Rules for Southwest Carry-On Baggage

Be it a family vacation or a solo trip, it doesn't matter how many days you are going on a journey, whereas it matters what you pack for the trip, thus making it convenient and relaxing. Suppose you plan to travel with Southwest Airlines soon but wonder what is allowed for carry-on baggage and checked luggage. In that case, it becomes crucial to be familiarized with the Airline baggage policy to understand the permitted weight and size limits and a list of restricted items. To simplify this task, we have prepared this comprehensive travel guide containing the necessary information regarding Carry-on and checked baggage policy. Thus, you should consider looking at the detailed information to learn more. 

Southwest Airline Carry-On Baggage Policy:

Learning the basics of Southwest Airlines' carry-on baggage policy is essential to avoid last-minute inconvenience and additional baggage charges due to overweight luggage. Otherwise, you can take notes from the data mentioned below.

• As per Southwest Airlines' Carry-on Baggage Policy, passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one standard-size personal item free of cost.
• The carry-on bag should easily fit in the overhead compartment, whereas the small personal items must be stored under the seat.
• Southwest's Carry-on Bag policy states that the carry-on bag size should be no more than 24" L, 16" W, and 10" H, though the dimensions must include handles, wheels, and attachments.
• Passenger Carry-on bags include roller bags and miniature suitcases. Personal items such as Purses, Briefcases, Laptop computer cases, neck pillows, backpacks, and small cameras are not allowed. 

Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy:

Passengers flying with Southwest Airlines must know the checked baggage allowance to avoid the extra charges at the Check-in counter due to unawareness of the luggage standard measurement. Usually, travelers are supposed to carry up to two checked luggage for free, and you can check luggage digitally at the airport or use the self-check-in tool Kiosk. Significantly, you can go through the following data to learn how early the luggage, baggage weight limit, and more.

• South Early West Airlines allows travelers to bring two checked bags for free if the baggage weight is as per the instructions; however, the free baggage policy applies to all fare types. Thus, the checked baggage weight of each bag should not be more than 50 pounds.
• According to the Southwest Airlines baggage policy, the checked baggage size limit in total length, width, and height is 62 inches, although wheels and handles must be included when measuring.
• Suppose the checked baggage size exceeds the total 62 inches. In that case, the Airline will count the luggage as an oversized bag, and the passengers may be required to pay the additional oversized luggage charges, which may vary based on different factors.
• When the traveler's luggage is between 51 - 70 lbs, Southwest Airlines will treat the checked bag as overweight luggage, and the traveler should have to pay a certain fee, which is subject to various aspects, including travel distance, departure/arrival Airport, and fare class.

Note: Southwest Airlines checked baggage restrictions for specific countries and routes may differ regarding oversized, overweight, and extra checked luggage. 

How Do You Add Extra Checked Luggage to Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines allows travelers to add extra checked luggage either at the time of booking, online before check-in, or at the airport check-in counter; therefore, travelers can choose according to their preferences. Before you add extra checked luggage to Southwest Airlines online, it is better to ensure that the luggage does not exceed the standard size and weight limit. You must pay for the extra baggage and oversized/ overweight luggage charges. Here, we have mentioned the steps to purchase the extra checked luggage.

• To add extra checked luggage to a booked flight, passengers should visit Southwest Airlines' official website.
• Then, scroll down the homepage and select the Manage Booking icon.
• After that, the passenger must fill in a few necessary details, including the booking confirmation code and registered email address.
• Select the flight number and click the Purchase Checked Bag tab.
• Follow further instructions given on the screen to complete the process.
• You should pay using cards and other online payment methods to confirm this.
• The airline will share the details with the registered email address when the payment is confirmed. 

How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge for Extra, Overweight/ Oversized Checked Luggage?

Southwest Airlines does charge extra for overweight/ Oversized checked luggage; however, the additional fee may vary depending on various factors, such as travel distance, arrival/departure Airport, and fare class. The following information will reveal the additional travel charges for carry-on bags and checked baggage for each piece. 

• Passengers are not required to pay an additional fee for one carry-on bag and one personal item; their first and second checked luggage is also free.
• If you want to add third checked luggage to the booked itinerary, the traveler must pay approximately $150 per bag.
• Travelers should be required to pay an additional fee of $75 per item to carry large media camera equipment.
• If the traveler's checked luggage is overweight, between 51 lbs and 70 lbs, the Airline will charge an additional fee of $150 per bag. For overweight luggage between 71 lbs and 100 lbs, the passenger may be required to pay an extra cost of $200 per bag.
• For oversized checked luggage larger than 62 inches and up to 80 inches., the additional fee will be $200 per bag
• Travelers may be required to pay a fee of $75 per bag to carry sports equipment as checked luggage on Southwest Airlines.

What Is the Largest Checked Baggage Size for Southwest Airlines?

As per the Southwest Airlines baggage policy, Travelers are allowed to carry two checked luggage for free, but the weight should not maximize a total of 50 pounds, as well as length, width, and height maximum size 62 inches. If the checked baggage is over 100 pounds, it will not count as checked baggage and must be shipped via cargo. Even travelers may be required to pay the extra fee for oversized and overweight bags, which is between $100 and $200.