Southwest Airlines 2025 Baggage Allowance
Last Updated: May 2026
Southwest Airlines maintains a baggage policy that stands out for its flexibility. You're allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item, without extra charges, provided they meet the size guidelines. The carry-on bag must not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 40 x 25 cm), fitting in the overhead compartment. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and remain within 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches (47 x 34 x 22 cm).
Checked baggage is included with your ticket, allowing two pieces free of charge. Your bags must stay under 50 lbs and 62 linear inches (length + width + height) each. Southwest permits other personal essentials to be onboard, such as umbrellas, walking canes, outerwear, and food packed in disposable containers. Child restraints for ticketed children or when free space is available are also allowed without counting towards your carry-on limit. Items like pet carriers, however, count as a carry-on.
Southwest Excess Baggage Fees Table
Southwest Airlines charges fees for checked bags that exceed the free allowance, weight, or size limits. The table below outlines the fees for extra, overweight, and oversized baggage.
| Baggage Type | Fee |
|---|
| Third and additional checked bags | $75 per bag |
| Overweight (51–70 lbs) | $100 per bag |
| Overweight (71–100 lbs) | $125 per bag |
| Oversized (63–80 inches) | $125 per bag |
|
Overweight & Oversized Combined |
$225 total ($100 for weight + $125 for size) |
| Sports Equipment (exceeding size/weight limits) | Subject to standard fees unless otherwise noted by Southwest |
Southwest Carry-On and Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can also be brought onboard and fall under specific guidelines. If your instrument fits within the dimensions of a carry-on, it qualifies for placement in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. For larger instruments, purchasing a dedicated seat is necessary. Each instrument must fit safely within a single seat, be secured using a seat belt, and avoid obstructing signage or emergency exits. Popular examples include violins, guitars, or cellos, depending on their size.
Essentials for your Upcoming Flight
Pack your personal item efficiently by focusing on essential items that meet the size limit of 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches. Choose a compact bag that fits under the seat, such as a small backpack, tote, or purse.
Personal Items to Include
- Travel Documents: Keep your boarding pass, ID, and itinerary easily accessible.
- Electronics: Pack devices like a phone, tablet, or laptop with chargers to stay connected during your journey.
- Snacks and Drinks: Bring TSA-approved snacks and an empty water bottle to fill after the security checkpoint.
- Comfort Items: Carry an eye mask, travel pillow, or light blanket for longer flights.
- Hygiene Kits: Include hand sanitizer, face masks, and travel-sized toiletries for convenience.
Additional Onboard Essentials
- Medications: Keep prescription medications in your personal item for quick access.
- Valuables: Pack jewelry, cash, and any irreplaceable items to prevent loss or damage.
- Entertainment: Bring books, magazines, or downloaded content to pass the time.
Selecting practical and TSA-compliant items ensures smooth boarding and enhances your comfort throughout the trip.
FAQ
Find answers to common questions about Southwest Airlines' luggage policies to simplify your travel planning. Understanding these details ensures hassle-free boarding and compliance with airline regulations.
1. Can A 24-Inch Luggage Be A Carry-On?
A 24-inch luggage can be a carry-on if it meets Southwest Airlines' size limit for carry-ons, which is 24 x 16 x 10 inches, including handles and wheels. Ensure your bag fits in the overhead bin to avoid checking it in.
2. What If My Personal Item Is Too Big Southwest?
Your personal item must not exceed 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches to fit under the seat. If it's too large, you'll need to check it as standard luggage, potentially incurring additional fees. To avoid issues, opt for compact items like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack that conform to the size limits.
3. How Much Is An Oversized Carry-On?
Southwest Airlines doesn't allow oversized carry-ons. If your bag exceeds the carry-on dimensions of 24 x 16 x 10 inches, you'll be required to check it. For checked bags exceeding 62 linear inches, a fee of $75 applies, and overweight bags between 51–100 lbs incur fees ranging from $75 to $125.
4. What Is Not Allowed In A Carry-On?
Prohibited items include firearms, sharp objects, flammable materials, and hazardous chemicals as per TSA guidelines. Liquids are limited to 3.4 ounces per container, with all containers fitting in a single quart-sized bag. Avoid packing items like aerosol sprays and tools exceeding 7 inches to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
Understanding Southwest Airlines' personal item and baggage policies can make your travel experience much smoother. By sticking to the size limits and packing strategically, you can avoid unnecessary fees and ensure a stress-free journey. Whether you’re carrying essential items, checking bags, or exploring alternative luggage options, planning ahead helps you stay organized and travel comfortably.
Southwest Airlines Personal Item Size: 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (2026)
Last Updated: May 2026
Southwest Airlines allows one free personal item per passenger, with a maximum size of 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 22 x 34 cm). Eligible items include purses, briefcases, laptop bags, small backpacks, and camera bags. Your personal item must fit completely under the seat in front of you and is free on every Southwest ticket.
Adhering to these size restrictions is essential for several reasons:
- Compliance with Airline Policies: Following Southwest Airlines' guidelines ensures smooth check-in and boarding processes without any issues.
- Comfortable Travel Experience: Properly sized personal items fit comfortably under the seat in front of you during your flight, maximizing legroom and minimizing discomfort.
- Efficient Use of Space: By sticking to the size limits, all passengers can utilize overhead bin space efficiently without delays during boarding.
- Avoidance of Additional Fees: Oversized items may incur extra charges if checked at the gate instead of being brought onboard as a personal item.
Southwest Airlines prioritizes passenger convenience by providing reasonable personal item size restrictions that enhance the overall travel experience. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines before your flight to avoid complications or fees.
The Risks of Exceeding Personal Item Size Limits
When it comes to size restrictions, it's essential to grasp the consequences of not following these guidelines. While you might be tempted to test the boundaries and bring a larger bag on board, doing so could have serious repercussions for your journey.
Potential Consequences: Southwest Airlines enforces strict policies on oversized or overweight baggage. If your personal item surpasses the specified dimensions, you may be asked to check it as regular luggage, leading to additional fees that can quickly eat into your travel budget.
Impact on Your Trip: Overstepping size limits can result in delays and inconvenience during boarding. If airline staff deems your bag too large, you may need to remove items or transfer them into another bag before being allowed onboard. This can cause unnecessary stress and even potentially make you miss your flight if you're unable to comply promptly.
Real-Life Scenarios: There have been cases where passengers attempted to bring oversized bags as their personal items on Southwest Airlines flights. These individuals either had to pay extra for checking their bags or struggled with fitting them under the seat in front of them, leading to discomfort throughout the journey.
It's crucial for travelers to recognize that airlines impose size restrictions for safety regulations, cabin space constraints, and ensuring a smooth boarding process for all passengers.
By strictly adhering to Southwest Airlines' personal item size limits, you can steer clear of penalties or inconveniences during your travels while also contributing towards a seamless and pleasant experience for yourself and fellow travelers.
Mastering Personal Item Size Restrictions
Traveling with Southwest Airlines requires careful planning to maximize your personal item space. By packing smartly and strategically, you can fully utilize their baggage policy and streamline the check-in process. Here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your personal item:
- Opt for the perfect bag: It's crucial to choose a bag that fits within Southwest A. size restrictions. Select a compact backpack or tote that meets their dimensions requirements.
- Make use of every inch: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to maximize space in your personal item while also preventing wrinkles.
- Pack versatile clothing: Bring pieces that can be mixed and matched for multiple outfits without taking up too much room in your bag. Consider lightweight layers that can easily be layered or removed based on weather conditions.
- Utilize packing cubes or compression bags: These tools help compress clothing and optimize space in your personal item while keeping everything organized during travel.
- Downsize toiletries: Opt for travel-sized toiletries or transfer them into smaller containers to save space and comply with TSA regulations.
- Roll up socks and underwear: Rolling these small items saves space compared to folding individually, allowing you to utilize every corner of your personal item efficiently.
- Strategically pack electronics: Place electronic devices like laptops or tablets near the top of your bag for easy access during security checks.
- Consider collapsible items: Bring collapsible items such as umbrellas or reusable water bottles that take up minimal space when not in use but still serve their purpose when needed.
- Maximize pockets and compartments: Use additional pockets on backpacks to store smaller items like chargers, headphones, or travel documents, keeping everything organized and easily accessible.
- Be mindful of weight distribution: While there is no specific weight limit for personal items on Southwest Airlines, it's important not to overload your bag with heavy items that may become burdensome during travel.
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By following these expert tips, you can navigate Southwest Airlines' baggage policy seamlessly and enjoy a stress-free journey with them.
Remember always check their official website for any updates before traveling.
Expert Advice on Southwest Airlines Personal Item Size Policies
Navigating the ins and outs of Southwest Airlines' baggage policies can be a daunting task for many travelers. In this section, I will provide you with expert answers to some frequently asked questions about personal item size restrictions to ease any uncertainties you may have.
Travel Backpack vs. Carry-On: Which Is Right for You?
- What are the exact dimensions for a personal item on Southwest Airlines?
The maximum dimensions for a personal item on Southwest Airlines are 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 22 x 34 cm), including handles and wheels.
- What happens if my personal item exceeds the size limit?
If your personal item surpasses the specified dimensions, it will be considered as a carry-on bag instead, potentially incurring additional fees or requiring gate check-in due to limited onboard space.
- Can I bring multiple personal items onboard?
Each passenger is permitted only one personal item on Southwest flights; consider checking in larger carry-on bags or utilizing checked luggage options if more storage space is needed.
- Is there a weight limit for personal items on Southwest Airlines?
Unlike carry-on bags with weight limits imposed by most airlines, no specific weight restrictions apply to personal items on Southwest as long as they fit within designated dimensions.
- Where can I find more information about these policies?
For detailed information regarding baggage policies and size restrictions at Southwest Airlines, visit their official website or contact customer service directly for accurate updates.
Adhering to these guidelines ensures smooth travel experiences without penalties or inconveniences along the way while maximizing comfort within designated spaces during your journey.
Feel free to reach out with any further inquiries - safe travels!
Arca Team
The Arca Official Team is a group of avid travelers and gear enthusiasts based between Vancouver, Canada and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Founded by two entrepreneurs who couldn't find affordable, quality travel gear, Arca Official has helped thousands of travelers pack smarter. Every article is researched and written by team members who test the gear themselves.
