Jazmin Li
Planning to fly with Southwest Airlines? Here's what you need to know about what to bring to the airport. First, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents, such as your passport and any required immigration forms, and that you arrive at the airport with enough time to check in and board. Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one smaller, personal item for free, as long as they meet certain size and weight restrictions. You can also check up to two bags for free, with additional fees for overweight or oversized items. If you're travelling with a pet, small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin for a fee. To make your experience at the airport smoother, consider downloading the Southwest app, which offers features like flight check-in, upgraded boarding, and push notifications for flight status updates.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Checked baggage
When flying with Southwest, it's important to be aware of the baggage requirements and restrictions to ensure a smooth journey. Here's everything you need to know about checked baggage:
Number of Checked Bags
Southwest Airlines allows each ticketed passenger to check up to two bags for free. This means that if you're travelling with a companion, you can each check two bags, giving you a total of four checked bags between the two of you. It's worth noting that this allowance may differ if your itinerary includes travel on a partner airline. In that case, baggage fees may apply, so it's always a good idea to check with the airline in advance.
Weight and Size Restrictions
To avoid additional fees, each checked bag should not exceed 50 lbs (22.6 kg) in weight and 62 inches (157 cm) in total linear dimensions (length + width + height). If your bag is heavier or larger, you will be subject to overweight and/or oversized baggage fees. For overweight items between 51 and 70 lbs (23-32 kg), an additional fee of $150 will be charged. Bags weighing between 71 and 100 lbs (32-45 kg) will cost an extra $200. As for oversized items, those exceeding 62 inches but not more than 80 inches (157-203 cm) will incur a charge of $200 per item. If your bag is both oversized and overweight, you will only be charged the $200 fee, as long as the weight doesn't exceed 100 lbs (45 kg).
Checking in Bags
On the day of your flight, make sure you arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Domestic travellers should aim for 90 minutes before the first departing flight, while international travellers should allow for 180 minutes. Remember, all bags must be checked at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. During busy travel periods, holidays, or adverse weather conditions, it's advisable to allow for even more time.
Special Considerations
If you're travelling during the annual restriction period for excess/oversized baggage to Belize (from November 15 to January 15), you are only allowed to check two bags. This restriction is in place to manage the increased demand during the holiday season. Additionally, if you're travelling with sporting equipment, such as surfboards, bicycles, or golf clubs, these may be subject to different weight and size restrictions, so be sure to review the policies before packing.
Security Considerations
Keep in mind that certain items are prohibited from being transported in checked baggage due to security concerns. These may include hazardous materials, sharp objects, and liquids. Always refer to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for the most up-to-date information on what you can and cannot pack in your checked baggage.
Resetting Your Mac Airport Password: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Boarding passes and check-in
When travelling with Southwest Airlines, there are a few things you should keep in mind regarding boarding passes and check-in. Firstly, the check-in window opens 24 hours before your flight, and your check-in time will determine your boarding position. It is recommended that you check in right at the 24-hour mark to secure a good boarding position, as Southwest Airlines does not assign seats. This means that boarding the aircraft earlier gives you more choice when it comes to seating. You can also opt for EarlyBird Check-In, where Southwest Airlines will automatically check you in when it opens.
If you want a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position, you can purchase a Business Select® fare. You can also upgrade your boarding position for $30 per segment, per customer, based on flight segment popularity and length. Upgraded Boarding can be added when you check in for your flight via the Southwest app or website.
For international travel, you must verify your passport with a Southwest Airlines agent or kiosk at the ticket counter at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure time. For domestic travel, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport 90 minutes before your flight, while for international travel, the recommended arrival time is 180 minutes. All bags must be checked 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure.
It is important to note that each airport serviced by Southwest Airlines may have specific suggestions for arrival times, which can fluctuate based on weather, holidays, and busy travel periods. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the suggested arrival time for your specific airport. Additionally, make sure to review all international travel document requirements and fill out any necessary forms, such as immigration forms, before you head to the airport.
Columbus, Georgia: Airport Accessibility and Travel Options
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Travel documents
When travelling with Southwest, it is important to have the correct travel documents with you. For domestic travel within the US, you will need to bring a valid form of identification such as a driver's license or a state-issued ID card. For international travel, you will need a valid passport. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport with enough time to verify your passport with an agent or kiosk at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter. This verification process must be done at least 60 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
In addition to a passport, there may be other travel document requirements for international travel. For example, some countries may require you to complete an immigration form online before you arrive at the airport. This form must be completed by each member of your party before you can receive a boarding pass. It is important to review the specific requirements for your destination country before you travel.
It is also important to keep in mind that travel document requirements can change. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries required additional travel documents, such as proof of a negative COVID-19 test or a vaccination certificate. These requirements can vary by country and can change frequently, so it is important to stay up to date on the latest requirements before you travel.
Finally, it is always a good idea to have a copy of your travel itinerary and any other relevant travel documents with you. This can include things like your hotel reservations, car rental information, or tour bookings. Having a copy of these documents can be helpful if you need to reference them during your travels or if there are any issues or delays during your trip.
Tampa Airport's USO Lounge: A Comforting Military Oasis
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Carry-on baggage
When travelling with Southwest, it's important to be aware of the restrictions and requirements for carry-on baggage to ensure a smooth journey through the airport. Here is some detailed information to guide you on what to bring and expect when travelling with carry-on baggage.
Firstly, Southwest allows each passenger to carry on one standard-sized bag, such as a roller bag, garment bag, or tote bag. This bag must not exceed external dimensions of 10" x 16" x 24". In addition to this, passengers can also bring one smaller personal item, such as a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, backpack, or small camera bag. These smaller items must be able to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. It's important to note that these carry-on items are included in your ticket and are free of charge.
For those travelling with pets, Southwest allows small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to fly with you in the cabin. However, they must be carried in an appropriate carrier, and each carrier counts as either a carry-on or personal item. The pet fare may change, so it's important to check the latest information before travelling with your furry friend.
When packing your carry-on bag, it's important to consider the restrictions on certain items. For example, sharp objects such as knives and scissors are not permitted in carry-on baggage and must be checked in. Liquids are also restricted and must follow the 3-1-1 rule: liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100ml), placed in a 1-quart clear plastic bag, with only 1 bag per passenger. Any medications or baby food required during the flight are exempt from this rule but must be declared at the checkpoint.
It's also worth noting that even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or may not be allowed through if it triggers security concerns. This could include items that appear tampered with or pose a potential threat. The final decision rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint, and they may request to inspect your electronic devices, so ensure they are charged before travelling.
Melbourne Airport: Impact of Fires and Safety Measures
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Amenities at the airport
Southwest Airlines offers a variety of amenities at the airport to ensure you have a smooth travel experience.
One of the key amenities provided by Southwest Airlines is dedicated check-in and security lanes, helping you to get through the airport quickly and efficiently. You can also take advantage of automatic check-in through the Southwest app, which allows you to choose from a wider range of seats as Southwest does not assign seats. The app also provides up-to-the-minute flight status updates, so you can stay informed about any changes or delays.
At the airport, Southwest provides charging stations and airport WiFi, allowing you to stay connected and ensuring your devices are charged for your journey. If you're travelling internationally, you can verify your passport and fill out necessary forms at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter. Service animal relief areas are also available at all locations, and Southwest employees will direct you to these areas upon request.
In addition, Southwest Airlines offers inflight entertainment and connectivity options. Their Inflight Entertainment Portal features a flight tracker, texting via iMessage and WhatsApp, movies, TV series, and live TV, all available for free. Internet access can be purchased for $8 per device from takeoff to landing, although this price is subject to change and may not be available for the full duration of the flight. A-List Preferred Members and Business Select Customers enjoy complimentary internet access on their devices.
Southwest Airlines aims to enhance your airport and inflight experience with these amenities and services, making your trip as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.
Where is Milan Bergamo Airport Located?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Southwest Airlines recommends that passengers arrive at the airport 90 minutes before the first departing flight for domestic travel and 180 minutes for international travel.
Southwest Airlines allows passengers to carry on one bag, such as a roller bag, and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop case, for free. Checked baggage restrictions vary, but passengers are typically allowed to check two bags for free, as long as they do not exceed weight and size limits.
Yes, Southwest Airlines only accepts small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs as in-cabin pets. Each pet must be carried in an appropriate carrier, which counts as a carry-on or personal item.
Alcoholic beverages are only served to passengers 21 years of age or older. According to FAA regulations, passengers are prohibited from consuming their own alcohol onboard and must not be served beverages with a cap.
