Introduction
Traveling with Southwest Airlines can be a great way to save money on airfare while still enjoying all the comforts of modern flight. However, it’s important to understand their carry-on baggage policy in order to make sure you’re within the regulations and avoid any extra fees or hassle at the airport. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of Southwest Airlines’ carry-on bag policy, including the maximum weight and size limits, number of allowed bags, cost of additional bags, what type of bags are accepted, and more.
How Many Bags Can I Bring on a Southwest Flight?
The good news is that Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag onto their flights free of charge. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and should not exceed 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 22 x 34 cm). This typically includes purses, briefcases, laptop bags, and small backpacks.
Your carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and should not exceed 10 x 16 x 24 inches (25 x 40 x 61 cm) including handles and wheels. This includes suitcases, rolling bags, duffel bags, and other larger bags. Both your personal item and carry-on bag must weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kg). If your bags exceed these limits, you may have to check them in and pay a fee.
In addition to your personal item and carry-on bag, Southwest also allows you to bring a few other items onto the plane with you. These include umbrellas, coats, diaper bags, assistive devices, food, and pet carriers. However, these items do not count towards your total carry-on allowance and must be stored in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
What You Need to Know Before Packing Your Bags for a Southwest Flight
Before heading to the airport, there are a few things you should know about the types of bags that are acceptable on Southwest flights. For example, hard-sided suitcases are generally accepted as long as they meet the size and weight requirements. Soft-sided bags, such as duffel bags, are also allowed as long as they fit within the prescribed dimensions.
There are some special items that must be checked in and will not be allowed in the cabin. These include firearms and ammunition, hoverboards, flammable items, and sharp objects. If you’re bringing any of these items, make sure to check them in with a Southwest representative at the ticket counter.
Finally, keep in mind that bags that exceed the maximum size and weight limits may be subject to additional fees. Oversized bags that measure between 51 and 80 linear inches (129 and 203 cm) will incur a $75 fee per bag, while bags that exceed 80 linear inches (203 cm) will incur a $100 fee per bag. Bags that weigh more than 50 pounds (23 kg) will incur a $75 fee per bag.
Maximizing Your Luggage Allowance on Southwest Flights
If you want to get the most out of your Southwest Airlines carry-on allowance, there are a few tips that can help. First, try to pack light by only bringing the essentials and leaving unnecessary items at home. This will help you stay within the weight and size limits, as well as reduce the risk of having to check in your bags and pay extra fees.
You should also take advantage of Southwest’s free checked bag allowance if you need to bring more than your two allotted carry-on bags. Southwest allows passengers to check up to two bags for free, as long as they don’t exceed the weight and size limits. This can be a great way to save money on extra fees.
Finally, if you’re traveling with children or pets, make sure to follow their special guidelines. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult and may bring one carry-on item and one personal item. Pets must be kept in an approved carrier and may not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
All You Need to Know About Southwest Airlines’ Carry-On Baggage Rules
For international flights, Southwest Airlines has different rules and restrictions. Passengers are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onto the plane, but the size and weight limits may vary depending on the destination. Check with the airline for more information before your flight.
Unaccompanied minors are allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on item, but they must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Pets must be kept in an approved carrier and may not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg). Pets may also be subject to additional fees.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines has a straightforward carry-on bag policy that allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag onto their flights. But it’s important to be aware of the size and weight limits, as well as any special items that must be checked in. Armed with this knowledge, you can maximize your luggage allowance and avoid any extra fees.
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