You're about to embark on a Southwest Airlines adventure, and wondering about baggage rules, especially how many ounces you can bring? Excellent question! It's a common point of confusion, but don't worry, we're going to break it down for you. Southwest Airlines, like all carriers, adheres to specific guidelines set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) when it comes to what you can bring on board.
Let's dive into the details, step-by-step, to ensure your travel is as smooth as a fresh jar of peanut butter (in the right size container, of course!).
Step 1: Understand the Core Concept - Ounces Primarily Apply to Liquids!
Before we get into specific numbers, let's clarify something crucial: the term "ounces" when discussing airline baggage policies primarily refers to liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes you want to carry on. For your general carry-on bags and checked luggage, the limits are typically expressed in pounds for weight and linear inches for size.
Are you ready to de-mystify the liquid rules? Let's go!
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| How Many Ounces Can You Take On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: The Infamous 3-1-1 Rule for Carry-On Liquids
This is where the "ounces" really come into play for carry-on baggage. The TSA, and by extension Southwest Airlines, follows the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on bag:
Sub-heading: What is the 3-1-1 Rule?
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3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less: Each container of liquid, gel, aerosol, cream, or paste must be 3.4 ounces (or 100 milliliters) or smaller. This means that even if you have a nearly empty 8-ounce bottle of shampoo, it still won't be allowed through security in your carry-on because the bottle itself exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit.
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1 quart-sized bag: All your 3.4-ounce (or smaller) containers must fit comfortably into one transparent, quart-sized, resealable plastic bag. Think of a Ziploc-style bag.
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1 bag per passenger: You are limited to one such quart-sized bag per passenger.
Sub-heading: Common Items Subject to the 3-1-1 Rule
This includes, but is not limited to:
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Shampoo, conditioner, lotions, creams
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Toothpaste, mouthwash
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Gels (e.g., hair gel, hand sanitizer gel)
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Aerosols (e.g., deodorant spray, hairspray)
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Perfumes, colognes
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Liquid makeup (e.g., foundation, liquid eyeliner)
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Food items like yogurt, sauces, jams
Remember: This rule is about the container size, not how much liquid is actually inside.
Step 3: Navigating Carry-On Baggage (Beyond Liquids)
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
While ounces aren't the primary concern here, it's essential to understand the overall carry-on allowance to ensure your flight is hassle-free.
Sub-heading: Southwest Carry-On Allowance
Southwest Airlines allows each passenger to bring:
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One carry-on bag: This typically goes in the overhead bin.
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One personal item: This must fit under the seat in front of you.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Bag Dimensions and Weight
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Dimensions: Your carry-on bag should not exceed 24" H x 16" W x 10" D (Height x Width x Depth), including handles and wheels.
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Weight: Here's some good news for Southwest flyers! Southwest Airlines generally does not have a specified weight limit for carry-on items. However, you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin unassisted. If it's too heavy for you to lift, it might be too heavy, period.
Sub-heading: Personal Item Dimensions
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Dimensions: Your personal item should not exceed 18.5" H x 8.5" W x 13.5" D (Height x Width x Depth). Examples include a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or briefcase.
Step 4: Understanding Checked Baggage Limits (Pounds, Not Ounces!)
When it comes to checked bags, you're looking at pounds and linear inches, not ounces (except for certain specific liquid items as noted below).
Sub-heading: Southwest Checked Bag Allowance (As of May 28, 2025, policy changes apply!)
Historically, Southwest was famous for "Bags Fly Free." However, for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, their checked bag policy has changed.
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Most passengers will now need to pay for checked bags.
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Business Select travelers and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members can still check two bags for free.
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A-List members and Southwest credit cardholders will be allowed one free checked bag.
It's crucial to check your specific fare type and Rapid Rewards status for the most accurate information on checked bag fees.
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Bag Dimensions and Weight
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Dimensions: Each checked bag should not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This includes wheels and handles.
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Weight: Each checked bag has a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
Sub-heading: Overweight and Oversized Checked Baggage Fees
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If your bag is between 51 and 100 pounds, it will incur an overweight baggage fee (typically $100-$200, depending on the exact weight and date of booking). Bags over 100 lbs are generally not accepted as checked baggage.
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If your bag is larger than 62 linear inches but not more than 80 linear inches, it will incur an oversized baggage fee (typically $200).
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Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, usually only one fee applies, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs.
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Step 5: Special Considerations for Liquids (Exemptions to the 3-1-1 Rule)
While the 3-1-1 rule is generally strict, there are important exceptions for essential items.
Sub-heading: Medically Necessary Liquids
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Medications: Liquid medications, including insulin, and other medically necessary liquids are allowed in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) in your carry-on bag.
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Important: You must declare these items to TSA officers for inspection at the security checkpoint.
Sub-heading: Baby Formula, Breast Milk, and Baby Food
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Baby Essentials: Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (including puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) are allowed in your carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.
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Cooling Accessories: Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs, and other accessories required to cool these items are also permitted in carry-ons.
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Important: Again, be prepared to present these items for inspection at the security checkpoint. They may be subject to additional screening.
Step 6: The Importance of Packing Smart!
Now that you know the rules, here are some tips for a seamless travel experience:
Sub-heading: Tips for Liquids
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Invest in Travel-Sized Containers: Buy pre-filled travel-sized toiletries or purchase reusable travel bottles and transfer your favorite products into them.
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Utilize Your Quart Bag Wisely: Maximize space in your 3-1-1 bag by choosing only essential liquids.
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Place it for Easy Access: Keep your quart-sized bag of liquids easily accessible in your carry-on, as you'll need to remove it for separate screening at security.
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Consider Solid Alternatives: For items like shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste, consider solid bars or powders to avoid liquid restrictions altogether.
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
Sub-heading: Tips for General Packing
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Weigh and Measure Your Bags: Before heading to the airport, weigh your checked bags and measure all your luggage (carry-on and personal item) to ensure they comply with Southwest's dimensions and weight limits. A simple bathroom scale works wonders!
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Pack Light: Whenever possible, try to pack efficiently to avoid excess baggage fees, especially with the new policy changes.
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Roll, Don't Fold: Rolling clothes can save space in your bags.
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Wear Heavier Items: If you have heavy clothing or shoes, consider wearing them on the plane to reduce your bag's weight.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to calculate linear inches for my checked bag?
To calculate linear inches, simply add the length, width, and height of your bag (L + W + H). For example, a bag that is 20 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 10 inches high would be 45 linear inches (20 + 15 + 10 = 45).
How to pack liquids in my carry-on bag for security?
Place all your 3.4-ounce (100 ml) or smaller liquid containers into a single, transparent, quart-sized, resealable plastic bag. Ensure the bag can close completely, and remove it from your carry-on for separate screening at the TSA checkpoint.
How to know if my carry-on bag is too big for Southwest?
Measure your carry-on bag, including wheels and handles. It should not exceed 24 inches (height) x 16 inches (width) x 10 inches (depth). If it's larger, it may need to be checked at the gate.
How to avoid checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines?
For flights booked on or after May 28, 2025, you can avoid checked bag fees if you are a Business Select traveler, a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member (allowing two free bags), or an A-List member or Southwest credit cardholder (allowing one free bag). Otherwise, most passengers will now incur fees for checked luggage.
Tip: Share this article if you find it helpful.
How to transport medications that are liquids and over 3.4 ounces?
Liquid medications that exceed 3.4 ounces (100 ml) are allowed in your carry-on bag. You must declare them to TSA officers at the security checkpoint for inspection. It's recommended to keep them easily accessible.
How to pack baby formula or breast milk in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces?
Baby formula, breast milk, and toddler drinks in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces are permitted in your carry-on. They do not need to fit into a quart-sized bag. Inform a TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process, and be prepared for potential additional screening.
How to check if an item is prohibited on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines follows TSA's prohibited items list. You can visit the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" page on their official website (tsa.gov) or consult Southwest's baggage policy on their website for a comprehensive list of prohibited items in both carry-on and checked baggage.
How to handle oversized or overweight checked bags on Southwest?
If your checked bag exceeds 50 pounds or 62 linear inches, you will be subject to additional fees. These fees can be substantial (typically $100-$200 per bag). It's best to repack or ship items separately if your bag is likely to be overweight or oversized to avoid these charges.
How to maximize space in my personal item?
Choose a personal item bag that fits Southwest's dimensions (18.5" H x 8.5" W x 13.5" D). Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and make use of internal and external pockets. Consider lightweight and versatile items.
How to get the most up-to-date baggage information for my specific flight?
Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly. Policies can change, and checking the airline's official resources will ensure you have the most current and accurate information for your specific travel dates and fare type.
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