WN · North America
Southwest Airlines Carry-On Size
Complete carry-on and personal item dimensions for Southwest Airlines, including weight limits, enforcement level, and packing tips.
Carry-on bag
Personal item
Important notes for Southwest Airlines passengers
Southwest is notably generous — two free checked bags plus a carry-on and personal item. Slightly larger carry-on dimensions than most US carriers. No weight limit.
Packing tips for Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has relaxed enforcement of carry-on limits, but your bag still needs to fit in the overhead bin. On regional jets and busy flights, overhead space fills up fast. Our packing guide and packing cubes roundup can help you maximize the space you have.
For clothing that packs small and performs well in transit, see our travel fabrics guide and our merino t-shirt roundup — merino compresses better than cotton and handles multi-day wear between washes.
FAQ
What is the carry-on size limit for Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines allows carry-on bags up to 61 × 41 × 25 cm (24.0 × 16.1 × 9.8 inches), including handles and wheels. There is no weight limit enforced for carry-on bags.
What is the personal item size for Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines allows a personal item up to 46 × 34 × 22 cm (18.1 × 13.4 × 8.7 inches). This must fit under the seat in front of you.
Does Southwest Airlines weigh carry-on bags?
Southwest Airlines has relaxed enforcement and rarely weighs carry-on bags. As long as your bag fits in the overhead bin, you are unlikely to have an issue. However, the official limits still apply.
Can I bring a carry-on and a personal item on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines generally allows one carry-on bag for the overhead bin and one personal item for under the seat. Southwest is notably generous — two free checked bags plus a carry-on and personal item. Slightly larger carry-on dimensions than most US carriers. No weight limit.
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