Southwest Airlines Carry-On Baggage: Everything You Need to Know

Southwest Airlines Carry-On Baggage: Everything You Need to Know

Traveling with Southwest Airlines comes with a lot of perks, from no change fees to two free checked bags. But one aspect of air travel that often causes confusion is the carry-on baggage policy. If you’re wondering what you can bring on your Southwest flight, or how to avoid extra fees and inconvenience at the airport, this blog will cover everything you need to know about Southwest’s carry-on baggage rules.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, here’s a complete guide to understanding and preparing for Southwest Airlines’ carry-on baggage policy.

1. What is Allowed in Your Carry-On on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines is known for offering a straightforward carry-on baggage policy. As a Southwest passenger, you’re allowed to bring:

• One Carry-On Bag: This bag must fit in the overhead bin.
• One Personal Item: This must fit under the seat in front of you.

These two items must meet certain size limits, but Southwest does not impose any weight restrictions on your carry-on bag. Let’s break down the details:

Carry-On Bag Size:

• 10 inches x 16 inches x 24 inches (25 cm x 40 cm x 61 cm).

Your carry-on bag must fit within these dimensions to be allowed in the overhead bin. If your bag exceeds these measurements, you may be asked to check it.

Personal Item Size:

• 18.5 inches x 8.5 inches x 13.5 inches (47 cm x 22 cm x 34 cm).

Your personal item can include a purse, laptop bag, backpack, or even a small duffle bag. It must fit neatly under the seat in front of you, so it’s always within reach during the flight.

2. What Can You Pack in Your Carry-On?

Knowing what to pack in your carry-on bag will help you stay organized and comfortable during your flight. Here are some essential items to include:

• Travel Documents: Keep your boarding pass, ID, and any other necessary documents easily accessible. If you’re traveling internationally, don’t forget your passport.
• Electronics: Pack your phone, tablet, laptop, or any other electronic devices for in-flight entertainment. Make sure to bring chargers for all your devices.
• Snacks: While Southwest offers snacks on flights, you may want to bring your own for extra convenience. Items like nuts, granola bars, or fruit can help satisfy your hunger during the journey.
• Medications: If you need medication during your flight, it’s important to carry it with you in your carry-on bag, along with any necessary prescriptions.
• Toiletries: Following TSA guidelines, liquids and gels in your carry-on bag must be 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less and placed in a quart-sized zip-top bag.

3. What’s Not Allowed in Your Carry-On?

In addition to size restrictions, Southwest also adheres to TSA guidelines for restricted items in your carry-on. Here are some things you cannot bring onboard:

• Sharp objects: Knives, scissors, and similar items are not allowed in the cabin.
• Large liquids: You cannot bring liquids that exceed 3.4 ounces (100 mL) through security.
• Firearms and weapons: Guns, ammunition, and any other weapons are strictly prohibited.
• Flammable materials: Items like fireworks, certain aerosols, and flammable liquids are not allowed on board.

Before packing, it’s always a good idea to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date list of prohibited items.

4. What Happens if Your Carry-On Doesn’t Fit?

If your carry-on bag is too large or doesn’t meet the size requirements, Southwest may ask you to check it at the gate. The good news is that Southwest allows two free checked bags per passenger, so you won’t be charged an additional fee for checking your oversized carry-on bag. However, it’s always best to check the size limits beforehand to avoid this situation.

If you’re unsure about whether your bag will fit, make use of the bag sizers located at the airport. They’re there to help you determine if your carry-on complies with the airline’s size guidelines.

5. How to Maximize Your Carry-On Space

Maximizing the space in your carry-on bag is essential, especially if you want to avoid checking a bag. Here are some packing tips to make the most of your carry-on:

• Roll Your Clothes: Rolling clothes instead of folding them helps you save space and reduces wrinkles.
• Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes help organize your belongings and compress them, creating more space in your bag.
• Wear Bulky Items: Wear your heaviest clothes and shoes during the flight to free up space in your bag.
• Limit Shoes: Shoes can take up a lot of room, so try to pack only one or two pairs.

6. Special Considerations for Southwest Passengers

Southwest Airlines offers a few extra perks that can help make your carry-on experience easier:

• Family Boarding: Southwest provides early boarding for families with children under 6. This gives you extra time to secure overhead bin space and settle in before the flight.
• Open Seating: Unlike many airlines, Southwest doesn’t assign seats. This open seating policy means that you can choose any available seat when you board, so it’s important to get in line early for the best options.
• Priority Boarding: Southwest also offers EarlyBird Check-In, which allows you to board earlier for a small fee. This can be particularly helpful if you want to ensure that your carry-on fits in the overhead bin.

7. Carry-On Fees with Southwest Airlines

One of the biggest perks of flying with Southwest is that there are no fees for carry-on bags. Unlike many other airlines that charge for carry-on luggage, Southwest allows passengers to bring one free carry-on bag and one personal item onboard. This makes Southwest a great choice for travelers who want to avoid hidden fees and keep their trip affordable.

8. Conclusion: Pack Smart and Travel Hassle-Free

Southwest Airlines’ carry-on baggage rules are straightforward, and as long as you pack smart and adhere to the size limits, you’ll be good to go. Whether you’re bringing essentials, entertainment, or snacks for the journey, make sure your carry-on is within the approved dimensions to avoid any surprises at the gate.

By taking advantage of Southwest’s generous baggage policies and planning ahead, you’ll enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable flight. Safe travels!