When traveling with Southwest Airlines, you should be informed of the baggage requirements in advance to avoid unexpected charges. As it happens, the policy has just become a shifting target, so I’ll go over what I found and what to keep an eye out for.

The Basics

Southwest was previously known for their two bags fly free policy, which enabled each customer to bring two standard bags free of charge. According to one version, this was limited to bags weighing 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and measuring 62 linear inches (length, breadth, and height). Another consideration with carry-ons is that you can only bring one carry-on bag (small enough to fit in the overhead) and one personal bag (small enough to fit under the seat), but their sizes are limited.

What’s New/Changed?

However, by May 28, 2025, Southwest had modified their luggage policy. It means that the two-free-bags perk is no longer extended to all fare levels. Most travelers now pay a fee (US $35 for the first bag, US $45 for the second), unless they are in a higher fare class or an elite client.

It is also critically important to confirm the sort of fare that you have purchased (Basic, Wanna Get Away, Choice, or Business Select) and your loyalty program status. Those exceptions matter. You can contact Southwest support at +1 855-510-7629 to verify your booking details.

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Key Rules & Restrictions (What to Pack, How Much, What Size)

The following is a list of what to look out for.

Checked baggage

• Eligible fares and status The standard allowed in the past and present is up to two checked bags with a total weight of up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and a length of up to 62 linear inches (157 centimeters).
• Excessive costs apply if a bag exceeds its weight (e.g., 51-70 lbs) or size (more than 62 inches, but only to a limited extent).
• If you exceed the number limit (for example, the third bag), additional costs will apply.

Carry-ons and personal items

• Bring a carry-on bag and one personal item.
• Carry-on bag dimensions are roughly 24*16*10 in, including wheels and handles. And the personal item must fit beneath the seat.
• The carry-on has no specific weight limit (with most forms of fare), but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin.

Liquids & special items

• According to TSA standards, liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers 3.4 oz/100 ml must be packed in a quart-sized transparent bag.
• There is more leeway on liquids in checked baggage; however, there are some exclusions, such as alcohol.
• Special shipments (sports equipment, bicycles, surfboards, etc.) may be deemed checked luggage and subject to additional handling/fees.

If you ever need clarification from Southwest, you can also reach their support at +1 855-510-7629

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My suggestions & tips

Assuming you were me (and planning a vacation to the Southwest), here’s what I would do:

• Prior to booking, confirm the fare and booking date, as well as if you are eligible for the company’s three free bags or will have to pay money.
• If you have status (via a reward program with Southwest) or a co-branded credit card, make sure your booking includes it so you get the correct amount.
• Families, weigh your baggage at home to verify that they do not exceed the 50-pound and 62-inch limits, or you will face a startling overweight or oversized charge.
• Bring your carry-on and personal items with you: pack necessities so you can make the most of it if you are paying to check luggage.
• When transferring athletic equipment or other bulky items, it is essential to check the special-item requirements ahead of time to see what is included in one of your free bags and what the additional charge will be.
• Triple-check the policy changes: The luggage policy was just revised (as of May 2025), and outdated information may still be circulating and irrelevant to your booking.

If confusion remains, reaching out to Southwest support at +1 855-510-7629 can help avoid surprises.

FAQ

Q: Do I still get two free checked bags on Southwest?
Ans: Not always. Southwest does not offer two complimentary checked bags to any traveler on or after May 28, 2025, across numerous pricing classes. It is still attainable through certain fares or status levels.

Q: What are the limits on the checked bag size and weight?
Ans: Standard checked luggage must weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and have dimensions of no more than 62 linear inches (length + breadth + height).

Q: How many carry-on items can I bring?
Ans: Each passenger is allowed to bring one backpack and one personal item (such as a laptop bag or backpack). 

Q: What about liquids in my carry-on?
Ans: The 3-1-1 guideline must be followed: containers 3.4 oz/100 ml, all in a single clean quart-size bag. Checked luggage should contain heavier liquids if authorized.

Q: What happens if my bag is overweight or oversized?
Ans: Additional costs apply. For example, carry-ons that exceed the size/weight regulations may incur an overweight/oversized tax. This is defined by the level of excess.

Q: Does my loyalty status matter for baggage allowance?
Ans: Yes, if you are an elite (e.g., A-List, A-List Preferred) or have purchased a premium fare (e.g., Business Select), you still have the option of receiving free checked bags. In other circumstances, the bag fee system can be applied.