Ready to pack your bags and jet off on your next adventure with Southwest Airlines? Before you start throwing everything into your biggest suitcase, let's make sure you know exactly what you can carry on so you can avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport. This comprehensive guide will walk you through Southwest's carry-on policy, step by step, to ensure a smooth and stress-free boarding experience!
Step 1: Engage with Your Luggage! Do You Even Know Your Bag's Dimensions?
Alright, let's get real for a moment. How many times have you just assumed your bag was "carry-on sized" only to see that dreaded sizing bin at the airport? Don't be that person! The very first and most crucial step to a hassle-free boarding experience with Southwest (or any airline, for that matter) is to know the exact dimensions of your carry-on bag.
Go grab your bag right now! Seriously, pause reading, go get your intended carry-on.
Find a measuring tape. A standard household measuring tape will do the trick.
Measure all three dimensions: length, width, and height. Make sure to include wheels, handles, and any external pockets in your measurements. These are often forgotten but can push you over the limit!
Did you measure it? Great! Keep those numbers handy. Now, let's dive into what Southwest allows.
Step 2: Unpacking Southwest's Carry-On Policy – The Core Numbers You Need
Southwest Airlines has a fairly straightforward carry-on policy. They allow one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. This is fantastic news because it means you can bring more essentials with you in the cabin.
Sub-heading: The Carry-On Bag – Overhead Bin Bound
Your main carry-on bag is the one that will typically go in the overhead bin. For Southwest Airlines, the maximum dimensions for your carry-on bag are:
Length: 24 inches (approx. 61 cm)
Width: 16 inches (approx. 40 cm)
Height: 10 inches (approx. 25 cm)
Remember that crucial detail from Step 1: These dimensions include wheels, handles, and any external attachments. So if your bag is 22 inches long, but the wheels add another 2 inches, you're at the limit!
Sub-heading: The Personal Item – Under Your Seat Companion
In addition to your main carry-on, you're allowed one smaller personal item. This item is designed to fit under the seat in front of you. Common examples include:
A purse (including crossbody bags)
A briefcase
A laptop computer case
A small backpack
A pillow (like a neck pillow, which surprisingly doesn't count towards your carry-on limit, but your personal pillow would)
A blanket
A small camera bag
While Southwest doesn't provide a strict maximum dimension for personal items on their main baggage page, common understanding and other sources suggest a typical guideline of around:
Length: 18.5 inches (approx. 47 cm)
Width: 13.5 inches (approx. 34 cm)
Height: 8.5 inches (approx. 22 cm)
The key for the personal item is that it must comfortably fit under the seat in front of you without obstructing the aisle or other passengers.
Sub-heading: No Weight Limit? Really?
Here's some fantastic news for Southwest flyers: Southwest Airlines generally does not impose a specific weight limit on carry-on bags or personal items.
However, there's a practical caveat: you must be able to lift your carry-on bag into the overhead bin unassisted. If it's so heavy you can't hoist it up, a flight attendant might ask you to check it. So, while there's no numerical weight restriction, common sense and physical capability are your guides here.
Step 3: Verifying Your Measurements – The Airport Sizing Bins
Even with careful measuring at home, it's always a good idea to be prepared. Airports have those metal sizing bins near the check-in counters and at the gate. These are the ultimate test for your carry-on.
Before you head to the gate, consider trying your bag in the sizing bin. If it slides in easily without forcing, you're golden.
If it's a tight fit, or you have to really shove it in, it might be an issue at the gate. Gate agents have the final say, and if your bag clearly doesn't fit, they will require you to gate-check it. This can lead to delays and potential fees if it's considered oversized or overweight for a checked bag.
Step 4: Special Considerations & Additional Carry-On Items
While the one carry-on bag and one personal item rule is standard, Southwest does allow a few other items in addition to your allowance. These include:
Outer garments: A coat, jacket, or wrap.
Food for consumption during the flight: As long as it's in disposable packaging.
Assistive/mobility devices: Such as wheelchairs, crutches, canes, or walkers.
Child restraint devices: For a ticketed child or if a complimentary, available space exists.
Umbrellas/walking canes.
Sub-heading: Traveling with Pets
If you're bringing a pet, the pet carrier will count as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. This means you'll have to choose between your pet carrier and one of your other allowed items. Pet carriers also have their own specific size requirements, typically needing to fit under the seat in front of you.
Sub-heading: Musical Instruments
Musical instruments are a common concern for many travelers. Southwest's policy is quite accommodating:
If your instrument (including its case) is within the standard carry-on dimensions (24” L + 16” W + 10” H), you can bring it as your carry-on item if there is space available.
If your instrument exceeds carry-on sizing requirements but can still fit in an overhead bin or under a seat, you may carry it on if space is available.
For larger instruments that won't fit in the overhead or under the seat, you have the option to purchase a separate seat for it. The instrument must be secured with a seatbelt and not block any aircraft signage. However, some very large instruments (like a double bass or cello) might still need to be checked.
Step 5: Forbidden in the Cabin? Understanding Prohibited Items
Knowing what not to pack in your carry-on is just as important as knowing what you can pack. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) dictates what can and cannot go through security checkpoints, and Southwest adheres to these rules.
Sub-heading: Liquids, Aerosols, Gels (LAGs) – The 3-1-1 Rule
This is the most common rule people forget! For carry-on bags, liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes are subject to the 3-1-1 rule:
Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller per item.
All containers must fit into one quart-sized, clear, resealable bag.
Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag.
Exceptions: Medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and infant/child nourishments are generally exempt from the 3-1-1 rule, but you should declare them to TSA for inspection.
Sub-heading: Hazardous Materials and Other Prohibited Items
Federal law prohibits certain hazardous materials from being carried on aircraft. These include, but are not limited to:
Explosives (e.g., fireworks)
Compressed gases
Flammable liquids and solids (e.g., lighter fluid, paints)
Oxidizers
Poisons
Corrosives
Radioactive materials
Firearms and ammunition (must be declared and transported in checked baggage according to specific rules)
Sharp objects (knives, razor blades not in a cartridge, box cutters – generally not allowed in carry-on unless the blade is less than 4 inches, but best to check or pack in checked luggage to avoid issues)
Hoverboards
E-cigarettes and vaping devices must be in your carry-on; they are prohibited in checked baggage due to battery fire risks. However, using them onboard is forbidden.
Spare lithium batteries and portable chargers/power banks must be in carry-on bags, protected from short circuits.
Always check the TSA website (tsa.gov) for the most up-to-date and comprehensive list of prohibited items before you fly!
Step 6: The Golden Rule: When in Doubt, Check it Out!
Even with all this information, there might be unique items you're unsure about. If you have any doubts about whether an item is allowed in your carry-on, or if your bag truly fits the dimensions, it's always best to:
Check Southwest's official website: Their "Carryon and Personal Item Policy" page is the definitive source.
Contact Southwest customer service: If you have a particularly unusual item.
Consider checking the item: Southwest is known for its generous checked baggage policy, allowing two free checked bags (up to 50 lbs and 62 linear inches each) for every ticketed customer. This can be a great option if you're close to the carry-on limits or have items better suited for the cargo hold.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to navigate Southwest Airlines' carry-on policy with confidence, ensuring a smooth start to your journey!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to measure your suitcase correctly for Southwest Airlines?
To measure your suitcase correctly, place it on a flat surface and use a measuring tape to find the length, width, and height. Crucially, include all external parts like wheels, handles (when collapsed), and pockets in your measurements to ensure accuracy against Southwest's 24" L x 16" W x 10" H limit.
How to ensure my carry-on fits in the overhead bin on Southwest?
The best way to ensure your carry-on fits is to measure it accurately beforehand, including all protruding parts. At the airport, test your bag in the sizing bins provided by Southwest near the check-in counters. If it fits easily without forcing, you should be fine for the overhead bin.
How to pack liquids in my Southwest carry-on?
Pack liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes following the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, fit in one quart-sized, clear, resealable bag, and each passenger is limited to one bag. Place this bag in an easily accessible part of your carry-on for security screening.
How to travel with a personal item on Southwest Airlines?
Your personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag, small backpack) must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. While not strictly defined by Southwest, typical guidelines are around 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 8.5" H.
How to handle musical instruments as carry-on on Southwest?
Small musical instruments can be carried on if they fit within the standard carry-on dimensions or can fit safely in an overhead bin or under a seat. For larger instruments, you may need to purchase an additional seat for them, ensuring they are secured with a seatbelt and do not obstruct aircraft signage.
How to check if an unusual item is allowed in my Southwest carry-on?
If you have an unusual item, first check the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" tool on their website (tsa.gov) for general guidance. Then, consult Southwest Airlines' official baggage policy pages or contact their customer service directly for clarification regarding their specific rules.
How to avoid gate-checking my bag on Southwest?
To avoid gate-checking, ensure your carry-on bag strictly adheres to the 24" L x 16" W x 10" H dimensions including all wheels and handles. Pack efficiently to keep the bag from bulging, and be prepared to lift it into the overhead bin yourself. Arriving early for boarding can also increase your chances of finding overhead bin space.
How to distinguish between a carry-on and a personal item for Southwest?
A carry-on bag is generally larger, designed for the overhead bin, and has specific dimensions (24"x16"x10"). A personal item is smaller, intended to fit under the seat in front of you, and includes items like purses, briefcases, or small backpacks.
How to deal with carry-on weight limits on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines does not have a stated weight limit for carry-on bags. However, you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead compartment unassisted. If your bag is excessively heavy and you cannot lift it, you may be asked to check it.
How to pack electronic devices and batteries in my Southwest carry-on?
Most electronic devices (laptops, phones, tablets) can be packed in your carry-on. Spare lithium batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes must be carried in your carry-on bag, not in checked luggage, and should be protected from short circuits. Using e-cigarettes onboard is prohibited.
