Note: All information on this page was found on the airline’s website.
Table of Contents
For more detailed information, visit the airline’s website below:
Lap Infant
One child over 14 days and under two (2) years of age, not occupying a seat, may be carried as a Lap Child when traveling with an adult (12 years of age or older). Although a boarding pass is not required for the infant, you will need a Boarding Verification Document.
A Lap Child may be carried free of charge domestically. For international travel, applicable government-imposed taxes and fees must be paid, and a ticket will be issued for each person, regardless of age.
Children
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Identification & Boarding Pass
If you choose to purchase a seat so your infant can travel in a child restraint system (CRS), they need a boarding pass.
If you choose to travel with your infant on your lap (at no additional charge), they don’t need a boarding pass; however, you’ll need a Boarding Verification Document (BVD) for the infant so they can board. If traveling domestically with a Lap Child, you can add them to your reservation. You still have to travel with proof of age.
You can only add a Lap Child to a reservation using the self-service kiosk if you are flying domestically. You cannot use the self-service kiosk to add a Lap Child when flying internationally.
Proof of Age
Original or photocopies of government-issued identification (e.g., passport, birth certificate, government-issued photo identification card) are the only acceptable forms of proof of age. Electronic screen shots, phone images, or immunization records are not acceptable.
We may ask for age verification at any point within your journey, so you should travel with the documentation.
If asked to provide proof of age and unable to do so, Customers will be required to purchase a ticket for the child. After the trip, you may submit proof of age by email and request a refund. Be sure to attach government-issued identification for the child and provide the confirmation number of the ticket purchased for the child.
International Documentation
Passengers traveling internationally (regardless of age) must have proper documentation required for entry into and exit from each country. Keep in mind that some countries require additional documentation for children, so you’re encouraged to visit our portal to determine what documentation could be required based on your specific international destination.
Bassinets
Changing Tables
Our changing tables are located in all forward lavatories.
Carry Ons
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Personal Items
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Diaper Bags, Pumps, Coolers
Baggage containing a breast pump and/or breast milk may be brought onboard in addition to the standard carryon limit of one bag plus one small, personal item. You might be asked the nature of the additional carryon bag(s) throughout travel. Keep in mind that we don’t have electrical outlets onboard for personal use.
Car Seats
If you choose to purchase a seat so your infant can travel in a child restraint system (CRS), they need a boarding pass.
If the CRS was manufactured before February 25, 1985, it must have one of the following labels. A CRS manufactured on or after February 26, 1985, must bear both labels in A and B:
- A: This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.
- B: This child restraint device conforms to all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.
- C: FAA APPROVED IN ACCORDANCE WITH 14 CFR PART 21.305 (D) APPROVED FOR AIRCRAFT USE ONLY.
Find full safety seat requirements on the airline’s website.
Strollers
- Customers traveling with children will be allowed to check one stroller and one Child Restraint System (CRS) or car seat per child without charge. This is in addition to the regular free baggage allowance.
- The stroller and CRS or car seat allowance applies to any type of stroller (umbrella, full size, jogging stroller, etc.) and CRS or car seat.
- The Customer may check the stroller and CRS or car seat at the curb, ticket counter, or gate. Southwest Airlines will not assume liability for damage to strollers, CRS’s or car seats.
- An optional Southwest-branded reusable car seat/stroller bag is available for purchase at any Southwest Airlines ticket counter for a $17 onetime fee. Bag dimensions are 42”X20.5X12.5”.
Additional Gear
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Pregnancy
Southwest Advice to Pregnant People:
- While flying doesn’t usually cause problems during pregnancy, in some cases, traveling by air has been known to cause complications or premature labor.
- If you’re pregnant, you should consult your physician before flying. We recommend against air travel beginning at the 38th week of pregnancy.
- Depending on physical condition, strength, and agility, you may, in some cases, be asked not to sit in the emergency exit row if pregnant.