You can bring one carry-on bag on Southwest Airlines measuring up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches, which is slightly larger than most other airlines’ limits. Along with that, you’re allowed one personal item like a purse or laptop bag that fits under 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 inches. There’s no official weight limit, but you should be able to lift your bag into the overhead bin without help. Keep in mind, some family-friendly exceptions and tips can help you pack right.
What Are Southwest Carry-On Size Limits?
Although Southwest allows a generous carry-on size compared to many U.S. airlines, you still need to keep your bag within 24 x 16 x 10 inches, including wheels and handles, to fit in the overhead bin.
This size is larger than the typical 22 x 14 x 9 inches allowed elsewhere, so your common 20-inch roller will comply easily.
You’re allowed one carry-on plus one personal item—like a purse or laptop bag—that fits under the seat. Oversized under-seat backpacks must fit fully under the seat; otherwise, they are considered carry-ons.
There’s no strict weight limit on carry-ons, but you must be able to lift your bag into the bin unassisted.
Measuring Your Southwest Carry-On Bag
To make certain your Southwest carry-on meets the size limits, you’ll want to measure it carefully before you travel. Use a tape measure to check the length, width, and height, including wheels, handles, and any attachments.
The total mustn’t exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Southwest’s policies are generally flexible but enforce size restrictions at the gate, so be prepared for possible size verification.
For your personal item, measure to ensure it fits under the seat, typically no larger than 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 inches.
Remember, soft bags can expand, so measure when fully packed.
Testing your bag in an overhead bin replica can help you avoid surprises at the gate.
What Counts Toward Southwest Carry-On Allowance?
Understanding what counts toward your Southwest carry-on allowance helps you pack smartly and avoid fees at the gate.
You’re allowed one carry-on bag (24 × 16 × 10 inches) plus one personal item (16.25 × 13.5 × 8 inches), like a purse or laptop bag.
Carry-ons go in overhead bins; personal items fit under the seat.
Items like strollers, car seats, breast pumps, and assistive devices don’t count toward your allowance and are included in the additional allowances for parents.
Wearable clothing and disposable food packaging are also exempt.
How Much Can Your Southwest Carry-On Weigh?
While Southwest Airlines doesn’t set an official weight limit for carry-on bags, you’ll need to lift your bag into the overhead bin by yourself. This means the practical weight limit depends on your ability to safely stow your luggage without help. Southwest focuses on bag size—24 × 16 × 10 inches—to ensure it fits overhead, not on weight. Unlike many airlines, Southwest’s policy is generous, emphasizing dimensional compliance over pounds. Additionally, passengers are allowed one overhead bin bag and one under-seat personal item, such as a handbag or briefcase, within their carry-on allowance one overhead bin bag.
Allowed Personal Items With Southwest Carry-Ons
What personal items can you bring onboard alongside your Southwest carry-on? You’re allowed one personal item that fits under the seat, typically no larger than 16.25″ x 13.5″ x 8″. This includes laptop bags, purses, small backpacks, briefcases, and camera bags.
Personal items don’t have weight limits and don’t compete for overhead bin space. You can also bring coats, umbrellas, food, and assistive devices without affecting your baggage allowance.
Additionally, infant essentials like diaper bags, breast pumps, and FAA-approved car seats travel free, so you can carry them without worrying about size or weight restrictions.
Handling Oversized and Overweight Southwest Carry-Ons
If your carry-on exceeds Southwest’s size limits of 24 x 16 x 10 inches, the airline staff will gate-check your bag before you board. You won’t pay extra if it fits within your checked baggage allowance. There’s no official weight limit, but you must lift your bag into the overhead bin without help. Oversized or heavy bags may be checked at the gate to ensure safety and smooth boarding.
| Aspect | Carry-On | Checked Baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Size Limit | 24 x 16 x 10 inches | 62 linear inches |
| Weight Limit | No official limit | 50 lbs standard |
| Fees for Oversize | Free gate-check | $200 per bag |
| Handling | Gate-check if oversized | Checked at counter |
Southwest Carry-On Exceptions for Families
Because traveling with children requires extra gear, Southwest offers several carry-on exceptions to ease your journey. You can bring FAA-approved car seats, diaper bags, breast pumps, milk, formula, and compact strollers without counting them toward your carry-on limits.
Each ticketed passenger can also check one stroller and one car seat for free.
Families board together, allowing parents and kids under six to avoid juggling carry-ons separately. This family-friendly service helps streamline the travel experience and reduces stress.
Diaper bags can serve as your personal item, which must fit under the seat and meet size restrictions.
This flexibility helps keep your family’s travel smooth and hassle-free.
Packing Tips to Meet Southwest Carry-On Rules
When packing for your Southwest flight, you’ll want to maximize space while staying within the carry-on size limits. Roll clothes, use packing cubes, and limit shoes to one or two pairs. Choose lightweight, durable items and distribute weight evenly for easy lifting. Always measure your bags beforehand to avoid gate-checking. Remember, you get one carry-on (24x16x10 inches) plus one personal item (16.25×13.5×8 inches).
| Tip | Size Limit (inches) | Example Items |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-On Bag | 24 x 16 x 10 | Standard roller bag |
| Personal Item | 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 | Laptop bag, purse |
| Packing Method | Roll & use cubes | Efficient space use |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring Liquids in My Carry-On Bag on Southwest Flights?
Yes, you can bring liquids in your carry-on on Southwest flights, but you’ve got to follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule: containers 3.4 ounces or less, all fitting into one quart-sized, clear, resealable bag.
Are There Restrictions on Electronics in Southwest Carry-Ons?
Yes, you can bring electronics, but you’re limited to one lithium portable charger and one e-cigarette per carry-on. Keep chargers visible, avoid recharging onboard, and follow safety rules for batteries and lighters to stay compliant.
How Early Should I Arrive to Ensure Carry-On Bin Space?
You should arrive at the gate as early as possible, ideally during early boarding, to secure overhead bin space. Early arrival lets you pick a prime boarding spot, reducing the risk of gate-checking your carry-on bag.
Can I Gate-Check My Carry-On if Overhead Bins Are Full?
Yes, you can gate-check your carry-on if overhead bins are full. Just bring it to the gate when asked, and staff will tag it for quick retrieval after landing—no extra fee involved.
Do Southwest Carry-On Rules Differ for International Flights?
No, Southwest carry-on rules don’t differ for international flights. You’ll follow the same size limits, personal item allowances, and lifting requirements whether you’re flying domestically or abroad, keeping policies consistent across all routes.
Conclusion
Now that you know Southwest’s carry-on size limits and rules, you’re all set to pack smart and avoid surprises at the gate. Measure your bag carefully, keep weight in check, and remember what counts as a personal item. If you’re traveling with family, take advantage of the exceptions. With these tips, you’ll breeze through security and have more time to enjoy your trip. Safe travels and happy packing!
