Does Southwest Have Free Carry-On? Explore Their Updated Baggage Policy And Fees [Updated On: September 2025]

Southwest Airlines offers each passenger a free carry-on bag and one personal item, like a purse or laptop bag. The size limits for the carry-on are 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high. Be aware that checked bag fees may apply for some travelers beginning May 28. A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers enjoy additional benefits.

Southwest’s updated baggage policy is customer-friendly and encourages passengers to travel light. However, it’s important to note that the airline has restrictions on the size and weight of items. Any carry-on that exceeds the allowed dimensions may incur additional fees, leading travelers to rethink their packing choices.

As we delve deeper into Southwest’s baggage policy, we’ll explore checked bag fees, exceptions for specific travelers, and how the airline’s approach compares to other carriers. Understanding these details can help passengers make informed decisions and maximize their baggage allowances while keeping costs in check.

Table of Contents

Does Southwest Airlines Allow Free Carry-On Luggage?

Yes, Southwest Airlines does allow free carry-on luggage. Each passenger is permitted to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board.

Southwest Airlines offers this benefit to enhance customer satisfaction and remain competitive in the airline industry. Allowing a free carry-on helps passengers save on additional fees that many other airlines charge. It also streamlines the boarding process, making it quicker for travelers to stow their belongings, thus promoting efficiency. Southwest’s policy encourages customers to travel with fewer checked bags, making it easier for airlines to manage baggage during flights.

What Are the Size Limitations for Southwest Carry-On Bags?

The size limitations for Southwest carry-on bags are 24 inches high, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, including handles and wheels.

Maximum dimensions
Weight restrictions
Personal item allowance
Baggage fees for oversized items
Customer experiences and opinions

The size limitations for carry-on bags form a crucial aspect of air travel, particularly with Southwest Airlines.

Maximum Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for a Southwest carry-on bag are 24 inches high, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. This size limitation ensures that the bags fit in the overhead bins of the aircraft.
Weight Restrictions: Southwest Airlines does not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags. Travelers can pack as much as they find suitable, as long as the dimensions meet the specified requirements. However, passengers should be mindful of their ability to lift and store their luggage.
Personal Item Allowance: In addition to the carry-on bag, Southwest permits one personal item, which should fit under the seat in front of you. This item can include a backpack, purse, or laptop case.
Baggage Fees for Oversized Items: Southwest does not charge for carry-on bags that adhere to the size and weight restrictions. However, bags exceeding these dimensions may incur additional fees.
Customer Experiences and Opinions: Customer reviews suggest a mixed experience regarding carry-on policies. Some travelers appreciate the lack of fees for standard size bags, while others feel the maximum dimensions are restrictive for extended trips. Various travelers express that knowing the limits helps them plan better and avoid surprises at the airport.

Understanding these size limitations will help travelers prepare their luggage efficiently before their flight with Southwest Airlines.

Are Carry-On Bags Free on Southwest Airlines?

Yes, carry-on bags are free on Southwest Airlines. Each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag along with one personal item at no additional charge. This policy is part of Southwest’s customer-friendly approach to air travel.

Southwest Airlines permits each traveler to bring aboard one carry-on bag that fits within the size restrictions, which is a maximum of 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high, including wheels and handles. Additionally, passengers can carry one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. This is a distinct advantage over many other airlines, which often charge a fee for the first carry-on bag.

One benefit of Southwest’s free carry-on policy is that it can lead to overall reduced travel costs. Travelers can save money by avoiding extra fees typically charged by other airlines. According to a 2021 analysis by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, more than 60% of airlines impose fees for carry-on bags, which can range from $25 to $50. Southwest’s policy not only saves money but also allows for a more convenient boarding process, as all passengers can bring essential items onboard.

However, a potential drawback of this policy is limited space in the overhead bins. Since all passengers can bring carry-on bags, the bins can fill up quickly. Passengers may find their bag is not accepted onboard due to space constraints. In some cases, they might have to check the bag at the gate, which could lead to delays upon arrival. A report by Airline Research Group (2022) noted that gate-checking occurred in 15% of Southwest flights due to full overhead bins.

For travelers looking to maximize their carry-on experience, consider packing efficiently. Use packing cubes to organize items within your carry-on. Additionally, select a carry-on bag that meets Southwest’s size requirements. If your trip includes multiple destinations, consider bringing versatile clothing options that can be mixed and matched. These strategies can help ensure that you bring everything you need without incurring extra fees.

What Items Qualify as Personal Items with Southwest?

The items that qualify as personal items with Southwest Airlines include small bags that fit under the seat in front of you.

Personal Items Include:
– Backpacks
– Purses
– Laptop bags
– Briefcases
– Diaper bags
– Small camera bags

These eligible personal items must meet Southwest’s size requirements and can vary in perspective based on individual travel needs and opinions on comfort and convenience.

Personal Items Include:
Backpacks: Backpacks serve as versatile personal items. They can accommodate various contents, such as travel essentials and work items. The capacity of a backpack often allows for better organization and easier carry.

Purses: Purses are common personal items used by many travelers. They typically hold personal items like wallets, phones, and cosmetics. The size of the purse can affect the amount of personal items you can carry.

Laptop Bags: Laptop bags protect electronic devices during travel. Many travelers prioritize bringing their laptops on flights for work or entertainment. These bags emphasize functionality and safety for electronic gear.

Briefcases: Briefcases are popular with business travelers. They convey a professional look and often provide space for crucial documents. The structure of a briefcase aids in organizing important paperwork.

Diaper Bags: Diaper bags cater to families traveling with infants or toddlers. They are designed for convenience, with ample storage for baby supplies. Families often prioritize these bags for comfort during travel.

Small Camera Bags: Small camera bags are essential for travelers who want to capture memories. They provide safety for camera equipment. Their design often allows for easy access to gear while traveling.

Understanding what qualifies as a personal item can help travelers plan effectively. This leads to a smoother airport experience and ensures compliance with Southwest’s policies.

What Are the Fees for Additional Carry-On Items on Southwest?

Southwest Airlines does not charge fees for additional carry-on items. Passengers may bring one standard carry-on bag and one personal item at no additional cost.

Carry-On Bag Dimensions
Personal Item Dimensions
Additional Policies
Opinions on the Fee Structure

The following sections will elaborate on these key points, providing a clearer understanding of Southwest’s carry-on policies.

Carry-On Bag Dimensions:
Carry-on bag dimensions refer to the size limits set by Southwest Airlines for a standard carry-on bag. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 10 x 16 x 24 inches. Bags exceeding these dimensions cannot be taken on board and must be checked in. Southwest encourages passengers to adhere to these limits to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Personal Item Dimensions:
Personal item dimensions outline the size restrictions for items like backpacks, purses, or laptop bags. The maximum dimensions for a personal item are 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. This allows travelers to bring essentials like electronics or snacks without additional charges. Passengers should ensure that their personal items fit under the seat in front of them.
Additional Policies:
Additional policies cover other aspects related to carry-on items. Southwest allows passengers to bring a reasonable number of personal items aboard, as long as they fit within the size guidelines. Items such as jackets, umbrellas, duty-free purchases, and food are also permitted without fees. Unusual items, however, require pre-approval and may be subject to review by airline staff.
Opinions on the Fee Structure:
Opinions on Southwest’s fee structure vary among travelers. Many appreciate the absence of additional fees for carry-on items, which counters the practices of other airlines that charge for carry-on bags. This policy positions Southwest as a budget-friendly option. Conversely, some argue that allowing unlimited personal items can lead to overcrowding in overhead bins, potentially inconveniencing passengers with larger bags.

How Does Southwest’s Carry-On Policy Compare to Other Airlines?

Southwest Airlines’ carry-on policy generally allows passengers to bring one free carry-on bag and one personal item on board. This approach is more generous compared to many other airlines, which often charge fees for carry-on bags or only allow smaller personal items for free. Most traditional airlines charge fees for additional bags or limit the size of carry-on items.

The key differences include:

Cost: Southwest Airlines does not charge for carry-on bags. Many other airlines impose fees for carry-ons, especially for basic economy tickets.
Size Limitations: Southwest permits carry-on bags up to 10 x 16 x 24 inches. Other airlines often vary in size limits, sometimes allowing smaller dimensions.
Personal Item: Southwest allows a personal item, such as a backpack or purse, in addition to the carry-on. Other airlines may restrict the definition or size of a personal item.

In summary, Southwest Airlines stands out by offering free carry-on bags, allowing a larger size, and permitting an additional personal item. This policy makes Southwest more accommodating than many other airlines.

What Recent Changes Exist in Southwest’s Baggage Policy?

The recent changes in Southwest’s baggage policy primarily involve updates to fees and the handling of carry-on luggage.

Changes in Fees for Checked Baggage
Updated Guidelines for Carry-On Items
The Policy for Oversized or Overweight Bags
Customer Reactions and Opinions

The updates to the baggage policy affect multiple aspects of the travel experience for Southwest Airlines customers.

Changes in Fees for Checked Baggage:
Changes in fees for checked baggage have been instituted by Southwest Airlines to align with industry practices. As of late 2023, the first two checked bags remain free, but fees may apply for additional baggage. This change reflects a shift in the airline’s operational costs and economic pressures in the airline industry. The airline previously held a reputation for having no checked bag fees, which has contributed to customer loyalty.
Updated Guidelines for Carry-On Items:
Updated guidelines for carry-on items have clarified the limits on the size and number of allowable items. Passengers are still allowed one free carry-on bag and one personal item. However, Southwest has specified allowable dimensions to avoid ambiguity. The dimensions for carry-on bags are now limited to 24 x 16 x 10 inches, creating a more standardized approach.
The Policy for Oversized or Overweight Bags:
The policy for oversized or overweight bags has been revised. Southwest charges fees for bags exceeding certain weight thresholds, typically 50 pounds. Any oversized items face additional fees. This change aims to reduce the physical burden on staff and improve turn-around times at airports.
Customer Reactions and Opinions:
Customer reactions and opinions to these changes vary. Some travelers view the updates positively, appreciating the clear guidelines and fee structure. Others criticize the changes, feeling they detract from Southwest’s reputation for affordability and customer-centered service. Social media discussions indicate mixed feelings, with frequent travelers often urging for more transparency in baggage policies.

The adjustments made by Southwest Airlines reflect broader trends in the airline industry. These trends often seek to balance operational efficiencies with customer satisfaction.

How Can Travelers Maximize Their Benefits with Southwest’s Baggage Rules?

Travelers can maximize their benefits with Southwest’s baggage rules by understanding the allowances for checked bags, utilizing the carry-on policy, and taking advantage of no change fees.

Southwest Airlines offers a customer-friendly baggage policy that includes the following key points:

Two Free Checked Bags: Southwest allows each passenger to check two bags for free. This rule applies to all fare types, making it a significant benefit for travelers. According to a report from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (2022), this policy can save travelers an average of $60 per flight compared to airlines that charge for checked luggage.
Carry-On Allowance: Passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board at no extra cost. The carry-on bag must not exceed 10 x 16 x 24 inches in size. The personal item, which can include items like a backpack or purse, should fit under the seat in front of you. Maximizing carry-on space allows for easy access to essentials and saves time at baggage claim.
No Charge for Excess Weight: Southwest does not impose weight limits on checked bags, as long as they adhere to the size restrictions (62 inches in total dimensions). This policy differs from many airlines that charge fees for overweight luggage. Therefore, travelers can pack more without incurring additional costs.
No Change Fees: Southwest’s no change fee policy allows travelers to modify their flights without incurring extra charges. This flexibility can be crucial for travelers who may need to adjust their plans. According to a 2023 survey by Airlines for America, travelers prioritize flexibility when choosing airlines, making this benefit attractive.
Luggage Tracking: Southwest provides real-time baggage tracking through its mobile app. Passengers can monitor the status and location of their checked bags during their journey. This feature adds peace of mind and enhances the overall travel experience.

By leveraging these advantages, travelers can enjoy a more economical and convenient journey with Southwest Airlines. Understanding and utilizing these baggage rules can enhance travel efficiency and minimize unexpected costs.

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