What bags do you get for free on Southwest?

Southwest will accept the first two checked bags for free provided that the bags do not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H). Overweight items from 51-70 pounds will cost $100. Overweight items 71-100 pounds will cost $125.



Southwest Airlines is unique in the U.S. aviation industry for its generous "Bags Fly Free" policy, which remains a core competitive advantage in 2026. Every ticketed passenger is allowed two checked bags free of charge, provided each bag weighs 50 pounds (approx. 23 kg) or less and does not exceed 62 inches in combined dimensions (L+W+H). In addition to these checked bags, passengers are permitted one carry-on bag (maximum 24 x 16 x 10 inches) and one small personal item (maximum 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches), such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack that fits under the seat. This means a single traveler can effectively transport four items without paying any luggage fees. While Southwest is famous for this "no hidden fees" approach, it is important to note that overweight bags (51–100 lbs) or oversized items will still incur a surcharge, and pet carriers count as part of your carry-on allowance rather than being an "extra" free item.

People Also Ask

Many airlines will allow you to bring a carry-on bag and personal item for free. However, some airlines may only allow a personal item that fits under your seat for free. Anything larger (e.g. a bag that's too big to fit under the seat but can fit into the overhead compartment) may require extra payment.

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While this can be confusing, most popular airlines allow you to bring a carry-on and personal item, such as a backpack or purse. In general, your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on and under the specific airline's carry-on dimensions, allowing it to fit under the seat in front of you.

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A backpack can be your carry on if it meets your airline's carry on size limits. A personal item is a smaller, secondary bag, which you'll stow under the seat in front of you. Read Carry Ons vs. Personal Items for more on the differences between the two.

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Re: Carry on pillow No since it will be held and will not go in storage overhead or under the seat in front of the passenger.

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Southwest Is A Safe Airline
They are a favorite among travelers looking for cheap flights without having to compromise on comfort or security. According to the most recent list of the world's safest airlines, Southwest was ranked in the top 15 airlines in the world in 2021, even beating out Delta, American, and United.

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One cabin bag; 10 x 16 x 24 in (25.4 x 40.64 x 60.96 cm), plus one personal item; 16.25 x 8.5 x 13.5 in (46 x 21 x 34 cm). There is no specified weight restriction for carry-on items.

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Is toothpaste considered a liquid by the TSA? Yes, toothpaste must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels. Toothpaste can be brought through TSA security in your carry-on as long as it is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a 1-quart bag.

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Usually, many airlines won't check every carry-on but will instead go for ones that look oversized. If your luggage does not fit in the sizer, you might have to pay a checked bag fee along with the gate checking fee and have your bag transferred to the airplane's cargo.

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Most airlines allow passengers to bring on both a carry-on and a personal item like a backpack, laptop bag, purse, briefcase, shopping bag, etc. The general rule of thumb is that your personal item is smaller in dimension than your carry-on bag and it can fit underneath the seat in front of you.

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Most airlines allow backpacks as carry-ons, but size and weight restrictions vary depending on the carrier. Typically, the bag must be within the cabin baggage dimensions of around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 22 cm), commonly considered the standard size for carry-on.

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It's rare to find U.S. airlines with free checked baggage. Southwest Airlines is the only airline without any bag fees. For other airlines, you'll need to earn elite status or book your tickets with an airline credit card.

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You can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free on most domestic and international flights. But there are a few rules you'll need to follow.

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Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. TSA officers make the final decision on whether certain items are permitted into the secured areas of the airport.

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