What can I check for free on Southwest?

Southwest will accept the first two checked bags for free provided that the bags do not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H). Overweight items from 51-70 pounds will cost $100. Overweight items 71-100 pounds will cost $125.



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Your first two checked bags fly free® at Southwest (weight and size limits apply). Skis1 and golf bags2 may also fly free, and surfboards fly free in Hawaii.

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Items you shouldn't pack in your checked luggage
  • Prescription medications.
  • Passports and travel documents.
  • Electronics, such as video game systems and computers.
  • Cameras (camera film, including Polaroid film, should be hand-checked by TSA agents so it doesn't go through the X-ray machine)
  • Jewelry and other valuable items.


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Explosives and flammable items, such as fireworks, gas, and aerosols. Poisonous and toxic substances, including pesticides and certain chemicals. Lithium batteries and other hazardous materials, as these can pose a safety risk if not handled properly.

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Southwest will accept the first two checked bags for free provided that the bags do not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H). Overweight items from 51-70 pounds will cost $100.

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Domestic carry-on policies. A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.

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On flights traveling more than 176 miles, we are offering alcoholic beverages, as well as free sodas, coffee, and snacks. Learn more about our food & drink policies.

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Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. TSA officers make the final decision on whether certain items are permitted into the secured areas of the airport.

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Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

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free! You may carry on one bag and one personal item1. The bag should be stowed in the overhead compartment, and your small personal item should be stowed under your seat. free!

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New for 2022, EarlyBird Check-In is included with the purchase of an Anytime fare. Customers who purchase an Anytime fare will automatically be checked in to their flight 36 hours prior to scheduled departure—that's 12 hours before our traditional 24-hour check-in.

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Southwest Airlines allow for one carry-on bag (duffel, carry-on suitcase, etc) and one personal item, which would typically be a purse, a backpack, or a briefcase.

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In general, your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on and under the specific airline's carry-on dimensions, allowing it to fit under the seat in front of you. In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.

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The TSA's liquid limit for carry-ons—known as the 3-1-1 rule—allows travelers to pack liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes under 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in their carry-on bags. Passengers are allowed up to one quart-sized bag per person, or roughly nine 3.4-ounce containers in a single quart-sized bag.

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We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage.

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Checked Bags: Yes To help TSA officers get a clear look at your bag and reduce the need for additional screening, we suggest you pack your bag in neat layers. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?'

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You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

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