Baggage charges are worth the hassle and cost of a paperwork shock while flying. Thankfully, there is Southwest Airlines, which boasts of having one of the most customer-friendly airline baggage policies. If you are a frequent flier or a beginner in the sky, knowing the Southwest Airlines' baggage policy will cost less and make travel simpler.  

  Two Free Checked Bags – A Significant Benefit 

One of the greatest things about Southwest's policy regarding baggage is that your first two checked bags on each passenger are free. That's correct—no additional fees for your initial two checked bags if they meet the criteria in terms of standard weight and size restrictions. The bag can't weigh over 50 pounds (23 kg) and can't be larger than 62 inches when you add up the height, length, and width combined. If your bag is overweight or oversized, you will pay extra. For instance, over-heavy bags weighing 51-100 pounds will be $100 per bag, and over-sized bags measuring 63-80 inches will incur a charge of $100 as well. Both charges are incurred if the bag is oversized and heavy. 

  Carry-On and Personal Item Allowance 

Besides the checked bags, Southwest Airlines also permits one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger on board for free. The carry-on should be placed in the overhead compartment and should not be more than 10 x 16 x 24 inches. The personal bag, e.g., purse, little backpack, or laptop bag, should be able to be stowed under the seat ahead of you and should not be larger than 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. It is a very liberal policy so that people can pack smart without the extra cost of ancillary fees. 

  Special Items and Equipment 

Southwest also offers additional special care for things like sports equipment, musical instruments, automobile seats, and baby strollers. Most may be verified for free or added to your two free bags if reasonable in size and weight. For example, baby strollers and infant carriers can be checked free when families travel with children. The same applies to items such as skis, golf bags, and fishing rods if they qualify by airline standards. 

  Tips to Maximize Your Baggage Allowance 

To get the best use of this extra baggage allowance, customers should check their bags ahead of time to make sure they weigh less than 50 pounds, mark all bags with name and phone number, check in online to expedite bag drop-off, and use lighter, more flexible bags to try to avoid overweight fees.  

  Final Thoughts 

Southwest Airlines' baggage allowance is another reason passengers keep going back to the airline ahead of competitors. With two checked bags free of charge, combined with widespread carry-on and personal item acceptance, it's one of the cheapest in the air. Whether you're flying to your weekend break or extended holiday, understanding what you get with Southwest's baggage policy will have you flying smarter and hassle-free.