Airline
Southwest Airlines
Policies verified March 2026
Southwest stands out from US carriers with its open seating and generous baggage policy: two free checked bags plus one free stroller and one free car seat per child. The catch is no strollers in the cabin and no assigned seats, so families need to board early to sit together. Sleep device policy is moderately permissive, allowing JetKids BedBox and Fly Tot. A budget-friendly option for domestic US family travel.
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Can I bring a stroller on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest does not allow strollers in the cabin, but their checked baggage policy is generous. One stroller per ticketed child flies free in addition to the standard two free checked bags. Any type of stroller is accepted. The trade-off: Southwest explicitly will not cover damage to strollers, so consider a protective bag for your pushchair.
Can I use a car seat on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest requires FAA-approved car seats and is more flexible on seating than most US carriers, not restricting you to window seats only. Backless booster seats are banned, along with any device that ties a child to another person. Both forward and rear-facing are allowed. Check the table below to confirm your seat has the required FAA certification label.
Does Southwest Airlines allow toddler airplane beds?
Southwest allows some sleep devices including JetKids BedBox and Fly Tot for cruise use only. Stow everything during takeoff and landing. The airline recommends confirming your specific product before travel. This makes Southwest one of the more accommodating US carriers for toddler sleep.
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Does Southwest Airlines have bassinets?
No bassinets on any aircraft. All flights operate Boeing 737 single-aisle planes with open seating.
What meals does Southwest Airlines offer for children?
No meals served. Only pre-packaged snacks (pretzel sticks, graham crackers) and drinks provided complimentary. Bring your own baby food.
Does Southwest Airlines offer family preboarding?
Family boarding between Group A and Group B for families with children 6 and under. One of the best family preboarding policies among US airlines.
How much checked baggage do infants get on Southwest Airlines?
One stroller and one car seat per child checked free at the gate or ticket counter.
How much does a lap infant cost on Southwest Airlines?
Domestic lap infants fly completely free. International lap infants pay only government taxes and fees.
Does Southwest Airlines provide complimentary strollers?
Southwest Airlines does not offer complimentary strollers at the airport.
Other family amenities on Southwest Airlines
Southwest is the best US airline for budget-conscious families. Free lap infants, free checked bags, and generous family boarding make it hard to beat on domestic routes. No bassinets or entertainment, but for short domestic hops with kids the value is unmatched. Two free checked bags per passenger sweeten the deal.