Are you ready to unravel the mystery of personal bag sizes on Southwest Airlines? Many travelers find themselves scratching their heads when it comes to airline baggage policies, and Southwest, with its unique approach to carry-ons and personal items, can sometimes add to the confusion. But fear not! This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about how big your personal bag can be on Southwest, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Let's dive in and get you perfectly packed for your next Southwest adventure!
Step 1: Understanding the "Personal Item" Concept
First things first, let's clarify what Southwest Airlines considers a "personal item." This is distinct from your carry-on bag. While your carry-on goes in the overhead bin, your personal item is designed to fit snugly under the seat in front of you. This distinction is crucial because it dictates the size limitations.
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Why does this matter? Think of it as your in-flight essentials bag. It's where you'll keep items you need quick access to during the flight – your book, snacks, medications, tablet, or anything else you want within arm's reach without needing to get up.
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| How Big Can A Personal Bag Be On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: The Official Southwest Personal Item Dimensions
This is where the rubber meets the road! Southwest Airlines has specific dimensions for personal items. While they generally state it must fit under the seat, a more precise guideline is:
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Maximum Dimensions: 18.5 inches (length) x 8.5 inches (width) x 13.5 inches (height).
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Important Note: These dimensions are the maximum. It's always best to be a little under the limit to avoid any last-minute issues. Remember, flexibility is your friend here, especially with soft-sided bags.
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What Does This Look Like in Practice?
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Common Examples:
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A small backpack (daypack size, not a large hiking pack)
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A laptop bag or briefcase
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A large purse or tote bag
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A small duffel bag
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A pet carrier (more on this below!)
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Consider the Fit: Imagine sliding your bag under a standard airline seat. Does it look like it will fit without being forced or protruding significantly into the aisle? If you're unsure, a quick measurement at home with a tape measure can save you a lot of hassle at the airport.
Step 3: Distinguishing Your Personal Item from Your Carry-On
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
Southwest allows one personal item AND one carry-on bag per passenger. This is a generous policy compared to some other airlines that might only allow one or charge for a carry-on. Knowing the difference between the two is key to maximizing your baggage allowance without incurring extra fees.
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Carry-On Bag Dimensions: For your overhead bin bag, Southwest generally allows up to 24 inches (length) x 16 inches (width) x 10 inches (height). Again, these dimensions include wheels, handles, and any external pockets.
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The "Rule of Thumb": If it's larger than your personal item dimensions, and fits the carry-on dimensions, it's your carry-on. If it's smaller and fits under the seat, it's your personal item. Simple as that!
Step 4: What Else Doesn't Count as a Personal Item or Carry-On?
Southwest is quite accommodating with certain essential items that do not count towards your one personal item and one carry-on allowance. This is great news, especially for families or those with specific needs!
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Medical and Assistive Devices:
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Crutches, canes, walkers, and other mobility aids.
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CPAP machines and other portable medical devices.
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Wheelchairs: These are always transported free of charge, either in the cabin if collapsible and space permits, or as checked baggage.
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Child Restraint Systems: Car seats or booster seats for infants/children can be checked for free or brought onboard if a seat is purchased for the child.
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Strollers: Strollers can be checked at the gate or ticket counter for free.
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Outerwear: A coat, jacket, or wrap you are wearing.
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Food for Consumption on Flight: Food purchased for immediate consumption on the flight, typically in disposable packaging.
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Umbrella: A standard umbrella.
It's important to remember that while these items don't count towards your allowance, they still need to be screened by TSA.
Step 5: Special Considerations: Pet Carriers and Musical Instruments
Traveling with Fido or your prized guitar? Southwest has specific rules for these, and they can sometimes impact your personal item allowance.
Pet Carriers
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Counts as a Carry-On OR Personal Item: If you're traveling with a small, domesticated cat or dog, their pet carrier will count as either your carry-on item or your personal item. It cannot be in addition to both.
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Pet Carrier Dimensions: The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Southwest typically states the maximum dimensions for pet carriers are 8.5 inches high x 18.5 inches long x 13.5 inches wide.
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Reservations and Fees: You'll need to make a reservation for your pet in advance and pay a pet fare (currently $125 each way, subject to change).
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
Musical Instruments
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Carry-On Option: Smaller musical instruments can be brought onboard as your carry-on item if they fit within the standard carry-on dimensions (24 x 16 x 10 inches) and can be stowed in the overhead bin.
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Personal Item Option: Even smaller instruments (e.g., a ukulele) that fit the personal item dimensions can be considered your personal item and fit under the seat.
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Purchasing a Seat: For larger instruments that don't fit in the overhead bin or under a seat (like a cello), you may purchase an additional seat for the instrument. Specific conditions apply, such as the instrument needing to be placed in the first row, by the window, and secured with a seatbelt.
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Checked Baggage: If your instrument exceeds carry-on or personal item dimensions and you don't wish to purchase an extra seat, it can be checked as baggage. Standard baggage fees and overweight/oversize charges may apply.
Step 6: Packing Smart for Your Personal Bag
Now that you know the size limits, let's talk about packing strategies to make the most of your personal item!
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Essentials First: Prioritize items you'll need during the flight:
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Medications (especially prescriptions)
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Wallet, passport, boarding pass
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Electronics (phone, tablet, e-reader, headphones, chargers)
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Snacks and an empty water bottle (fill after security)
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Entertainment (book, magazine)
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A light layer (airplane cabins can get chilly)
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Travel pillow/eye mask (for comfort)
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Utilize Organizational Pockets: Many personal bags come with multiple compartments. Use them to keep your items tidy and easily accessible.
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"Roll, Don't Fold": For any small clothing items you might squeeze in (like a t-shirt or socks), rolling them tightly can save space.
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Minimize Bulk: Avoid bulky items if possible. For instance, instead of a thick novel, consider an e-reader.
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Liquids, Aerosols, Gels (LAGs): Remember the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your personal item (and carry-on):
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Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
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All containers must fit in one quart-sized clear, sealable bag.
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One bag per passenger.
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Step 7: At the Airport: The Sizer and Gate Agents
While you've done your homework, be prepared for a quick check at the airport.
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The Sizer: At the check-in counter and often near the gate, you'll find metal frames called "sizers." These are designed to ensure your carry-on and personal items meet the airline's dimensions. If there's any doubt, a gate agent might ask you to place your bag in the sizer. If it doesn't fit, you may be required to gate-check it.
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Gate Agents Have Discretion: Ultimately, the gate agent has the final say. If your personal item looks excessively large or bulging, they might ask you to put it in the sizer or, if necessary, check it. Be polite and cooperative. A smile and a willingness to comply go a long way.
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Overhead Bin Space: On full flights, overhead bin space can be tight. Even if your carry-on meets the dimensions, you might be asked to gate-check it if the bins are full. Your personal item, designed to fit under the seat, is usually safe from this.
Step 8: Avoiding Extra Fees
Southwest is known for its two free checked bags policy, which is a fantastic perk! However, sticking to the personal item and carry-on guidelines is crucial to avoid unexpected fees.
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No Personal Item Fees (if compliant): As long as your personal item meets the dimensions and fits under the seat, there are no separate fees for it.
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Gate-Checking a Non-Compliant Personal Item: If your personal item is deemed too large and you're asked to gate-check it, it will typically be treated as a checked bag. If you already have two checked bags or if it exceeds the checked bag size/weight limits, you could incur fees.
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The Golden Rule: When in doubt, measure it out! And pack light whenever possible.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to navigate Southwest's personal bag policies with confidence. Enjoy your flight!
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to Southwest personal bag policy, with quick answers:
How to Measure My Personal Bag for Southwest?
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Lay your bag on its side and measure the length, width, and height (including wheels and handles). Ensure it's no more than 18.5" L x 8.5" W x 13.5" H.
How to Pack Liquids in My Southwest Personal Bag?
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Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, fit in one quart-sized clear, sealable bag, and limited to one bag per passenger.
How to Travel with a Laptop in My Southwest Personal Bag?
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A laptop case or sleeve within a larger personal bag, or a dedicated laptop bag, typically fits the personal item dimensions. You'll need to remove it for security screening.
How to Fit More into My Southwest Personal Bag?
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
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Utilize packing cubes, roll clothes tightly, wear your bulkiest items, and make the most of every pocket and compartment.
How to Bring a Pillow on Southwest as a Personal Item?
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A travel pillow typically does not count as a personal item and can be carried on in addition to your personal item and carry-on. If it's a very large, regular pillow, it might be counted.
How to Travel with a Pet Carrier as a Personal Item on Southwest?
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Your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on. It must fit under the seat (max 18.5" L x 8.5" W x 13.5" H) and you must make a reservation and pay the pet fare.
How to Ensure My Personal Bag Fits Under the Seat on Southwest?
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Practice! Try sliding your packed bag under a chair or sofa at home that has similar clearance to an airplane seat. Don't overstuff it, especially if it's a soft-sided bag.
How to Avoid Gate-Checking My Personal Bag on Southwest?
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Strictly adhere to the stated dimensions (18.5" L x 8.5" W x 13.5" H) and ensure your bag isn't overstuffed or unusually shaped.
How to Carry Essential Items in My Southwest Personal Bag?
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Keep your passport, wallet, medications, electronics, chargers, and any in-flight entertainment easily accessible in your personal bag.
How to Handle Unexpected Personal Bag Issues at the Southwest Gate?
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Be polite and cooperative with the gate agent. If asked to place your bag in the sizer or gate-check it, comply gracefully. Having a backup plan (e.g., being able to quickly remove essentials) is helpful.
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