Ready to embark on your next adventure with Southwest Airlines? Before you even think about packing that perfect outfit or those essential travel gadgets, let's get one crucial question out of the way: "How many carry-ons can you actually have with Southwest Airlines?"
It's a common query, and getting it right can save you time, stress, and potentially unexpected fees at the airport. So, let's dive into the definitive guide to Southwest's carry-on policy, ensuring your journey is as smooth as a fresh-paved runway!
Step 1: Understand the Core Rule – The Golden Duo!
Let's begin with the absolute fundamental principle of Southwest's carry-on policy. Are you ready?
Southwest Airlines allows every ticketed passenger to bring TWO carry-on items onboard, absolutely free of charge!
That's right, two! This is often a pleasant surprise for travelers accustomed to other airlines that might charge for even a single carry-on. But there's a catch (isn't there always?): these two items aren't interchangeable. They consist of:
One Carry-on Bag: This is your primary piece of cabin luggage, typically stowed in the overhead bin.
One Personal Item: This smaller item is designed to fit conveniently under the seat in front of you.
Feeling relieved already? Good! Now let's get into the nitty-gritty details to ensure your bags meet the specific requirements.
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| How Many Carry Ons Can You Have With Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Mastering the Dimensions – Size Matters!
While Southwest is generous with the number of carry-ons, they are quite specific about their dimensions. This is where many travelers encounter issues, so pay close attention!
Sub-heading: Your Primary Carry-On Bag
Your main carry-on bag, the one destined for the overhead bin, has a specific size limit that includes handles and wheels. It's crucial to measure your bag accurately, as gate agents are equipped with sizers, and if your bag doesn't fit, it will be gate-checked.
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
Maximum Dimensions: 24 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 10 inches (H) (or approximately 61 cm x 41 cm x 25 cm).
Think roller bags, small suitcases, or larger duffel bags that fit these dimensions. Remember, if it's too big, you'll be checking it, and while Southwest generally has a generous checked bag policy, it's better to avoid unexpected situations at the gate.
Sub-heading: Your Personal Item
This is your smaller, more accessible item that stays with you at your seat. It needs to fit completely under the seat in front of you, without protruding into the aisle.
Maximum Dimensions: 18.5 inches (L) x 13.5 inches (W) x 8.5 inches (H) (or approximately 47 cm x 34 cm x 22 cm).
Common examples of personal items include:
Purses (including crossbody bags)
Briefcases
Laptop computer cases
Small backpacks
Diaper bags
Camera bags
Pro-Tip: Some airlines are very strict about personal item sizes. Southwest's allowance is quite reasonable, but always err on the side of caution.
Step 3: Understanding Weight & Other Considerations
Southwest Airlines is quite unique when it comes to carry-on weight limits.
Sub-heading: The "No Official Weight Limit" Perk (with a caveat!)
Unlike many other airlines that impose strict weight limits on carry-on bags, Southwest Airlines does not have a specified weight restriction for carry-on items. This is fantastic news for travelers who tend to pack a bit heavier!
However, there's a practical caveat: you must be able to safely lift your carry-on bag into the overhead bin without assistance. If you can't, for safety reasons, a flight attendant may require you to check it. So, while there's no numerical limit, your own strength and ability are the real limitations here.
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Sub-heading: Items That Don't Count Towards Your Limit
Southwest is also considerate about certain essential items. The following items do not count towards your one carry-on bag and one personal item allowance:
Outer garments (coats, jackets, wraps)
Umbrellas or walking canes
Food for consumption during the flight in disposable packaging
Assistive/mobility devices (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, CPAP machines)
Child restraint systems for a ticketed child or when a complimentary, available space exists
Pet carriers (though these do count as either your carry-on bag or your personal item, so plan accordingly if traveling with a pet)
A reasonable amount of reading material
This is great news for travelers with specific needs or those who just want to bring an extra book!
Step 4: Special Circumstances – Pets, Musical Instruments, and More!
Sometimes, your travel plans involve more than just a typical carry-on. Here's how Southwest handles a few special cases:
Sub-heading: Traveling with a Furry Friend (Pet Policy)
If you're bringing a small domesticated dog or cat in the cabin, your pet carrier will count as either your carry-on bag or your personal item. It cannot be in addition to your standard two items. There's also a fee for bringing a pet in the cabin.
Pet Carrier Dimensions: Must be able to fit under the seat in front of you, with specific maximum dimensions (typically 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 8.5" H to match personal item size).
Important: Pet travel is generally limited to domestic flights, and there's a limit to how many pets can be on a single flight, so it's always best to book well in advance and confirm the policy.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Small musical instruments can often be carried onboard as your personal item if they fit under the seat or as your carry-on if they fit in the overhead bin within the size limits. For larger instruments, you might need to purchase an additional seat.
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
Rule of Thumb: If it fits within the carry-on or personal item dimensions, it can likely come with you. If it's larger, be prepared to consider an extra seat or checking it (with proper hard-shell cases, of course!).
Step 5: Avoiding Common Pitfalls – Be Prepared!
Even with the clearest guidelines, things can go awry. Here's how to minimize potential issues:
Sub-heading: Measure, Measure, Measure!
This cannot be stressed enough. Before you leave home, measure your bags, including wheels and handles. Don't eyeball it! Many luggage manufacturers will list "packing dimensions" which exclude wheels and handles, and "overall dimensions" which include them. Always go by the overall dimensions when checking against airline rules.
Sub-heading: Don't Overstuff Your Bags
While Southwest has no weight limit for carry-ons, an overstuffed bag can be impossible to fit into the sizer or the overhead bin. A bag that's bursting at the seams is also more prone to damage. Pack smart!
Sub-heading: Be Aware of Gate-Checking
If your carry-on bag is too large or if the overhead bins are full, you may be asked to gate-check your bag. While Southwest generally doesn't charge for gate-checked bags (if they were initially carry-on compliant but couldn't fit), it means you won't have immediate access to your items during the flight.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
Sub-heading: Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols (TSA Rules)
Remember that all liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on (both main carry-on and personal item) must adhere to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids. This means containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger. This is a general TSA rule, not specific to Southwest.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to breeze through security and boarding with your carry-on items on Southwest Airlines!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about Southwest Airlines carry-on policy, with quick answers:
How to confirm Southwest Airlines carry-on dimensions? Check the official Southwest Airlines website's "Carryon and Personal Item Policy" page for the most up-to-date and accurate dimensions.
How to pack a carry-on efficiently for Southwest? Utilize packing cubes, roll your clothes, wear your bulkiest items, and strategically place heavier items at the bottom to maximize space and distribute weight.
How to identify if my bag is a personal item or a carry-on for Southwest? A personal item is typically a smaller bag (like a purse or laptop case) that fits under the seat in front of you, while a carry-on bag is a larger item (like a small roller bag) that goes in the overhead bin.
How to handle liquids in my Southwest carry-on? Adhere to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: all liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, fit in one quart-sized bag, and be limited to one bag per passenger.
How to bring a pet as a carry-on on Southwest? Your pet carrier will count as either your one carry-on bag or your one personal item. Book your pet's travel in advance and ensure the carrier meets size requirements for under-seat stowage.
How to avoid gate-checking my carry-on on Southwest? Ensure your bag strictly adheres to the stated dimensions (24" L x 16" W x 10" H), don't overstuff it, and board early if possible to secure overhead bin space.
How to measure my carry-on bag accurately for Southwest? Measure the length, width, and height of your bag, including wheels and handles. Use a tape measure and double-check against Southwest's specified dimensions.
How to bring a medical device (like a CPAP) on Southwest flights? Medical devices and assistive aids do not count towards your carry-on or personal item allowance and can be brought on board in addition to your two permitted items.
How to bring a musical instrument as a carry-on on Southwest? Small instruments that fit within the carry-on (24" L x 16" W x 10" H) or personal item (18.5" L x 13.5" W x 8.5" H) dimensions are permitted as your one carry-on or one personal item. Larger instruments may require purchasing an additional seat.
How to find the most current Southwest Airlines baggage policy? Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly, as policies can occasionally be updated.
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