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Before you arrive at the airport, it is critical to know and follow the fundamental rules for traveling with ski or snowboard equipment on Southwest Airlines. These rules are in place to ensure your gear is transported safely and that you don't encounter unexpected fees.
Free Baggage Allowance: The most significant benefit of flying Southwest with your equipment is that it can count as one of your two free checked bags. This means you can bring your gear without paying an extra baggage fee, as long as it meets the airline's specific bundling rules.
What Counts as One Item: Southwest's policy allows you to check up to two bags containing one set of snow ski equipment to count as a single checked item. This includes a bag containing one pair of skis or one snowboard and a separate boot bag containing only ski/snowboard boots. Both bags can be packed and tagged separately but will be considered one piece of checked luggage, even though they are separate pieces.
Size and Weight Limits: While ski and snowboard bags are often oversized, Southwest waives the standard "oversize" fee for them. However, standard "overweight" fees still apply. Each bag must be under 50 pounds to avoid an overweight fee. If the combined weight of your ski/snowboard bag and boot bag exceeds 50 pounds, a fee will be applied. It's a great idea to weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport.
Proper Packing: To prevent damage, all equipment, including skis, poles, and snowboards, must be packed in a durable container or bag acceptable to the carrier. While Southwest accepts equipment packed in a plastic bag, they will transport it only with a limited release of liability, meaning they are not responsible for damage that occurs during handling. A rigid or hard-sided case is always recommended.
Other Items in Ski/Snowboard Bag: Your ski/snowboard bag should only contain your skis/snowboard, poles, and a pair of boots. You may be asked to open the bag for inspection. If the bag contains other items, such as clothing or personal belongings, it may be subject to additional fees.
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To check in for a flight with your ski or snowboard equipment, you must go to the ticket counter. Follow these steps for a compliant and easy process:
Pack Securely: Before you even leave for the airport, ensure your equipment is packed securely in a proper bag. Double-check the weight of both your ski/snowboard bag and your boot bag.
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 equipment, which may require you to go to a separate oversized baggage line, and proceed through security without feeling rushed.
Go to the Ticket Counter: Head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Inform the agent that you are checking ski or snowboard equipment.
Present Your Equipment: Present your equipment bags for inspection and weighing. The agent will confirm that they meet the weight limits and are properly packed.
Tag Your Items: The agent will place luggage tags on both your ski/snowboard bag and your boot bag. Even though they are tagged separately, they will be coded as a single item for baggage purposes. They may also apply a limited release of liability tag if your bag is not a hard-sided case.
Proceed to the Oversized Baggage Drop: Because of their length, your ski or snowboard bags will not be accepted on the standard baggage carousel. The agent will direct you to a special oversized baggage drop-off area where you will place your bags.
Hold Onto Your Boots: As an alternative, you can place your boots in a separate bag and carry them on with you. This can help to reduce the weight of your checked bag and ensure your boots arrive with you.
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Q1: Do I have to pay to check my ski or snowboard bag?
A1: Your ski or snowboard bag, including a separate boot bag, can count as one of your two free checked bags. Overweight fees will apply if the bags exceed 50 pounds.
Q2: Can I put my boots in a separate bag from my skis?
A2: Yes, Southwest's policy allows you to pack a pair of skis or a snowboard in one bag and a pair of boots in a separate bag, and they will still count as a single checked item.
Q3: Is there an oversized baggage fee for my ski bag?
A3: Southwest waives the oversized baggage fee for ski and snowboard equipment. However, if the bag is overweight, a fee will apply.
Q4: Can I check my ski equipment at the self-service kiosk?
A4: While you can use a self-service kiosk to tag your other bags, you must check your oversized ski or snowboard bag at the ticket counter with an agent.
Q5: What happens if my bag is overweight?
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Q6: What about my helmet?
A6: Your helmet can be packed in your ski/snowboard bag, your boot bag, your carry-on, or a personal item.
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Q8: What is the check-in deadline for ski gear?
A8: The standard check-in deadlines apply, but due to the special procedures, it is highly recommended that you arrive at least two hours early.
Q9: Do I have to declare my ski equipment at check-in?
A9: Yes, you should verbally declare that you are checking ski or snowboard equipment so that the agent can ensure all regulations are met.
Q10: Can I use a regular suitcase for my ski gear?
A10: A regular suitcase is not recommended for ski or snowboard equipment due to its length. The equipment must be packed in a durable container or bag that can withstand normal baggage handling.
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