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
Hub Airports
Compare Southwest Airlines With Broader Baggage Charts
Use these comparison guides to benchmark this airline against broader cabin, personal item, and checked baggage patterns before you book.
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