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Free of Charge: Southwest Airlines allows each ticketed customer traveling with a child to check one car seat and one stroller free of charge. This is in addition to your standard checked baggage allowance, so it will not count toward your two free checked bags (for most fares and loyalty tiers).
Checking vs. Using Onboard: You have the option to either check the car seat at the ticket counter, at the gate, or bring it into the cabin to use for your child. The only way to guarantee the use of a car seat in the cabin is to purchase a seat for your child. If you have not purchased a seat, you may use an empty seat if one is available next to you on a first-come, first-served basis.
FAA Approval: All car seats used on board the aircraft must be FAA-approved. This is indicated by a label on the car seat that reads, "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft." Without this label, you will not be allowed to use it in the cabin.
Placement Onboard: FAA-approved car seats can be used in a window seat to prevent blocking other passengers from exiting. They are not allowed in an aisle seat or in an emergency exit row.
Check-in Location: If you choose to check your car seat, you can do so at the curbside check-in (where available), at the ticket counter, or at the gate. Checking it at the ticket counter is often the most convenient option as it reduces the number of items you need to carry through security.
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Arrive Early at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This gives you ample time to check in your car seat and proceed through security without feeling rushed, especially when traveling with children.
Go to the Ticket Counter (Checked Baggage): If you choose to check your car seat, head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Inform the agent that you would like to check a car seat. The agent will tag the car seat and send it on its way with the rest of the checked baggage.
Proceed to the Gate (Gate Checked): If you choose to gate check your car seat, you will carry it with you through security. At the gate, before boarding, you will inform the gate agent that you would like to gate check the car seat. The agent will provide a tag, and you will leave the car seat on the jet bridge before you board. It will then be loaded into the cargo hold and will be available for you to pick up on the jet bridge upon arrival.
Using it Onboard: If you have purchased a seat for your child and wish to use the car seat, you will carry it with you onto the aircraft. The flight attendants will assist you with proper placement and installation of the car seat. The car seat must be installed in a window seat and must not block any part of the aisle.
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Q1: Can I check a car seat for free on Southwest Airlines?
A1: Yes, each ticketed customer traveling with a child can check one car seat for free, in addition to their regular baggage allowance.
Q2: Does my car seat have to be FAA-approved to be used in the cabin?
A2: Yes, all car seats used in the aircraft cabin must have an official FAA approval label.
Q3: Can I gate check a car seat?
A3: Yes, you can gate check a car seat, which is a convenient option for many families.
Q4: Can I use a car seat if I don't buy a ticket for my child?
A4: You can use a car seat in the cabin for a lap child only if there is an open seat available next to you after boarding.
Q5: What are the rules for using a car seat in the cabin?
A5: The car seat must be placed in a window seat and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. It cannot block the aisle or be used in an emergency exit row.
Q6: What is the best way to protect my car seat from damage?
A6: If checking your car seat, it is highly recommended to use a protective car seat travel bag.
Q7: What if my car seat is too big for the airplane seat?
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Q9: Do I have to remove the car seat cover before checking it?
A9: It is not required, but using a car seat bag is recommended to keep the car seat clean and protected.
Q10: Can I check a booster seat for free?
A10: Yes, booster seats can also be checked for free, as they fall under the car seat policy.
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