Southwest's baggage policy has changed

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

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. Last verified: 9 September 2026.