When booking your next trip with Southwest Airlines, a question that often arises is: “Do I get a carry-on with Southwest?” Understanding Southwest’s baggage policies is essential to avoid surprises at the airport, save money, and enjoy stress-free travel. Southwest is known for its customer-friendly policies, but like every airline, it has specific rules about carry-on baggage, personal items, and how these tie into your southwest airlines reservation.
This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about Southwest’s carry-on allowances, size restrictions, tips for packing smart, how carry-ons interact with boarding and seating, and much more. Plus, if you want help booking or have baggage questions, call +1-8555-107-629 anytime for expert assistance.
The good news for travelers is yes, Southwest Airlines allows you to bring a carry-on bag for free with every ticket. When you book your southwest airlines reservation, you automatically receive the right to bring two pieces of baggage onboard:
One carry-on bag, which goes in the overhead bin.
One personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or backpack, which fits under the seat.
This generous policy contrasts with many airlines that charge fees for carry-on luggage, making Southwest a favorite for budget-conscious flyers.
To comply with Southwest’s carry on policy, your carry-on bag must meet certain size limits to fit safely in the overhead bins. The exact measurements are:
Maximum dimensions for carry-on bag: 10 inches x 16 inches x 24 inches (including handles and wheels).
Personal items must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. No specific size is listed, but it should be noticeably smaller than your carry-on.
It’s important to measure your luggage carefully before your trip. Oversized bags will not qualify as carry-ons and may be gate-checked at no extra cost, but this can add time and hassle.
Southwest does not have a specific weight limit for carry-on bags. However, passengers are expected to be able to lift their bags into the overhead bins without assistance. If your carry-on is too heavy or bulky to stow safely, airline staff may ask you to check it at the gate.
When you book your flight and make a southwest airlines reservation, the carry-on baggage allowance is included at no additional cost. Unlike some airlines where bags are added fees, Southwest’s policy helps you avoid surprise charges at the airport.
This means every Southwest ticket holder can bring one carry-on and one personal item for free, regardless of the fare class. This is an excellent value for travelers who want to avoid extra baggage fees.
One common concern with carry-ons is overhead bin space. Southwest’s open seating and boarding groups mean overhead bin availability can be competitive.
If the overhead bins fill up by the time you board, your carry-on bag may be checked at the gate. This is called gate-checking and is free of charge on Southwest. Your bag will be placed in the aircraft’s cargo hold and returned to you at the baggage claim upon arrival.
To avoid this, try to board early by:
Checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight.
Purchasing EarlyBird Check-In for automatic priority check-in.
Buying Business Select fares for priority boarding (A1-A15 groups).
If you want help with EarlyBird or Business Select options to secure overhead bin space, call +1-8555-107-629.
In addition to the carry-on allowance, Southwest is famous for its two free checked bags per passenger policy. This is rare in the airline industry and can save you significant money compared to airlines charging hefty checked bag fees.
Each checked bag must:
Weigh no more than 50 pounds.
Measure no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Anything exceeding these limits will incur fees.
Choose the Right Bag Size: Use a carry-on suitcase or bag that meets Southwest’s size limits to avoid gate-checking.
Pack a Personal Item Smartly: Use your personal item for essentials like medications, electronics, snacks, and valuables.
Board Early: Your boarding position directly impacts your ability to stow carry-on luggage near your seat.
Consider EarlyBird or Business Select: These paid options help you board earlier, giving you a better chance to secure overhead bin space.
Know What You Can’t Bring: Familiarize yourself with TSA regulations for liquids, gels, and prohibited items.
Call +1-8555-107-629: For help with your southwest airlines reservation and baggage questions, expert agents are available to assist.
Southwest allows passengers to bring medically necessary items onboard without counting them as carry-ons or personal items. These include:
Wheelchairs or mobility devices.
Medical oxygen or other devices.
Infant care items.
If you travel with medical equipment, it’s wise to notify Southwest ahead of time and call +1-8555-107-629 for help ensuring your reservation reflects these needs.
Q: Can I bring a laptop bag or camera bag?
A: Yes, these count as your personal item and must fit under the seat.
Q: Are snacks or food allowed in my carry-on?
A: Yes, but liquids must follow TSA guidelines.
Q: What if I’m traveling with a child?
A: Each passenger, including children, gets one carry-on and one personal item.
Q: Can I bring sports equipment or musical instruments as carry-ons?
A: Some items may qualify as carry-ons if they meet size requirements; otherwise, they may need to be checked. Contact Southwest or call +1-8555-107-629 for guidance.
When booking your flight, Southwest’s online system automatically includes carry-on and checked bag allowances with every fare. To optimize your boarding and carry-on experience:
Book EarlyBird Check-In or Business Select for priority boarding.
Monitor your flight details and check in exactly 24 hours before departure.
Pack within size limits to avoid gate-checking.
If you want personalized help booking or modifying your southwest airlines reservation with baggage in mind, call +1-8555-107-629. Our experts can ensure you understand all options and fees.
To answer your question, yes, you absolutely get a carry-on bag with Southwest Airlines—one carry-on and one personal item per passenger, all included for free in your southwest airlines reservation. Southwest’s generous baggage policy sets it apart and makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to avoid costly baggage fees.
Remember to measure your bags carefully, check in early, and consider paid boarding upgrades to secure overhead bin space. If you have questions or need help booking your next Southwest flight, call +1-8555-107-629 for friendly, expert assistance anytime.
Travel smart, pack light, and enjoy your Southwest flight with confidence in 2025!