Changes To Southwest Airlines Carry-On Policy Regarding Portable Chargers

Natalie Brooks

3 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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Understanding Southwest Airlines' Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Before diving into the specifics of portable chargers, let's review Southwest's general carry-on policy. Southwest allows one carry-on bag per passenger, plus one personal item. This seemingly simple rule has some nuances. A "personal item" is generally defined as something that can fit under the seat in front of you – think a small purse, briefcase, or laptop bag. Your carry-on bag, however, has size and weight restrictions. While Southwest doesn't specify a weight limit, they do advise that bags should be manageable for overhead bin storage. Oversized or overweight bags may be subject to gate fees. For the most up-to-date information and exact dimensions, always refer to Southwest's official baggage policy page: [Insert Link to Southwest Baggage Policy Here].

Specific Rules for Portable Chargers on Southwest Flights

The good news is that portable chargers are generally permitted in carry-on baggage on Southwest flights. However, there are important limitations to be aware of. Southwest, like other airlines, follows Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines. While there isn't a specific mAh (milliampere-hour) limit explicitly stated by Southwest on their website for portable chargers, it's crucial to follow TSA guidelines which generally advise against bringing extremely high-capacity portable chargers. It's recommended to keep the capacity under 100 Wh (watt-hours) to avoid potential issues.

• Allowed:

  • Portable chargers with a capacity under 100 Wh.
  • Portable chargers packed within your carry-on bag or personal item, unless they are exceptionally large.
  • Spare batteries for electronics, provided they are properly protected.

• Prohibited:

  • Extremely high-capacity portable chargers exceeding 100 Wh (check TSA guidelines for precise limits).
  • Damaged or leaking batteries.
  • Loose batteries packed without proper protection.

Packing Portable Chargers Safely for Air Travel

Safe packing is vital to prevent damage and ensure a smooth journey. Here are some recommendations:

• Protective Cases: Use a hard or semi-hard case to shield your portable charger from bumps and potential short circuits.
• Prevent Accidental Activation: Turn off your portable charger before packing it to avoid accidental discharge or overheating.
• Multiple Chargers: If carrying multiple chargers, separate them with soft padding to minimize the risk of damage during transit.
• Accessibility: Keep your portable chargers readily accessible in your carry-on bag for security checkpoints. This expedites the screening process.

What to Do if Your Portable Charger is Confiscated

Despite your best efforts, there's a possibility your portable charger might be flagged at security. If this happens:

• Remain Calm: Cooperate with TSA agents and follow their instructions.
• Understand the Reason: Ask why your charger is being confiscated to understand the issue.
• Contact Southwest: If you believe the confiscation was unwarranted, contact Southwest customer service to discuss the situation and potentially file a claim if needed.

Conclusion: Staying Informed About Southwest Airlines Carry-On Policy for Portable Chargers

This guide has clarified the Southwest Airlines carry-on policy concerning portable chargers. Remember, the key takeaway is to pack responsibly and stay informed. Always refer to Southwest's official website for the most up-to-date information on baggage allowances and restrictions. Review the Southwest Airlines baggage policy before your next flight to ensure compliance with the Southwest Airlines carry-on policy portable chargers regulations. Bookmark the relevant page for easy access. Safe packing practices are essential to avoid problems and enjoy a stress-free flight. Remember to always keep your portable chargers well-protected and readily accessible during security checks.