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Southwest Airlines vs Delta Air Lines: Carry-On Policy Comparison

Side-by-side comparison of cabin bag size limits, weight allowances, personal item rules, and baggage fees.

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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

Source review pending·Verified Jul 16, 2026·Official source·Methodology. Verified Jul 16, 2026

Delta Air Lines source

Source review pending·Imported Sep 28, 2026 · verification pending·Official source·Methodology. Imported Sep 28, 2026 · verification pending
Carry-on comparison: Southwest Airlines vs Delta Air Lines
PolicySouthwest AirlinesDelta Air LinesStrictest
Cabin bag size61×40.6×25.4 cm55.9×35.6×22.9 cmDelta Air Lines
Cabin bag weightNot publishedNot published—
Cabin bags allowed11Tied
Personal itemIncludedIncludedTied
Personal item size———
Editorial enforcement estimatelenientlenientTied
Overweight fee (online)———
Oversize fee (online)———

Frequently asked questions

Which is stricter — Southwest Airlines or Delta Air Lines?

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 Delta Air Lines?

Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines allow a personal item?

The current Delta Air Lines record lists a personal item. Check the selected fare and official source because inclusion can vary.

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