Low cost airlines’ baggage policy: Southwest Airlines
In this installment of our series on the luggage policy of various airlines, we will deal with a hugely successful American low-cost carrier which fly all across the United States with its fleet of over 500 Boeings – Southwest Airlines. We are going to split the article into two sections concerning respectively checked baggage and carry-on baggage. At the end of the article will are going to mention mention a couple of less typical items which you can and cannot take on board, and one of them is some macabre stuff.
Checked Baggage
Southwest Airlines differ from many carriers in that the first two bags are included in ticket price. The 3rd through 9th piece of baggage will cost you $50 per piece. If you happen to travel with more than 9 bags, any bag above this limit will incure a charge of $110 per piece.
Now for the size and weight limitations. As this concerns an American airline, the metric system will be of no use. The maximum weight is 50 pounds while the maximum size is 62 inches (the sum of three dimensions). Overweight pieces of luggage between 51 and 100 pounds as well as oversized items measuring between 62 and 80 inches will incure a charge of $50 per piece. Anything exceeding these limitations can only be shipped as Air Cargo provided the customer is classified as «a known shipper».
Carry-on Baggage
The allowed carry-on times are restricted to one bag and one smaller item, such as a briefcase, a laptop or a camera. As far as the size limitations are concerned, your carry-on bag cannot exceed 10x16x24 inches. In addition there is a number of items which are not seen as carry-on items and can be taken on board, for instance wearable articles of clothing, mobility devices for individuals with a disability or umbrellas.
Finally, passengers travelling with children are allowed to check one stroller and one Child Restraint System or car seat per child free of charge.
The full overview of allowable carry-on items can be found on the carrier’s website.
Miscellaneous
Finally, there are some specific things you might want to learn about. As a Southwest Airlines passenger you may travel with small vaccinated pets (cats and dogs in an appropriate carrier). Remember – pet reservations cannot be book online.
Apropos animals, Southwest Airlines do not accept dead ones unless suitably packed. Bear that in mind should, you be a hunter on your way back home with hunted game (or maybe you simply purchased loads of shrimps at the seaside).
At the very end a dainty morsel we found for you on the carrie’s website, in the luggage policy section. We quote “Southwest Airlines will not accept human remains as checked baggage”.
Low cost airlines’ baggage policy: JetBlue
Low cost airlines’ baggage policy: Virgin America
Low cost airlines’ baggage policy: Spirit Airlines
Airlines, Baggage allowance, North America, Southwest Airlines
