What are Southwest Luggage Policies? : Kathika Travel Website

By Chris Bibey

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On January 29, 2008, Southwest implemented a new baggage allowance policy. Each passenger is allowed to check two pieces of baggage. If you need to check a third bag, you will be charged a fee of $25. For bags four through nine, you will be charged $50 per piece. Any item in addition to this limit will be assessed a $110 fee.

Southwest also has weight and size allowance restrictions to be aware of. Items that weigh between 51 and 70 pounds are assessed a $25 fee. Those weighing between 71 and 100 pounds cost $50 to check. Items over 100 pounds must be shipped as air cargo. That being said, passengers cannot use Southwest air cargo unless classified as a known shipper by the TSA.

Many of these policies went into place in January 2008 due to the struggling airline industry. Although Southwest does place fees on certain types of luggage, their restrictions are a bit more lenient than other airlines. This is sure to help them to steal business from the competition.

photo credit: Cubbie_n_Vegas