Oh, the eternal dilemma of airline baggage! You're staring at your suitcase, wondering if it's too big, too small, or just right for your Southwest adventure. Don't worry, you're not alone! Many travelers grapple with carry-on rules, and Southwest Airlines, with its unique "Bags Fly Free" policy for checked luggage, has a slightly different take on things than some other carriers. But let's get you squared away so your journey is as smooth as possible.
Your Guide to Carry-On Bags on Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has a clear and straightforward policy when it comes to carry-on items. Understanding these rules is crucial to avoid any last-minute surprises at the gate, like having to check a bag you intended to carry on, which can sometimes lead to delays or even missed connections (though Southwest is known for its direct flights!).
Step 1: Engage Your Inner Packing Pro – What Are You Bringing?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's think about what you typically pack. Are you a minimalist traveler who fits everything into a backpack, or do you prefer the convenience of a small rolling suitcase? Knowing your packing style will help you envision how these rules apply to your travel habits.
Are you planning a quick weekend getaway, or a longer trip where a carry-on is your primary luggage?
Do you have valuable electronics, medications, or important documents that absolutely must stay with you in the cabin?
These considerations will guide your packing strategy and ensure you adhere to Southwest's carry-on limits without a hitch.
Step 2: The Golden Rule: One Plus One!
Southwest Airlines, like many carriers, adheres to the "one plus one" rule for carry-on items.
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
One Carry-On Bag: This is your main carry-on, designed to fit in the overhead bin.
One Personal Item: This is a smaller item that must fit under the seat in front of you.
That's it! You get one of each. This means you can't bring a carry-on suitcase, a backpack, and a purse. You need to combine or choose wisely. For example, your backpack might be your personal item, or your purse.
Sub-heading: Understanding the "One Carry-On Bag"
Your main carry-on bag is generally a small suitcase, a duffel bag, or a larger backpack. The key here is its dimensions.
Size Limits: Southwest specifies that your carry-on bag should not exceed 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H). This includes handles, wheels, and any external pockets! It's vital to measure your bag accurately before you head to the airport. Many bags are advertised as "carry-on compliant" but may exceed these dimensions once you account for wheels and handles.
Where it Goes: This bag is designed to be stowed in the overhead compartment above your seat.
Sub-heading: Decoding the "One Personal Item"
Your personal item is your smaller companion, intended for easy access during your flight.
Examples: Common personal items include:
A purse (including crossbody bags)
A briefcase
A laptop computer case
A small backpack (that can fit under the seat)
A pillow or blanket (neck pillows typically do not count towards the carry-on limit, but full-sized pillows might be considered a personal item if they're bulky)
A small camera bag
Size Limits: Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. The general dimensions are 18.5 inches (L) x 13.5 inches (W) x 8.5 inches (H). Again, measure carefully!
Where it Goes: This item is always placed under the seat in front of you, giving you quick access to essentials during the flight.
Step 3: The "What Doesn't Count" List – The Exceptions
Southwest, like other airlines, allows a few additional items beyond your one carry-on and one personal item. These are generally things you need for comfort, assistance, or specific travel needs. These do not count against your "one plus one" limit.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
Outer Garments: A coat, jacket, or wrap.
Reading Material: Books, magazines, or a small tablet used for reading.
Food for Consumption During Flight: As long as it's in disposable packaging.
Assistive Devices: This is a broad category and includes things like:
Wheelchairs, crutches, canes
Medical devices (like a CPAP machine)
Prosthetic devices
Child Restraint Systems/Strollers: If you're traveling with a child, a car seat or stroller can be brought in addition (though strollers are often gate-checked).
Diaper Bag and Breast Pump: Even if you're not traveling with your child, a diaper bag and breast pump are typically allowed as extra items.
Umbrella or Walking Cane: These are generally permitted.
It's always a good idea to confirm with Southwest directly or check their official website if you have a unique item you're unsure about.
 |
Step 4: Navigating Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols – The TSA 3-1-1 Rule
While Southwest sets the bag limits, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) dictates what you can pack inside those bags, especially when it comes to liquids. This is where the famous "3-1-1 rule" comes in:
3: Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.
1: All liquid containers must fit into one quart-sized, clear, sealable bag.
1: Each passenger is limited to one such bag.
This applies to all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes you want to bring in your carry-on. Think toothpaste, shampoo, hand sanitizer, lotions, etc. If it's larger than 3.4 ounces, it needs to go in your checked luggage. Exceptions are made for medically necessary liquids and infant formula/breast milk.
Step 5: What NOT to Pack in Your Carry-On (and What MUST Be)
This is a critical step for both your safety and avoiding delays at security.
Sub-heading: Prohibited Items in Carry-On (and Checked Bags)
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
There's a long list of items you simply cannot bring on a plane, either in your carry-on or checked baggage, due to safety regulations. These typically include:
Explosives: Fireworks, flares, replica explosives.
Flammable Liquids and Solids: Lighter fluid, paints, aerosol cans (other than small personal care items meeting 3-1-1).
Compressed Gases: Camp stoves with compressed gas, some aerosols.
Weapons: Firearms (unless properly declared and checked according to strict regulations), knives with blades over a certain length, martial arts weapons, brass knuckles.
Hazardous Materials: Poisons, corrosives, radioactive materials.
Hoverboards/Self-balancing Boards: Due to lithium battery fire concerns.
Sub-heading: Items That Must Be in Your Carry-On
Conversely, some items should never go in your checked luggage and must be in your carry-on:
Lithium Batteries (Loose or Spare): This includes power banks, portable chargers, and spare batteries for laptops or cameras. These pose a fire risk and must be carried in the cabin.
Electronic Smoking Devices: E-cigarettes, vapes, and their spare batteries must be in your carry-on. You cannot use or recharge them onboard.
Medications: Any prescription or over-the-counter medications you might need during your flight or immediately upon arrival.
Valuables: Jewelry, cash, important documents (passport, ID, tickets), irreplaceable items.
Electronics: Laptops, tablets, cameras, and cell phones. While some can be checked, it's always safer to carry them on to prevent damage or theft.
Step 6: The Dreaded Gate Check – When Your Carry-On Doesn't Fit
Even if you measure carefully, sometimes things happen. Overhead bin space can be limited, especially on full flights. If your carry-on bag doesn't fit in the overhead bin or at the gate, or if the flight is particularly full, you may be asked to gate check your bag.
What it Means: Gate checking means your bag will be tagged and taken by airline staff at the gate, and then loaded into the cargo hold of the aircraft. You'll typically pick it up at baggage claim at your destination, just like a regularly checked bag.
No Charge (Usually): With Southwest, if your carry-on needs to be gate-checked due to space limitations, it's usually done free of charge. This is one of the benefits of their generous baggage policy.
Be Prepared: Always make sure any essential items (medication, electronics, valuables) are easily accessible and can be quickly transferred to your personal item in case your carry-on is gate-checked.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your Southwest Airlines flight, ensuring your carry-on experience is stress-free and efficient. Happy travels!
 |
| How Many Carry On Bags Can You Have On Southwest Airlines |
Frequently Asked Questions about Southwest Carry-On Bags
Tip: Share this article if you find it helpful.
Here are 10 common questions related to Southwest Airlines carry-on policy, with quick answers:
How to determine if my bag is the right size for a Southwest carry-on? Measure your bag's length, width, and height, including wheels and handles. It should not exceed .
How to fit all my liquids into the carry-on bag? Adhere to the TSA 3-1-1 rule: all liquids must be ounces ( ml) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and each passenger is allowed one such bag.
How to avoid my carry-on being gate-checked on Southwest? Ensure your bag meets the size requirements, board early if possible (especially with Southwest's open seating), and place it quickly in the overhead bin upon boarding.
How to pack a personal item for a Southwest flight? Choose a bag that fits under the seat in front of you (max ) and pack essentials you'll need during the flight, like electronics, snacks, or a book.
How to travel with a pet in the cabin on Southwest? A pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. There is a fee, and specific carrier dimensions apply.
How to bring medication in my carry-on on Southwest? All necessary medications should be packed in your carry-on. Liquid medications are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule but should be declared to TSA.
How to check for prohibited items before packing my carry-on? Refer to the TSA's official website or Southwest's hazardous materials page for a comprehensive list of prohibited items.
How to handle a musical instrument as a carry-on on Southwest? Small musical instruments can count as your carry-on or personal item if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Larger instruments may require purchasing an additional seat.
How to know if my duty-free liquids are allowed in my carry-on? Duty-free liquids exceeding oz ( ml) are allowed if they are in a transparent, secure, tamper-evident bag from the retailer and you have the original receipt (purchased within 48 hours for international connecting flights to the U.S.).
How to carry spare lithium batteries on Southwest flights? Loose or spare lithium batteries (including power banks) must be carried in your carry-on bag and protected from short circuit. They are prohibited in checked luggage.
 |
