Are you dreaming of shredding some pavement in a new city but wondering if your beloved longboard can come along for the ride on Southwest Airlines? You've come to the right place! Navigating airline baggage policies can feel like a labyrinth, but with the right information, you can ensure your longboard arrives safely and hassle-free at your destination. Let's break down everything you need to know, step-by-step.
Can I Bring a Longboard on Southwest Airlines? Your Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: Yes, you can bring a longboard on Southwest Airlines, but it will almost certainly need to be checked baggage. Southwest's generous baggage policy used to allow two free checked bags (up to 50 lbs and 62 linear inches L+W+H). However, as of May 28, 2025, Southwest has updated its checked baggage policy. Most passengers will now need to pay for checked bags, with fees starting at $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second. Only certain fare types (like Business Select) or elite status members (like A-List Preferred) will still get two free checked bags. Regardless of fees, the key is understanding the size and weight limitations to avoid additional charges or having your longboard rejected.
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| Can I Bring A Longboard On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Engage with Your Longboard's Dimensions - Know Your Board!
Before you even think about packing, the absolute first thing you need to do is measure your longboard. Don't just eyeball it! Grab a measuring tape and note down the:
Length (from nose to tail)
Width (at its widest point)
Height/Thickness (including trucks and wheels if they can't be removed or folded)
Once you have these individual measurements, calculate the linear inches by adding them together: Length + Width + Height = Linear Inches.
Why is this so crucial? Southwest Airlines has strict guidelines for checked baggage:
Maximum dimensions: 62 linear inches (Length + Width + Height)
Maximum weight: 50 lbs (23 kg)
Most longboards will exceed the 62 linear inch dimension, especially in length. A typical longboard can range from 36 inches to over 50 inches in length, making it highly probable that it will be considered oversized baggage.
Step 2: Understanding Southwest's Baggage Categories and Fees
Now that you know your longboard's dimensions, let's decipher how Southwest will categorize it.
Sub-heading: Standard Checked Baggage
Dimensions: Up to 62 linear inches (L+W+H)
Weight: Up to 50 lbs
Fee: As of May 28, 2025, typically $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second, unless you have a fare type or status that offers free checked bags.
It is highly unlikely your longboard will fit into this category without significant disassembly.
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage
Dimensions: From 63 inches up to 80 linear inches (L+W+H)
Weight: Up to 50 lbs
Fee: A flat fee of $75 per item, one way, in addition to the standard checked bag fee if applicable.
This is the most common category for longboards. If your longboard is between 63 and 80 linear inches, it will fall here.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage
Weight: From 51 lbs up to 100 lbs
Dimensions: Within 62 linear inches OR oversized (up to 80 linear inches)
Fee: A flat fee of $75 per item, one way, in addition to the standard checked bag fee if applicable. If an item is both oversized and overweight (but under 100 lbs and 80 inches), only one $75 fee applies.
While longboards are generally not very heavy, if you pack a lot of gear around it in a large bag, it could become overweight.
Sub-heading: Items Not Accepted as Checked Baggage
Dimensions: Exceeding 80 linear inches (L+W+H)
Weight: Exceeding 100 lbs
If your longboard, even with trucks removed, is longer than 80 inches, Southwest will not accept it as checked baggage and it would need to be shipped via Air Cargo, which is a whole different beast.
Important Note: Southwest Airlines frequently updates its policies. Always, always, always check the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly for the most up-to-date information on fees and policies before your travel date.
Step 3: Packing Your Longboard for Air Travel - Protection is Key!
This is where the rubber meets the road (or the tarmac!). Proper packing is crucial to prevent damage to your longboard and other luggage.
Sub-heading: Disassembly (Recommended)
Remove the Trucks and Wheels: This is highly recommended to significantly reduce the overall dimensions (especially height) and make packing easier. It also protects these components from damage. You'll need a skate tool for this.
Remove Bushings and Pivots: While not strictly necessary, removing these can offer a little extra protection and reduce minor bulk. Keep all small parts in a small, sealed bag.
Sub-heading: Choosing the Right Bag/Case
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
Longboard-Specific Travel Bag: These are designed to fit longboards and often have padding. Look for bags with durable materials and good zippers. Some may even have internal straps to secure the board. Brands like Loaded Boards (Kyoto bags) or Pro-Lite offer good options.
Snowboard Bag (Excellent Alternative): Many longboarders find that snowboard bags are a fantastic solution. They are designed for long, relatively thin items and often have ample padding. Look for a "kids" or "short" snowboard bag if your longboard is on the shorter side, or a standard one for longer boards. This is often the most cost-effective and protective option.
Surfboard Bag (May Work for Shorter Longboards): Similar to snowboard bags, surfboard bags can work, but ensure the shape is appropriate for your longboard's width.
Hard Case (Most Protection, Least Practical): A hard case offers the ultimate protection, but they are often heavier, more expensive, and less flexible for varying longboard sizes. Unless you're carrying a very valuable custom board, a padded bag is usually sufficient.
Sub-heading: Padding and Protection
Bubble Wrap: Wrap your board thoroughly, especially the edges and ends.
Foam Pipe Insulation: This is excellent for protecting the rails (edges) of your longboard. Cut it to size and tape it securely.
Clothing and Towels: Utilize your clothing, towels, and soft gear to further pad the longboard inside the bag. This serves a dual purpose of protecting your board and maximizing space in your checked luggage.
Trucks and Wheels: Once removed, wrap them individually in bubble wrap or cloth. You can place them in a separate smaller bag within the main longboard bag, or even consider putting them in your carry-on if they fit and meet TSA requirements for carry-on items (they usually do, as they are not sharp or hazardous). Some sources suggest placing wheels up if keeping them on, to prevent rolling, though this primarily applies if attempting to carry-on, which is rarely feasible for longboards on Southwest.
Deck Protection: Consider placing a piece of cardboard or thin plywood over the top and bottom of the deck for added rigidity and impact protection.
Step 4: Checking In Your Longboard - The Airport Experience
With your longboard meticulously packed, it's time to head to the airport.
Sub-heading: Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of extra time at the airport. Checking oversized baggage can take longer than standard check-in.
Sub-heading: Declare Your Item
Inform the Southwest check-in agent that you are checking a longboard. They are accustomed to handling various types of sporting equipment.
They will measure and weigh your bag to determine if any oversized or overweight fees apply. Be prepared to pay these fees at the counter.
Sub-heading: Limited Release of Liability
Be aware that Southwest (and most airlines) often apply a Limited Release of Liability waiver for sporting equipment. This means that if your longboard is damaged, the airline's liability might be limited, as such items are inherently more prone to damage during transit. This is why proper packing is so important.
Step 5: Upon Arrival - Retrieval and Inspection
Once you land, the journey isn't over until you have your longboard safely in hand.
Sub-heading: Baggage Claim
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
Oversized items, including longboards, are often delivered to a special oversized baggage claim area, not the regular carousel. Look for signs or ask an airport attendant for directions to this area.
Sub-heading: Immediate Inspection
As soon as you retrieve your longboard, inspect it thoroughly for any damage. This includes checking the board itself, the trucks, wheels, and the bag.
If you notice any damage, report it to a Southwest Airlines baggage claim agent before leaving the airport. Document the damage with photos and ensure you get a claim number. This will be crucial if you need to pursue a claim later.
By following these steps, you can significantly increase the chances of a smooth journey for both you and your longboard on Southwest Airlines.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to measure my longboard for airline travel?
To measure your longboard for airline travel, use a measuring tape to find its exact length (nose to tail), width (widest point), and height (including trucks and wheels if not removed). Add these three measurements together to get the total linear inches.
How to pack a longboard for checked baggage to prevent damage?
To pack a longboard for checked baggage, first, remove the trucks and wheels. Then, wrap the board in bubble wrap or foam padding, especially around the edges. Place the board in a dedicated longboard travel bag or a padded snowboard bag. Secure loose components like trucks and wheels in a separate bag inside the main bag or in your carry-on.
How to determine if my longboard is oversized for Southwest Airlines?
Your longboard is considered oversized by Southwest Airlines if its total linear dimensions (length + width + height) exceed 62 inches. Most longboards, due to their length, will fall into the oversized category.
How to pay for oversized baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
You typically pay for oversized baggage on Southwest Airlines at the airport check-in counter. Be prepared for a flat fee of $75 per item, one-way, in addition to any standard checked baggage fees (which as of May 28, 2025, are $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second, for most passengers).
How to find the oversized baggage claim area at the airport?
Oversized baggage is usually delivered to a separate area from the main baggage carousels. Look for signs at baggage claim indicating "Oversized Baggage," "Special Baggage," or "Sports Equipment," or ask an airport staff member for directions.
How to report damage to my longboard after a Southwest flight?
If your longboard is damaged, report it immediately to a Southwest Airlines baggage claim agent before leaving the airport. Take photos of the damage and ensure you receive a claim number. Follow up with Southwest's customer service as directed.
How to disassemble a longboard for air travel?
To disassemble a longboard, use a skate tool (usually a T-tool) to remove the nuts holding the wheels to the axles. Once wheels are off, unbolt the trucks from the deck. Keep all nuts, bolts, and small components in a sealed bag.
How to choose a good travel bag for my longboard?
Choose a travel bag that is specifically designed for longboards or a padded snowboard bag that is slightly longer than your board. Look for durable, padded materials, strong zippers, and possibly internal straps to secure the board. Measure your longboard to ensure a snug fit.
How to avoid extra fees when flying with a longboard on Southwest?
To avoid some extra fees, try to keep your longboard (when packed) under the 50 lbs weight limit. However, due to its length, it is highly likely to incur the $75 oversized baggage fee, as most longboards exceed Southwest's 62 linear inch standard baggage dimension. As of May 28, 2025, standard checked bag fees also apply for most passengers.
How to check the most up-to-date Southwest Airlines baggage policies?
Always check the official Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) or contact their customer service directly. Airline policies can change, so verifying the information close to your travel date is the best way to ensure accuracy.
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