Travelers often ask, “Can you bring a car seat on Southwest Airlines?” The short answer is yes, provided the car seat is FAA-approved and used according to airline and safety guidelines. This guide covers what to bring, how to use a car seat on board, booster seat policies, where to check or gate-check your equipment, and practical tips to ensure a smooth experience for families flying Southwest.
Overview Of Southwest Car Seat Policy
Southwest Airlines allows the use of FAA-approved child restraint systems (CRS) or car seats on its aircraft. A child must have a valid fare or seat on the plane to use a car seat. An infant under 2 years old may travel on a parent’s lap, but if you want to use a car seat for that child, you must purchase a separate seat for the infant. Car seats must be installed in the aircraft seat with the seat belt, or with the car seat’s own tether if applicable, and must meet FAA guidelines for use in an aircraft. In addition to a car seat, Southwest permits a stroller to be checked at no charge, and some families bring both items to simplify travel with a baby or toddler.
What Kind Of Car Seats Are Allowed
Only FAA-approved child restraint systems are allowed on Southwest flights. This includes forward-facing and rear-facing car seats that have a label indicating they meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard FMVSS 213. The car seat should be designed for air travel and fit within the width of a typical airplane seat. It is important to verify that the car seat is compatible with the aircraft’s seat and seat belt configuration and that installation is feasible in the given seat. Southwest does not require you to declare the car seat at check-in, but you should have it ready for security screening and boarding when possible.
Rear-facing vs. forward-facing
Most infants and toddlers are best served by a rear-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height recommended by the manufacturer. If the child outgrows the rear-facing weight limit before the flight, a forward-facing seat approved for air travel can be used in a standard airplane seat. Always follow the car seat manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure the seat is properly installed before takeoff.
Booster seats
Booster seats are permitted on Southwest flights if the child has a paid, individual seat. The booster should be used with the aircraft seat belt and is supported for children who require a belt-positioning device to sit safely. If a booster is brought to the gate, ensure the child is properly seated and restrained during taxi, takeoff, turbulence, and landing, just like a regular seat belt.
Infant Travel, Car Seats, And Airline Tickets
Southwest’s policies align with standard domestic aviation practices. An infant under 2 years old can travel on a parent’s lap for free on Southwest flights, or may occupy a separate seat if you purchase a ticket specifically for the infant and install a car seat. If a separate car seat is used, the infant must have a valid seat assignment and ticket. It’s advisable to purchase a separate infant fare or a child fare if you need the car seat for the infant, as this ensures seat availability and compliance with the airline’s seating rules.
Gate-Check, Check-In, And In-Flight Installation
For travelers who prefer not to bring a car seat onto the plane, Southwest allows you to gate-check infant equipment and car seats free of charge. If you gate-check the car seat, you will surrender it at the gate before boarding and receive it at the jet bridge upon arrival. If you choose to keep the car seat with you, it must be properly installed in an aircraft seat prior to takeoff. Flight attendants can assist with basic guidance on securing the car seat, but passengers are responsible for correct installation following the manufacturer’s instructions and FAA guidelines.
Practical Tips For A Smooth Experience
- Bring the original manual: Having the car seat manual can help during installation on the plane if there are questions about attachment points or weight limits.
- Check seat compatibility: Confirm the car seat’s dimensions fit the aircraft seat width. Southwest’s narrowest seats can present a tight fit for larger car seats.
- Arrive early: Give extra time at the airport to manage stroller and car seat check-in, especially if you plan to gate-check.
- Pack a compact travel strap: A strap helps secure the car seat in the stroller or as a carry option during transit through the terminal.
- Consider aerodynamics and weight: Light, easy-to-install seats reduce fatigue and speed up boarding and deplaning.
- Bring a towel or blanket: A small blanket can cushion the car seat and help protect it during handling.
Common Questions About Car Seats On Southwest
- Can I use a car seat on a Southwest flight if my child is under 2? Yes, but you must have a separate seat for the child and the car seat must be FAA-approved.
- Is there a fee to bring a car seat? No, Southwest does not charge for bringing a car seat or a stroller as checked or gate-checked items, depending on the situation.
- Do I need to declare the car seat at check-in? It is not mandatory to declare at check-in, but having the car seat ready for airline staff can expedite boarding and seating on the plane.
- Can I use a booster seat without a car seat? Booster seats require a dedicated aircraft seat; you cannot use a booster without a seat for the child.
- What should I do if the seat doesn’t fit the aisle or row? If installation is not feasible in your assigned seat, consider gate-checking the car seat or requesting alternative seating options with airline staff.
Alternatives And Considerations
For families prioritizing simplicity, some travelers opt to use a convertible car seat that fits well in airline seats or to purchase a separate seat for the child with a car seat pre-installed. Southwest’s fleet and seating configurations vary by aircraft, so checking ahead for seat width and the availability of bassinets for infants may help if traveling with newborns. Additionally, some travelers consider renting a car seat at their destination or using a lightweight, travel-friendly model to minimize handling and maximize comfort during the flight.
