Skip to main content

Southwest Airlines Community

Carry On versus Checked Bag

Mkmac
Explorer C

How do you distinguish which bags to check in before boarding the flight, and which ones I can bring on the plane? What happens if my bag is too big to put in the overhead bins after I get past security?

4 REPLIES 4

Re: Carry On versus Checked Bag

gmnader
Explorer C
Solution

You are allowed two FREE checked bags and a carry on and personal item. If your carry on is too large a customer service agent at the gate can assist you in checking your bag. There are displays near southwest check ins before security where you can double check the size. Most standard carry on luggage will work! 

Re: Carry On versus Checked Bag

JakeK
Explorer C

What do you do if your bag is just barely larger than the displayed carry-on size?

Re: Carry On versus Checked Bag

camatuse
Adventurer B
Solution

Carry-on bags are 10 x 16 x 24 inches. Anything larger, must be checked. Flying Southwest, you are allowed TWO FREE checked bags. Checked bags must be under 50 pounds and under 80 inches in size (L + W + H). If it is too big once you get past TSA, you will be asked to check your bag planeside before boarding.

Re: Carry On versus Checked Bag

FRED10
Explorer C

Southwest says 62" total & 50 Lbs