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Southwest baggage, made simple

Southwest's baggage rules changed in 2026 — "bags fly free" for everyone is gone, and checked-bag fees now apply on most fares. Here's who still gets free bags, and how to know before you reach the airport.

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    How Southwest baggage generally works

    General guidance. Your exact allowance depends on your fare, Rapid Rewards status and any eligible card.

    Carry-on and personal item:

    Every Southwest fare, including Basic, generally includes a carry-on bag plus a personal item. Always confirm the size limits for your specific trip.

    Checked bags now carry a fee on most fares:

    As of 2026, checked-bag fees apply on Basic, Choice and Choice Preferred fares. This is a change from Southwest's old policy — bags no longer fly free for everyone.

    Who still gets free checked bags:

    Choice Extra fares and A-List Preferred members get two free checked bags; A-List members and Rapid Rewards credit cardmembers get their first checked bag free.

    Add bags before the airport:

    Pre-paying a checked bag online is generally cheaper than adding it at the counter — and faster on the day of travel.

    Special and oversize items:

    Sports equipment, instruments and oversize items follow specific size and weight rules and usually need advance arrangement.

    Allowances and excess-bag charges vary by fare, route and status, and change often. We don't publish bag prices — tell us your ticket and we'll confirm your exact allowance and pre-pay bags for you.

    Southwest baggage at a glance

    General rules — your exact allowance depends on fare, Rapid Rewards status and any card.

    Personal item
    Included on every fare — must fit under the seat
    Carry-on
    Included on every fare, including Basic
    Checked bags
    Fees apply on Basic, Choice & Choice Preferred as of 2026
    Free-bag perks
    Choice Extra & A-List Preferred: two bags; A-List & card: first bag

    Carry-on only vs. checking a bag

    Pick the right approach before you get to the airport.

    Carry-on + personal item

    Fastest, skip bag drop

    • Included on every fare, including Basic
    • Skips the check-in bag queue
    • Liquids follow the cabin 3-1-1 rule
    • Must fit Southwest's carry-on size limits

    Checked baggage

    For bigger trips

    • Fees apply on Basic, Choice and Choice Preferred
    • Free on Choice Extra and for A-List Preferred (two bags)
    • First bag free for A-List and Rapid Rewards cardmembers
    • Cheaper added in advance than at the counter

    Bag delayed or damaged? Report it at Southwest's baggage service office before you leave the airport and keep the file reference. Then call us and we'll help you understand the next steps and your rights.

    Frequently asked

    Do bags still fly free on Southwest?+
    Not for everyone anymore. As of 2026, checked-bag fees apply on Basic, Choice and Choice Preferred fares. Free checked bags remain for Choice Extra fares and A-List Preferred members (two bags), and for A-List members and Rapid Rewards cardmembers (first bag). Give us your ticket and status and we'll confirm what's included.
    Can I bring a carry-on on a Basic fare?+
    Yes — every Southwest fare, including Basic, generally still includes a carry-on plus a personal item. It's the checked bags and changes that are more restricted, not usually the carry-on. We'll confirm the size limits for your trip.
    How do I use my A-List or card free-bag benefit?+
    Make sure your Rapid Rewards number and any eligible card are on the reservation, and the benefit typically applies for you on the booking. We can add your number so it isn't missed.
    What about a stroller, sports gear or an instrument?+
    These are usually accepted with specific rules and often advance arrangement. Tell us what you're carrying and we'll set it up so nothing is refused at the gate.

    Contact options

    Reach Southwest directly, or let us handle it.

    Contact Southwest Airlines directly

    The airline's own official channels — free.

    Websitesouthwest.com
    Reservations1-800-435-9792
    AppSouthwest app

    Or let a BargainAirTicket agent do it

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    +1 (833) 667-2918
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