What is the Southwest Airlines Carry-On Size Allowance?

Flying with Southwest Airlines is a popular choice among travelers. The carrier brings a perfect combination of convenience, affordability, and a friendly experience on its flights. But you need to be aware of the airline’s baggage policies which is a crucial aspect of ensuring a seamless journey. Actually, it’s not just about compliance, but making way to a swift check-in, avoiding unexpected fees, and enjoying a stress-free boarding process. This comprehensive guide delves into the Southwest Airlines carry-on size allowance!  

Read on… to find all the integral details and also get best tips to navigate such policies with ease.

Southwest Airlines Carry-On Policy

Southwest Airlines allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard, without any charge. Your main carry-on like a roller bag or a small suitcase can be fitted in the overhead bin above your seat on the plane.

The maximum dimensions defined for Southwest Airlines Carry-on Bag Size are:

Length: 24 inches 

Width: 16 inches 

Height: 10 inches 

Please bear in mind that these dimensions include all external parts of your bag, such as wheels, handles, and any pockets.

In addition to your carry-on bag, you are also allowed to bring one personal item onboard. It could be a crossbody bag, purse, briefcase, backpack, laptop computer case, pillow (excluding neck pillows), small camera, or blanket. This item needs to be stowed under your seat for easy access.

If you have to take a pet carrier on the flight, it will be either considered as a carry-on or a personal item. You can confirm from the airline’s team.

Important Considerations for Your Carry-On

Here are a few key points to be noted:

Southwest Airlines Carry on Weight Requirements

Although the airline does not generally impose a specific weight limit for carry-on bags, their crew posted at the gate can check the weight of your carry-on and personal item. If they appear unusually heavy or are found to be exceeding the size limits, you may not be allowed to take them ahead onboard. Else, you may have to pay additional charges. Thus, it’s always best to be compliant to avoid unexpected costs.

Overhead Bin Space 

As you may already be aware, the overhead bin space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. This space can quickly get filled during peak travel times. So, if you arrive at the boarding gate early and are among the first to board, you have increased chances of getting the space for your carry-on directly above your seat. Especially if you have an “A” group boarding position, you are sure to secure this space before other passengers.

Measure Everything and Follow the TSA’s Guidelines 

Always make sure to measure your bag’s outer dimensions, including any wheels and handles, while you are packing things for your air travel. It could even go an inch large due to extended features. So, advance checking using a tape helps you get an ideal bag and avoid complications at the airport, which could otherwise ruin your experience. This is even applicable to your personal item and may be to checked baggage.

In fact, various bag manufacturers design bags specifically for travelers. So, you can purchase the one suitable as per the airline’s carry-on requirements. There are bags with labels – “carry-on compliant” or “TSA approved carry-on”. TSA is the Transportation Security Administration whose officials check passenger bags at the airport security checkpoint.

If you keep flying frequently, you may be knowing that certain items are restricted or completely prohibited according to the TSA regulations. These include, but are not limited to, sharp objects, flammable materials, and aerosols. Furthermore, the liquid contents are also allowed as per the 3-1-1 rule. So, you must check the guidelines provided on TSA’s official website specifically for carry-ons and even your checked baggage. 

Remember! The TSA is really strict about it! And… What the TSA has implemented is obviously a part of the Southwest Airlines carry on restrictions.

Pack Efficiently 

You can make good use of the space within the given dimensions. Using packing cubes is a good idea to compress clothing and pack only the most important items. Packing less makes it easier for you to proceed as per the size requirements and avoid the need to check your bag at the end moment. 

Verify Latest Policies

You never know, the policies can change. So, it’s a smart move to check the airline’s baggage policies before every time you fly. You can review the same on the official website of Southwest Airlines website or its mobile app. This one step can save you from unforeseen complexities that may arise at the airport.

Concluding Words 

On the whole, a complete understanding of the Southwest Airlines carry-on guidelines is important for a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable travel experience. By adhering to the size limit, you can confidently navigate the airport security checkpoint and proceed towards the boarding gate without delays. The above guide also brought to you some tips to avoid any additional fees or the inconvenience of being stopped at the security section or the boarding gate. You can always review the airline’s latest baggage policies including for personal items and checked bags. 

Always remember, it all takes a little more effort to be extra cautious! Have a wonderful travel experience with Southwest Airlines! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Looking for quick answers to certain commonly raised queries! Read below!