A frequent traveler to Cuba recently took to TikTok to share her disappointing experience with Southwest Airlines, humorously referring to it as "subway," and explained why she would avoid choosing them for future trips to the island.
In a video posted on July 2, content creator @yosvaniacrea addressed her followers' queries about her journey from Austin airport. Her conclusion was straightforward: "While my experience with that airline isn’t terrible, I think I’ll avoid flying with them again."
Frustrations Over Baggage Policies
The main source of her dissatisfaction lies in the baggage restrictions enforced by Southwest. According to her, the airline allows only two 50-pound bags per passenger, along with one carry-on and a personal item such as a backpack, purse, or handbag. She expressed annoyance over the fact that even if a traveler wants to pay for an additional bag, the airline does not permit it: "Another thing I didn’t like... if you want an extra bag, even if you’re willing to pay, they don’t let you bring it."
Adding to the frustration, the previously free baggage policy at Southwest was terminated in May 2025. Now, they charge $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second one.
Considering Other Airlines for Future Travels
For her next trip, the content creator is considering American Airlines. "From what I understand, with American, you can take two 70-pound bags," she noted.
Indeed, American Airlines allows up to two 70-pound (32-kilogram) bags on flights to Cuba, although the second bag incurs an additional charge of $150 during regular seasons and $200 in peak periods.
The experience shared by @yosvaniacrea highlights a growing frustration among Cuban and Cuban-American travelers, for whom baggage is no trivial matter. Each suitcase is often filled with food, medicines, and toiletries that are scarce on the island, intended for family members.
Wider Baggage Issues Across Airlines
The restrictions extend beyond just Southwest. Air Europa also limits baggage on its flights to Cuba, allowing only one additional suitcase beyond what the ticket includes, regardless of the fare purchased. Meanwhile, World2Fly imposes a 150-euro surcharge for non-rectangular bags with smooth surfaces, a policy enacted in January 2026.
Moreover, Cuban customs charges $10 per kilogram for excess baggage, turning each extra pound into a significant expense for those already bearing the economic burden of supporting families in Cuba from abroad.
The chaos observed at Abel Santamaría Airport in Santa Clara in January 2025, where charter airlines charged between two and three dollars per pound due to the volume of luggage, underscores how critical this issue is for the Cuban diaspora community.
Understanding Baggage Policies for Flights to Cuba
What are Southwest Airlines' baggage allowances for flights to Cuba?
Southwest Airlines permits two checked bags weighing 50 pounds each, one carry-on, and one personal item per passenger on flights to Cuba.
How does American Airlines' baggage policy compare for Cuba-bound flights?
American Airlines allows two 70-pound bags on flights to Cuba, with an additional charge of $150 for the second bag during regular seasons and $200 during peak times.
Are there additional fees for excess baggage with Cuban customs?
Yes, Cuban customs impose a fee of $10 per kilogram for any baggage that exceeds the allowed weight limits.