The Complete Guide to Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

Hidden charges and draconian carry-on baggage policies can rub salt in the wound of half-way enjoyable flying. Happily, Southwest Airlines baggage policy is one of the only truly generous and honest policies out there in the whole industry. Knowing a little bit about what surprise luggage can hold in store will make your flight a lot more enjoyable, if not make you some cash by avoiding loads of stuff to shell out. 

Two Free Checked Bags-An Incredible Perk 

One of the most welcoming-to-passengers and incredible perks of Southwest Airlines baggage policy is that it allows two free checked bags per passenger. In contrast to nearly all the other U.S. airlines that charge for every checked bag, Southwest basically includes this perk in the price of the ticket for all fare levels. Each baggage check weighs a maximum of 50 pounds and measures no bigger than 62 inches (height + width + length). This fantastic extra feature for domestic as well as international flights can benefit families, business people, and travelers alike. 

If overweight (over 50 pounds) or oversized (over 62 inches long), your bag will be costing you. For overweight bags 51 to 100 pounds or oversized bags over 62 inches, fees begin at $75 per piece. With these fees in mind, though, Southwest remains an extremely reasonable player when it comes to baggage fees. 

Carry-On Bag Guidelines 

Aside from that, Southwest permits every passenger to carry one carry-on and one personal item without charge. The carry-on bag must be of size 10 x 16 x 24 inches and stored in the overhead bin, while personal items such as purses, backpacks, or laptop bags must be stowed beneath the seat in front of you. 

Because there are no assigned boarding passes from Southwest, early boarders will have it as an added bonus if they are carrying bulk items. 

Generally, overhead storage will normally be ample, and most people’s carry-ons up there will be uncomplicated. 

More Items and Exceptions 

The Southwest Airlines policy on baggage also includes sporting equipment, musical instruments, and medical devices. The majority of these had free checks or accesses if they adhere strictly to the standard dimensional and weight requirements. Golf clubs, skis, and bicycles, for example, can usually be accredited at a comparably low extra cost. 

Baby strollers and infant car seats are accepted for traveling children with adults accompanying them and are not counted under your regular baggage allowance. Southwest makes family travel a lot easier with the simple management of these items. 

Final Thoughts 

Transparency and customer-friendliness define the Southwest Airlines baggage policy. With two complimentary checked bags, a generous carry-on allowance, and merely open handling of sundry items, Southwest has made flying easy and affordable. To those who want to avoid outrageous surprise charges and restrictive baggage rules, this policy is one of the most compelling reasons to fly with Southwest for both short- and long-haul flights. 

Study the policy before you travel so that your packing can be considerate enough to restrict further cost and allow you to have a seamless experience from check-in to arrival.