At Southwest Airlines, we understand that traveling can work up an appetite. That's why we want to ensure that our passengers have the freedom to bring their own food and snacks onboard our flights. With no food or drink minimums or maximums, you can bring whatever you like to eat or drink while flying with us.
Airport Security and Prohibited Items
When it comes to bringing food through airport security, as long as it is not a prohibited item, you are allowed to bring it with you. We recommend checking the TSA's full list of prohibited items to ensure that you comply with their regulations. As for liquid medications weighing more than 3.4 ounces, you can bring them onboard in reasonable quantities.
Bringing Medication on Board
Southwest Airlines understands the importance of traveling with necessary medications. Unlike the TSA, we do not require you to bring your medication in its original prescription bottle. You can travel with a pillbox or any other suitable container, as long as it fits comfortably under the seat or has enough space above the head.
Avoiding Mistakes and Being Considerate
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we encourage our passengers to smile and be polite to the flight crew. By doing so, you can avoid making any unintentional mistakes during your travel experience. Additionally, please be considerate of your fellow passengers and clean up after yourself. We want to create a pleasant environment for everyone onboard.
Snacks Onboard Your Southwest Flight
If you wish to bring your own food onboard, you are more than welcome to do so. As Southwest Airlines does not provide snacks during the flight, we recommend grabbing something before boarding to ensure you have enough to satisfy your hunger throughout the journey.
Food Through Security and Purchasing Onboard
When it comes to bringing food through security, any items other than gel or liquid will not be permitted to be brought on the plane. However, if you purchase food after completing the security check, you are allowed to bring it onboard. So, feel free to make sandwiches at home and grab a drink after the security check.
TSA Prohibited Items: Food Edition
While you can bring food with you through the checkpoint, it is essential to check the TSA's full list of prohibited items. Certain items, such as knives, cannot be brought on board for safety reasons. If you are traveling with young children, we recommend packing their favorite snacks and drinks in TSA-approved containers in case they become ill during the flight.
Bringing Your Own Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
At Southwest Airlines, you are allowed to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages with you on the plane. However, please note that they should be store-bought and not require heating. As we do not provide food or beverages for purchase onboard, we advise you to bring enough for yourself and any travel companions.
Baggage Policy and Dimensions
To ensure a hassle-free travel experience, Southwest Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger for free. Your personal items should fit within the dimensions of the seat in front of you, which are 18 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. It's important to note that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) establishes the rules for carrying liquids in checked luggage, not the airline.
Pets and Appropriate Carriers
If you're traveling with small domestic cats or dogs, you can transport them in appropriate carriers under the seat in front of you. We want to ensure the safety and comfort of both you and your furry friends during the flight.
Southwest Airlines' Baggage Rules
Southwest Airlines has specific baggage rules that passengers should be aware of. Handbags, duffel bags, or mini trolley bags are not allowed to be brought onboard. When it comes to liquids and creamy goods, they can be carried in properly packed original or zip lock bags, up to 100 milliliters in quantity. It's vital to securely store and cover any sharp objects, such as needles or syringes, required for medication.
Expanding Pet Policy and Other Items
In addition to allowing dogs and cats onboard, Southwest Airlines has expanded its policy to accommodate other pets as well. It's important to have your personal items within the specified dimensions in the overhead bin or under your seat. To avoid confusion, make sure to remove any old tags from your luggage.
Exempted Items from TSA Liquid Carry-On Rule
Certain items, such as medications and infant and child nutrition, are exempt from the TSA's liquid carry-on rule. This allows you to bring them on board without the need to worry about quantity restrictions.
Baggage Policy and Delivery Services
Southwest Airlines is known for its low fares and generous baggage policy. Passengers are allowed to check two bags for free, with no weight limit. However, if your luggage exceeds 50 pounds or the length exceeds 62 inches, additional fees may apply. If you need to ship your luggage internationally, services like My Baggage offer efficient delivery processes at affordable costs.
Conclusion
At Southwest Airlines, we prioritize our passengers' comfort and convenience. That's why we allow you to bring your own food and snacks onboard, as long as they comply with security regulations. We understand that everyone has different dietary preferences and requirements, so we want to ensure you have the freedom to enjoy your own meals while flying with us. Remember to be considerate of your fellow passengers and clean up after yourself. Happy travels!