose the key to use to speak to the agent.
• The agent will require your booking number and your full name to access your flight.
• After that, the agent will ask about your baggage weight and size.
• If it is under the standard allowance you will not have to pay any fee, else pay the excess baggage fee.
• When the agent completes the transaction, you will receive the confirmation on the mail address.
• For further assistance, you can call us at our toll-free number – +1(855) 456-0694

Buying Baggage at the Airport

However, you can add your baggage after reaching the airport for your flight. While at check-in, you can ask the agent to add your baggage. The executive will check the baggage’s weight and size, and you must pay accordingly.