Southwest Airlines: fares, bags and what to compare
Southwest is a major US airline with an extensive domestic network. Its fare and baggage rules have changed, so the old promise of “two free checked bags on every ticket” no longer describes a typical booking. Here is a practical guide to the choices that now matter.
Which Southwest fare fits your trip?
Southwest currently lists four main fare bundles: Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred and Choice Extra. They are not simply different seat classes. Each bundle changes the mix of flexibility, seating perks, boarding and bags. Choice Extra is the most inclusive; Basic aims for a lower starting price. Always compare the total cost for the particular flight you want, including any bags or seat options.
Compare the Basic fare with Choice. Check the cancellation and credit rules as well as the final price; a small saving may be less valuable if your plans could change.
Price the checked bag together with the ticket. Choice Extra includes two standard checked bags, while lower fare bundles generally do not. A qualifying Rapid Rewards status or credit card may add a benefit.
Baggage: the important distinction
| Item | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Carry-on plus personal item | Included with Southwest fares, subject to the airline’s published size and safety rules. |
| First and second checked bags | Fees generally apply on Basic, Choice and Choice Preferred. Choice Extra includes two standard checked bags. Eligible status, cardholder and other exceptions may apply. |
| Oversize or overweight bags | Separate charges and limits apply even when a standard checked bag is included. |
Southwest’s official optional travel charges distinguishes tickets issued before and after 9 April 2026. Open the current table and select the section that matches your booking; international and partner itineraries can have different rules.
Seating and onboard experience
Southwest now sells fare bundles with assigned seat selection and seating benefits. The details depend on the fare and availability. Choice Extra includes access to Extra Legroom seating when available and earlier boarding. Southwest’s flights are not described accurately by the old “open seating on every flight” advice. Check the seat selection shown during your actual booking.
For a short domestic trip, a direct flight and convenient departure time may matter more than the fare label. For a longer connection, look closely at total travel time, baggage transfer, and the rules if you miss a connection.
Our booking checklist
- Open the same itinerary on Southwest’s website and compare all four available fare bundles.
- Add the bags you will actually bring before deciding which fare is cheapest.
- Check the seat shown at checkout, especially if you need extra legroom or want to sit together.
- Read the change, cancellation and credit terms for your chosen fare. “No change fee” does not mean a new flight has the same price.
- Check whether a Rapid Rewards benefit applies to the travelers on this reservation.
We do not claim to have flown this route or personally tested every fare. This guide interprets the airline’s published rules and highlights the decisions a traveler should verify during checkout.
Check current flights and fares on Southwest.com → · Back to airline comparison
Southwest Airlines: Fare Information and Optional Travel Charges, reviewed 21 October 2026. Airline policies can change; the fare conditions shown at booking take priority.