Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance
Everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines's carry-on, checked baggage, personal item + fees — updated for 2026.
Carry-on allowance
10kg
Typically 55×40×20cm max
Free checked bag
23kg × 2
Included in standard economy
Extra checked bag
$0 up to 2 bags
Cheapest during booking · avoid airport pricing
Personal item
Allowed
Handbag / laptop bag under seat
2 FREE checked bags — best in US
Baggage by fare class
Southwest Airlines fare classes carry different baggage rules. Cheapest fares often exclude the free bag.
| Fare class | Carry-on | Free checked | Change fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic / Light | 10kg | 23kg × 1 | Non-changeable |
| Standard Economy | 10kg + personal item | 23kg × 2 | $100-200 |
| Premium Economy | 12kg + personal item | 28kg × 2 | $50-100 |
| Business | 14kg (2 pieces) | 32kg × 2 | Fully flexible |
| First / Suite | 14kg (2 pieces) | 32kg × 3 | Fully flexible |
Premium cabin figures are typical for full-service carriers — verify on Southwest Airlines's site for your specific route.
Southwest Airlines vs top baggage-friendly airlines
How Southwest Airlines's allowance compares to some of the most generous carriers in economy.
| Airline | Carry-on | Free checked | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines ← this airline | 10kg | 23kg | 2 FREE checked bags — best in US |
| Turkish Airlines | 8kg | 30kg | One of the most generous economy allowances |
| Singapore Airlines | 7kg | 30kg | — |
| Cathay Pacific | 7kg | 30kg | — |
| EVA Air | 7kg | 30kg | — |
| Starlux Airlines | 7kg | 30kg | — |
| Thai Airways | 7kg | 30kg | — |
Sorted by free checked allowance. See compare all baggage allowances →
Book Southwest Airlines flights
Compare Southwest Airlines prices across Expedia, Trip.com + more. Baggage fees factored in during checkout.
Frequently asked about Southwest Airlines baggage
What is Southwest Airlines's carry-on allowance?
Southwest Airlines allows 10kg carry-on (typically 55×40×20cm max) plus a small personal item like a handbag or laptop bag. Weigh + measure before you fly — gate agents check at boarding.
Does Southwest Airlines include a free checked bag?
Yes — Southwest Airlines economy tickets include 2 checked bag(s) up to 23kg. Basic/Light economy fares may exclude the free bag — always check your fare class at booking.
How much are extra bags on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines charges approximately $0 up to 2 bags for extra checked baggage in 2026. Prices vary by route, time of purchase (booking vs airport), and fare class. Loyalty status or premium credit cards may waive fees.
Can I bring a laptop on Southwest Airlines?
Yes — laptops travel as part of your carry-on or personal item on Southwest Airlines. Take them out at security screening. Spare lithium-ion batteries must be in carry-on (never checked).
What if my bag is over the Southwest Airlines weight limit?
Overweight fees at Southwest Airlines are typically $50-200 per bag depending on how much over you are. If you're close to the limit, better to pay for an extra bag at booking than pay overweight at the airport.
Are musical instruments allowed on Southwest Airlines?
Small instruments (violin, guitar, flute) usually count as your carry-on. Larger instruments (cello, double bass) either need a purchased seat or must be checked as fragile items. Contact Southwest Airlines in advance for bulky instrument policies.
Can I take duty-free bags on top of my Southwest Airlines carry-on?
Southwest Airlines typically allows duty-free purchases in a single airport-branded bag in addition to your carry-on allowance, but transit stops (especially US-connecting) may confiscate liquids. Buy duty-free at your final connection, not the start.