Southwest Airlines baggage fees
What Southwest Airlines charges for bags, one way, in economy on domestic routes. The first checked bag costs $45 and the second $55. A carry-on and a personal item are included free.
Fees go up and down
Airline bag fees change often and depend on route, travel date, fare and when you pay. We last checked these prices in September 2026. Always confirm the exact price on the official Southwest Airlines site before you pay.
Official baggage fee page| Bag | Prepaid online | At the airport |
|---|---|---|
| 1st checked bag | - | $45 |
| 2nd checked bag | - | $55 |
| Overweight bag (51-70 lb) | - | +$100 |
| Carry-on bag | Free | Free |
| Personal item | Free | Free |
Current prices apply to tickets bought from April 9, 2026.
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Airlines that accept this bag
Airlines that won’t accept it
* guideline, not published
Worth knowing
- Southwest ended its free checked bags policy in May 2025. Most fares now pay for every checked bag.
- Elite status members, premium cabin passengers and holders of the airline credit card usually check bags free.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the first checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
The first checked bag costs $45, one way, on domestic flights.
How much is a second checked bag on Southwest Airlines?
The second checked bag costs $55, one way.
How much is the Southwest Airlines overweight baggage fee?
A checked bag of 51-70 lb costs an extra $100, each way, on top of the normal bag fee.
Is a carry-on free on Southwest Airlines?
Yes. A carry-on bag and a personal item are included on every fare.
How can I avoid Southwest Airlines baggage fees?
Travel with a bag that fits the free allowance, pay for bags during booking instead of at the airport, or use elite status or the airline credit card, which usually include free bags.