United States About Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is a major U.S. airline known for its customer-friendly baggage policy and extensive domestic network. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, USA.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Fare Types | Free | Free | 50 pounds (23 kg) | 62 linear inches (157 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
First 2 bags FREE! Additional bags $75 each
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Southwest Airlines baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Dallas → London (Economy)
Carry-on: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm), No weight limit max
Checked bag: 1 piece 50 pounds (23 kg) — FREE
2nd bag: FREE
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Dallas → Paris (Business Class)
Carry-on: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm), No weight limit max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 50 pounds (23 kg) — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage
⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.
Excess Baggage Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Bag / Per Kg | $75 flat fee per additional bag | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | N/A - First 2 bags are FREE | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | $75 for bags 51-100 lbs | Per bag exceeding standard weight |
💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.
Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
- Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
- Prepay online: Book extra baggage through Southwest Airlines's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
- Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
- Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
- Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
- Join Rapid Rewards: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
Southwest Airlines accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.
Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.
2 FREE checked bags on all fares - Southwest's signature policy
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Sports equipment: Golf bags, skis count as 1 checked bag each
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Musical instruments: Can be carried on or checked
Small instruments cabin-allowed if space permits.
Cellos/large instruments may require seat purchase
Surfboards and oversize items: $75 fee applies
Surfboards require advance reservation due to size.
Board bag required; fins must be removed or protected
No change fees on any fare type
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference
Musical Instruments
- Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
- Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
- Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
- Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight
Sports Equipment
- Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
- Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
- Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
- Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length
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