Travelers flying with Southwest Airlines often ask, “Can I take a carry-on and a backpack on Southwest?” Understanding Southwest’s baggage allowances, especially the southwest airlines carry on policy, is essential to avoid surprises at the airport and travel stress-free. This comprehensive guide covers everything about carry-on and personal item allowances, size limits, packing tips, and how to make the most of your baggage options. For personalized assistance, you can call +1-8555-107-629 anytime to get expert help with your Southwest booking and baggage questions.
Southwest Airlines allows every passenger to bring one carry-on bag plus one personal item on board — and this is where your backpack fits in. The official southwest airlines carry on policy states:
One Carry-On Bag: Must fit in the overhead bin.
One Personal Item: Must fit under the seat in front of you.
The personal item can be a purse, laptop bag, or yes, a backpack — as long as it fits the size requirements.
Yes! You can bring both a carry-on bag and a backpack on Southwest flights as long as you follow the size rules. For example:
Your carry-on could be a rolling suitcase or a larger bag that fits in the overhead bin.
Your backpack can be your personal item, placed under the seat in front of you.
This allowance means you effectively get to bring two bags on board without extra fees — a major plus for travelers wanting to keep essentials close.
To comply with the southwest airlines carry on policy, bags must meet the following size limits:
Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions of 10 x 16 x 24 inches (including handles and wheels).
Personal Item (Backpack): Must fit under the seat in front of you; no strict size listed, but it should comfortably slide under the seat.
If your backpack is too large to fit under the seat, Southwest may require it to be checked at the gate, potentially incurring fees.
If your carry-on or backpack exceeds Southwest’s size limits:
Your carry-on might need to be checked at the gate. Southwest allows free checked bags for the first two, but gate-checked carry-ons may require time to retrieve after the flight.
Oversized or overweight bags beyond policy limits could incur fees.
To avoid these issues, measure your bags ahead of time and call +1-8555-107-629 for guidance on baggage compliance.
Having both bags on board can enhance your travel experience:
More Packing Space: Separate items between your carry-on and backpack.
Easy Access: Keep essentials, electronics, and valuables in your backpack for quick access.
Save Money: Avoid checked bag fees by maximizing free carry-on allowances.
Organize Thoughtfully: Place heavier items in your carry-on and lighter, essential items in your backpack.
Follow Security Rules: Liquids and electronics should be packed for easy removal during security screening.
Use Packing Cubes: These can help maximize space and keep things tidy in both bags.
Weigh Your Bags: Make sure neither bag exceeds Southwest’s weight expectations to avoid surprises.
Southwest strictly allows one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger. Attempting to bring more than these may result in additional checked bag fees or gate checking. Call +1-8555-107-629 if you have special baggage needs or multiple items to transport.
Southwest allows certain exceptions beyond the carry-on and personal item policy:
Assistive Devices: Wheelchairs, canes, and medical devices typically do not count toward baggage limits.
Childcare Items: Strollers or diaper bags may be allowed in addition to your carry-on and personal item.
For clarification on exceptions, call +1-8555-107-629.
Southwest’s allowance of a carry-on plus a personal item is fairly standard, but the free checked bags for two bags policy stands out as a huge advantage. Many airlines charge fees starting at $30 per checked bag, making Southwest’s policy attractive for travelers with multiple items.
Remember:
Carry-on and personal items are free of charge when following the southwest airlines carry on policy.
Checked bags have fees beyond the first two free checked bags.
Call +1-8555-107-629 to inquire about baggage fees if you think you might exceed the free baggage limits.
If you have more luggage than the free allowance, consider:
Purchasing additional checked bags online or at the airport.
Using southwest airlines vacation packages that may include baggage benefits.
Shipping items ahead if oversized.
For options tailored to your travel, call +1-8555-107-629.
In answer to the question, “Can I take a carry-on and a backpack on Southwest?” the answer is a resounding yes—Southwest’s baggage policy allows one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a backpack, free of charge, as long as they meet size limits outlined in the southwest airlines carry on policy.
For hassle-free travel, pack wisely, measure your bags, and know your rights. When booking or managing your flight, if you need help or clarification about baggage allowances or fees, call +1-8555-107-629 for expert support. This ensures you make the most of Southwest’s generous baggage policy and enjoy a smooth travel experience.