Ready to travel light and smart with Southwest Airlines? Navigating airline baggage policies can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle, but when it comes to Southwest, they've actually made it quite straightforward. The key is understanding the dimensions and what exactly constitutes a "carry-on" versus a "personal item." Let's break it down step-by-step so you can pack with confidence and breeze through the airport!
Step 1: Let's Get Started! Do You Know the Difference Between a Carry-On and a Personal Item?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty dimensions, let's ensure we're all on the same page. This is where many travelers get confused! Southwest Airlines allows every passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard, free of charge. That's right, two items!
Carry-On Bag: This is typically your small suitcase or duffel bag that goes in the overhead bin above your seat. It's meant for items you need access to during your flight or those too valuable/fragile to check.
Personal Item: This is a smaller item that must fit under the seat in front of you. Think of it as your "at-your-feet" bag.
Understanding this distinction is crucial because the size limits are different for each. Now, let's get into the specifics!
Step 2: Unpacking the Dimensions – How Big Can Your Carry-On Be?
Southwest Airlines has specific size restrictions for your carry-on bag to ensure it fits safely and efficiently in the overhead compartments.
The Golden Numbers: Your carry-on bag, including handles and wheels, must not exceed:
24 inches (L)
16 inches (W)
10 inches (H)
This can also be expressed as 50 linear inches (length + width + height). For our international travelers, this translates to approximately 61 cm x 41 cm x 28 cm.
Why These Dimensions Matter: These aren't arbitrary numbers! They are carefully calibrated to fit within the aircraft's overhead bins. If your bag is too large, it won't fit, and you'll likely be required to gate-check it. While Southwest doesn't charge for checked bags, this can be an inconvenience and delay your departure or arrival.
Visualizing the Size: Imagine a standard carry-on roller bag. Most reputable luggage brands design their "carry-on" bags to meet these common airline restrictions. However, it's always wise to double-check the actual measurements of your bag! A tape measure is your best friend here.
Step 3: Don't Forget Your Personal Item – The Under-Seat Companion
Your personal item is just as important for maximizing your carry-on allowance. While Southwest doesn't provide specific exact dimensions for personal items on their main baggage policy page, the general consensus and practical experience suggest the following:
Common Personal Item Size: Many sources indicate a practical limit of approximately:
18.5 inches (L)
8.5 inches (W)
13.5 inches (H)
This size ensures it can comfortably slide under the seat in front of you without impeding your legroom or the next passenger's space.
Examples of Personal Items:
Purses (including crossbody bags)
Briefcases
Laptop bags or cases
Small backpacks
Pillows (neck pillows typically don't count towards the limit)
Blankets
Small camera bags
The Under-Seat Rule: Remember, the personal item must fit entirely under the seat in front of you. This is crucial for safety during takeoff and landing, and also ensures clear aisles for movement.
Step 4: Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-On Bags?
This is where Southwest Airlines really stands out! Unlike many other airlines that impose strict weight limits on carry-on bags, Southwest Airlines does not have a stated weight limit for carry-on bags.
What This Means for You: You can pack your carry-on as heavy as you need, as long as you can lift it into the overhead bin unassisted. This is a significant advantage for travelers who want to avoid checked bag fees or simply prefer to keep all their belongings with them.
Practical Considerations: While there's no official weight limit, remember that flight attendants are not obligated to assist you with lifting your bag. If it's too heavy for you to safely lift, it might be better to check it.
Step 5: Understanding Special Circumstances and Exceptions
While the general rules cover most situations, there are a few special items that have their own guidelines:
Medical Devices:
Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids: These are exempt from standard checked baggage fees and can be checked at the gate. If they fit within carry-on dimensions and can be stowed safely, they may be brought into the cabin.
Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs): Approved POC models can be used onboard in battery-operated mode. You must have enough charged batteries for 150% of the flight duration. They generally need to fit under the seat in front of you and you'll be seated in a window seat. It's essential to notify Southwest in advance.
Musical Instruments:
Small Instruments: If your instrument (including its case) fits within the standard carry-on dimensions (24" L x 16" W x 10" H), you can bring it as your carry-on, provided there's space in the overhead bin.
Larger Instruments: If it exceeds carry-on dimensions but can still fit in an overhead bin or under a seat, you may carry it on if space is available when you board. For very large instruments that don't fit, you might be able to purchase a separate seat for it, or it will need to be checked.
Pet Carriers:
Southwest allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in an approved pet carrier in the cabin on domestic flights.
The pet carrier counts as either your carry-on item or your personal item.
The carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. Common maximum dimensions for pet carriers are 18.5" L x 8.5" H x 13.5" W.
Space is limited for pets (typically 6 pet carriers per flight), so reservations for your pet are highly recommended. A fee applies.
Step 6: Liquids and Prohibited Items – Don't Get Caught Off Guard!
Even if your bag meets the size requirements, what's inside it also matters. These rules are governed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the US, but airlines enforce them.
The 3-1-1 Rule for Liquids:
3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container.
All containers must fit in 1 quart-sized (1 liter) clear, sealable plastic bag.
1 bag per passenger.
This applies to gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes as well. Think toothpaste, shampoo, lotions, etc.
Exemptions to the 3-1-1 Rule:
Medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols (e.g., insulin, prescription medications) are generally exempt from the 3-1-1 rule. You should declare these to TSA officers.
Infant formula/breast milk/juice for infants or toddlers are also allowed in reasonable quantities.
Prohibited Items:
Hazardous Materials: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives, and radioactive materials are strictly forbidden. This includes things like fireworks, lighter fluid, and some paints.
Sharp Objects: Blades longer than 4 inches are generally not allowed in carry-on (e.g., large scissors, box cutters). Small scissors (blades less than 4 inches) are usually fine.
Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and portable chargers/power banks must be in your carry-on bag. They are prohibited in checked baggage due to fire risk.
E-cigarettes/Vaping Devices: These are allowed only in carry-on bags. Use and recharging onboard are strictly prohibited.
Firearms and Ammunition: These must be in checked baggage, unloaded, and in a locked hard-sided container, and you must declare them to the airline. Never in carry-on.
Step 7: The "Sizer" Test at the Airport – Be Prepared!
At the airport, especially at the gate, you'll often find baggage sizers. These are metal frames designed to match the airline's carry-on dimensions.
Practice at Home: If you're unsure about your bag's size, try to "fit" it into a simulated frame at home using cardboard or string.
The Gate Agent's Discretion: Gate agents have the final say. If your bag looks too big, they might ask you to place it in the sizer. If it doesn't fit, you'll be required to gate-check it.
Over-stuffing is a No-No: Even if your bag's empty dimensions are compliant, over-stuffing it can cause it to bulge beyond the acceptable limits, leading to it not fitting in the sizer. Pack smart!
Step 8: Maximizing Your Carry-On Space – Packing Tips
Since Southwest offers generous carry-on allowances, here are some tips to make the most of them:
Roll Your Clothes: Rolling items tightly saves more space than folding.
Utilize Packing Cubes: These can compress clothing and organize your bag, making it easier to fit more.
Wear Your Bulkiest Items: If you're bringing a heavy coat or bulky shoes, wear them on the plane instead of packing them.
Electronics Go in Personal Item: Keep your laptop, tablet, and other electronics easily accessible in your personal item for quick removal at security.
Heavy Items at the Bottom: Distribute weight evenly in your carry-on, with heavier items towards the wheels (if applicable) to maintain balance.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to understand and adhere to Southwest Airlines' carry-on bag policies, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help clarify any lingering doubts:
How to measure my carry-on bag accurately?
Use a measuring tape and measure the length, width, and height of your bag, including any wheels and handles. Don't rely solely on manufacturer labels.
How to ensure my personal item fits under the seat?
While there are no strict dimensions, aim for something around 18.5" L x 8.5" W x 13.5" H. Pack it lightly and ensure it's soft-sided or flexible enough to compress slightly.
How to avoid gate-checking my carry-on?
Ensure your bag meets the 24" x 16" x 10" dimensions, don't over-stuff it, and try to board earlier if possible (Southwest's open seating can mean overhead bin space fills quickly).
How to pack liquids for my Southwest flight?
Follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less, all fitting in one quart-sized clear plastic bag, one bag per passenger.
How to travel with medical devices on Southwest?
Check Southwest's website or call them in advance to understand specific requirements for your device. Most are allowed, often with pre-notification.
How to bring a musical instrument as a carry-on on Southwest?
Small instruments fitting 24" x 16" x 10" can be a carry-on. Larger ones might be allowed if they fit in the overhead bin or under a seat and space is available. You can also purchase a seat for some larger instruments.
How to travel with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Small domestic cats and dogs in an approved carrier (fitting under the seat) are allowed. The carrier counts as your personal item or carry-on. Make a reservation well in advance as space is limited, and a fee applies.
How to manage heavy items in my carry-on without a weight limit?
While there's no official weight limit, ensure you can comfortably lift your bag into the overhead bin unassisted. If it's too heavy, consider checking it.
How to find the baggage sizer at the airport?
Baggage sizers are typically located near the check-in counters and at the boarding gates. You can use them to test your bag's size before boarding.
How to know if an item is prohibited in my carry-on for Southwest?
Refer to the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" tool on their website or the prohibited items list on Southwest's site. Generally, hazardous materials, firearms, and large sharp objects are not allowed in carry-on.
