Airline comparison
Southwest Airlines vs American Airlines: Carry-On Policy Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of cabin bag size limits, weight allowances, personal item rules, and baggage fees.
Strictest overall
Mixed or incomplete limits
The row highlights show which airline is more restrictive for each field. The overall result compares published dimensions, weight, and bag count together. Different or incomplete limits may not establish one stricter airline. The enforcement row is an editorial estimate and never changes the objective result.
Southwest Airlines source
American Airlines source
| Policy | Southwest Airlines | American Airlines | Strictest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabin bag size | 61×40.6×25.4 cm | 55.9×35.6×22.9 cm | American Airlines |
| Cabin bag weight | Not published | Not published | — |
| Cabin bags allowed | 1 | 1 | Tied |
| Personal item | Included | Included | Tied |
| Personal item size | — | 45.7×35.6×20.3 cm | — |
| Editorial enforcement estimate | lenient | lenient | Tied |
| Overweight fee (online) | — | — | — |
| Oversize fee (online) | — | — | — |
Frequently asked questions
Which is stricter — Southwest Airlines or American Airlines?
The published limits do not establish one uniformly stricter airline. Check the individual size, weight, and bag-count rows.
What is the carry-on size limit for Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines allows a carry-on bag of 61×40.6×25.4 cm in economy class.
What is the carry-on size limit for American Airlines?
American Airlines allows a carry-on bag of 55.9×35.6×22.9 cm in economy class.
Does Southwest Airlines allow a personal item?
The current Southwest Airlines record lists a personal item. Check the selected fare and official source because inclusion can vary.
Does American Airlines allow a personal item?
The current American Airlines record lists a personal item. Check the selected fare and official source because inclusion can vary.
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