Demystifying Baggage: Your Comprehensive Guide to Ounces and Beyond on Southwest Airlines!
Ever found yourself staring at your meticulously packed suitcase, wondering, "Just how many ounces am I actually allowed on this Southwest flight?" You're not alone! Navigating airline baggage policies can feel like decoding ancient hieroglyphs. But fear not, intrepid traveler! This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about baggage allowances on Southwest Airlines, from those tricky liquid limits to the ever-important weight restrictions for your checked bags.
So, are you ready to become a baggage master and breeze through the airport with confidence? Let's dive in!
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| How Many Ounces Allowed On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Engage Your Inner Investigator – What Kind of Bag Are We Talking About?
Before we start counting ounces, the very first question we need to ask ourselves is: what type of bag are you curious about? Are we talking about that tiny bottle of shampoo in your carry-on, or the overall weight of your giant checked suitcase? The rules vary significantly!
Think about it:
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Carry-on Liquids (the "3-1-1 Rule"): This is where "ounces" really come into play.
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Checked Baggage: Here, we're primarily concerned with pounds, not ounces, for the overall weight.
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Carry-on Bags & Personal Items (Non-Liquids): These generally have size restrictions, but no specific weight limit (though you should still be able to lift them into the overhead bin!).
Once you've identified the type of bag, we can move on to the specifics!
Step 2: The Mighty Ounce – Unpacking Liquid Restrictions (The "3-1-1 Rule")
This is perhaps the most common place where "ounces" are discussed in air travel, and it applies universally across most airlines, including Southwest. It's dictated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), not just Southwest specifically.
Sub-heading: The Golden Rule: 3-1-1 Explained
The "3-1-1 Rule" is your best friend for packing liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on baggage. It stands for:
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3.4 ounces (100 milliliters): Each container of liquid, gel, or aerosol must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml). This means that even if a bottle is only partially filled, if its capacity is greater than 3.4 ounces, it's not allowed in your carry-on.
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1 quart-sized bag: All your 3.4-ounce (or smaller) containers must fit comfortably into one clear, quart-sized, sealable plastic bag. Think of a standard Ziploc bag.
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1 bag per passenger: Each passenger is allowed one such quart-sized bag.
Sub-heading: What Counts as a "Liquid" Under the 3-1-1 Rule?
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
It's not just water! The TSA's definition of "liquid" is quite broad and includes anything that can be poured, squeezed, or sprayed. This commonly includes:
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Shampoos, conditioners, and soaps
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Toothpaste and mouthwash
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Lotions, creams, and moisturizers
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Gels (e.g., hair gel, hand sanitizer gel)
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Aerosols (e.g., hairspray, deodorant spray, shaving cream)
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Perfumes and colognes
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Liquid makeup (e.g., foundation, mascara)
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Food items like yogurt, hummus, or creamy cheeses
Important Note: Medically necessary liquids, breast milk, and formula for infants are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule, but you should declare them to TSA officers at the security checkpoint.
Step 3: Beyond Ounces – Demystifying Checked Baggage Weight Limits
When it comes to your larger suitcases, those you check at the counter, Southwest Airlines (like most airlines) focuses on pounds, not ounces, for the overall weight.
Sub-heading: The Standard Southwest Checked Bag Allowance
Historically, Southwest was famous for "Bags Fly Free." However, as of May 28, 2025, their checked baggage policy has changed for most passengers. It's crucial to be aware of this update!
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Standard Allowance (for most fare types/no elite status): For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, most passengers will no longer receive free checked bags. You will typically incur a fee for your first and second checked bag.
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Weight Limit: Each checked bag (if permitted or paid for) must not exceed 50 pounds (approximately 22.7 kg).
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Size Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This measurement includes wheels and handles.
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Sub-heading: Exceptions to the New Checked Baggage Policy
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy has largely ended, there are still some exceptions:
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Business Select Fares and A-List Preferred Members: These passengers typically still enjoy two free checked bags.
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A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders: These individuals may receive one free checked bag or a bag credit.
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Active-duty Military Personnel: With a valid military ID, active-duty military passengers are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided each bag doesn't exceed 100 pounds and 80 linear inches.
Always double-check your specific fare type and Rapid Rewards status to confirm your baggage allowance before you fly!
Sub-heading: The Cost of Overweight or Oversized Checked Bags
If your checked bag exceeds the 50-pound weight limit or the 62-linear-inch size limit, you will face additional fees.
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Overweight Bags (51-100 pounds): Bags weighing between 51 and 100 pounds will incur an overweight baggage fee (this fee can be substantial). Bags over 100 pounds generally cannot be checked as baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
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Oversized Bags (over 62 inches, up to 80 inches): Bags exceeding 62 linear inches but not more than 80 linear inches will incur an oversize baggage fee. Bags over 80 inches generally cannot be checked as baggage.
It's always more cost-effective to ensure your bags are within the standard limits!
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
Step 4: Your Carry-On and Personal Item – Size Matters, Not Ounces (Usually!)
Southwest Airlines allows you to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard. The good news here is that there's generally no specific weight limit for these items. However, there are strict size restrictions you must adhere to.
Sub-heading: Carry-On Bag Dimensions
Your carry-on bag is designed to fit in the overhead bin.
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Maximum Dimensions: The maximum size for a Southwest Airlines carry-on bag is 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H). This includes wheels, handles, and any external pockets.
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Examples: Standard roller bags, small suitcases.
Sub-heading: Personal Item Dimensions
Your personal item is intended to fit under the seat in front of you.
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Maximum Dimensions: The maximum size for a Southwest Airlines personal item is approximately 16.25" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 8" (H).
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Examples: Purses, briefcases, laptop bags, small backpacks, camera bags, neck pillows, blankets.
Pro-Tip: Always measure your bags before you head to the airport! Airlines have sizing templates at the gate, and if your bag doesn't fit, you might be required to gate-check it, which can cause delays and, in some cases, lead to unexpected fees.
Step 5: Special Items and Exemptions – When Rules Bend
While the above covers most common scenarios, Southwest does have policies for various special items. These typically don't count towards your carry-on or personal item limit.
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Medical Assisted Devices: Items like walkers, canes, crutches, and CPAP machines are generally permitted in the cabin and do not count against your bag allowance.
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Infant Items: Compact strollers that fit in overhead bins, car seats (if FAA-approved and for a ticketed child or if space is available), breast pumps, milk/formula, and diaper bags are usually allowed as free additional items.
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Outer Garments: A coat or jacket worn or carried.
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Food for Consumption During Flight: Provided it's in disposable packaging.
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Umbrellas/Walking Canes: These can typically be carried on without counting towards your allowance.
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Musical Instruments: Small instruments may be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may need to be checked and may be subject to special handling fees.
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Sports Equipment: Most sports equipment can be checked as part of your baggage allowance, provided it adheres to the weight and size limits. Some specialized items may have specific guidelines or fees.
Always check the Southwest Airlines website or contact them directly for specific details on special items you plan to travel with.
Step 6: The Ultimate Pre-Flight Check – Don't Get Caught Off Guard!
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
Now that you're armed with all this knowledge, here's your final checklist to ensure a smooth journey:
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Measure and Weigh Everything: Seriously! Invest in a luggage scale if you don't have one. Measure the linear dimensions (L+W+H) of your checked bags.
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Sort Your Liquids: Place all your 3.4-ounce (or smaller) liquid containers into one quart-sized, clear, sealable plastic bag for your carry-on.
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Understand Your Fare Type: Know what your specific Southwest fare includes regarding checked baggage.
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Check for Embargoes: For international travel, check if there are any baggage embargoes for your destination, which can restrict oversized, overweight, or extra bags.
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Plan for Payments: If you anticipate paying for checked bags, factor that into your travel budget. Many airlines now offer slightly reduced fees if you pay online in advance.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared and avoid any last-minute surprises or fees at the airport. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to pack liquids for a Southwest flight?
Pack all liquid, gel, and aerosol containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less into a single quart-sized, clear, sealable plastic bag, and place it in your carry-on bag for easy removal at security.
How to avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
For most passengers, avoiding checked baggage fees on Southwest Airlines for flights booked after May 28, 2025, generally means either purchasing a Business Select fare, having A-List Preferred status, or having an eligible Rapid Rewards credit card that offers bag benefits. Otherwise, pack only what fits in your carry-on and personal item.
How to measure my luggage for Southwest Airlines?
For checked bags, add the length, width, and height (L+W+H) of your bag (including wheels and handles) to ensure it doesn't exceed 62 linear inches. For carry-on bags, measure the length, width, and height individually to ensure it's within 24" x 16" x 10". For personal items, measure to ensure it's roughly within 16.25" x 13.5" x 8".
How to weigh my bags for a Southwest flight?
Use a home luggage scale to weigh your checked bags, ensuring each does not exceed 50 pounds. This is crucial to avoid overweight baggage fees.
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
How to bring a CPAP machine on Southwest Airlines?
A CPAP machine is considered a medical device and can typically be brought on board a Southwest flight in addition to your carry-on and personal item, without counting towards your allowance.
How to travel with breast milk or formula on Southwest Airlines?
Breast milk and liquid formula for infants are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquid rule. You can carry reasonable quantities in your carry-on bag, but you should declare them to TSA officers at the security checkpoint.
How to check if my fare type includes free checked bags on Southwest?
Check your booking confirmation or log into your Rapid Rewards account on the Southwest Airlines website to see the baggage allowance associated with your specific fare type or elite status.
How to manage oversized sports equipment on Southwest Airlines?
Most sports equipment can be checked as part of your standard baggage allowance if it meets the weight and size limits. For oversized sports equipment, check Southwest's specific policies on their website as special fees or requirements may apply.
How to bring a personal item that fits under the seat on Southwest?
Choose a bag (like a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag) that measures approximately 16.25" x 13.5" x 8" or smaller to ensure it can fit completely under the seat in front of you.
How to know if my carry-on bag is too big for Southwest's overhead bins?
Measure your carry-on bag (including wheels and handles) to ensure it's no larger than 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H). Airlines also have sizing templates at the gate where you can test your bag's fit.
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