So, you're planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about that crucial question: how big can my carry-on be? It's a common concern for travelers, and getting it right can save you a lot of hassle (and potential fees!) at the airport. Let's break down everything you need to know, step by step, to ensure your carry-on glides through with ease.
Step 1: Let's demystify the carry-on conundrum together!
Ever stood in line at the gate, sweating a little as you eye the baggage sizer, wondering if your perfectly packed bag is actually... too perfect? You're not alone! The world of airline baggage policies can feel like a labyrinth, but with Southwest, it's actually quite straightforward once you know the key dimensions and rules. Ready to become a carry-on pro? Let's dive in!
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| How Big Can My Carry On Be For Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding the Core Dimensions for Southwest Carry-On Bags
Southwest Airlines is generally known for its traveler-friendly policies, and their carry-on allowance is pretty consistent. They allow one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. Here's what you need to remember:
Sub-heading 2.1: The Overhead Bin Bag (Your Main Carry-On)
This is the bag designed to go into the overhead compartment above your seat. For Southwest, the maximum dimensions for this bag are:
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
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24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H)
It's critical to remember that these dimensions include wheels, handles, and any external attachments. So, don't just measure the main body of your suitcase; extend your tape measure to the very tip of the handle when it's fully retracted, and to the outermost point of the wheels. A common mistake is forgetting about those extra inches the wheels add, leading to a bag that's technically too large.
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Pro-tip: If your bag looks even slightly questionable in size, consider a soft-sided bag that has a bit more give. While rigid suitcases are great for protection, they offer no flexibility if you're pushing the limits.
Sub-heading 2.2: The Under-Seat Personal Item
This smaller item is designed to fit conveniently under the seat in front of you. Common examples include:
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A purse (including crossbody bags)
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A briefcase
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A laptop computer case
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A small backpack
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A pillow (note: neck pillows often don't count toward the carry-on limit)
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A blanket
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A small camera bag
The maximum dimensions for your personal item are:
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18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (W) x 13.5 inches (H)
Again, ensure all external parts are included in your measurement. This bag is crucial for keeping essentials like your passport, wallet, phone, and in-flight entertainment easily accessible.
Step 3: Weighing In - Are There Weight Limits for Carry-Ons?
This is where Southwest truly shines for many travelers! Unlike many other airlines, Southwest Airlines does not have a stated weight restriction for carry-on bags or personal items.
QuickTip: Pay close attention to transitions.
While there's no official weight limit, you should still be able to lift your carry-on bag into the overhead bin unassisted. If you're struggling, it's a good sign that it might be too heavy, regardless of whether there's a formal restriction. Plus, keeping it lighter makes for a much more comfortable airport experience!
Step 4: Special Considerations and Exceptions
While the general rules apply to most items, there are a few important exceptions and special cases to be aware of:
Sub-heading 4.1: Traveling with Pets
If you're bringing your furry friend along, remember that a pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You can't bring a pet carrier in addition to both a carry-on and a personal item. Pet carriers also have their own specific dimension requirements to fit under the seat, and a fee applies. Always check Southwest's pet policy directly for the most up-to-date information, as space for pets is limited and often requires advance reservation.
Sub-heading 4.2: Musical Instruments
QuickTip: Pause when something clicks.
Traveling with a musical instrument? If it fits within the standard carry-on dimensions (24" x 16" x 10"), you can bring it onboard as your carry-on item, space permitting. Larger instruments might still be allowed in the cabin if they fit in an overhead bin or under a seat. For very large instruments that don't fit, you might need to purchase an additional seat for them, or they may need to be checked. Specific rules apply for purchasing a seat for an instrument, including placement in the first row by the window.
Sub-heading 4.3: Medical Devices and Assistive Aids
Southwest generally offers flexibility for essential medical devices and assistive aids. Items like wheelchairs, mobility aids, and medication do not typically count towards your carry-on limits. However, it's always best to notify Southwest in advance if you're traveling with significant medical equipment to ensure a smooth process. Medications should ideally be kept in your carry-on bag or personal item.
Sub-heading 4.4: Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (The 3-1-1 Rule)
This rule is set by the TSA, not Southwest, but it applies to all carry-on baggage. Remember the "3-1-1" rule:
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3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container
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All containers must fit in 1 quart-sized bag
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1 bag per passenger
This applies to toothpaste, shampoo, lotions, aerosols, and gels. Larger quantities of medically necessary liquids or breast milk are exempt but should be declared to TSA.
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
Sub-heading 4.5: Batteries and Electronic Devices
Loose lithium batteries (like spare batteries for laptops, cameras, or portable chargers/power banks) must be carried in your carry-on baggage only and protected from short circuits. They are not allowed in checked baggage. Electronic smoking devices (e-cigarettes, vapes) are also carry-on only, and their use or recharging is forbidden onboard. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest has also clarified that portable chargers/power banks must be visible and out of bags during use to mitigate fire risks. You cannot charge devices with power banks stored in carry-on bags or overhead compartments.
Step 5: What Happens If Your Bag is Too Big?
If your carry-on bag exceeds the dimensions, Southwest personnel at the gate will likely require you to gate-check your bag. This means your bag will be taken from you at the gate and placed in the plane's cargo hold. While Southwest used to allow two checked bags for free, this policy has changed for many fares. For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, a fee applies for checked bags for most fare types. So, if your carry-on is too large and needs to be gate-checked, it might incur a checked bag fee unless your fare type or Rapid Rewards status grants you free checked bags. This is why getting the dimensions right upfront is so important!
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Don't be caught off guard! Measure your bag before you leave for the airport, or better yet, invest in a carry-on that you know meets the airline's requirements. Many luggage manufacturers now specifically label bags as "TSA approved carry-on" or list their dimensions clearly.
Step 6: Maximizing Your Carry-On Space (Legally!)
Since Southwest is generous with carry-on weight, focus on smart packing to make the most of the allowed dimensions.
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Roll your clothes: This often saves more space than folding and can reduce wrinkles.
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Utilize packing cubes: These can compress your clothing and keep your bag organized.
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Wear your bulkiest items: If you have heavy boots or a thick jacket, wear them on the plane rather than packing them.
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Don't overstuff: While you might be tempted to cram everything in, an overstuffed bag can become rigid and fail to fit the sizer.
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Think vertically: Pack items so they fill the bag's dimensions efficiently, avoiding awkward empty spaces.
By following these guidelines and being mindful of the specific dimensions, you can confidently board your Southwest flight knowing your carry-on is good to go!
Frequently Asked Questions about Southwest Carry-On Sizes
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to Southwest carry-on policies, with quick answers:
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How to measure my carry-on bag for Southwest Airlines?
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Quick Answer: Measure your bag's length, width, and height, including wheels and handles. The total should not exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H) for your main carry-on, and 18.5" (L) x 8.5" (W) x 13.5" (H) for your personal item.
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How to ensure my carry-on fits in the overhead bin on Southwest?
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Quick Answer: Stick strictly to the 24" x 16" x 10" dimensions, including all external parts. If your bag is soft-sided, don't overstuff it, as a bulging bag can be problematic.
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How to know if my personal item is the right size for Southwest?
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Quick Answer: Your personal item should fit completely under the seat in front of you. Its dimensions should be no more than 18.5" (L) x 8.5" (W) x 13.5" (H).
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How to pack liquids in my Southwest carry-on?
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Quick Answer: Follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, fit in one quart-sized clear, sealable bag, and you're limited to one bag per passenger.
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How to travel with a pet as a carry-on on Southwest?
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Quick Answer: Your pet carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item. It must fit under the seat, and you need to make advance reservations and pay a fee. Check Southwest's pet policy for specific carrier dimensions.
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How to handle oversized carry-on bags on Southwest?
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Quick Answer: If your carry-on exceeds the size limits, it will likely be gate-checked. Be aware that for bookings or changes made on or after May 28, 2025, this may incur a checked bag fee depending on your fare type.
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How to bring a musical instrument as a carry-on on Southwest?
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Quick Answer: If your instrument (with case) is within the 24" x 16" x 10" carry-on limits, it can come onboard if space is available. Larger instruments might be allowed if they fit in the overhead or under a seat, or you may need to purchase an additional seat.
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How to pack electronics and batteries in my Southwest carry-on?
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Quick Answer: All spare lithium batteries and electronic smoking devices must be in your carry-on, not checked baggage. As of May 28, 2025, portable chargers/power banks must be visible and out of bags during use.
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How to get medical devices through security with Southwest carry-on?
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Quick Answer: Medical devices and assistive aids typically do not count towards carry-on limits. Inform TSA and Southwest staff if you have special medical equipment. Medications should always be kept in your carry-on.
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How to avoid carry-on issues at the gate with Southwest?
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Quick Answer: Measure your bag at home before you leave, pack strategically to stay within dimensions, and if in doubt, opt for a slightly smaller bag or be prepared to gate-check (and potentially pay for) an oversized item.
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