Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about your carry-on bag? You've come to the right place! Unlike many other airlines that have strict weight limits for carry-on luggage, Southwest operates a bit differently. Let's dive into everything you need to know to ensure a smooth boarding experience.
Navigating Southwest Airlines Carry-On Policy: No Weight Limit, But Size Matters!
One of the most frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines' carry-on policy is about weight. And here's the good news: Southwest Airlines generally does NOT have a specified weight restriction for carry-on items. This is a significant perk that sets them apart from many other carriers. However, this doesn't mean you can pack your entire wardrobe into a single bag! There are crucial size restrictions and practical considerations you absolutely need to keep in mind.
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| How Much Can A Carry On Bag Weigh For Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Engage with Your Luggage - Can You Lift It?
Before we even talk about numbers, let's start with a practical, common-sense test. Take your packed carry-on bag. Can you comfortably lift it over your head and place it into an overhead bin without assistance? If the answer is a resounding "yes," you're likely in good shape regarding the unspoken "weight limit." If you're struggling, or if it feels like you're performing Olympic-level weightlifting, it's a strong indicator that your bag might be too heavy, even without a formal weight restriction. Remember, flight attendants aren't there to hoist your luggage for you, and a bag that's too heavy can be a safety hazard.
Step 2: Understanding Southwest's Carry-On Dimensions
While a specific weight limit isn't typically enforced, size is paramount. Your carry-on must fit either in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Overhead Bin Bag
Southwest allows one standard carry-on bag per passenger. This bag is intended for the overhead bins. The maximum dimensions for this bag, including handles and wheels, are:
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Length: 24 inches (approximately 61 cm)
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Width: 16 inches (approximately 41 cm)
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Height: 10 inches (approximately 25 cm)
It's crucial to measure your bag accurately, including any protruding parts like wheels and handles. Airlines often have sizers at the gate, and if your bag doesn't fit, you may be required to check it, potentially incurring fees if you've already used your free checked bag allowance (or if you're on a fare that now charges for checked bags).
Sub-heading 2.2: The Personal Item
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
In addition to your main carry-on, you are also permitted one personal item. This item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples of personal items include:
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A purse or handbag
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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 camera bag
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A pillow or blanket (though neck pillows typically don't count towards the limit)
While there's no strict weight limit for personal items either, they do have size guidelines. Generally, these should not exceed:
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Length: 16.25 inches (approximately 41 cm)
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Width: 13.5 inches (approximately 34 cm)
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Height: 8.5 inches (approximately 21.5 cm)
Again, the key is that it must fit under the seat. If it's too bulky, you might be asked to combine it with your main carry-on or check it.
Step 3: What Doesn't Count Towards Your Carry-On Limit?
Southwest is quite reasonable about certain items that don't count against your one carry-on bag and one personal item limit. These include:
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Assistive/mobility devices for individuals with disabilities (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers, crutches).
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Outer garments or other wearable articles of clothing (e.g., a coat, jacket).
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Food for consumption during the flight contained in disposable packaging.
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Walking canes or umbrellas.
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Child restraint devices for a ticketed child with a reserved seat, or when complimentary, available space exists.
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Diaper bags for infants/small children.
This is particularly helpful for families or those with specific needs, allowing them to bring necessary items without sacrificing valuable carry-on space.
Step 4: Packing Smart for Southwest Carry-On
Since there's no weight limit, the temptation might be to overpack. However, practicality is your best friend.
Sub-heading 4.1: Maximize Space, Not Weight (Within Reason)
Focus on efficient packing techniques like rolling clothes or using packing cubes to maximize the available space within the allowed dimensions. While you don't have a weight limit, a lighter bag is always easier to manage in overhead bins, especially if you're on the shorter side or have limited mobility.
Sub-heading 4.2: Liquids and Gels (TSA Rules Apply)
Tip: Reading with intent makes content stick.
Remember that all carry-on liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes must adhere to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule:
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Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.
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They must be placed in a 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag.
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Only 1 bag per passenger.
This rule applies regardless of the airline, so always keep it in mind when packing your carry-on.
Sub-heading 4.3: Batteries and Electronics
Be aware of TSA regulations regarding batteries and electronics. Lithium-ion batteries (commonly found in laptops, power banks, and cameras) are generally required to be in your carry-on luggage, not checked bags, due to fire safety concerns. Always check the latest TSA guidelines if you're unsure about a specific item.
Step 5: What Happens if Your Carry-On is Too Big or Heavy (for You)?
Even without a formal weight limit, if your carry-on is clearly too large to fit in the sizer or if you cannot lift it into the overhead bin, you'll be asked to gate-check it.
Sub-heading 5.1: Gate Checking a Bag
If your bag is gate-checked, it will be placed in the cargo hold with the rest of the checked luggage. While Southwest generally offers two free checked bags (though this policy has recently seen changes for some fare types and Rapid Rewards tiers as of May 28, 2025), if you are on a fare that now charges for checked bags and you exceed your allowance, you might incur a fee at the gate. It's always better to ensure your bag fits the carry-on dimensions to avoid surprises.
Sub-heading 5.2: The Importance of Fitting in the Sizer
At the boarding gate, Southwest agents may have a baggage sizer. If your bag doesn't fit into this metal frame, it's considered oversized for carry-on and will need to be checked. This is where those extra inches (especially from wheels and handles) can make a big difference!
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Check My Carry-On Bag's Dimensions?
Quick Answer: Use a tape measure to get the length, width, and height of your bag, including all wheels and handles. Compare these to Southwest's stated limits (24" x 16" x 10").
How to Know if My Carry-On Bag is Too Heavy for Me to Lift?
Quick Answer: Practice lifting your packed bag over your head and placing it onto a high shelf. If you struggle or feel discomfort, it's likely too heavy for the overhead bin.
How to Pack My Liquids According to TSA Rules?
Quick Answer: Place all liquids, gels, and aerosols (3.4 oz or less each) into a single quart-sized, clear, zip-top bag.
How to Avoid Gate Checking My Carry-On Bag?
Quick Answer: Ensure your bag strictly adheres to the stated dimensions (24" x 16" x 10" for the main carry-on, 16.25" x 13.5" x 8.5" for the personal item) and that you can lift it yourself.
How to Travel with a Pet on Southwest Airlines?
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
Quick Answer: Small domesticated cats or dogs can travel in the cabin in an approved carrier that counts as either your carry-on or personal item. There is usually a one-way fee. Always check Southwest's specific pet policy before flying.
How to Determine if My Fare Includes Free Checked Bags on Southwest?
Quick Answer: As of May 28, 2025, Southwest has introduced baggage fees for most fares. Business Select, Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, and some credit card holders still get free checked bags. Check your specific fare type or Rapid Rewards status.
How to Best Utilize My Personal Item Allowance?
Quick Answer: Pack essentials like medications, important documents, electronics, and anything you might need during the flight in your personal item, as it's easily accessible under the seat.
How to Travel with Medications in My Carry-On?
Quick Answer: You can generally carry on medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities in excess of the 3-1-1 rule. Inform the TSA officer about these items at the security checkpoint. Prescriptions are not required but are helpful.
How to Secure My Carry-On Bag's Contents?
Quick Answer: Use TSA-approved locks for zippers, or simply ensure all compartments are securely fastened to prevent items from falling out during transit or if the bag shifts.
How to Find the Most Up-to-Date Baggage Policy for Southwest Airlines?
Quick Answer: Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly, as policies can change.
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