Traveling with Southwest Airlines is often a breeze, known for its friendly service and open seating policy. But when it comes to packing, especially your carry-on bags, it's essential to understand their rules to avoid any last-minute surprises or fees. So, let's dive deep into how many carry-on bags you can actually have for Southwest Airlines and ensure your next trip is as smooth as possible!
Your Southwest Carry-On Allowance: The Golden Rule
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's address the most common question right off the bat:
Step 1: Get Ready to Pack Smart!
Are you excited for your trip? We certainly hope so! But before you start tossing everything into your suitcase, let's make sure you're clear on the absolute basics for Southwest carry-on baggage. This first step is crucial because it sets the foundation for all your packing decisions.
The Golden Rule for Southwest Airlines is simple and straightforward:
You are allowed one (1) carry-on bag and one (1) personal item per passenger, free of charge.
That's right, just one of each! This is a consistent policy across most airlines, but Southwest maintains it strictly. Understanding this from the get-go will save you a lot of hassle at the airport.
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| How Many Carry On Bags Can You Have For Southwest Airlines |
What's the Difference? Carry-On vs. Personal Item
It's easy to confuse these two, so let's clarify what each one entails.
Sub-heading: The "Carry-On Bag" - Overhead Bin Bound
Your carry-on bag is the larger of the two items you can bring. This bag is designed to fit in the overhead bins above your seat.
Dimensions: Southwest's official dimensions for a carry-on bag are 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H). Remember, these dimensions include handles, wheels, and any other attachments! Many standard roller bags, small suitcases, or larger duffel bags fit into this category.
Purpose: This is where you'll typically put your clothes, shoes, and other larger items you need access to during your flight or immediately upon arrival.
Sub-heading: The "Personal Item" - Under Your Seat Buddy
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
Your personal item is the smaller bag you can bring, and it's meant to be stowed under the seat in front of you.
Dimensions: Southwest's personal item dimensions are generally 18.5 inches (L) x 8.5 inches (W) x 13.5 inches (H).
Purpose: This is ideal for items you'll want to access frequently during your flight, such as:
Purses (including crossbody bags)
Briefcases
Laptop computer cases
Small backpacks
Pillows (neck pillows do not count towards the carry-on limit)
Blankets
Small cameras
Important Note: If you're traveling with a pet, your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag.
Step 2: Understanding the "Exceptions" – What Doesn't Count
While the "one carry-on, one personal item" rule is firm, Southwest does allow a few additional items that do not count towards your carry-on limit. This is where you can truly optimize your packing!
Sub-heading: Essential Extras for Comfort and Care
Outer Garments: Your jacket, coat, or a blanket you're carrying will not be counted.
Food for In-Flight Consumption: If you bring food in disposable packaging to eat during the flight, that's typically allowed in addition to your bags.
Umbrellas or Walking Canes: These assistive devices are generally permitted without counting towards your allowance.
Sub-heading: Assistive Devices and Medical Necessities
Southwest is very accommodating when it comes to items necessary for accessibility or medical needs.
Assistive/Mobility Devices: This is a big one! Items like wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, or other mobility aids are not counted against your carry-on limit. There's generally no limit to the number of assistive devices a customer can bring onboard.
Medication and Medical Devices: It's strongly recommended to keep all your medication in your carry-on or personal item. Medications needed for a disability, if packed separately, also do not count toward your bag limits. This includes items like syringes or auto-injectors if packed with the necessary medication. Always inform a Customer Service Agent or Skycap if you have specific medical needs.
Sub-heading: Traveling with Infants and Children
If you're flying with little ones, there are special considerations.
Child Restraint Devices (Car Seats): If you've purchased a ticket for your child, a FAA-approved child restraint system (car seat) that will be used during the flight can be carried on and will not count toward your carry-on limit. If you're checking a stroller and car seat, each ticketed customer can check one of each free of charge.
Diaper Bags: While not explicitly listed as an exception, a diaper bag typically falls under the personal item category. However, if it's packed very lightly, some discretion may be applied. It's always best to aim for it to fit within the personal item dimensions.
Step 3: Musical Instruments – A Special Consideration
Traveling with a musical instrument can sometimes be tricky. Southwest has specific guidelines for these items.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
Sub-heading: Small Instruments as Carry-Ons
If your instrument (including its case) is within the standard carry-on dimensions (24" L x 16" W x 10" H), you can bring it as your carry-on item, provided there's space available in the overhead bin.
Even if it slightly exceeds these dimensions but can still fit in an overhead bin or under a seat, and there's space when you board, it might be allowed as a carry-on.
Sub-heading: Purchasing a Seat for Larger Instruments
For larger musical instruments that won't fit in the overhead bin or under a seat (like a cello), you have the option to purchase a separate seat for it.
If you do this, the instrument must be placed in the first row in a seat closer to the window than any other customer in that row.
It must fit in the seat and be secured with a seatbelt, and it must not block any aircraft signage.
Be aware that some very large instruments (e.g., a double bass) might not be able to be secured in a seat and would need to be transported as checked baggage, potentially incurring oversize/overweight fees.
Step 4: Pro Tips for Seamless Carry-On Travel with Southwest
Now that you know the rules, here are some actionable tips to make your Southwest carry-on experience as smooth as possible.
Sub-heading: Measure and Weigh Before You Go
Don't Guess! Invest in a small luggage scale and a measuring tape. Seriously, this is your best friend. Measure your bags when they're packed to ensure they comply with the dimensions. While Southwest doesn't have a published weight limit for carry-on bags, if your bag is excessively heavy, it might raise an eyebrow and could be subject to a gate-check. It's best to keep it at a manageable weight that you can lift into the overhead bin yourself.
Sub-heading: Boarding Group Matters
Southwest's unique boarding process means that the earlier you board, the better your chances of finding overhead bin space. If you're in the A group, you'll likely have no issues. If you're in the B or C group, especially on a full flight, overhead space can become scarce.
Consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In or upgrading to Business Select if securing overhead bin space for your carry-on is a top priority for you.
Sub-heading: What to Do if Your Carry-On is Gate Checked
Even if your bag meets the dimensions, if the flight is full and overhead bin space runs out, your carry-on might be gate checked. This means it will be taken from you at the gate and placed in the cargo hold, then returned to you at baggage claim at your destination.
Always pack essentials in your personal item that you absolutely cannot be without, even if your main carry-on is gate-checked (e.g., medications, important documents, electronics, valuables).
If your carry-on is gate checked, remove any lithium-ion batteries, portable chargers, or e-cigarettes as these are generally only allowed in carry-on bags, not checked luggage.
Sub-heading: Be Prepared for Security (TSA)
Even though Southwest has its own rules, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has the final say on what you can bring through security.
Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols: Remember the 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons: 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item; fits in one quart-sized bag; one bag per passenger.
Electronics: Be ready to remove larger electronics like laptops from your bag for separate screening.
Step 5: FAQs – Your Quick Guide to Southwest Carry-On Questions
Tip: Each paragraph has one main idea — find it.
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, starting with "How to," along with their quick answers, to further assist you.
How to measure my carry-on bag for Southwest?
Measure the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles. For Southwest, the maximum dimensions for a carry-on are 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H).
How to ensure my personal item fits under the seat?
The maximum dimensions for a personal item are 18.5" (L) x 8.5" (W) x 13.5" (H). Test it by placing it under a chair or in a designated baggage sizer at the airport.
How to avoid gate-checking my carry-on on Southwest?
Check in early to get a good boarding position (A group is best), which increases your chances of finding overhead bin space. Pack efficiently and ensure your bag is within the specified dimensions.
How to pack medication for a Southwest flight?
Always pack all medication in your carry-on bag or personal item. If needed for a disability, medications packed separately do not count toward your carry-on limits.
How to travel with a child's car seat on Southwest?
If you've purchased a ticket for your child, an FAA-approved car seat can be carried on and will not count against your carry-on limit. It must fit in the aircraft seat.
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
How to bring a musical instrument as a carry-on on Southwest?
Small instruments that fit within the 24" L x 16" W x 10" H carry-on dimensions can be brought as your carry-on if space is available. Larger instruments may require purchasing a separate seat.
How to carry extra items not counted towards the carry-on limit on Southwest?
You can bring outer garments (coats, jackets), food for in-flight consumption in disposable packaging, umbrellas, walking canes, and assistive/mobility devices in addition to your one carry-on and one personal item.
How to handle liquids in my Southwest carry-on?
Follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
How to know if my flight will be full and potentially lead to gate-checking?
While Southwest doesn't typically announce load factors, popular routes and peak travel times (holidays, weekends) are more likely to have full overhead bins. Early boarding is key.
How to identify acceptable personal items for Southwest?
Common personal items include purses, briefcases, laptop bags, small backpacks, and camera bags. The key is that it must fit under the seat in front of you and adhere to the 18.5" x 8.5" x 13.5" dimensions.
By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared for your Southwest Airlines flight, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey with your carry-on bags! Happy travels!
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