Your Allowance: Carry-On Bag and Personal Item
When preparing for your journey with Southwest Airlines, it's important to know precisely what items you can bring aboard. Southwest allows each passenger one carry-on bag and one personal item to be stowed in the cabin. These two items must fit within specific dimensions to ensure they can be safely stored under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin.
- One carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger.
- Personal items must fit under the seat.
- Carry-on bags go in overhead bins.
- Adhering to size limits prevents repacking fees.
The airline's policy is designed to accommodate everyone's luggage while maintaining safety and comfort throughout the flight. Understanding these allowances upfront can prevent last-minute stress at the gate and ensure your essentials are with you throughout your trip. It's a fundamental part of planning what to bring on a Southwest flight.
Carry-On Bag Dimensions
Your primary carry-on bag must not exceed 24 inches in length, 16 inches in width, and 10 inches in height (this includes wheels and handles). This size is generous and accommodates most standard suitcases and duffels. It's essential to measure your bag before heading to the airport to confirm compliance. Southwest agents may check your bag at the gate, and if it exceeds these dimensions, you might be required to check it as baggage, potentially incurring fees.
Personal Item Specifics
The personal item is typically a smaller, more accessible bag. Common examples include a purse, a laptop bag, a small backpack, or a briefcase. This item must fit underneath the seat in front of you. While there isn't a strict listed dimension for personal items like there is for carry-on bags, the general guideline is that it should be reasonably sized to fit in the designated space without obstructing the legroom of the passenger behind you. Think of it as an item you'll want easy access to during the flight, such as a book, electronics, or snacks.
What if My Bag is Too Large?
If your carry-on bag exceeds Southwest's specified dimensions, you will be required to check it as baggage. Southwest does not charge for the first and second checked bags, so this might not incur an additional cost beyond the standard checked baggage allowance, but it means your items will not be with you in the cabin. Personal items that are too large will also need to be checked. This policy is strictly enforced to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.
Items You Can Bring on a Southwest Flight (With Considerations)
Beyond your main bags, many individual items are permitted on a Southwest flight and can be brought on board for your convenience. Knowing these specific items helps in planning your packing strategy and ensuring you have everything you need without violating airline regulations. This covers a wide range of personal necessities and comfort items.
Food and Snacks
Yes, you can bring food and snacks on a Southwest flight. This includes items purchased at the airport or brought from home. For your personal item, consider bringing snacks that are easy to eat and won't create a mess. Keep in mind that while you can bring food, the airline does not typically provide reheating facilities. Items like sandwiches, fruit, crackers, and pre-packaged snacks are excellent choices. Remember to pack any liquids associated with food (like salad dressing) within your TSA-approved liquid limits if they are in your carry-on bag.
Electronics and Chargers
Laptops, tablets, e-readers, smartphones, and their chargers are all permitted. It's advisable to keep your electronics in your personal item for easy access. For passengers traveling with many devices, consider a portable power bank. Lithium batteries (like those in power banks) must be carried in your carry-on baggage, not in checked luggage, and they must be protected from short circuits. Southwest follows TSA guidelines for these batteries.
Ensure all portable electronic devices are fully charged before your flight, as outlets are not guaranteed.
Medications and Medical Supplies
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are allowed. It is highly recommended to keep all medications in their original containers with clear labeling to avoid any issues with security. Liquid medications that exceed the TSA's 3.4-ounce limit are permitted but must be declared to security personnel. Passengers with specific medical needs, such as those requiring an oxygen concentrator, should contact Southwest Airlines customer service in advance to make necessary arrangements.
Baby and Child Items
Southwest is generally accommodating for travelers with infants and young children. Items like diaper bags, strollers, car seats, and portable cribs are permitted. Strollers and car seats must typically be checked at the gate, but larger items like car seats can sometimes be brought onboard if they meet specific FAA-approved dimensions and the child has their own seat. Diaper bags are usually considered a personal item. Formula, breast milk, and baby food in reasonable quantities are allowed through security, even if they exceed the standard liquid limits, but must be declared.
Comfort Items
Passengers often wonder if they can bring a blanket or pillow on a Southwest flight. Generally, personal comfort items like blankets, pillows, and neck pillows are allowed and are considered part of your personal item or can be secured to your carry-on. These items are great for making longer flights more comfortable. Just ensure they don't cause your personal item to exceed the under-seat storage space.
What You Cannot Bring on a Southwest Flight
To ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew, Southwest Airlines, in accordance with TSA regulations, prohibits certain items from being brought into the cabin. Awareness of these restrictions is crucial to avoid confiscation of items or delays at security checkpoints. Prohibited items range from weapons to certain flammable materials.
Weapons and Ammunition
Firearms are strictly prohibited in the cabin of a Southwest aircraft. Ammunition is also forbidden in carry-on baggage. Passengers traveling with firearms must declare them to Southwest Airlines at check-in, and they must be unloaded, properly packed in a hard-sided, locked container, and checked as baggage. Even then, specific regulations apply regarding ammunition, and it's essential to review Southwest's detailed policy on firearms and ammunition before your flight.
Flammable Liquids and Materials
Items that are flammable or combustible are a significant safety hazard and are not allowed in either carry-on or checked baggage. This category includes items like aerosol cans (unless they are personal grooming products under a certain size), lighter fluid, fireworks, gasoline, and spray paint. Even common items like strike-anywhere matches are prohibited. Always check the TSA's list for specific exclusions and exceptions.
Sharp Objects and Bladed Items
While some sharp objects are permitted in checked baggage, most are forbidden in carry-on luggage. This includes knives (except for small plastic or round-bladed butter knives), box cutters, swords, and machetes. Tools like saws and drills are also restricted from carry-on. For items that must be sharp for your use, like scissors greater than 4 inches from the pivot point, they must be packed in your checked luggage.
Sports Equipment
Certain sports equipment can be disruptive or dangerous in the cabin and are therefore restricted. This includes items like baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, martial arts weapons, and pool cues. These items are generally not allowed in carry-on baggage and must be checked. For items like golf clubs or ski poles, they must be packed securely in checked baggage.
Other Prohibited Items
Beyond the categories above, several other items are prohibited for safety reasons. These include self-defense sprays (like pepper spray), stun guns, tasers, and any device that could be used as a weapon. Explosives, including fireworks and flares, are also forbidden. Additionally, certain chemicals, poisons, and radioactive materials are prohibited. Always consult the TSA's official website for the most up-to-date and comprehensive list of prohibited items.
Liquid Rules for What to Bring on a Southwest Flight
Navigating the rules for liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes (LAGs) is a common point of confusion for travelers. Southwest Airlines adheres strictly to TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage, which is designed to ensure security without overly inconveniencing passengers. Understanding this rule is vital when packing your personal item and carry-on bag.
The TSA 3-1-1 Rule Explained
The TSA 3-1-1 rule applies to all liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on baggage. The rule states:
- 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less: Each container of liquid must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller. Containers larger than 3.4 ounces are prohibited, even if they are not full.
- 1 quart-sized bag: All of your containers must fit comfortably into one clear, quart-sized, resealable bag.
- 1 bag per passenger: Each passenger is limited to one such bag.
This bag must be removed from your carry-on baggage and placed in a bin for screening at the security checkpoint. This allows TSA officers to easily inspect the liquids.
Exemptions to the Rule
There are important exceptions to the 3-1-1 liquid rule that travelers should be aware of. These primarily concern medications, breast milk, and baby formula. If you are carrying prescription or over-the-counter medications, including liquid medications or injectables, in reasonable quantities for your trip, they are permitted in your carry-on bag even if they exceed the 3.4-ounce limit. You must declare these items to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.
Similarly, breast milk, formula, and baby food in quantities that are reasonable for your child during the flight are allowed. These items also need to be declared and will undergo additional screening. It is always best to pack these essential items in an easily accessible part of your carry-on or personal item.
Liquids in Checked Baggage
Liquids in checked baggage are subject to fewer restrictions regarding container size, but they still must adhere to TSA guidelines for prohibited items. For example, flammable liquids like nail polish remover or certain aerosols are prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags. However, larger containers of toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, or lotions, can generally be packed in your checked luggage without being limited to 3.4 ounces. Ensure that all containers are securely closed to prevent leaks.
Always pack liquids that are not exempt from the 3-1-1 rule in your checked bag if they exceed the limit or if you have multiple items.
Specialty Items and Considerations for Southwest Flights
Beyond the standard fare, certain specialty items require specific attention when planning what to bring on a Southwest flight. These can range from sporting equipment to sensitive instruments, each with its own set of rules and recommendations to ensure they travel safely and compliantly.
Musical Instruments
Southwest Airlines allows small musical instruments, such as guitars or violins, to be brought into the cabin as your personal item or carry-on, provided they fit within the standard size limitations for those items and can be safely stowed. For larger instruments that exceed these dimensions, passengers may purchase an additional seat to accommodate the instrument. Alternatively, larger instruments can be checked as baggage, but proper protective cases are highly recommended to prevent damage. It is always wise to check Southwest's specific policy for musical instruments before your travel date, as arrangements may need to be made.
Sporting Goods
As mentioned in prohibited items, many sports equipment items like bats and sticks must be checked. However, some items, like golf clubs, ski equipment, and surfboards, are accepted as checked baggage, often with specific packaging requirements. Ensure clubs are removed from bags or protected, and skis are properly bagged. Southwest has weight and size limits for checked baggage, and oversized or overweight items may incur additional fees. For items that are less standard, such as bowling bags or fishing rods, contacting Southwest customer service in advance is the best course of action.
Assistance Devices
Southwest is committed to assisting passengers with disabilities. Mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers, are permitted and are typically stored in the cargo hold. Passengers requiring these devices should notify the airline in advance to ensure smooth boarding and deplaning. Other assistive devices, like crutches, canes, and service animals, are also permitted. Service animals are allowed to travel in the cabin with their handler, provided they meet specific requirements outlined by the airline and the U.S. Department of Transportation.
For any critical medical or mobility equipment, contact Southwest customer service well in advance of your flight.
Batteries and Power Banks
The TSA has strict rules regarding batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, due to their potential fire hazard. Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your carry-on baggage only. They must be protected from short circuits, for example, by leaving them in their original retail packaging, covering the terminals with tape, or placing each battery in a separate plastic bag. Devices with non-removable lithium batteries (like laptops and smartphones) can usually be packed in checked baggage, but it's always best to carry them on. Check Southwest's policy and TSA guidelines for specific battery capacities.
Navigating Southwest's Baggage Policy: How Many Bags?
A frequent question among travelers is precisely how many bags can be brought on a Southwest flight. Understanding the carry-on and personal item allowance is key, but it's also useful to know how this relates to checked baggage, especially if you have more items than can fit in the cabin.
Carry-On and Personal Item Limits
As previously detailed, Southwest allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. These must meet the size requirements to be brought into the cabin. This allowance is designed to provide ample space for most travelers to carry their essentials, including clothing, toiletries, and electronics, without needing to check luggage.
Checked Baggage Allowance
Southwest Airlines is known for its customer-friendly baggage policy, famously offering two free checked bags per passenger on most fare types. This means if your cabin luggage allowance is exceeded, or if you have larger items like sporting equipment, you can typically check up to two bags without incurring additional fees. These checked bags should be dropped off at the Southwest ticket counter or the designated bag drop area before proceeding to security.
Always confirm your specific fare type's baggage allowance, as some special fares might differ.
How Many Bags Can You Carry On?
To reiterate, for carry-on purposes, the answer is one carry-on bag plus one personal item. This totals two distinct pieces of luggage that you are permitted to bring into the aircraft cabin. It's crucial that both items adhere to the size and storage requirements to avoid any issues at the gate or during boarding.
What About Items That Don't Fit?
If you find yourself with more items than can fit into your one carry-on and one personal item, or if items are too large for the cabin, your next step is utilizing the checked baggage allowance. Items like large musical instruments, bulky sporting goods, or excess clothing can be checked. For items that are excessively large or heavy, Southwest does have specific policies and potential fees, so it's advisable to check their website for details on oversized and overweight baggage.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
While Southwest's policies are generally straightforward, several common mistakes can lead to frustration or unexpected charges. Being aware of these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother travel experience and prevent issues when deciding what to bring on a Southwest flight.
Overpacking Your Personal Item
A frequent error is overfilling the personal item. Remember, this bag must fit completely under the seat in front of you. Stuffing it to the brim can make it difficult to stow, potentially requiring you to move items to your carry-on (if space allows) or even check the personal item if it's too large or rigid to fit. Pack only essentials that you need easy access to during the flight.
Misunderstanding Liquid Rules
The TSA 3-1-1 rule is a common source of confusion. Travelers often forget to place their liquids bag in the designated bin for screening or try to bring containers larger than 3.4 ounces. Ensure all LAGs are in one quart-sized bag, all containers are 3.4 oz or less, and that this bag is presented separately at security. Remember that items like toothpaste, gels, and even some cosmetics fall under this rule.
Always have your clear liquids bag ready to be removed from your carry-on and placed in the bin for X-ray screening.
Bringing Prohibited Items
Accidentally packing prohibited items is another common issue. This can range from small pocket knives in carry-ons to larger items that are simply not allowed. Before packing, take a moment to review the TSA's list of prohibited items and Southwest's specific regulations. If an item is questionable, it's safer to leave it at home or pack it in checked baggage if permitted there.
Forgetting About Battery Regulations
The rules for batteries and power banks are often overlooked. Many passengers may not realize that spare lithium batteries and power banks cannot be placed in checked luggage. Ensure these are packed securely in your carry-on baggage and protected from short circuits. This is a critical safety regulation designed to prevent fires.
Ignoring Carry-On Size Limits
While Southwest's carry-on size is fairly generous, attempting to bring an oversized bag is a mistake that can cost you. The airline is strict about dimensions to ensure overhead bins can accommodate all bags. If your bag is measured and found to be too large, you'll have to check it, potentially incurring a fee if it's your only piece of luggage or if you've already exceeded your checked bag allowance. Always check your bag against the specified dimensions before leaving home.
Southwest Flight Hold Policy: Can You Put a Flight on Hold?
When planning travel, sometimes you need a bit of time to confirm details before booking. A common query related to booking flights, though not directly about what you can bring, is the ability to place a flight on hold. This service can offer peace of mind while you finalize arrangements.
Southwest's Hold Policy
Southwest Airlines offers passengers the option to hold a reservation for a limited time without payment. This feature, often referred to as "Wanna Get Away?" fares, allows you to lock in a specific fare for up to 24 hours. This provides a window to make final decisions or gather necessary information before committing to the purchase. However, this hold is only on the price, not a guarantee the flight will still be available if you wait too long.
How to Place a Hold
To place a flight on hold with Southwest, you typically select your desired flights and fares on the Southwest website. During the checkout process, you will see an option to hold your reservation. After selecting this option, you will receive a confirmation email with details about your held reservation and the fare. You then have the specified period, usually 24 hours, to complete the purchase by returning to the reservation details using the confirmation number provided.
It's crucial to note the exact expiration time of the hold, as fares can change, and the flight may become unavailable.
Limitations and Considerations
The flight hold feature is not available for all fare types or at all times. It's most commonly associated with the "Wanna Get Away?" fares, which are Southwest's most economical option. If the fare you are interested in is not eligible for a hold, or if there are fewer than seven days before departure, you may not be able to use this feature. Always check the details during the booking process to see if a hold option is presented.
What Happens If You Don't Complete the Purchase?
If you do not complete the purchase of your held reservation before the hold expires, the reservation will be automatically canceled, and the fare will no longer be guaranteed. You would then need to search for flights again, and the price may have increased or the flight may be sold out. This is why it's important to use the hold feature strategically for confirmed travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Carry-Ons
Addressing common concerns helps clarify the specifics of what you can bring on a Southwest flight. Here are answers to frequently asked questions that can help you prepare with confidence.
Can I bring a blanket on a Southwest flight?
Yes, you can bring a blanket on a Southwest flight. Personal comfort items like blankets, pillows, and neck pillows are permitted and can typically be carried on as part of your personal item or secured to your carry-on bag without counting as an additional piece of luggage.
What can I take on a Southwest flight?
On a Southwest flight, you can take one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. You can also bring food, drinks (purchased after security), electronics, medications, and other personal necessities, provided they comply with TSA regulations and airline policies, especially regarding liquids and prohibited items.
How many bags can you carry on a Southwest flight?
Southwest allows passengers to carry on one carry-on bag and one personal item per person. This means you can bring a total of two items into the cabin with you, provided they meet the specified size and storage requirements.
What can you not bring on a Southwest flight?
You cannot bring firearms, ammunition, explosives, flammable liquids, sharp objects (like knives or scissors over a certain length), weapons, or certain sports equipment into the cabin. These items are prohibited for safety and security reasons and must either be checked or left behind.
Can I bring food on a Southwest flight?
Yes, you can bring food on a Southwest flight. This includes items purchased at the airport or brought from home. For carry-on, ensure any liquids or gels associated with food (like salad dressing) comply with the TSA's 3-1-1 rule.
Can I bring snacks on Southwest flight?
Absolutely. Snacks are a welcome addition to your carry-on or personal item for a Southwest flight. Opt for items that are easy to eat and won't create excessive crumbs or odors. They are a great way to save money and ensure you have options available during your journey.
What can I bring on my Southwest flight for free?
Your allowance of one carry-on bag and one personal item are brought on board for free. Additionally, Southwest famously allows two checked bags for free on most fare types, which is a significant benefit compared to many other airlines.