Southwest Baggage Policy | Carry-on, Checked bag, Liquid

If your baggage gets delayed, are airlines obligated to compensate you to some extent? Just make sure to hang on to your receipts!

Southwest Airlines stands out for its exceptional boarding process and baggage policy. Unlike most airlines, which charge fees based on weight or destination, this airline offers a free checked Southwest baggage allowance for the first two bags, with some size and weight restrictions.

Southwest Airlines is renowned for its customer-friendly baggage policies, making travel more accessible and affordable. Understanding these policies can help you prepare for your trip and avoid unexpected Southwest baggage fees or issues.

What is Southwest Airlines baggage policy?

Southwest Airlines offers a passenger-friendly baggage policy with a focus on convenience. Here's a quick analysis of the key points:

• Southwest-free checked baggage: Passengers can check two bags free of charge if each bag meets the size and weight limitations.
• Carry-On and Personal Item: Each passenger can bring one carry-on bag and one personal article on board without any fees.

What is allowed in carry-on baggage on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one individual item free of charge. The carry-on bag must be kept in the overhead bin.

What is the Southwest Airlines carry-on weight limit?

Southwest Airlines doesn't have a specific weight limit under Southwest Airlines carry on policy. As long as you can lift it into the overhead bin yourself, you’re good to go!

What is the Southwest Airlines carry-on size requirement?

Carry-on bag:

- One carry-on bag is allowed

- It should fit in the overhead bin

- Size limits: 24" (L) + 16" (W) + 10" (H). Please note that the Southwest Airlines carry on dimensions include wheels, handles, and attachments.

- Examples of items that qualify as carry-on bags: roller bags, small suitcase.

Personal item:

- One personal item is allowed

- It should fit under your seat

- Examples of personal items: purse (including crossbody bags), briefcase, laptop computer case, backpack, pillow (note: neck pillows do not count toward the carry-on limit), blanket, small camera

- If you travel with a pet, the pet carrier will be counted as your item or carry-on.

Also Read: Personal Item vs Carry-on: Understanding the Key Differences

What is Southwest Airlines checked baggage policy?

Southwest Airlines stands out for its generous checked baggage policy. Passengers are allowed to check two bags free of charge, provided each bag meets the size and weight requirements under Southwest bag policy.

Any additional bags or oversized and overweight items may incur extra Southwest baggage fees. If your checked bag exceeds the weight or size limitations, you will be charged additional fees.

What is the Southwest Airlines checked bag weight limit?

The weight limit for checked baggage is 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag. If your bag weighs more than this, you'll need to pay an overweight baggage fee.

What is the size limit for Southwest checked baggage?

The Southwest checked baggage size limit is 62 linear inches (length + width + height). This includes handles and wheels.

What is the maximum Southwest checked baggage dimensions allowed?

The maximum dimensions allowed are 62 inches (157 cm) total when you add the length, width, and height of the bag together.

Fond Tip: Always check the size of your luggage before heading to the airport. Using a soft-sided suitcase for your carry-on can give you some flexibility with Southwest baggage size restrictions.

Are there any baggage fees for Southwest Airlines?

While Southwest offers generous baggage allowances, there are fees for additional or Southwest oversized baggage fees.

Does Southwest charge for carry-on bags?

No, Southwest Airlines does not charge for carry-on bags. You’re allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a purse or laptop bag) for free, as long as they meet the size requirements.

How much is the Southwest checked baggage fees?

Southwest Airlines allows two checked bags for free as long as they are within the size (62 inches) and weight (50 lbs) limits. There’s no charge for your first two checked bags.

What is the Southwest Airlines fee for excess baggage?

The Southwest excess baggage fees is charged after the two free checked bags, any additional bags will cost $125 per bag. This applies to the third bag and any beyond that.

What is the Southwest Airlines fee for overweight baggage?

If your bag overweight's between 51 and 70 pounds, there’s an additional $100 fee per bag.

What is the Southwest Airlines fee for oversize baggage?

If your Southwest Airlines carry on sizeis over and weighs between 71 and 100 pounds, the fee increases to $125 per bag. Bags over 100 pounds are not accepted.

• Avoiding these Southwest baggage fees is easy if you stick to the allowed limits.

Is there a fee for special items or equipment on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest airline baggage policy accommodates various special items and equipment, including sports gear, musical instruments, and child safety seats. Here are some guidelines:

What are the restrictions for luggage on Southwest Airlines?

Certain things are restricted or prohibited in both Southwest carry-on restrictions

and checked baggage. These include but are not limited to the following:

• Explosives and Flammables: This includes fireworks, ammunition, and gasoline.
• Toxic and Poisonous Substances include bleach, pesticides, and other hazardous materials.
• Corrosive Materials: Acids, batteries with liquid spills, and other corrosive substances are not allowed.
• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries exceeding a specific watt-hour rating are prohibited.

Fond Tip: Always check the complete list of restricted items on the Southwest Airlines website to ensure compliance. Or you can contact +1-571-389-6426 for any kind of details related to your flights.

• Southwest Check-in Baggage Weight and Claim

When checking in your baggage, ensure it does not exceed the 50-lb limit. At your destination, you can claim your baggage at the designated baggage claim area. Southwest staff are available to help if you have questions or need assistance.

What you should do if your baggage is delayed

Southwest Airlines baggage policy provides several options to resolve the issue if your baggage is lost, delayed, or damaged.

• Report Immediately: If you don't receive your checked bag at the baggage claim, report it to a Southwest Airlines airport representative. They will initiate a lost baggage report and provide you with a reference number. You can even report online via the website.
• Track Your Bag: Southwest Airlines offers a baggage tracking system. You can check the status of your lost bag using your reference number.
• Compensation for Lost Bags: There is a policy for compensating passengers under Southwest damaged baggage and lost baggage. The compensation amount is determined by various factors, such as the value of your belongings and the airline's liability limits.

What is a delayed bag?

If your baggage does not reach the destination on the same flight as you, it is classified as delayed. Your luggage will only be considered lost if it cannot be found within a certain number of days specified by the airline, typically between 5-14 days after your flight.

How much will Southwest reimburse for damaged or lost luggage?

Southwest Airlines doesn't have a specific customer service guarantee regarding compensation for delayed luggage, but it is mentioned in its Contract of Carriage. Therefore, requesting reimbursement by filing a delayed baggage claim is advisable. Like other airlines, you will be required to provide receipts. Here are some essential details from Southwest's Contract of Carriage:

• Southwest will reimburse you for "reasonable, documented damage" resulting from a delayed bag.
• You are expected to make a reasonable effort to minimize the damage caused by the delay in getting your bag.
• If Southwest determines your bag is lost, it will reimburse the original purchase price minus any depreciation.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Southwest Airlines' baggage policies, including reimbursement limits and procedures, contact us at +1-571-389-6426.

What is Southwest Airlines liquid policy?

Southwest Airlines follows the TSA guidelines for carrying liquids, gels, and aerosols on flights, and understanding these rules is essential for a smooth travel experience. Here's what you need to know about Southwest's liquid policy, including the permitted sizes and quantities for carry-on and checked baggage.

What are Southwest liquid rules for carry-on baggage?

Southwest Airlines adheres to the "3-1-1" rule set by the TSA for carry-on baggage. According to this rule:

1. Southwest Carry-On Liquid Size: Each liquid, gel, or aerosol must be in a container containing 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. Containers more significant than this must be packed in checked baggage under Southwest carry on liquid size.
2. Southwest Carry-On Liquid Limit: All containers must fit into a single, clear, quart-sized plastic bag. You are allowed only one quart-sized bag for liquids in your carry-on.
3. Types of Liquids Allowed: This includes toiletries, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, and other similar products. Beverages, soups, or other consumable liquids must also adhere to these restrictions.
4. Screening Requirements: When passing through security, travelers must remove the quart-sized bag containing liquids from their carry-on for screening. This ensures all items meet the Southwest carry on liquid limit.

What are Southwest liquid rules for checked baggage?

There are few restrictions on Southwest checked baggage liquids. Unlike carry-on luggage, which has strict 3.4 oz (100ml) container size limitations, checked bags can hold liquids of any size!

Here's the critical point to remember:

• Checked Bags: There are no size restrictions for containers holding liquids in the Southwest checked baggage policy.

However, there is one exception to this rule:

• Alcohol: Liquids containing alcohol fall under different regulations. For checked bags, the total quantity of alcoholic beverages you can pack cannot exceed 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger. The alcohol content also needs to be less than 70% by volume.

It's always a good idea to pack liquids securely in your checked baggage to prevent leaks or spills during travel. Double-wrapping containers and placing them in sealed plastic bags can offer additional protection, giving you peace of mind during your journey with us.

Additional Considerations

• Medications and Baby Formula: Medications, baby formula, and breast milk are allowed reasonably above the 3.4-ounce limit but must be declared to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.
• Duty-Free Items: If traveling internationally and carrying duty-free liquids, they must remain sealed in their tamper-evident bag with a receipt visible for security checks.

Adhering to these Southwest Airlines liquid restrictions can streamline your security experience and prevent items from being discarded.

Tips for Avoiding Baggage Issues

To experience a smooth journey with Southwest Airlines, consider these tips:

1. Pack smartly to stay within weight and size limits.
2. Label your bags with your contact information.
3. Arrive early to permit ample time for checking in bags.
4. Familiarize yourself with Southwest's baggage policies and guidelines.

These tips can help avoid unexpected fees and ensure your baggage arrives safely.

Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy Made Easy

UnderstandingSouthwest Airlines baggage policy can make your travel experience more enjoyable and hassle-free. With free checked bags and clear guidelines on carry-ons and unique items, Southwest remains a top choice for travelers. Plan, pack wisely, and enjoy your flight with Southwest Airlines.

To reserve your seats in Southwest airlines you can always contact our support team of FondTravels at +1-571-389-6426.

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