Southwest Airlines Baggage Policies
If you’re planning a trip with Southwest Airlines, it’s important to be aware of the airline’s baggage policies, rules, and fees. This will help you avoid any surprises at the airport and ensure a smooth travel experience. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Southwest’s baggage policies, rules, and fees, including how many bags you can bring, how much they can weigh, and how much you’ll pay for overweight or oversized luggage.
How Many Bags Can You Bring?
When it comes to Southwest baggage policies, the first thing to know is how many bags you can bring. The airline allows each passenger to bring two checked bags and two carry-on bags for free. This means that you can check up to two bags weighing up to 50 pounds each, and bring two carry-on bags that fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin.
If you need to bring more than two checked bags, you can do so for a fee. The fee for each additional checked bag is $75, and the weight limit remains at 50 pounds per bag. It’s important to note that Southwest does not allow bags that weigh more than 100 pounds or exceed a size of 80 inches.
How Much Does It Cost to Check a Bag?
If you need to check a bag on Southwest Airlines, you’ll be happy to know that the first two bags are free. However, if you need to check more than two bags, or if your bags exceed the weight or size limits, you’ll need to pay a fee.
For each additional checked bag, the fee is $75. For bags that exceed the weight limit of 50 pounds, the fee is $75 per bag. For bags that exceed the size limit of 80 inches, the fee is $75 per bag. It’s important to note that these fees are each way, so if you’re checking multiple bags or have a round-trip flight, you’ll need to pay the fee for each leg of your journey.
Can You Bring a Carry-On Bag?
Yes, you can bring a carry-on bag on Southwest Airlines. In fact, the airline allows each passenger to bring two carry-on bags for free. These bags must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. It’s important to note that Southwest does not have a specific weight or size limit for carry-on bags, but they must be able to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
What Items are Prohibited on Southwest Airlines?
Like all airlines, Southwest Airlines has a list of prohibited items that passengers are not allowed to bring on board. Some of these items include explosives, firearms, and certain types of chemicals. Additionally, the airline has restrictions on liquids and gels that can be brought in carry-on bags. For more information on prohibited items and carry-on restrictions, be sure to check Southwest’s website before your flight.
FAQ
Q: Can I bring a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines?
A: Yes, you can bring a musical instrument on Southwest Airlines as a carry-on item, provided it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If it’s too large to fit in these spaces, you can purchase an additional seat for the instrument.
Q: Can I bring my pet on Southwest Airlines?
A: Yes, Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring small pets on board for a fee. However, pets must be kept in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, and there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed on each flight.
Q: What if my bag is lost or damaged?
A: If your bagis lost or damaged during your Southwest Airlines flight, you should report it to the airline as soon as possible. You can file a claim with Southwest’s baggage service office or report it online through their website. If your bag is lost, Southwest will make every effort to find and return it to you. If your bag is damaged, Southwest may offer to repair or replace it, depending on the extent of the damage.
Q: Can I prepay for baggage fees on Southwest Airlines?
A: Yes, you can prepay for baggage fees on Southwest Airlines. This can be done through the airline’s website or mobile app, and can save you time and hassle at the airport.
Q: What happens if my bag exceeds the weight or size limit?
A: If your bag exceeds the weight or size limit on Southwest Airlines, you’ll need to pay a fee. The fee for overweight or oversized bags is $75 per bag, each way. If your bag exceeds both the weight and size limits, you’ll need to pay two fees — one for being overweight, and one for being oversized.
Q: Can I bring a stroller or car seat on Southwest Airlines?
A: Yes, you can bring a stroller or car seat on Southwest Airlines. These items do not count towards your checked baggage allowance and can be checked for free at the gate or at the ticket counter. Alternatively, you can bring a small, collapsible stroller as a carry-on item if it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
In conclusion, understanding Southwest Airlines’ baggage policies, rules, and fees is essential for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Be sure to check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date information and to avoid any surprises at the airport. With this knowledge, you can pack confidently and enjoy your trip with Southwest Airlines.