Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy
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Understanding Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy will help you travel stress-free and steer clear of unforeseen penalties, regardless of whether you're a frequent traveler or are organizing your first trip with the airline. Although Southwest is renowned for its substantial baggage allowances, there are still restrictions and guidelines you must abide by, unlike most major U.S. carriers. To help you confidently navigate the policy, this thorough guide breaks down weight limits, size restrictions, costs, special products, and expert advice.
Checked Baggage Weight and Size Rules
Southwest allows each checked bag to weigh up to 50 pounds (23 kg) and measure a maximum of 62 linear inches. Linear inches are calculated by adding:
1. Length + Width + Height ≤ 62 inches (157 cm)
2. If any bag exceeds these limits, extra fees apply.
Oversize and Overweight Baggage Fees
When your bag doesn’t meet the standard requirements, here’s what to expect:
- Overweight bags (51–100 lbs): $100 per bag
- Oversized bags (63–80 linear inches): $100 per bag
- Bags over 100 lbs or 80+ linear inches: Not accepted as checked baggage
Traveling With Babies and Children
Southwest is family-friendly when it comes to gear. You can check the following baby items for free, in addition to your two standard checked bags:
- Car seats
- Strollers
Playpens, portable cribs, and child carriers can count toward your two free checked bags.
Military Baggage Benefits
Active-duty Up to three checked bags, each weighing up to 100 pounds, are free for U.S. military members on orders. Military members may still be eligible for some perks even if they are not traveling on orders, but they must present identification at the airport to verify their status.
International Travel Considerations
Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America are among the locations served by Southwest's foreign flights. Although overseas airports may have additional customs, agricultural, or security regulations, the basic two-bag free policy still applies.
Depending on the airport, you may need to claim and recheck your bags during connections even though they should already be labeled for your final destination.
Tips to Avoid Baggage Issues
- Weigh your bags at home.
Avoiding overweight penalties can be achieved using a basic luggage scale.
- Use sturdy luggage.
Broken wheels, bursting zippers, or tears might result in stress and damage claims.
- Label your bags clearly.
Put your contact information on the outside of your suitcase and inside as well.
- Pack smart.
Don't stuff one bag full while barely filling another; instead, divide the weight evenly.
- Keep valuables in your carry-on.
You should always keep your money, passports, electronics, and prescription drugs on you.
- Check in early.
The likelihood that your bags won't make the flight rises with a late arrival.
Conclusion
The customer-friendly attitude of Southwest Airlines' checked baggage policy makes it stand out. The airline has a significant cost edge over most of its rivals because every ticket includes two complimentary checked bags. Travelers should still be very aware of weight and size restrictions, though, in order to prevent needless charges.
Southwest's standards are simple, regardless of whether you're traveling with little luggage for a weekend trip or heavy luggage for a lengthy vacation: keep bags under 50 pounds and 62 linear inches, adhere to TSA regulations, and arrive early enough to check them in without any problems. You may take advantage of the airline's significant baggage benefits and have a more seamless travel experience if you plan beforehand.
If you're planning a Southwest flight soon, reading these tips before you get to the airport will help you save time, money, and stress while also ensuring that your vacation starts off well.
