Southwest Airlines allows each passenger to check two pieces of luggage for no charge. You must attach a luggage tag with your name to the outside of the bag. The maximum weight for checked bags is 50 lbs. and the maximum size is 62 inches (length plus width plus height).
The airline charges $50 for each additional checked piece, up to nine items. The fee for 10 or more additional items is $110 each. For a complete list of items that cannot be checked, visit the TSA website (see Resources).
Southwest requires passengers to check in their luggage at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. If you are traveling out of the following airports, check in bags at least 45 minutes prior to departure: Baltimore/Washington International, Chicago Midway, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Orlando and Washington Dulles.
Damaged or lost luggage must be reported in person within four hours of arrival.
Southwest Airlines allows passengers one carry-on bag plus one personal item, such as purse, briefcase, camera, food container or laptop. Carry-on bags must be no larger than 10 by 16 by 24 inches. Passengers must follow TSA regulations for carrying on any liquids, gels or aerosols. These items must be placed in a one-quart, plastic zip-top bag holding containers no larger than 3.4 oz.
The following items do not count toward the carry-on limit: child-restraint devices, outer garments or clothing items, food for consumption during the flight (in disposable packaging), canes or umbrellas. The airline will stow wheelchairs in the cabin if the item can fit according to Federal Aviation Administration safety guidelines. If it won't fit, Southwest will transport it in the cargo area for no charge. Other assistive devices such as walkers and crutches are given priority for stowage in the cabin and are not counted toward the carry-on limit. For a complete list of items that cannot be carried on board the airplane, visit the TSA website (see Resources).
Southwest allows passengers to check oversized items. For items 51 lbs. to 100 lbs., the fee is $50. Items in excess of 62 inches but not more than 80 inches are also $50 each. Bags weighing more than 100 lbs. are not accepted. If the item is oversized and overweight, the passenger will be charged both fees. For more information on traveling with oversized sports equipment, visit the Southwest Airlines website (see Resources).
