Southwest Airlines is one of the largest low-cost carriers in the United States. It operates more than 4,000 daily flights to 99 destinations in the United States and ten additional countries. With its affordable prices and excellent customer service, Southwest Airlines is a popular choice among travelers. If you're planning to fly with Southwest Airlines, it's important to understand their baggage policy. In this blog post, we'll answer the question What is Southwest Airlines baggage policy and provide you with all the information you need to know.

Carry-On Baggage Policy

Carry-on baggage is a type of luggage that passengers are allowed to bring onto the airplane and store in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of them. Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and must not exceed 10 x 16 x 24 inches in size. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of the passenger and must not exceed 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches in size. Examples of personal items include a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag.

Checked Baggage Policy

Checked baggage is a type of luggage that passengers check in at the airport and retrieve at their destination. Southwest Airlines allows passengers to check up to two bags per person. The maximum weight for each bag is 50 pounds, and the maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). Any bags that exceed these limits may be subject to additional fees.

Fee Structure

Southwest Airlines has a unique fee structure for checked baggage. Unlike other airlines, Southwest Airlines does not charge a fee for the first or second checked bag. However, any additional bags will be subject to a fee of $75 per bag. In addition, any bags that exceed the weight or size limits will be subject to an additional fee of $75 per bag. It's important to note that these fees are one-way, so if you're traveling round-trip, you'll need to pay the fee twice.

Exceptions

There are certain exceptions to Southwest Airlines' baggage policy. Customers who have purchased a Business Select fare are allowed to check in two bags for free. Customers who have purchased a Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards credit card are also allowed to check in two bags for free. Additionally, active-duty military personnel and their dependents are allowed to check in two bags for free.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring sports equipment and musical instruments as checked baggage. Examples of sports equipment include golf clubs, skis, and bicycles. Musical instruments must be properly packaged in a hard-shell case and must not exceed 150 pounds or 165 inches (length + width + height). If you're traveling with sports equipment or musical instruments, it's recommended that you contact Southwest Airlines in advance to ensure that they can accommodate your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Southwest Airlines' baggage policy is quite generous compared to other airlines. Passengers are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard, and check up to two bags per person for free. Any additional bags will be subject to a fee of $75 per bag. Passengers traveling with sports equipment or musical instruments should contact Southwest Airlines in advance to ensure that their needs can be accommodated. By understanding Southwest Airlines' baggage policy, you can ensure that your travel experience is hassle-free and enjoyable.