Ready to pack for your next Southwest adventure, but scratching your head about how many bags you can actually bring on board? You're in the right place! Navigating airline carry-on policies can feel like deciphering a secret code, but with Southwest, it's actually quite straightforward. Let's break it down so you can breeze through security and onto your flight with confidence!
Your Southwest Carry-On Allowance: The Golden Rule
Here's the exciting news: Southwest Airlines offers a generous carry-on policy that's designed to make your travel a little less stressful. Unlike many other airlines that nickel and dime you for every little thing, Southwest keeps it simple.
You are allowed to bring ONE (1) carry-on bag AND ONE (1) personal item onboard for free.
That's right, two separate items that you don't have to check, as long as they meet the size requirements. This is a huge perk for many travelers, especially those who prefer to keep their belongings close at hand.
Now, let's dive into the specifics to ensure your bags are perfectly compliant.
Step 1: Understanding Your Carry-On Bag
Your primary carry-on bag is the one that typically goes in the overhead bin. Think of it as your main piece of cabin luggage.
What are the Size Limits for Your Carry-On Bag?
This is crucial! Your carry-on bag must not exceed the following dimensions, including wheels, handles, and any external attachments:
Length: 24 inches (approx. 61 cm)
Width: 16 inches (approx. 40 cm)
Height: 10 inches (approx. 25 cm)
Pro-Tip: Many carry-on suitcases are designed to meet these dimensions, but it's always a good idea to measure yours, especially if it's an older bag or a soft-sided duffel that might bulge. Southwest often has sizing bins near the check-in counter and at the gate. If your bag doesn't fit, you might be asked to gate-check it, which means it will be put with the checked luggage for your flight. While Southwest generally doesn't charge for gate-checked bags that are simply oversized carry-ons, it's still an inconvenience you want to avoid.
Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-On Bags?
The fantastic news? Southwest Airlines does not have a weight limit for carry-on bags! As long as you can comfortably lift it into the overhead bin yourself, you're good to go. This is a huge advantage, especially for those who pack heavier items like books or electronics.
Step 2: Getting to Know Your Personal Item
Your personal item is the smaller bag that goes under the seat in front of you. This is where you keep your essentials that you want easy access to during the flight.
What Counts as a Personal Item?
Common examples of personal items include:
A purse (including crossbody bags)
A briefcase
A laptop computer case
A small backpack
A pillow (neck pillows do not count toward your carry-on limit, they are considered personal comfort items)
A blanket
A small camera bag
What are the Size Limits for Your Personal Item?
Similar to your carry-on, your personal item also has size restrictions to ensure it fits snugly under the seat. These dimensions are:
Length: 18.5 inches (approx. 47 cm)
Width: 8.5 inches (approx. 22 cm)
Height: 13.5 inches (approx. 34 cm)
Again, it's wise to measure your personal item if you're unsure. A slightly overstuffed backpack can cause issues!
Is There a Weight Limit for Personal Items?
Just like your main carry-on, Southwest does not impose a weight limit on your personal item. The key is that it must fit under the seat in front of you.
Step 3: Beyond the Basics - Additional Items You Can Bring
Southwest is pretty accommodating when it comes to extra items that don't count towards your carry-on or personal item limit. This is where you can really maximize your packing!
What "Extra" Items Are Allowed?
You can typically bring the following items in addition to your one carry-on and one personal item:
A coat, jacket, or wrap
An umbrella
Food or drinks purchased after security
A small bag of duty-free items
Assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches, canes, walkers, portable oxygen concentrators, and other medical devices)
Infant items (e.g., strollers, car seats, diaper bags, breast pumps, and milk/formula). Note: While car seats are often allowed on board if you've purchased a seat for your child or if there's an available seat, they are also accepted as free checked baggage. Strollers can generally be gate-checked for free.
Medications (prescription or over-the-counter) that have been screened by security. Remember the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids (more on that below!).
A child restraint system (CRS) if you've purchased a seat for your child or if there's an available seat for it to occupy. It must be FAA-approved.
Step 4: Special Considerations for Your Carry-Ons
While the general rules are simple, some items require a bit more attention.
Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols (The 3-1-1 Rule)
This is a TSA rule, not just a Southwest one, and it applies to all carry-on baggage.
Containers: All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
Bag: All containers must fit into one quart-sized, clear, sealable plastic bag.
Placement: Each passenger is limited to one such bag. This bag must be removed from your carry-on and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening at security.
Exceptions: Medically necessary liquids, breast milk, and baby formula in larger quantities are generally allowed, but you must declare them to TSA officers for inspection.
Traveling with Musical Instruments
Southwest is generally accommodating with musical instruments.
If it fits: If your instrument (including its case) is within the standard carry-on dimensions (24" L + 16" W + 10" H), you can bring it as your carry-on item if there's space available in the overhead bin.
Larger instruments: If your instrument exceeds carry-on sizing requirements but can still fit in an overhead bin or under a seat, it may be carried on if space is available.
Purchasing a seat: For larger instruments that won't fit in the overhead or under a seat (like a cello), you may purchase a separate seat for it. There are specific rules for securing it in the seat.
Checking instruments: Instruments that cannot be carried on can be checked. Standard baggage fees and size/weight limits apply, though sometimes exceptions are made for musical instruments within certain parameters. Be aware that oversize/overweight fees may apply if your instrument is very large or heavy.
Traveling with Pets
If you're bringing a furry friend, here's what to know:
Southwest allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in the cabin on domestic flights only.
Your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You are allowed one pet carrier per ticketed customer.
The pet carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions are typically 18.5" L x 8.5" H x 13.5" W.
There is a pet fare charged for in-cabin pets, and space is limited (usually a maximum of 6 pets per flight), so reservations are highly recommended.
Step 5: What NOT to Bring in Your Carry-On
For your safety and the safety of others, certain items are prohibited or restricted in carry-on baggage. Always check the TSA's website for the most up-to-date and comprehensive list. Some common examples include:
Firearms and ammunition (must be checked and declared, with specific packing requirements)
Sharp objects like knives, box cutters, razor blades (except safety razors)
Explosives or flammable materials
Self-defense sprays (e.g., mace, pepper spray) are not allowed on Southwest flights, even in checked baggage.
Lithium batteries (loose batteries or power banks) must be in carry-on baggage only and protected from short circuit. They are generally not allowed in checked luggage.
E-cigarettes/vaping devices are allowed in carry-on only, but use or recharging onboard is prohibited.
Always err on the side of caution! If you're unsure about an item, either check it or leave it at home. A quick check of the TSA website can save you a lot of hassle at the airport.
Step 6: Boarding and Stowage Tips
Once you're past security, it's all about getting your bags into their designated spots.
Overhead Bins vs. Under the Seat
Your carry-on bag (the larger one) should go in the overhead bin.
Your personal item (the smaller one) should fit completely under the seat in front of you. This is crucial for maintaining clear aisles and emergency exits.
Early Bird Gets the Bin Space!
Southwest's open seating policy means boarding order is often key to finding overhead bin space. If you have an A group boarding pass, you'll likely have your pick. For B and C groups, overhead space can become tight, especially on full flights.
If you find yourself in a situation where overhead space is limited, flight attendants might ask you to gate-check your carry-on. Again, this is typically free on Southwest if it's within carry-on limits but the bin space is full.
Consider packing lighter or utilizing Southwest's generous two free checked bags policy if you anticipate a full flight and want to avoid the potential of gate-checking.
Conclusion: Fly Smart with Southwest!
Southwest Airlines makes carry-on baggage fairly straightforward: one carry-on bag for the overhead bin and one personal item for under the seat, both with specific size limits but no weight restrictions. By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, leaving more time to enjoy your flight and your destination!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to measure my carry-on bag for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your carry-on bag, use a tape measure to determine the length, width, and height of the bag including any wheels and handles. For Southwest, ensure it doesn't exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H).
How to pack liquids in my Southwest carry-on?
Pack liquids according to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized clear, sealable plastic bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
How to determine if my backpack counts as a personal item or a carry-on for Southwest?
A backpack counts as a personal item if its dimensions allow it to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you (max 18.5" L x 8.5" W x 13.5" H). If it's larger and needs to go in the overhead bin, it's considered your carry-on bag.
How to bring a car seat on Southwest Airlines?
If you've purchased a seat for your child, an FAA-approved car seat can be brought on board and will not count towards your carry-on limit. Otherwise, car seats can be checked for free.
How to travel with a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
Small instruments that fit the carry-on dimensions (24" L x 16" W x 10" H) can be brought as your carry-on. Larger instruments may be carried on if they fit in an overhead bin or under a seat, or you can purchase a separate seat for them. Alternatively, you can check them as baggage, subject to fees for oversized/overweight items.
How to bring a pet in the cabin on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest allows small domestic cats and dogs in the cabin on domestic flights, provided they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. The carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item, and a pet fare applies. Reservations are recommended due to limited space.
How to handle oversized carry-on bags on Southwest?
If your carry-on bag exceeds Southwest's size limits (24" L x 16" W x 10" H), you may be asked to gate-check it. While Southwest typically doesn't charge for gate-checked bags that are simply oversized carry-ons, it's best to ensure your bag meets the dimensions to avoid potential delays or inconvenience.
How to avoid checking a bag on Southwest if overhead bins are full?
To increase your chances of securing overhead bin space, aim for an earlier boarding position (e.g., by purchasing Business Select or EarlyBird Check-In, or checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight). However, on very full flights, gate-checking may still be necessary.
How to pack a diaper bag for Southwest Airlines?
A diaper bag is typically considered an "additional item" and does not count towards your one carry-on and one personal item limit. You can bring it on board in addition to your standard allowance.
How to bring medications on my Southwest flight?
You can bring prescription and over-the-counter medications in your carry-on. Liquid medications exceeding 3.4 ounces are allowed but must be declared to TSA for inspection. It's advisable to keep important medications in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is delayed.
