What is the Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance, Rules & Policy?
Over 70% of airline passengers consider traveling with only a carry-on bag easier and faster. However, getting familiar with the Southwest Airlines baggage allowance, rules, and policy is useful in case you or your loved ones need it.
Everyone purchasing an airplane ticket from this airline gets specific baggage allowances. Many may not be familiar with them and would highly benefit from the information we share below.
Southwest Airlines Baggage: 3 Main Rules
Safe and organized flights must come with certain rules passengers need to follow. This principle also applies to Southwest Airlines.
Baggage allowances in this setting usually involve specific rates and fees. If a passenger wants to carry heavier bags and travel with them on the plane, they will be required to pay more.
Wondering how much you would need to pay during your next trip with Southwest Airlines? Refer to the following regulations:
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Southwest Airlines allows every passenger to travel with a carry-on bag and put it in the overhead compartment once they find their seat. Also, passengers can bring a single personal item that can fit under the seat.
- Fees: Free of Charge
- Size Restrictions: No more than 24” (L) + 16” (W) + 10” (H)
The personal items allowed during a Southwest Airlines flight include:
- A purse
- A briefcase
- A laptop computer
- A backpack
- A pillow
- A blanket
- A small camera
- A pet carrier
Checked Bag Requirements
Southwest Airlines advises passengers to check their bags online, at least a day before their flight. This practice also allows customers to track the location of their baggage in case they have trouble finding it upon arriving at the final destination.
Among Southwest Airlines’ optional travel fees related to checked baggage, pay specific attention to the following details:
- Fees: Up to two bags – free. Three or more bags – $125 per bag
- Weight Restrictions: Not exceeding 50 pounds each.
- Size Restrictions:62 inches (length, width, and height combined)
Excessive Baggage Policy
Instead of traveling with their pets or bringing their work laptops, certain travelers want to bring their sports equipment, like golf bags, tennis rackets, snowboards, or bicycles, with them. Others even prefer traveling with their musical instruments like a guitar.
In such cases, the below-mentioned Southwest Airlines may apply:
- Oversize bags: $125 per bag (maximum 80 inches)
- Overweight bags:$100/bag (51 – 70 lbs.); $125/bag (71 – 100 lbs.)
- Non-standard baggage: Substituting one free checked baggage allowance for sports equipment: no charge. If the bag is heavier than 50 pounds and larger than 62 inches, the passenger is charged a $75 fee.
Final Words
Although Southwest Airlines has some rules for its customers, it still allows them to bring two enough carry-on baggage. However, this airline company has strict policies against overweight and oversized bags that all passengers must follow for the safety and well-being of everyone on the flight.
