Introduction

Southwest Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the United States, known for its friendly service, affordable fares, and unique policies like free checked bags for the first two bags. When travelling with Southwest it is important to understand their checked bag policies to ensure stress free travel. Understanding the principle of bags helps you avoid surprise on the check, protects you from possible extra fees, and makes your travel experience smooth. Knowing what Southwest allows and what you are expected to do you will be ready for a stress free journey with your checked bags. You need to know about the size of the checked bag, including size range, weight restrictions, extra or large size bags, and tips to pack effectively.

Southwest Checked Bag Size Rules

Southwest airlines has specific rules for checked bag size to ensure smooth travel:

Size Limit: Southwest checked bags must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height), including wheels and handles.

Weight Limit: Checked bags should weigh no more than 50 pounds.

How to Measure Bags for Compliance

To check if your bag meets Southwest rules:

Measure the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles.

Add these measurements together to get the total linear inches.

Make sure the total is 62 linear inches or less and the weight is 50 pounds or less.

Exceptions or special considerations

Bags over size or weight limit may not be accepted.

Some passengers such as A-List members, favorite members of A-List, Business Select Travelers, and Southwest Credit Card Holders can get benefits such as free checked bags.

Southwest Checked Bag Fees

Southwest Airlines no longer offers the first two bags free for all passengers as of 2025. Now, passengers generally pay fees for checked bags $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for each additional bag. Certain passengers like A-List Preferred members, Business Select travelers, and Southwest credit card holders get free checked bags. For bags over 50 pounds or larger than 62 linear inches, additional fees apply ($150 for 51-70 pounds, $200 for

Tips for Packing Southwest Checked Bags

Effectively packing southwest checking bags helps to avoid fees and problems. In the of 62 linear inches and 50 pounds.use packing cubes to configure clothes and make maximum space.roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Pack items like socks in shoes to use a gap. To avoid additional fees, check the size and weight of the bag twice before the airport. Wearing heavy items like jackets saves weight in your bag. With smart packing within these limits you will have a smooth check with the Cubs packing and maximizing strategies make a big difference.

What Happens If Your Bag Exceeds Southwest Limits

If your bag exceeds limits of 62 linear inches or 50 pounds you may face additional fees, handling problems,or bags. The weight range or size limit can take additional charges. Bags of 100 pounds or more than 80 inches are usually not accepted. To avoid problems, check the size and weight of your bag twice before checking, pack efficiently and consider wearing heavy or heavy limits. living within the limits ensures smooth check in and avoids additional costs or complications.

Conclusion

Southwest checked bag size rules include a maximum of 62 linear inches (length+width+height)

And 50 pounds. These boundaries may face fees,handling issues or rejects. Knowing these principles helps to ensure a stress free journey. We encourage passengers to check the southwest policies before flying so that the check in can be avoided. Being aware of the rules helps you to pack effectively, avoid additional fees and pass through the air through the airport.