What is the Southwest Baggage Allowance for Domestic Flights?
The Southwest baggage allowance is an important factor that one should understand when traveling in the United States. In 2026, Southwest is still unique because of its baggage policy that is traveler friendly and provides more flexibility than most airlines in the U.S. Before traveling whether on a family holiday, business trip and on a short weekend visit, it is always helpful to understand the carry-on bag rules, the rules on checked bags, sports equipment and infant travel. You can pack with confidence now that you know everything that is based on the Southwest baggage allowance policy of 2026. If you want to know more give us a call AirCancellation at +1-888-826-0067 or you can directly reach out to Southwest Airlines at +1-800-435-9792.
5 Key Facts About Southwest Baggage Allowance
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Two Free Checked Bags on Every Ticket: The checked Southwest baggage allowance allows each passenger to check two bags for free on domestic flights. This is an advantage that extends to 2026 and is not matched by the majority of the large airlines.
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Standard Size and Weight Rules: Southwest dictates that every bag carried must meet the Southwest baggage allowance weight restriction of 50 lbs (23 kg) and a bag size restriction of 62 linear inches (L+W+H). In case your bag goes out of limit, there are overweight charges or oversized charges.
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Clear Carry-On Rules for 2026: Based on the new Southwest baggage allowance carry on regulations, passengers are allowed to carry the following:
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1 carry-on bag (dimensions: 24 x 16 x 10 inches)
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1 personal item (max: 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches)
Pet carriers are also included in the category of carry-on of TSA, thus passengers carrying small pets have to consider that in the allowance.
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Oversized, Overweight, and Special Items: Southwest is also ready to take sports equipment and special baggage, provided these are within the usual allowances. Packages that are larger or heavier than the stipulated rules cost more, yet Southwest provides clear policies on the guidelines to make packing easier.
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Infant Travel Has Its Own Rules: Infants below the age of 2 years do not require a separate ticket but must be allowed to board the plane with a boarding verification document. The children who are above the age of 2 should occupy their own seat and boarding pass.
Tips for Southwest Baggage Allowance Success
When you pack in advance, packing under Southwest baggage allowance domestic policy is not challenging. Weigh your bags back at home to avoid heavy charges. In case you are carrying some delicate or delicate goods, then put them carefully and use a strong suitcase. In the case of carry-on bags, it is important to store such items as medications, chargers, and any other important documents in an easy to reach place.
Place bulky items in multiple bags as opposed to stuffing a suitcase. Given that Southwest allows a free check of two bags, it is more fruitful to distribute the weight equally to avoid going beyond the weight limits. When you are travelling with kids, it is best to have a second check before reaching the airport to ensure that you have covered your infant or child requirements. And also, keep in mind that coming early may give you extra time, in case a process of repacking or checking your bags is necessary.
How Much Weight Can You Bring with Southwest Baggage Allowance?
The baggage weight limit of Southwest baggage is 50 lbs per bag, the weight between 51-70 lbs costs $100 and the weight between 71-100 lbs costs $125. Checking anything more than 100 lbs is not possible. Any bag that is bigger than 6380 inches is charged a fee of $125 oversize. Southwest does not pool allowances and a bag that is above the limit will still cost you even when your second bag is underweight. Carry-on bags have no maximum weight restriction but you should be able to carry them up to the overhead with little or no help from the flight crew.
What is the Southwest Baggage Allowance for Military Personnel?
Southwest serves military personnel using the Southwest baggage allowance military policy. Depending on assignment requirements, the active duty U.S. military personnel traveling on official orders would be allowed to carry more than two bags without charge. There is a requirement of valid military identification and travel orders. In the case of personal traveling, Southwest offers military members their usual two free checked bags. Service members are advised to verify their allowances by checking their itinerary or calling Southwest to verify the specific allowances they have since rules can change depending on the duty requirement.
FAQs About Southwest Baggage Allowance
Does Southwest have two free checked baggage?
Yes - there are two bags of free checked baggage per person in the checked Southwest baggage allowance.
What will the carry-on size limit be in 2026?
The carry on bags should not be larger than 24 x 16 x 10 inches and the personal things should be less than 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches.
What if my checked bag weighs more than 50 lbs?
These overweight charges are charged depending on the baggage changes of Southwest 2026.
Do pet carriers count as a carry-on item?
TSA includes pet carriers in your baggage carry on with Southwest.
Can I bring sports equipment?
Yes, still things are to be subject to size and weight or they will attract extra charges.
Do infants get their own baggage allowance?
Infants who are carried as laps do not get a separate baggage allowance.
Can oversize bags be checked?
Yes, up to 80 inches with a $125 fee.
Do children’s tickets have lower fares but full baggage allowances?
Yes, children above 2 years have their own seat, ticket and baggage allowance.
Conclusion: Southwest Baggage Allowance
The Southwest baggage allowance policy for 2026 makes domestic travel easy, flexible and budget friendly. With two free checked bags, simple carry-on rules and clear size and weight guidelines or travelers can pack comfortably without worrying about surprise fees. Whether you are flying with family, sporting equipment, infants or special items, Southwest’s generous baggage system helps you travel stress free. Planning ahead, following weight limits and understanding your allowances are the keys to a smooth and organized Southwest travel experience. Need more help? Call us at +1-888-826-0067 or Southwest Airlines at +1-800-435-9792 any time.
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