Southwest's baggage policy has changed
Updated September 2026
For years, "two bags fly free" was the reason people picked Southwest. That's no longer the default — most passengers now pay for checked bags, and it's worth knowing exactly which group you fall into before you book.
Who still gets free checked bags
| Group | Checked bag allowance |
|---|---|
| Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred (+ up to 8 companions) | 2 free checked bags |
| Choice Extra Fare fliers & active-duty military | Free checked bags |
| Rapid Rewards A-List | 1 free bag (2nd is $35) |
| Rapid Rewards co-branded credit cardholders | 1 free bag (2nd is $45) |
| Everyone else (Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred) | $35 first bag, $45 second bag |
If you don't hold elite status, a Choice Extra Fare, or a Southwest co-branded card, plan on $35 for your first checked bag and $45 for your second — on top of the ticket price.
Carry-on: still generous, still free
The carry-on allowance hasn't changed and is free for everyone: up to 24 x 16 x 10 in (roughly 61 x 41 x 25 cm), with no published weight limit — you just need to be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself. That's more generous on size than most US carriers. Check a specific bag against this and 15 other airlines with our carry-on checker.
Checked bag size and weight limits
Whether or not your bag is free, it still has to fit the limits: 62 in total (length + width + height) and 50 lbs per bag. A third bag costs $150 regardless of status. Oversized bags (over 62 in) add at least $200, and overweight bags (over 50 lbs) add at least $100 — bags over 100 lbs or 80 in total aren't accepted at all.
Bottom line
If you don't qualify for a free checked bag, it's often cheaper to pack into Southwest's generous free carry-on instead of paying $35–45 to check one. Our packing list generator is built for exactly that — fitting a trip into carry-on-only.
Sources
- Skyscanner — Southwest carry-on rules & checked bags in 2026
- Southwest's own published baggage policy — fares, fees and qualifying tiers change, so confirm on southwest.com before flying.
LuggageSearch is reader-supported. This page may contain affiliate links — see our disclosure. Airline policies change: always confirm on the airline's own site before flying.
