In 2025, Southwest Airlines initiated the most significant transformation by discontinuing its classic “Bags Fly Free” policy, which had been in operation for more than half a century, with effect from May 28, 2025. The Airline imposed checked baggage fees. The fees were $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second, beginning May 28, 2025, thereby putting itself on the same level as the likes of American and United airlines. However, the company’s elite loyalty members, credit card holders, and some premium fare clients still benefit from no baggage charges; but the policy change signifies the end of one of those features that made Southwest’s presence in the U.S. aviation industry very well recognized.
Southwest Airlines’ Baggage Policy:
The major policies concerning the baggage will also be addressed. Take the sections to the extent that you can pack your bags:
Checked Baggage:
The airline will carry these bags to the destination you are going to, and Free Checked Bags will also be offered, but it cannot carry more than 23 kg. The baggage has some other essential details as listed below:
- The bag has a weight of 23 kg to 32 kg.
- The size of the bag checked should not exceed 62 inches.
- In case you are carrying Overweight and Oversized Bags, then you will have to pay for them separately. The fees are based on the different aspects of the trip.
- Southwest Frequent Flyer program members receive free standard baggage check-in.
- The bags are supposed to be well-maintained since disfigured bags are not accepted during check-in.
Carry-On Luggage:
You need to understand that you are keeping these bags throughout the flight and therefore, you need to pack all those things that you will be needing throughout the journey:
- The southwest baggage policy has not specified any weight limit for carry-on bags.
- In the case of the size of the Carry-On Bags then the dimensions are to be at 24 (L) + 16 (W) + 10 (H).
- Ensure that you do not use ropes and wires to tie your bags because this may destroy other bags.
- You are also allowed to bring personal items with your carry-on luggage. Ensure that this is a convenient piece of luggage during the journey.
- Personal belongings may be viewed as laptops, comforters, baby cots, backpacks, and others.
- The only other things that can be carried to the excursion are bags, binoculars, guitars, or other smaller musical instruments.
How much does Southwest Airlines charge for an overweight or oversized bag?
Southwest baggage policy change from May 28, 2025, on which date Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fare holders have to pay checked bag fees. The fee structure is as follows: $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second, all of which are subject to weight and size limits.
However, travelers holding Business Select tickets or those living in Hawaii traveling between the islands, as well as Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, continue to be entitled to two complimentary checked bags. A-List members, along with Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders, receive one free checked bag. Those who made reservations before May 28, 2025, are still covered by the original “bags fly free” policy.
Such travelers must fully comprehend the changes that have taken place in Southwest since they will now have to include baggage fees in their budgets, and at the same time be very careful when choosing the fare types, as this will directly affect the amount they will have to pay to the airline for their baggage.
Restricted Items to Carry on Southwest Airlines
According to the Southwest Airlines baggage policy and TSA regulations, there is a list of items that cannot be taken on board. For some things, the hard line has been drawn at your carry-on luggage, and these are the items prohibited due to safety and security concerns.
- The baggage that is carried on during the flight cannot contain any sharp articles, for instance, knives, scissors, box cutters, carpet knives, razors, or ice picks.
- Firearms and ammunition will not be allowed unless firstly admitted, afterward, they will be transported in checked baggage under strict supervision.
- Gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid, camping gear with flammable substances, and other materials defined as “flammable” are not permitted.
- Explosive materials, fireworks, lighters with flame, matches, fire starters, and similar products are among the hazardous substances that are never allowed.
- Drinks with more than 70% alcohol by volume (more than 140 proof) are not permitted; the 3.4-ounce-or-less rule of TSA still applies to any allowed alcoholic liquids.
- Items like lithium batteries, hoverboards, balance boards, and other self-balancing electric devices are not accepted on board.
- No poisonous, infectious, or radioactive substances and no liquid oxygen tanks are allowed on the plane.
- Drugs and narcotics are not permitted, except for the medical prescriptions that must be in proper packing and labeling.
Tips for Maximizing Your Baggage Allowance On Southwest Airlines
1. Utilize your personal item wisely: Bring in essentials that include electronics, documents, or even a small backpack that is going to be placed under the seat.
2. Carry-on smart: It is a must that your carry-on is within the allowed size so that you can avoid gate-checking or having to pay fees.
3. Check baggage fee waivers: If you are a frequent traveler of Southwest, an A-List elite, or have a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card, then you will enjoy the benefit of free checked bags.
4. Avoid overweight and oversized fees: To prevent extra costs, the weights of all checked bags should not exceed 50 pounds, and their dimensions should be below 62 inches in linear measurement (length + width + height).
5. Ship luggage when feasible: For very large or heavy items, it might be a good idea to resort to third-party luggage shipping services, as they can save you time and money.
6. Consolidate bags: Pack your belongings really well so that the number of checked bags is very small and within the permitted size and weight limits.
7. Make use of complimentary: Umbrellas, food in disposable containers, and other personal items are allowed without them being counted as carry-ons.
Conclusion
In 2025, Southwest new baggage policy completely eliminated the “Bags Fly Free” policy and imposed a fee of $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag. However, elite members and some premium passengers can still enjoy free baggage. The carrier imposes strict size and weight limits on checked and carry-on luggage alike.
