Southwest Carryon Baggage Question

[aka-mad4themouse]

I know that when we've flown USAir, backpacks and flight bags that fit under the seat in front of you are considered "personal-type items", much like a purse or briefcase would be. Does SWA follow a similar policy?

We're only going for a long weekend and will have 3 "carry on" bags for our family of 4 plus the kids also like to bring a backpack of things to amuse themselves on the plane. Would we be able to do this or would we need to check the larger bags? I'd prefer not gate-check the bags, so if we have to check any of our bags, I rather just do it at the curb.

Thanks!

 

[gw_lit]

Same thing applies on SW.

 

[ducklite]

Sometimes you don't know until you board that there won't be room for your abg and it must be gate checked.

Anne

 

[seashoreCM]

Even "carry on suitcases" and "rollaboard carry ons" are supposed to be small enough to fit under a seat.

Roughly speaking, the "personal item" in addition to your "carry on" should occupy no more than a third, any third, of the space in the sizing template frame that airlines have near the boarding area.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm

 

[DebbieB]

From Southwest's website:

Carryon Baggage
In keeping with new security directives from the TSA, strict limitations are being imposed on carryon items.

Airline passengers may now carry only one bag plus one smaller, personal-type item onboard the airplane.
Personal-type items include purses, briefcases, cameras, food containers, or laptops (case included).
Southwest Airlines limits carryon bag dimensions to 10x16x24 inches.
All Customers and Employees and their items are subject to a thorough, physical search.
The following items are not considered carryon bags or personal-type items and are not counted against the “one-bag plus one personal-type item” limit:
A child restraint device for a child who has been ticketed, who has a seat reserved, or for which complimentary, available space exists.
Assistive/mobility devices for individuals with a disability. There is no limit to the number of assistive/mobility devices a Customer can bring onboard the aircraft.
Outer garments or other wearable articles of clothing.
Food for consumption during flight contained in disposable packaging.
Walking canes or umbrellas.