As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has ended its policy of two free checked bags for most customers. Baggage fees and free allowances now depend on your fare type and loyalty status. 

Carry-on baggage

Every passenger is allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item at no charge. 

• Carry-on bag: Must fit in the overhead bin and not exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H).
• Personal item: Must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack.
• Exempt items: Items like outer garments, food for the flight, walking canes, and child restraint systems do not count toward your carry-on limit. 

Checked baggage

The previous "Bags Fly Free" policy now only applies to specific fare classes and loyalty tiers. For all other passengers, checked bags incur a fee. 

• New baggage fees (for most fares):
• First checked bag: $35.
• Second checked bag: $45.
• Size and weight limits: Each bag must not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches (length + width + height).
• Free checked bag exceptions: Certain passengers still receive free checked bag allowances:
• Two free bags: Passengers with a Business Select or Choice Extra fare, or those who are Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members.
• One free bag: Rapid Rewards A-List members and Southwest credit card holders.
• Active-duty military: Service members can check more than two bags for free, provided each does not exceed 100 pounds or 80 inches. 

Overweight and oversized bag fees

If your checked bag exceeds the standard weight or size limits, you will be charged additional fees. 

• Overweight (51–100 lbs): $75 per bag.
• Oversized (62–80 inches): $75 per bag.
• Items over 100 lbs or 80 inches cannot be checked as baggage and may need to be sent as cargo. 

How to pay for baggage

Applicable baggage fees can be paid at the airport using self-tagging kiosks or with a Southwest agent at the ticket counter. Only physical credit cards are accepted for payment at the airport; contactless payments are not.