How to measure luggage for southwest airlines

To avoid extra fees and ensure a smooth travel experience, your suitcase must measure no more than 62 inches in combined length, width, and height. This includes handles and wheels, so take exact measurements before heading to the airport.

For checked items, the maximum weight is 50 pounds per suitcase. Consider using a reliable scale to ensure you stay within the limits. If your bag exceeds this threshold, a fee may apply. Prepare your packing strategy accordingly.

Certain items are exempt from these size and weight restrictions–such as child safety seats and strollers. Be sure to verify the latest policies on the airline’s website, as rules may differ. Understanding these criteria will help streamline your airport experience and allow for stress-free boarding.

Guidelines for Assessing Baggage Dimensions on Southwest

To correctly determine the size of your bag, use a measuring tape. Ensure the bag is fully packed as it would be during travel. Measure the height, width, and depth, including wheels and handles. The maximum combined dimensions should not exceed 62 inches (157 cm).

Dimensions Breakdown

The allowed sizes are straightforward. Standard checked items must adhere to the dimensional limits previously outlined. For personal belongings such as backpacks and purses, the maximum size is 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (46 x 21.5 x 34.3 cm). Ensure personal items fit under the seat in front of you.

Tips for Successful Packing

Utilize soft-sided bags when possible for a better fit. Be mindful of packing efficiently to maximize space while remaining compliant with the size restrictions. If you’re uncertain about the dimensions, visit an airport or logistics store where you can find stations for measuring baggage.

Understanding Southwest Airlines’ Luggage Policies

Southwest imposes specific guidelines regarding baggage that travelers must follow to avoid additional fees. Each passenger is entitled to two checked items at no extra cost, provided they do not exceed the weight limit of 50 pounds and dimensions of 62 linear inches (length + width + height).

Carry-On Specifications

Passengers may bring one item onboard complimentary. This personal item should fit under the seat in front of you, with maximum dimensions of 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. Additionally, a standard carry-on bag is allowed, limited to 24 x 16 x 10 inches, fitting in the overhead bin.

Excess and Oversized Charges

• Checked bags weighing over 50 pounds incur a fee of $75 per item.
• Bags exceeding 62 linear inches are subject to a $75 charge.
• Items beyond two checked bags may result in fees, typically $75 for the third bag and beyond.

Travelers should prepare their baggage accordingly to ensure compliance and avoid surprises at check-in. It is advisable to weigh and measure all items prior to arrival at the airport.

Tools Needed to Measure Your Luggage

Utilizing a soft measuring tape is the most effective method to determine dimensions accurately. This tool allows for flexibility when wrapping around different shapes of bags, ensuring precise readings. A sturdy ruler can also assist, particularly for hard-sided cases where corners and edges are defined.

Additional Tools

A scale is necessary to check weight, guaranteeing compliance with restrictions. Portable luggage scales are recommended for convenience and ease of use during travel. Additionally, a notepad or a digital device for recording measurements can help track necessary sizes and weights.

Helpful Links

For those looking to organize their travel gear efficiently, consider exploring options like the best enduro waist pack, as it can streamline what you carry, potentially reducing the need to consider larger baggage items.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Luggage Dimensions

First, ensure you have a flexible measuring tape. A rigid ruler may not provide the necessary accuracy due to the bag’s shape.

1. Length: Place the bag upright on a flat surface. Extend the tape from the bottom to the highest point on the bag’s exterior.

2. Width: Measure from one side of the bag to the other, ensuring the tape remains parallel to the ground.

3. Height: With the bag still upright, measure from the bottom to the top, include any additional compartments or wheels in your calculation.

4. Weight: Utilize a scale to weigh the packed item. Consider using a digital scale for precise readings.

Always double-check each measurement to confirm accuracy. An uncalibrated measuring tape may result in excess fees due to incorrect size reporting. If you’re unsure about the dimensions or need alternative options in travel, you might want to explore whether are drones fun fits your adventure.

Weight Requirements and How to Weigh Your Bag

Each piece of checked baggage must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg) before fees are applied. For overweight items, a surcharge of $75 will be added. Extra fees arise for items over 100 pounds (45.4 kg), which may not be accepted at all. Carry-on options are limited to 25 pounds (11.3 kg) for free, so keeping an eye on weight is vital to avoid additional charges.

Weighing Techniques

A reliable scale is necessary to determine the current weight of your belongings accurately. Utilize a digital or mechanical luggage scale designed specifically for travel. If unavailable, a home bathroom scale may suffice; just ensure to account for your body weight when lifting the bag to weigh it. For maximum accuracy, weigh the bag on a hard, flat surface and perform multiple measurements to verify consistency.

Tips for Reducing Weight

Optimize packing by selecting lightweight items and consolidating essentials. Consider removing non-essentials to stay within limits. Compression bags can help eliminate excess air and reduce bulk. Review packing lists to ensure only necessary items are included, which not only lightens your load but also brings peace of mind.

Packing Tips to Ensure Compliance with Size Limits

Utilize packing cubes to optimize space within your bag, allowing for better organization and minimizing wasted space. These small containers facilitate efficient packing while ensuring items remain compressed and neatly arranged.

Roll clothing instead of folding it. This method can save space, allow you to fit more items, and help reduce wrinkles. Start rolling from the hem and work your way up to maintain compactness.

Prioritize lightweight materials, as they contribute to overall weight management, leaving room for additional essentials while adhering to weight constraints.

Wear bulkiest items while traveling, such as jackets and heavy shoes, to lighten your pack while complying with limits.

Select multi-purpose items. Opt for clothing that can be worn on various occasions and transformed with accessories, reducing the number of pieces needed.

Regularly check dimensions with a reliable ruler or measuring tape. Ensure that all items fit comfortably within prescribed limits to avoid surprises at check-in.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Luggage

Omitting the handles and wheels can lead to incorrect size assessments. Always include these elements, as they contribute to the total dimensions.

Ignoring manufacturer specifications is another frequent error. Double-check the airline’s requirements directly on their website to ensure accuracy.

Using the wrong measuring tools, such as a flexible tape measure or a ruler that doesn’t extend, may result in miscalculations. Opt for a rigid measuring tape for precise dimensions.

Measuring without a level surface can warp results. Place your bag on a flat area to avoid discrepancies caused by uneven ground.

Estimating sizes rather than measuring can cause overpacking. Take time to obtain exact numbers instead of relying on memory.

Neglecting to weigh the bag post-measurement could lead to additional fees at check-in. Always confirm the weight after packing.

Forgetting to check the latest baggage guidelines may result in surprises. Stay updated with the airline’s policies before your trip.

Video: