When it comes to domestic air travel, Southwest Airlines is known for offering flexibility, affordability, and one of the most generous baggage policies in the industry. Whether you’re traveling nonstop or have connecting flights, understanding how the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy works can save you both time and money.

At My Flight Policy (+1-877-271-4004), we know that baggage policies can be confusing—especially when connections, transfers, or multi-leg itineraries are involved. This detailed guide breaks down how Southwest handles your bags across connecting flights, the Southwest Airlines baggage allowance, possible baggage charges, and the all-important Southwest Airlines baggage weight limit.

Overview of the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

The Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy stands out among U.S. airlines because it allows passengers to check two bags for free—a rare benefit in modern air travel. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t rules or exceptions.

Here’s a quick summary of the basics before we discuss how connecting flights work:

• Checked Baggage: Two free bags per passenger.
• Weight Limit: 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag.
• Size Limit: 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
• Carry-on Baggage: One carry-on (24” x 16” x 10”) and one personal item (18.5” x 13.5” x 8.5”).

These rules apply whether you’re flying one leg or multiple connecting flights, but there are a few key details travelers should know when transferring planes.

Understanding Connecting Flights Under the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

Southwest Airlines operates as a point-to-point carrier, meaning it typically does not partner with other airlines for baggage transfers. However, if your entire journey (including all connecting flights) is booked under a single reservation, your checked bags will automatically be transferred between flights.

Here’s how it works:

1. Single Itinerary Connection:
   If you book a multi-leg trip directly with Southwest (for example, Dallas to Denver to Seattle), your checked bags will automatically follow you to your final destination. You don’t need to collect or recheck them between flights.
2. Separate Bookings or Partner Airlines:
   Southwest generally doesn’t transfer luggage to or from other carriers. So, if one leg of your trip is on a different airline, you’ll need to claim your bags at baggage claim and recheck them.

This policy is consistent across all flights and helps Southwest maintain efficiency, ensuring luggage isn’t lost in transfers.

Southwest Airlines Baggage Allowance on Connecting Flights

The Southwest Airlines baggage allowance remains the same for connecting flights as it does for direct flights—each passenger can check two free bags.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• The Southwest Airlines baggage weight limit still applies for every leg of your trip.
• If your connecting flight is on the same ticket, your bags are transferred automatically.
• If your connecting flight is booked separately, you’ll have to recheck your bags and potentially pay baggage fees if the next airline doesn’t offer free checked bags.

Southwest’s policy is designed to minimize stress and make connections seamless, but it’s always a good idea to double-check your reservation details before your flight.

How to Check Bags on Connecting Flights with Southwest Airlines

Checking bags on connecting flights with Southwest is simple when you follow these steps:

1. Check-In for All Flights:
   When you check in for your initial flight—either online, through the app, or at the airport—you’ll be checked in for all connecting flights under the same reservation.
2. Tagging Your Bags:
   Southwest staff will tag your bags to your final destination. Always verify the destination tag before handing over your luggage.
3. Automatic Transfer:
   If both flights are booked under one reservation, Southwest will automatically transfer your bags.
4. For Separate Reservations:
   If your flights are on separate bookings, you’ll need to collect your bags at baggage claim and recheck them before your next departure.

If you’re unsure about your connection type or need help managing your baggage for multi-city trips, call My Flight Policy at +1-877-271-4004 for personalized assistance.

Overweight and Oversized Bags Under the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

Even with two free checked bags, travelers must adhere to the Southwest Airlines baggage weight limit. If your luggage exceeds the specified limits, you’ll face additional charges.

Overweight Bags

• 51–100 lbs (23–45 kg): $100 per bag, per flight.
• Over 100 lbs (45 kg): Not accepted as checked baggage.

Oversized Bags

• 63–80 linear inches: $100 per bag, per flight.
• Over 80 inches: Not allowed.

When you have connecting flights, these fees apply per leg. For example, if you have a two-leg trip and your bag exceeds 50 lbs on both flights, you’ll pay the overweight fee twice.

To avoid these charges, always check your bag’s weight before leaving home and consider redistributing heavy items between checked and carry-on bags.

Lost or Delayed Bags on Connecting Flights

While Southwest Airlines has an excellent record for baggage handling, delays can happen—especially during tight connections.

If your luggage doesn’t arrive at your destination, here’s what to do:

1. Report Immediately: Visit the Southwest baggage office at the airport within four hours of arrival.
2. Track Your Bags: Use the tracking number from your baggage receipt to monitor updates.
3. Compensation: Southwest offers reimbursement for reasonable expenses due to delayed baggage, such as clothing and toiletries.

In rare cases where a bag is declared lost, passengers may be entitled to compensation according to federal guidelines.

Tips to Avoid Issues with the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

To make your journey smoother and avoid unexpected fees, here are a few traveler-tested tips:

• Pack Smart: Stay within the 50 lb limit to avoid Southwest Airlines baggage charges.
• Weigh Your Bags: Bring a portable luggage scale to double-check before check-in.
• Label Everything: Always include your name, contact number, and itinerary details on all bags.
• Early Check-In: Arriving early ensures enough time for baggage transfer during connecting flights.
• Know Your Itinerary: If you’re switching airlines, plan extra time to collect and recheck your luggage.

Following these steps can save you unnecessary stress, especially when dealing with connecting flights and tight schedules.

Traveling with Special Items under the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy

Southwest also accommodates travelers with special items like strollers, car seats, sports gear, or musical instruments.

• Strollers and Car Seats: Checked for free and not counted against your baggage allowance.
• Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs and skis are allowed but must adhere to the Southwest Airlines baggage weight limit.
• Musical Instruments: Can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or checked as fragile items.

If you’re unsure how your special items will be handled, Southwest’s airport agents are trained to help you find the best option.

Black Friday Flight Deals

Looking to save even more on your Southwest flights this season? My Flight Policy offers insider updates and guidance on Black Friday Flight Deals, helping travelers find the best fares without hidden baggage costs.

During holiday seasons, airfare tends to fluctuate, but Southwest’s flexible policies ensure travelers can book confidently. Combine their free baggage allowance with special holiday fares, and you’ve got one of the most affordable travel options in the sky.

Christmas Flight Deals

As the holidays approach, travel demand increases—and so do prices. The good news is that My Flight Policy provides 24/7 support to help you discover Christmas Flight Deals that suit your budget. Whether you’re traveling to visit family or taking a winter getaway, you can enjoy affordable fares and generous baggage benefits through Southwest’s policy.

Remember, even with special discounts, the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy remains consistent, allowing you to pack freely without worrying about extra fees.

Conclusion: Understanding the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy for Connecting Flights

In summary, the Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy makes travel smoother, even for passengers with connecting flights. The airline’s two-free-bag policy, clear weight limits, and simple transfer process make it one of the most traveler-friendly options in the U.S.

When booking connecting flights, always ensure all legs are on the same reservation to avoid rechecking bags. Adhering to the Southwest Airlines baggage weight limit will also help you avoid additional charges.

If you ever feel unsure about your baggage or need help managing your reservation, the experts at My Flight Policy are ready to assist. Contact us today at +1-877-271-4004 for guidance on baggage policies, rebookings, or refund-related concerns.

Travel smarter, pack lighter, and enjoy a seamless flying experience—because with Southwest Airlines and My Flight Policy, your journey is always in good hands.