Buy Extra Baggage
Updated Apr 25, 2026
Steps
- Go to Southwest Manage Reservation at southwest.com/air/manage-reservation/ or open the Southwest app.
- Enter your confirmation number and passenger name to retrieve your booking.
- Check in for your flight (available 24 hours before scheduled departure).
- During check-in, select the number of bags you want to check and pay applicable fees.
- Alternatively, use self-tagging kiosks at the airport (where available) to check bags and pay fees.
- If checking bags at the airport ticket counter, overweight/oversized fees must be paid with a physical credit card (no tap/contactless/mobile payments).
Prices
Checked bags
Checked baggage fees apply. Fees vary by fare type and route.
| Label | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard checked bag (up to 50 lbs, 62 linear inches) | See official pricing |
|
Overweight bags
Bags exceeding 50 lbs are subject to additional fees.
| Label | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Over 50 lbs | See official pricing |
|
Oversized bags
Bags exceeding 62 linear inches (length + width + height) are subject to additional fees.
| Label | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Over 62 linear inches | See official pricing |
|
FAQ
Can I buy extra baggage online after booking?
Yes. Bags can be checked digitally during online check-in starting 24 hours before scheduled departure, or through Manage Reservation.
Where do I check bags?
Check bags digitally during online check-in (24 hours before flight), at self-tagging kiosks at the airport (where available), or at the airport ticket counter with a Southwest Agent.
What are the checked baggage limits?
Standard size limit: 62 linear inches (length + width + height, including wheels and handles). Standard weight limit: 50 lbs per bag.
When should I check bags?
Bags can be checked digitally during online check-in, which opens 24 hours before scheduled departure.
What are the overweight and oversized baggage rules?
Bags exceeding 50 lbs or 62 linear inches are subject to additional fees. Overweight/oversized fees must be paid at the airport ticket counter with a physical credit card (no tap/contactless/mobile payments accepted).
Are there any important exceptions?
Baggage embargoes apply for some countries (restrictions on oversized, overweight, and extra checked bags). Partner itineraries may have different baggage policies. Check if your destination is impacted by an embargo on the Southwest website.