WN · United States · updated 2026-06-01
Southwest Airlines 100ml liquid rule
Southwest Airlines does not set its own liquid limit — the airport you depart from does. At most airports that means containers of 100 ml or less in one clear resealable bag. At airports with next-generation CT scanners you may be allowed up to 2 litres per container and can leave liquids inside your bag. Because Southwest Airlines flies from both kinds of airport, always pack to the 100 ml rule unless your departure airport is confirmed CT-equipped.
What to know before you pack
- Liquids go in one transparent resealable bag, roughly 20 × 20 cm, one bag per passenger, taken out at the X-ray unless the airport has CT scanners.
- The limit is the printed container size, not how much liquid is left inside it — a half-empty 200 ml bottle is still refused.
- TSA 3-1-1 applies at all US airports.
Southwest Airlines cabin bag at a glance
Personal item: 45 × 35 × 20 cm
Overhead bag: 60 × 40 × 25 cm
Frequently asked
Can I take 100ml liquids on Southwest Airlines?
Yes. Containers of 100 ml or less inside one clear resealable bag are accepted on every Southwest Airlines flight. Larger containers are only allowed where the departure airport has CT scanners and has publicly lifted the limit.
Does Southwest Airlines count the liquid bag as part of my cabin allowance?
The clear liquid bag travels inside your cabin bag, so it counts toward your Southwest Airlines hand luggage allowance (45 × 35 × 20 cm and up).
What happens if my liquid is over 100ml at Southwest Airlines security?
Security, not the airline, makes the call. Over-size containers are surrendered at the checkpoint — there is no fee, but the item is not returned.
More Southwest Airlines liquid topics
Sources
- Southwest carry-on bags — checked 2026-06-01