Carry-on & Checked-in Baggage Policy Simplified for Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines generally doesn’t have a very strict baggage policy but there are a few things you should keep in mind before flying with
Southwest. You can understand their check-in and carry-on rules properly to avoid any hustle and extra charges at the airport
Southwest allows cabin baggage on all fare types.
Standard Carry-On Allowance
Every passenger is permitted: 1 carry-on bag1 personal item
There are no charges for carry-on bags on Southwest Airlines. However, it must fit in the overhead bin and keep personal item 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
Weight Rules
• Southwest does not specify a carry-on weight limit• You must be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin unaided
Prohibited Item in Carry On
Corrovives
Explosives
Flammable Liquids
Firerams (Undecared)
Blunt
Liquids > 100ml
Poisons / Toxics
Sharp Objects
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
Items Allowed & Restricted in Carry-On
You May Bring:
• Clothing and shoes• Electronics and chargers
• Books and travel accessories
• Snacks and essential medications
Not Allowed:
• Sharp objects• Flammable materials
• Large liquid containers
• Security-restricted items
Liquid Restrictions
Southwest follows TSA security rules: • 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:
1.Diaper bag (in addition to their own luggage)
2.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:
1. At the ticket counter
2. 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 rules
Free checked baggage policy makes Southwest a popular choice.
Prohibited Item in Check-In
Corrovives
Explosives
Flammable Liquids
Poisons / Toxics
Free Checked Bags
• 2 checked bags fly FREE for every passenger• Applies to all fare types and routes
Checked Bag – Know Your Limits
• Weight limit per bag: 23 kg (50 lb)• Maximum size: 158 cm (L + W + H)
• Bags exceeding these limits may incur extra charges.
Excess, Oversized & Special Items
Additional fees may apply for: • Bags over 23 kg• Oversized luggage
• Extra bags beyond the free two
Sports equipment and musical instruments are generally accepted but may require advance notice.
Check-In Options
Passengers can check in using: • Southwest website• Southwest mobile app
• Airport kiosks
• Check-in counters
Should You Carry on or Check In
| 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
Follow the toughest baggage policy while travelling with multiple airlines to save your time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Southwest baggage allowance?
1 carry-on, 1 personal item, and 2 free checked bags.
Are carry-on bags free?
Yes, always.
Liquid allowance in carry-on?
100 ml containers in a clear 1-quart bag.
What’s the Baggage allowance for infants?
Lap infants don’t get a carry-on, but diaper bags and baby items are allowed.
Size limit for Carry-on?
61 × 41 × 25 cm (handles and wheels included).
Free checked bags limit?
You don’t pay for first two checked bags; excess or oversized bags cost extra.
Checked bag weight limit?
23 kg per bag.
Know Baggage Fees
+1-855-510-5187