What is Allowed in Carry-On Baggage Southwest 2026
Knowing what you can and cannot bring in your carry-on bag saves time at security and prevents confiscation. This comprehensive guide covers TSA rules for Southwest Airlines, including liquids, electronics, food, and special items.
Liquids and Gels: The 3-1-1 Rule
Understanding 3-1-1
3
3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container
1
1 quart-sized clear plastic bag
1
1 bag per passenger
All liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must follow this rule. The bag must be removed from your carry-on at security screening.
Allowed Liquids (3.4 oz or less)
- • Shampoo and conditioner
- • Hand sanitizer
- • Toothpaste
- • Deodorant (gel/liquid)
- • Makeup and cosmetics
- • Contact lens solution
- • Sunscreen
- • Hair gel and styling products
Prohibited (Over 3.4 oz)
- • Full-size shampoo bottles
- • Large toothpaste tubes
- • Bottles of water over 3.4 oz
- • Full-size sunscreen
- • Large perfume bottles
- • Full-size moisturizer
- • Beverages in containers over 3.4 oz
- • Full-size aerosol cans
Electronics and Batteries
| Item | Carry-On | Checked Bag | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laptop | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Must remove for screening |
| Tablet/iPad | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Larger than phone must be removed |
| Smartphone | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Can stay in bag |
| Power Bank | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | Under 100Wh only |
| Lithium Batteries (spare) | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | Must be in carry-on |
| E-Cigarettes/Vapes | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | Cannot be used on plane |
Food and Beverages
Allowed Foods
- • Solid foods (sandwiches, fruit, snacks)
- • Baked goods and bread
- • Candy and chocolate
- • Protein bars and energy bars
- • Dry snacks (chips, nuts, crackers)
- • Frozen food (if solid during screening)
- • Empty water bottles (fill after security)
Restricted Foods (3.4 oz limit)
- • Liquids: soups, sauces, yogurt
- • Spreads: peanut butter, jam, hummus
- • Dips and salsas
- • Liquid/gel foods in containers
- • Creamy cheeses and dressings
- • Ice cream and frozen liquids when melted
- • Canned goods with liquid
Medical Items and Medications
Exempt from 3-1-1 Rule
Medical necessity items are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces. You must declare these items for inspection at the security checkpoint.
Prescription Medications
Liquid or solid form, in original packaging or with prescription label
Liquid Over-the-Counter Medications
Liquid pain relievers, cough syrup, etc. in reasonable quantities
Medical Devices
Inhalers, EpiPens, insulin pumps, nebulizers
Baby Formula and Breast Milk
Unlimited quantity if traveling with infant or for medical needs
Sharp Objects and Tools
| Item | Carry-On | Checked Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Scissors (under 4" from pivot point) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Scissors (over 4" from pivot point) | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Disposable razors | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Safety razors (with blades) | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Nail clippers | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Tweezers | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Knives of any kind | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Box cutters | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
Sports and Recreational Items
Allowed in Carry-On
- • Tennis rackets
- • Fishing rod (under size limit)
- • Bicycle helmet
- • Yoga mat
- • Resistance bands
- • Jump rope
Must Be Checked
- • Baseball bats
- • Golf clubs
- • Hockey sticks
- • Ski poles
- • Lacrosse sticks
- • Cricket bats
Prohibited Items (All Passengers)
Never Allowed in Carry-On or Checked Bags
- • Explosives and fireworks
- • Flammable items (lighter fluid, paint)
- • Compressed gases
- • Bleach and other oxidizers
- • Infectious substances
- • Radioactive materials
- • Strong acids
- • Self-defense sprays (over 4 oz)
TSA PreCheck Benefits
Expedited Screening
TSA PreCheck members enjoy faster security screening with these conveniences:
- • Keep shoes, belt, and light jacket on
- • Leave laptop and liquids in bag
- • Dedicated shorter security lines
- • Available at 200+ airports nationwide
- • $78 for 5 years of membership
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring food from home on Southwest?
Yes, you can bring solid foods like sandwiches, fruit, and snacks. Liquid or gel foods (yogurt, peanut butter, salsa) must follow the 3-1-1 rule (3.4 oz or less). Southwest also offers free snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on all flights.
Can I bring a full water bottle if it's frozen solid?
Yes, frozen liquids are allowed if they're completely frozen solid when you go through security. However, if any liquid is detected during screening, it will be subject to the 3.4 oz limit. Partially melted bottles will be confiscated.
Are curling irons and hair dryers allowed in carry-on?
Yes, battery-operated or cordless curling irons and hair dryers are allowed in carry-on bags. However, cordless curling irons with butane cartridges have specific restrictions - the safety cover must be securely fitted over the heating element.
Can I bring wrapped gifts in my carry-on?
Yes, but TSA may need to unwrap them for inspection. It's recommended to either pack gifts unwrapped or in gift bags with tissue paper, or wait to wrap them at your destination. Checked bags are a better option for wrapped gifts.
What happens if I forget and pack a prohibited item?
TSA will confiscate prohibited items discovered during screening. You may have the option to go back to the check-in counter and place the item in a checked bag if you have time, or you can abandon the item. There are no penalties for honest mistakes, but don't make a habit of it.
Can I bring duty-free liquids over 3.4 oz on my connecting flight?
Yes, if purchased at the airport after security or on an international flight, duty-free liquids over 3.4 oz are allowed in the sealed bag provided by the retailer. The bag must remain sealed until you reach your final destination.
Can you bring a water bottle on Southwest Airlines?
Yes, with one rule: the bottle must be empty when you pass through the TSA security checkpoint. A full or partially-filled water bottle over 3.4 oz will be confiscated at security. Once past security, fill your empty bottle at any airport water fountain or bottle-filling station — most major airports have them — and bring it on board.
Check Your Baggage Fees
While carry-on bags are free, knowing your checked baggage costs helps you decide what to pack where. Calculate your exact fees based on your trip details.
Calculate Baggage Fees →All information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available data. Fee information was last verified against official Southwest baggage policy in March 2026. While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained on this website.
Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. In no event will the owner of this website be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, arising out of or in connection with the use of this website.