Southwest Baggage Fees

Southwest Airlines has officially concluded its long-standing “Bags Fly Free” policy, introducing new checked baggage fees effective May 28, 2025. This move aligns the airline with industry standards and is part of a broader strategy to enhance profitability. Southwest baggage fees explained:

New Checked Baggage Fees

Passengers booking flights on or after May 28 will now incur fees for checked luggage:

First checked bag: $35

Second checked bag: $45

These fees apply per one-way trip and are subject to standard weight and size limits. Bags exceeding 50 pounds or 62 inches in combined dimensions may incur additional charges.

Exceptions to the Policy

Certain passengers will continue to enjoy free checked baggage allowances:

Business Select® Fare passengers: Two free checked bags

Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: Two free checked bags

Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: One free checked bag

Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: One free checked bag

Active-duty military personnel: Two free checked bags
These benefits extend to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation for eligible members.

Additional Southwest Baggage Fees

For passengers needing to check more than two bags or transport oversized or overweight items, the following fees apply:

Third checked bag and beyond: $150 per bag

Oversized bags (63″-80″): $200 plus standard fee

Overweight bags (51-70 lbs): $100 plus standard fee

Overweight bags (71-100 lbs): $200 plus standard fee

Oversized and overweight bags: $200 plus standard fee

Policy for Hawaii Interisland Travel

For interisland flights within Hawaii, the baggage fees are as follows:

Hawaii residents: First and second checked bags free; third bag $50

Non-residents: First checked bag $15; second $20; third $50

Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: Two free checked bags

Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: First checked bag free; second $15

Active-duty military personnel: Two free checked bags

Impact and Industry Context

The introduction of checked baggage fees is projected to generate approximately $430 million in earnings before interest and taxes for Southwest Airlines this year. This change is part of a broader initiative to increase revenue and align with industry practices, as other major U.S. carriers have long charged for checked luggage.

This new Southwest baggage fees policy will probably produce a lot of backlash from consumers used to free baggage allowances.

Passengers are advised to review the new baggage policies and fees when planning their travel with Southwest Airlines. For more detailed information, visit the airline’s official Optional Travel Charges page.

Note: All fees are subject to change and may vary based on specific circumstances. Passengers should consult Southwest Airlines directly for the most current information

Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Fees (Effective May 28, 2025)

Note: “Free” indicates no fee for the specified checked bag.

Additional Southwest Baggage Fees

Note: Standard fees apply in addition to the specified charges.

Interisland Hawaii Travel Baggage Fees