[Cheape®] How to Get Free Baggage on Southwest Airlines

For travelers looking to save money, getting free baggage on Southwest Airlines is a major perk °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°. Unlike many other U.S. carriers, Southwest offers two free checked bags per passenger, plus one carry-on and one personal item °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

This guide explains all the ways to maximize your free baggage allowance, eligibility criteria, loyalty programs, and tips for avoiding extra fees °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

💡 Southwest Airlines Standard Free Baggage Allowance

Every Southwest Airlines passenger is entitled to:

• Two free checked bags °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• One carry-on bag °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• One personal item °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

These free allowances are significantly more generous than most major airlines, which typically charge $30–$35 for the first checked bag °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

🧳 How to Maximize Free Checked Bags

1. Book Southwest Airlines tickets directly °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

   • Direct bookings automatically include the two free checked bags.

2. Pack efficiently °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

   • Ensure each bag does not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches total dimensions to avoid overweight or oversize fees.

3. Take advantage of carry-on and personal item °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

   • One carry-on and one personal item are free for every passenger.

4. Join Southwest Rapid Rewards °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

   • Elite members may get priority boarding, which helps secure overhead bin space for carry-ons.

5. Travel with companions °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

   • Family or group travelers can combine carry-on and checked bag space to maximize overall free baggage allowance.

💼 Tips to Avoid Extra Fees

• Weigh luggage before leaving home °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Measure dimensions to ensure bags meet requirements °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Avoid prohibited items in checked or carry-on bags °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Use soft-sided luggage for easier fitting in overhead bins °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Check boarding group to improve overhead bin access °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

🛂 Southwest Rapid Rewards and Free Baggage

Southwest’s loyalty program, Rapid Rewards, provides additional perks for frequent travelers °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°:

• A-List and A-List Preferred members get priority boarding, ensuring carry-on space °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

• Rapid Rewards points can be redeemed for travel upgrades or extra checked bags °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

• Members can combine points and tickets for added flexibility °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

🎟️ Strategies to Get Free Baggage

1. Book directly with Southwest Airlines °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

2. Fly with only carry-ons and personal items to avoid checked bag fees °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

3. Join Rapid Rewards for priority boarding °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

4. Use flexible packing techniques °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

5. Travel during off-peak times for less crowded overhead bins °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

🕒 Additional Tips

• Label bags clearly °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Pack lighter to stay under 50 lbs °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Use travel-sized toiletries °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Bring a backpack as personal item for easy access °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

🛂 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

🤔 1. How many bags can I get for free on Southwest?
Two checked bags, one carry-on, and one personal item °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

🤔 2. Does Rapid Rewards affect free baggage?
Yes, elite members get priority boarding, which helps ensure overhead bin space °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

🤔 3. Are there weight limits for free checked bags?
Yes, maximum weight 50 lbs per bag °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

🤔 4. Can I get free baggage with a personal item only?
Yes, carry-on and personal item are free, but checked bags are included only per standard policy °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

🤔 5. How to avoid extra baggage fees?
Pack within size/weight limits and use carry-on + personal item efficiently °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

🔑 Pros and Cons of Southwest Free Baggage

✔️ Pros:

• Two free checked bags °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Carry-on and personal item included °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Predictable fees for extra/oversized items °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Loyalty programs improve boarding and baggage space °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

❌ Cons:

• Extra bags beyond two cost $75 each °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Overweight/oversized bags incur additional fees °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

• Must follow size restrictions to avoid gate-checking °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°

🛫 Conclusion

Getting free baggage on Southwest Airlines is simple and straightforward °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°. By booking directly, packing smartly, using carry-ons and personal items, and taking advantage of Rapid Rewards perks, travelers can maximize free baggage allowance and avoid extra fees °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

Southwest’s two free checked bags plus carry-on and personal item policy makes it one of the most cost-effective airlines for travelers °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.

By understanding rules, using loyalty programs, and packing efficiently, you can enjoy stress-free, cost-effective travel every time you fly Southwest °(¢) +1-8555-107-629 (¢) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫)°.