What is the carry-on limit for Southwest Airlines?

For Southwest Airlines, carry-on bags must not exceed 24x16x10 in (61x40x25 cm). There is no weight limit as long as you can lift it overhead. Free carry-on for all ticket types.

What is the personal item size for Southwest Airlines?

The personal item size is restricted to a maximum of 18x13x8 in (45x33x20 cm) and must fit under the seat in front of you.

How much are the checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines?

For domestic or standard Economy routes, Southwest Airlines charges $0 for the 1st checked bag and $0 for the 2nd checked bag. Elite members or cardholders may qualify for waivers.

Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance & Fees 2026: Sizer limits & Calculator

Southwest Airlines Sizer Limits Overview

Major Carrier

Personal Item

18 x 13 x 8 in

Must fit under-seat. Backpacks, purses, and briefcases are allowed.

Carry-On Bag

24 x 16 x 10 in

Southwest has the most generous carry-on sizer: 24 x 16 x 10 inches — significantly larger than competitors.

Checked Bag

50 lbs (23 kg)

Southwest's famous "Bags Fly Free" policy allows two free checked bags per passenger.

Can I Bring It? Sizer Calculator

Length18 in

Width14 in

Height (Thickness)8 in

Bag Weight15 lbs

Compliance Results for Southwest Airlines

Fail

Under-seat Personal Item

Too Large (Airline max is 18x13x8 in)

Pass

Overhead Cabin Carry-On

Fits overhead bin free

Pass

Checked Hold Bag

Complies with standard checked limits

Estimated Baggage Fee:$0

Detailed Luggage Guidelines

Here is the full breakdown of size sizer dimensions, weight caps, and carry-on/checked bag policies.

Luggage Type	Maximum Size (Inches)	Maximum Size (Metric)	Weight Cap	Standard Cost
Personal Item	18 x 13 x 8 in	45 x 33 x 20 cm	No strict limit	FREE (Fits under seat)
Carry-On Bag	24 x 16 x 10 in	61 x 40 x 25 cm	No limit (must lift)	Free carry-on for all ticket types
1st Checked Bag	Max 62 linear inches	Max 157 linear cm	Max 50 lbs	$0 USD

Pro-Tip for Southwest Airlines Travelers

Southwest allows 2 checked bags + 1 carry-on + 1 personal item completely free. If you have a large suitcase that is slightly over 50 lbs, split your items into two bags since they are both free anyway.

Best bag selection: Take advantage of Southwest's 24x16x10" carry-on allowance by using a larger rolling duffel bag which wouldn't fit on other airlines.

Baggage Penalty & Excess Fees

Exceeding either sizer dimensions or weight caps will result in extra charges at check-in or boarding gates.

Fee Category	Domestic US Rate	Details
1st Checked Bag Fee	$0	1st checked bag: FREE. 2nd checked bag: FREE. 3rd bag is $125.
2nd Checked Bag Fee	$0	Standard rate for economy passengers.
Overweight Charge	$125	Applies if the bag exceeds standard weight caps (e.g. 50 lbs / 23 kg).
Oversized Charge	$125	Applies if the bag linear dimensions exceed 62 inches.

For more details or to pre-book excess luggage allowances online, visit the official Southwest Airlines Baggage Page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum baggage size sizer for Southwest Airlines in 2026?+

Your carry-on bag must measure within 24x16x10 in (including wheels and handles) to fit into Southwest Airlines's overhead bin sizers. Your personal item must fit within 18x13x8 in to go under the seat in front of you.

What happens if my cabin bag exceeds the Southwest Airlines sizer?+

If your luggage exceeds sizer limits at the boarding gate, you will be charged a gate check fee. For Southwest Airlines, this can range up to $65 and the bag will be checked into the hold.

How much does a checked bag cost on Southwest Airlines?+

A standard 50 lbs (23 kg) checked bag on Southwest Airlines costs $0 if checked in. Low-cost tickets may charge extra. Booking your bags online 24 hours prior to departure is always cheaper than purchasing at the airport counter.