Southwest Airlines Carry-On Policy: Size Limits, Personal Items & Baggage Rules
This guide is based on publicly available Southwest Airlines baggage policy information and standard airline industry practices.
Last Updated: March 2026
The Southwest Airlines carry-on policy allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item into the cabin at no additional charge, provided the items meet the airline’s size and safety requirements. Checked baggage rules have changed recently, and fees now apply on most standard fares. This guide explains Southwest Airlines carry-on policy, personal item rules, checked baggage allowances, weight and size limits, and what to expect if luggage exceeds standard limits.
Southwest allows cabin baggage on all fare types.
Standard Carry-On Allowance
Every passenger is permitted:
- 1 carry-on bag
- 1 personal item
There are no charges for carry-on bags on Southwest Airlines. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item should remain under the seat in front of you.
Size Requirements
- Maximum size: 61 × 41 × 25 cm (24 × 16 × 10 inches)
- Wheels and handles are included in measurements
- Oversized bags may be checked at the gate
Prohibited Item in Carry On
Corrovives
Explosives
Flammable Liquids
Firerams (Undecared)
Blunt
Liquids > 100ml
Poisons / Toxics
Sharp Objects
Tools
Weight Rules
- Southwest does not specify a carry-on weight limit
- You must be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin unaided
Items Not Permitted in Carry-On Baggage
- Corrosive materials
- Explosives
- Flammable liquids
- Firearms (unless declared and stored per TSA rules)
- Sharp or bladed objects
- Liquids exceeding 100 ml
- Toxic or poisonous substances
- Large tools
Personal Item Guidelines
Examples of acceptable personal items:
- Laptop bag
- Small purse or handbag
- Daypack or compact backpack
Rule:
- Must fit completely under the seat
- No fixed size limit, but it should be reasonably small
Most everyday travel items are permitted in carry-on baggage, including clothing, personal electronics, books, snacks, and essential medications. Items restricted by airport security, such as sharp objects, flammable materials, or large liquid containers, are not permitted. For a complete list of restricted items, refer to TSA guidelines.
Liquid Restrictions
Southwest follows the TSA liquid rules for carry-on baggage, which require:
- Liquids limited to 100 ml (3.4 oz) each
- Must fit in one clear, resealable 1-quart bag
- One liquid bag per passenger
Traveling With Infants
- Lap infants do not receive a separate carry-on allowance
- Parents may bring:
- Diaper bag (in addition to their own luggage)
- Baby food, formula, breast milk, and medications
- One stroller and one car seat can be checked free of charge
Stroller Policy
- Strollers can be checked at no cost
- Options include:
- At the ticket counter
- At the boarding gate
- Compact strollers are often returned at the gate
- Larger strollers are delivered at baggage claim
- Strollers do not contribute to baggage limits
Quick Snapshot – Carry-on
- 1 carry-on + 1 personal item
- Max size: 61 × 41 × 25 cm
- No weight limit
- Liquids must follow TSA security guidelines, 100 ml containers in a single clear resealable bag
Southwest Airlines is widely known for its customer-friendly baggage policy. Many fare types allow passengers to check bags without additional charges, provided the luggage meets standard weight and size limits. Travelers should always verify their specific allowance before departure, as policies may vary by fare type and route.
Prohibited Item in Check-In
Corrovives
Explosives
Flammable Liquids
Poisons / Toxics
Here is how the current structure works:
| Bag | Standard Fee | Weight Limit | Size Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| First checked bag | Fee applies on most fares | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 linear inches |
| Second checked bag | Fee applies on most fares | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 linear inches |
| Third bag and beyond | Higher excess baggage fee | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 linear inches |
Some fare types and Rapid Rewards loyalty members may still qualify for free checked bags. See the Southwest baggage fees guide for a full breakdown of who qualifies.
What Happens if Your Bag Exceeds the Limit
Bags that exceed standard weight or size limits on Southwest are subject to additional charges:
- Bags over 50 lbs but under 100 lbs — overweight fee applies
- Bags exceeding 62 linear inches — oversized fee applies
- Bags over 100 lbs or 80 linear inches — generally not accepted as standard checked baggage
Overweight and oversized fees apply on top of any standard checked bag fee. Weighing and measuring luggage at home before departure is the most reliable way to avoid these charges.
When to Carry On vs Check a Bag
| Carry-On is ideal if | Check your bag if: |
| You’re carrying valuables | It’s heavy or bulky |
| You need items during the flight | It contains liquids |
| You want to avoid baggage claim | You want hands-free travel |
Multiple Airlines Travel Rule
If your journey includes multiple airlines, follow the strictest baggage policy among them to avoid issues during boarding or check-in.
Why Southwest Airlines Carry-On Policy Is Different From Other Airlines
Southwest has historically been more flexible with baggage than most major U.S. carriers. Unlike airlines that restrict carry-on bags to certain fare types, Southwest includes one carry-on bag and one personal item for all passengers on all fares at no additional charge. This applies whether you are on the most basic or the most premium ticket.
Southwest also operates an open seating boarding system, which means passengers choose their own seat when they board rather than being pre-assigned one. This affects how early travelers board and, therefore how much overhead bin space is available — making it practical to arrive at the gate early if you are bringing a full-size carry-on.
For passengers comparing airline baggage policies, see our American Airlines carry-on policy guide or United Airlines baggage rules guide.
For general travel preparation guidance, see our airline travel tips guide.
Southwest Boarding System and Carry-On Space
Southwest Airlines uses an open seating boarding system instead of assigned seats. Passengers board in groups and choose any available seat once they enter the aircraft. Because overhead bin space is limited, travelers bringing full-size carry-on luggage may want to board earlier to secure space for their bags.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Southwest Airlines carry-on size limit?
The maximum carry-on size allowed under the Southwest Airlines carry-on policy is 24 × 16 × 10 inches, including handles and wheels.
What are the liquid rules for Southwest carry-on bags?
Southwest follows standard TSA liquid rules. Liquids must be in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less and stored in a single clear, resealable 1-quart bag. One bag per passenger is permitted.
What is the checked baggage weight limit on Southwest?
The standard checked baggage weight limit is 50 lbs (23 kg). Bags exceeding this limit are subject to an overweight fee. Bags over 100 lbs are generally not accepted.
Does Southwest charge for carry-on bags?
No. One carry-on bag and one personal item are included for all passengers on all Southwest fare types at no charge.
How many checked bags are free on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest’s baggage policy changed in 2025. Most standard fares now charge for checked bags. Some premium fares and Rapid Rewards loyalty members may still qualify for free checked bags. Confirm your specific allowance based on your fare type before travel.
Can I bring a stroller or car seat on Southwest for free?
Southwest allows one stroller and one car seat to be checked free of charge per ticketed passenger. These items do not count toward the standard baggage allowance.
MyBaggageInfo provides independent travel guidance and is not affiliated with Southwest Airlines.
Disclaimer: All information on MyBaggageInfo is provided for general travel guidance only. Airline policies, baggage rules, and fees can change at any time without prior notice. While we strive to keep our content accurate and updated, travelers should always verify details directly with the airline before their journey. MyBaggageInfo is not responsible for any errors, delays, or decisions made based on the information provided.
