How to Measure Luggage for Southwest Airlines?

Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines? One of the most crucial steps to avoid unnecessary stress and fees at the airport is correctly measuring your luggage. Airlines have specific size and weight requirements, and Southwest is no exception. This guide will help you understand Southwest Airlines' luggage policies and how to measure your bags accurately to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Why Measuring Luggage Correctly Matters

Imagine arriving at the airport only to find out your luggage is too large or too heavy. You’ll face extra fees, or worse, you might have to repack on the spot. Measuring your luggage beforehand eliminates surprises and ensures your bag meets Southwest Airlines' requirements. It’s a small step that can save time, money, and headaches.

Southwest Airlines' Luggage Policy Overview

Carry-On Bags

Southwest Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger.

• Size Limit: The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 10 x 16 x 24 inches.
• Personal Item: Examples include a purse, backpack, or laptop bag that must fit under the seat.

Checked Bags

Southwest Airlines is known for its generous checked baggage policy:

• Size Limit: Checked bags must not exceed 62 linear inches (L + W + H)

Understanding Linear Inches Measurement

When Southwest Airlines refers to a luggage size limit of 62 linear inches, it means the total sum of the bag's length, width, and height. This method helps ensure uniformity in luggage size regardless of shape.

Formula:
Length + Width + Height = Linear Inches

For example, if your bag measures 30 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 12 inches high, the total linear inches would be:
30 + 20 + 12 = 62 inches

This meets Southwest Airlines' checked baggage size limit.

Tools You Need to Measure Your Luggage

Measuring your luggage accurately requires simple tools you likely already have at home:

• Measuring Tape: A flexible tape measure works best for measuring both hard-shell and soft-shell luggage.
• Luggage Scale: To verify the weight of your bag.
• Notebook: To record measurements and avoid forgetting them.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measure Luggage for Southwest Airlines

Measuring Carry-On Bags

1. Place Your Bag Upright: Stand the bag on a flat surface.
2. Measure the Height: From the bottom of the wheels (if any) to the highest point (including the handle if non-retractable).
3. Measure the Width: Side to side across the widest part of the bag.
4. Measure the Depth: Measure from front to back, including any protruding pockets.

✅ Ensure the bag measures no more than 10 x 16 x 24 inches.

Measuring Checked Bags

1. Lay the Bag Flat: Place your bag on its back for accurate measurement.
2. Measure the Length: From the bottom to the top (including wheels and handles).
3. Measure the Width: From side to side, across the widest section.
4. Measure the Height: Measure the front-to-back depth.

✅ Add all three dimensions together to ensure they don’t exceed 62 linear inches.

Measuring Irregular Shaped Luggage

Irregular-shaped luggage, such as duffel bags or cylindrical cases, can be trickier to measure but must still meet the same guidelines.

• Measure the widest points of each dimension.
• Include protruding parts like handles and wheels.
• For duffel bags, fully pack the bag first, then measure.

How to Calculate Linear Inches Easily

Linear inches are calculated by adding together the three primary dimensions of the bag:
Length + Width + Height = Total Linear Inches.

Example:

• Length: 28 inches
• Width: 20 inches
• Height: 14 inches

Total Linear Inches = 28 + 20 + 14 = 62 inches ✅ (Fits Southwest's requirements)

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Luggage

Measuring errors can result in unexpected fees. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

❌ Ignoring Wheels and Handles: Always include wheels and non-retractable handles in your measurements.
❌ Overstuffing Bags: Fully pack the bag before measuring, as bulging can affect dimensions.
❌ Rounding Down Measurements: Round up slightly to avoid borderline rejections.
❌ Forgetting to Weigh the Bag: Weight is just as important as size for Southwest policies.

What Happens If Your Luggage Exceeds the Size Limit?

Exceeding Southwest’s luggage size limit can lead to extra fees or refusal to check your bag.

• Overweight Fees: If your bag exceeds 50 lbs, expect to pay $75 per bag.
• Oversized Fees: If your bag exceeds 62 linear inches, there’s a $75 fee.
• Both Overweight and Oversized: You’ll be charged both fees if both limits are exceeded.

Southwest Airlines Overweight and Oversize Fees

• Overweight Bags (51-100 lbs): $75 per bag.
• Oversize Bags (63-80 linear inches): $75 per bag.
• Bags exceeding both size and weight limits incur separate charges.
• Bags over 80 linear inches or 100 lbs may not be accepted.

Tips to Stay Within Southwest's Size Limits

Avoid last-minute surprises with these helpful tips:

• Use Expandable Bags Wisely: If your suitcase has expandable features, avoid overpacking.
• Measure and Weigh at Home: Double-check measurements and weight before leaving for the airport.
• Choose Lightweight Luggage: Hard-shell bags often weigh more than soft-sided options.
• Distribute Weight Evenly: Pack heavier items at the bottom to avoid shifting contents.

Packing Efficiently for Southwest Flights

Efficient packing can help you stay within luggage limits and make your trip stress-free:

• Roll, Don't Fold: Rolling clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles.
• Use Packing Cubes: These help compartmentalize your clothes and keep them compressed.
• Limit Shoes: Shoes take up space—stick to versatile pairs.
• Use Travel-Size Toiletries: Minimize liquids and use travel bottles for essentials.

Travel Accessories That Can Help with Compliance

Invest in these accessories to keep your packing organized and compliant:

• Luggage Scale: To avoid overweight charges.
• Compression Bags: To reduce bulk in your suitcase.
• Measuring Tape: Always handy for last-minute checks.
• Packing Cubes: Help maximize space and keep items separated.

Conclusion

Measuring your luggage correctly for Southwest Airlines can prevent extra fees and travel stress. By following the guidelines in this article—using the right tools and techniques—you'll stay within Southwest’s luggage size and weight limits. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way for a smoother travel experience.

FAQs

1. How strict is Southwest Airlines with luggage size?
Southwest is known for being fairly strict with their luggage policies. It's essential to measure your bags accurately, including wheels and handles.

2. Do wheels and handles count in luggage measurements?
Yes, Southwest includes wheels and handles in their total dimensions for both carry-on and checked bags.

3. What happens if my bag exceeds 62 linear inches?
If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches, you will be charged an oversize fee of $75 per bag.

4. Can I bring both a carry-on and a backpack on Southwest Airlines?
Yes, you are allowed one carry-on (10 x 16 x 24 inches) and one personal item (small enough to fit under the seat).

5. How can I avoid overweight baggage fees?
Use a luggage scale at home, distribute weight evenly, and consider lightweight luggage options to avoid exceeding the 50 lbs limit.

Further Reading and Resources

• Can You Take Aerosols in Checked Luggage?
• How Much Are Airlines Charging for Luggage?
• The Best Luggage Sets for Family Trips in 2025
• Flight Tips For Long Flights: Long Flight Essentials.
• Why Use Luggage Locks on Your Suitcase?