# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Travel Regulations

Southwest Airline Luggage Restrictions

Southwest Airlines, like any commercial air carrier, imposes restrictions on how much and what type of luggage a passenger can put on an airplane. Some restrictions relate to making the best use of space and weight; the U.S. Transportation Security Administration mandates others. Checked and carry-on luggage each has its own set of restrictions. Airline companies update and change policies, so check the Southwest Airlines website or call the company's customer service line before packing.

Number
- Airline luggage restrictions can change frequently, but as of May 2010, Southwest allows you to check two bags without any extra charge. You can check more pieces of luggage, but you will be charged fees for those. Carry-on items are limited to one bag and one personal item per passenger; such items as medical devices or car seats for child passengers do not count against the limit.
Weight
- Checked luggage must not weigh more than 50 pounds per item. If an item weighs more than 50 pounds, Southwest will charge you an additional fee for each bag up to 100 pounds. Any items that weigh more than 100 pounds must be shipped as air cargo, subject to restrictions.
Size
- According to Southwest Airlines, the maximum size for checked luggage is 62 inches--the total of height plus width plus length. You can check an oversize item for an additional fee, subject to restrictions. The maximum size for a carry-on bag or other item is 10 inches by 16 inches by 24 inches. You must check any item larger than that.
Claims and Liability
- Unless you declare an excess value for your checked items and pay a fee, Southwest Airlines will not be liable for more than $3,300 for damaged, lost or delayed baggage. You must report damaged or lost luggage within four hours of arrival to be eligible for any reimbursement, according to airline policy. If you checked items marked as fragile or that are improperly packaged, the items may be loaded on the plane, but they will be marked as being "conditionally accepted," and Southwest Airlines will not be liable for any damage to them.
Other Restrictions
- Southwest Airlines passengers must check their luggage no later than 30 minutes before a flight; otherwise your luggage may not get on your plane. At some of the busiest airports, you must check bags no less than 45 minutes before a flight. Because of TSA regulations, your checked baggage might be screened and physically inspected. You might be asked to show identification when checking bags, and you must have a tag with your name on it on the outside of each checked item. A Southwest Airlines employee can provide ID tags at check-in counters.