New Southwest Airlines Policy: Restrictions On Portable Chargers In Carry-on Bags

Natalie Brooks

3 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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What are the New Southwest Airlines Portable Charger Restrictions?

Southwest now restricts the number and type of portable chargers allowed in carry-on bags as part of their enhanced security measures. This policy applies to all passengers and aims to improve safety and efficiency at security checkpoints.

• Maximum Number of Chargers: Only two portable chargers are permitted per passenger. This limit applies to all types of portable chargers, including phone chargers, laptop chargers, and power banks.
• Size and Power Output Restrictions: Chargers exceeding 100Wh (watt-hours) are prohibited in carry-on luggage. Be sure to check the wattage rating on your charger; this information is usually printed on the device itself. Smaller chargers are generally permitted.
• Specific Charger Types: Lithium-ion battery packs exceeding a certain size (typically determined by the milliampere-hour (mAh) rating), as well as damaged or recalled chargers, must be checked in as baggage. Do not attempt to bring these onboard.
• All Portable Chargers Included: These restrictions apply to all portable chargers intended for electronic devices.

Why Did Southwest Airlines Implement This New Policy?

The new policy is driven by several factors focusing on passenger safety and overall security.

• Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: Increased safety concerns regarding lithium-ion batteries, which are prone to overheating and potential fire hazards, are a primary reason for this change.
• TSA Compliance and Industry Best Practices: The policy aligns with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations and industry best practices for air travel safety.
• Fire Hazard Prevention: The restrictions are designed to minimize the risk of fires caused by malfunctioning or improperly handled portable chargers.
• Security Checkpoint Efficiency: By standardizing the rules around portable chargers, Southwest aims to improve efficiency at security checkpoints, reducing wait times for all passengers.

What Should Passengers Do to Comply with the New Policy?

To avoid any issues, passengers should take the following steps before and during their Southwest flight:

• Review the Official Southwest Policy: Check the specific details of the Southwest Airlines policy on their official website before your flight. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information.
• Verify Charger Compliance: Ensure your portable chargers meet the size and power output restrictions. Check the Wh rating on your charger carefully.
• Organized Packing: Pack chargers appropriately in your carry-on bag, perhaps in a separate, easily accessible pouch for quicker access during security screenings.
• Security Checkpoint Preparation: Be prepared to remove chargers from your carry-on bag during the security screening process. This will expedite the screening process.
• Checking Larger Chargers: Know the procedures for checking in larger or higher-capacity chargers as checked baggage. Contact Southwest directly for specific instructions.

What Happens if You Don't Comply?

Non-compliance with the new Southwest Airlines portable charger policy can result in several consequences:

• Security Delays: Expect significant delays at the security checkpoint if your chargers are not compliant.
• Charger Confiscation: Non-compliant chargers may be confiscated by security personnel.
• Flight Schedule Impact: In extreme cases, non-compliance could potentially impact your flight schedule, leading to missed connections or flight delays.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines' new policy regarding portable chargers in carry-on luggage is a significant change for passengers. Understanding the restrictions on the number, size, and type of portable chargers allowed is crucial for a smooth travel experience. By following the guidelines outlined above, passengers can avoid potential problems at security checkpoints and ensure a hassle-free journey. Before your next Southwest flight, familiarize yourself with the complete details of their updated policy on portable charger restrictions to ensure a smooth and compliant travel experience. Remember to check the Southwest Airlines website for the most up-to-date information on portable charger restrictions and lithium-ion battery regulations.