When it comes to flying, extra fees can feel endless, especially for something as simple as checking a bag. For many airlines, baggage fees have become a way to squeeze more out of passengers — but not with Southwest Airlines. The baggage policy at Southwest stands out for being both generous and refreshingly straightforward: they let you check not one, but two bags for free on every ticket. That is a rare deal in the world of air travel today, where even budget-friendly fares often come with hidden costs.

If you are a frequent flyer, a family with lots to pack, or just someone who likes to travel hassle-free, understanding the baggage policy at Southwest can save you both time and money. We are breaking down everything you need to know about the rules on Southwest for checked bags, carry-ons, special items, and even some insider tips for packing smart. Read on to see how you can take full advantage of the generous Southwest baggage policy, avoid extra fees, and make your next trip as seamless as possible.

The Basics Of The Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

Credit. Southwest Airlines. Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy Allows Two Free Checked Bags.

The baggage policy at Southwest is one of the most generous among major U.S. airlines. Their standout feature? You get two checked bags free with every ticket. That is right – no extra fees for those two bags as long as you follow their size and weight guidelines. For travelers who prefer to avoid hidden fees, this policy alone makes Southwest a fantastic choice.

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect:

• First Checked Bag: Free
• Second Checked Bag: Free
• Third Checked Bag And Beyond: $150 per bag, each way
• Oversized Bags (over 62 inches): $200 per bag, each way
• Overweight Bags (51-70 lbs): $150 per bag, each way
• Overweight Bags (71-100 lbs): $200 per bag, each way

As long as your two checked bags weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kilograms) each and measure no more than 62 linear inches, you will not pay a dime. That is a rare deal in the airline industry today, where even the first bag is often an added expense.

Related: The Best Credit Cards For Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards

Carry-On Allowance And Personal Items

Southwest also has a clear carry-on and personal item policy to keep your boarding process smooth and efficient. Each passenger is allowed:

• One Carry-On Bag (up to 10 x 16 x 24 inches)
• One Personal Item (such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack, fitting under the seat in front of you)

Your carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item should fit comfortably under the seat. This is a fairly standard carry-on allowance across all major airlines.

Special Baggage: Sporting Equipment And Baby Gear

If you are traveling with sports equipment, musical instruments, or baby gear, the Southwest baggage policy is designed to keep things straightforward.

Baby Gear

• Items like car seats and strollers are allowed onboard free of charge, as long as they are for a child on the same reservation.
• You can check these items at the ticket counter or the gate free of charge as well, for added convenience.

Sports Equipment

• Equipment like skis, golf clubs, and fishing poles can be checked free of charge as long as they are within the two-bag limit and meet the size restrictions.
• Oversized fees apply only if the item exceeds 62 linear inches or 50 pounds (23 kilograms).

Musical Instruments

• Instruments are treated as either carry-on or checked baggage, depending on their size.
• Smaller instruments can be brought as carry-ons if they fit within the size limits of the cabin, while larger ones will need to be checked.
• Oversized fees apply only if the item exceeds 62 linear inches or 50 pounds (23 kilograms).

With these flexible policies, Southwest ensures that travelers with specialized gear can fly with ease – and without extra fees in most cases.

Baggage Tips For Southwest Flyers

Credit. ADDitude. Pack Strategically When Flying Southwest Airlines To Avoid Extra Fees.

Now that you know the basics, let us dive into some tips to maximize the benefits of the Southwest baggage policy.

• Pack Strategically To Avoid Extra Fees: Remember that the free checked bags are only free if they stay under 50 pounds and within 62 inches in size. If you are close to the weight limit, consider moving heavier items into your carry-on or personal item.
• Tag Your Bags And Keep Valuables With You: Even though Southwest rarely loses luggage, it is always smart to label your bags with clear contact information or identification markers. Also, keep valuables like electronics, medications, and essential documents in your carry-on, just in case.
• Use The Southwest Curbside Check-In: To make your airport experience even easier, Southwest offers curbside check-in for checked baggage at many airports. This means you can drop off your bags outside the terminal, often with shorter wait times than the regular check-in counters.
• Track Your Bags With An Apple AirTag: For added peace of mind, consider slipping an Apple AirTag into each of your checked bags. These small, coin-sized trackers let you monitor your the location of your bag in real-time through the “Find My” app on your iPhone. If your bag is delayed or misplaced, you will be able to see exactly where it is — whether it is still at the departure airport or already en route to the baggage carousel.

Why The Southwest Baggage Policy Is A Standout Choice

Credit. Business Traveler USA. Southwest Airlines Flight.

Southwest Airlines is a rare gem among major carriers with its two free checked bags and no extra fees for carry-ons. For families, frequent travelers, and anyone wanting to avoid the headache of hidden costs, this policy simplifies packing decisions and provides exceptional value. By choosing Southwest, you are not only getting affordable flights but also the peace of mind that your baggage will not cost you a fortune. This baggage policy is a huge reason many travelers stick with Southwest for both domestic and international flights over other carriers like American, Delta, and United.

Related: What Is Southwest EarlyBird Check-In: An Easy Boarding Option

Final Thoughts

The Southwest Airlines baggage policy is a standout choice for travelers wanting a budget-friendly, hassle-free experience. With two free checked bags, a carry-on, and a personal item included with every ticket, the Southwest approach makes it easy to pack what you need without the stress of extra fees. From sports equipment to baby gear, Southwest accommodates a variety of traveler needs, while tools like Apple AirTags can offer added peace of mind by tracking your bags in real-time.

Choosing Southwest means setting yourself up for a smooth, cost-effective travel experience. So pack smart, take full advantage of these perks, and enjoy the journey!