Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy (2026) — Fees, Limits & Rules
Southwest Airlines allows 1 carry-on and 1 personal item for free. Checked bags cost $45 for the first and $55 for the second (as of April 2026). Only A-List Preferred members and Rapid Rewards credit cardholders get free checked bags.
Baggage Allowance Summary
| Airline | Southwest Airlines (WN) |
|---|---|
| Carry-On | 24x16x10 inches (61x41x25 cm), no weight limit |
| Personal Item | 1 personal item: 16.25x13.5x8 inches. Must fit under the seat in front of you. |
| Checked Bag Allowance | Basic Fare: 0 bags. Choice Fare: 0 bags. Choice Preferred Fare: 0 bags. Choice Extra Fare: 2 bags (50 lbs each). RR A-List Preferred: 2 bags free. RR A-List/Credit Cardmembers: 1 bag free. |
| First Bag Fee | $45 domestic (increased April 2026) |
| Second Bag Fee | $55 domestic (increased April 2026) |
| Overweight Fee | $100 for bags 51-70 lbs, $200 for bags 71-100 lbs |
| Oversized Fee | $200 for bags 63-80 linear inches |
| Max Weight | 23 kg |
| Max Dimensions | 157 cm linear (L+W+H) |
| Free Bag in Economy | No |
Special Items
Sports Equipment
Standard checked bag fees apply. Oversized fee waived for sports equipment 63-115 inches. Overweight fees apply: $100 for 51-70 lbs, $200 for 71-100 lbs.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments allowed as carry-on if within 24x16x10 inches. Larger instruments can be carried on if they fit in overhead bin or under seat. Can purchase a seat for large instruments (must be first row window seat). Checked instruments subject to standard fees; oversize/overweight fees apply if 62-150 inches or 51-165 lbs.
International Rules
Baggage for international flights must be checked at least 60 minutes prior to departure (75 minutes for Aruba). Seasonal baggage embargoes may apply. Must claim and re-check baggage upon arrival in the U.S. unless arriving from a preclear city (Aruba or Nassau).
Tips to Avoid Fees
1. Book Choice Extra fare for two free checked bags. 2. Get a Rapid Rewards credit card for one free checked bag (extends to up to 8 companions). 3. Achieve A-List Preferred status for two free checked bags. 4. Active-duty military get free checked bags. 5. Hawaii residents get 2 free bags on interisland flights.
Unique Nuances
Southwest ended its famous 'Bags Fly Free' policy on May 28, 2025. As of April 2026, fees increased to $45/$55 for first/second checked bags. Active-duty military still receive free checked bags. RR Credit Cardmembers get 1 free bag for themselves and up to 8 companions. A-List Preferred members get 2 free bags. Oversized fees are waived for sports equipment up to 115 inches.