Southwest Checked Baggage Prices 2026
Southwest checked bag prices in 2026: $35 for the first checked bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for the third or more — per direction. For the broader topic, including free-bag exceptions, carry-on rules, and special items, see the full Southwest baggage fee guide.
Southwest Baggage Prices: 2026 Fee Schedule
First Checked Bag
$35
Per bag, each way
- • Up to 50 lbs
- • Up to 62 inches (L+W+H)
- • Standard size suitcase
Second Checked Bag
$45
Per bag, each way
- • Up to 50 lbs
- • Up to 62 inches (L+W+H)
- • Same limits as first bag
Third Checked Bag
$150
Per bag, each way
- • Up to 50 lbs
- • Up to 62 inches (L+W+H)
- • Significantly more expensive
Overweight Surcharges
Overweight fees are added ON TOP of the standard bag fee. These surcharges apply regardless of whether your bag is free or paid.
| Weight Range | Surcharge | Example Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 50 lbs | $0 | 1st bag: $35 |
| 51-70 lbs | +$100 | 1st bag: $35 + $100 = $135 |
| 71-100 lbs | +$200 | 1st bag: $35 + $200 = $235 |
| Over 100 lbs | Not accepted | Must ship separately or reduce weight |
Oversize Surcharges
Bags exceeding 62 linear inches (length + width + height) but not exceeding 80 inches incur a $200 surcharge.
Standard Size
Up to 62"
No additional charge
Example:
24" × 16" × 10" = 50" total ✓
Oversize
63-80"
+$200 surcharge
Example:
30" × 20" × 15" = 65" total (+$200)
Real-World Cost Examples
Example 1: Weekend Getaway (No Status)
Scenario: Round trip, one 45 lb checked bag
• Outbound 1st bag: $35
• Return 1st bag: $35
Total: $70
Example 2: Family Vacation (No Status)
Scenario: Round trip, 4 people, 1 bag each (50 lbs)
• Outbound: 4 bags × $35 = $140
• Return: 4 bags × $35 = $140
Total: $280
Example 3: Long Trip with Heavy Bags
Scenario: Round trip, 2 bags (one 48 lbs, one 72 lbs)
• Outbound 1st bag (48 lbs): $35
• Outbound 2nd bag (72 lbs): $45 + $200 overweight = $245
• Return 1st bag (48 lbs): $35
• Return 2nd bag (72 lbs): $245
Total: $560
Example 4: With A-List Preferred Status
Scenario: Round trip, 2 bags (45 lbs each)
• Outbound 1st bag: $0 (free with status)
• Outbound 2nd bag: $0 (free with status)
• Return 1st bag: $0
• Return 2nd bag: $0
Total: $0
Annual Cost Comparison by Traveler Type
| Travel Pattern | Bags Per Trip | Annual Trips | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light business traveler | Carry-on only | 6 round trips | $0 |
| Occasional leisure | 1 checked bag | 2 round trips | $140 |
| Regular leisure | 1 checked bag | 4 round trips | $280 |
| Family (4 people) | 4 checked bags | 2 round trips | $560 |
| Extended vacation | 2 checked bags | 1 round trip | $160 |
Ways to Reduce or Eliminate Fees
Get Status
- • A-List: 1 free bag
- • A-List Preferred: 2 free bags
- • Earn with 25+ or 50+ flights
- • Best for frequent flyers
Credit Card
- • 1 free bag for cardholder
- • Up to 8 companions included
- • $69-199 annual fee
- • Breaks even after 2 bags/year
Premium Fare
- • Choice Extra includes 2 free bags
- • Higher base fare cost
- • Best for one-time trips
- • Also includes early boarding
Frequently Asked Questions
Are baggage fees charged per flight or round trip?
Baggage fees are charged per flight (each direction). A round trip means you'll pay the fees twice - once for your outbound flight and once for your return flight.
Can I pay baggage fees in advance online?
No, Southwest does not currently offer the option to prepay for standard baggage fees online. You pay at the airport when you check in. However, you can add baggage to your reservation during online check-in.
Do children pay the same baggage fees?
Yes, children with paid seats are charged the same baggage fees as adults. However, lap infants (under 2) typically don't have baggage allowances. Children on the same reservation as a credit card holder do receive the free bag benefit.
What forms of payment does Southwest accept for baggage fees?
Southwest accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and Southwest gift cards for baggage fees. Cash may be accepted at some locations but is not guaranteed. Pay at ticket counter, kiosk, or curbside check-in.
Are baggage fees refundable if I cancel my flight?
If you cancel your Southwest flight, any baggage fees you paid will be refunded along with your ticket. Southwest has no cancellation fees, so you'll receive full credit including bag fees.
Do baggage fees ever increase during the year?
Southwest can change baggage fees at any time, but historically they announce changes with advance notice. The current fees ($35/$45) have been in effect since May 28, 2025. Always verify current rates before travel.
Calculate Your Exact Baggage Costs
Get a personalized cost estimate based on your specific bags, weight, size, and status. Our calculator shows you exactly what you'll pay.
Calculate My Fees →All information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available data. Fee information was last verified against official Southwest baggage policy in March 2026. While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained on this website.
Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. In no event will the owner of this website be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, arising out of or in connection with the use of this website.