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Surfboard as a Checked Bag: A surfboard, including its bag, is accepted as one piece of checked baggage. It is subject to a $75 one-way charge in addition to any applicable overweight baggage fees. It's a key distinction that unlike some other sports equipment, a surfboard is not a free substitute for a standard checked bag, except on interisland flights in Hawaii.
Size and Weight Limits: Southwest Airlines accepts surfboards as long as they are properly packaged in a hard-sided carrying case and do not exceed 80 inches in length. Standard overweight fees still apply; each bag must be under 50 pounds to avoid an overweight fee. If your surfboard bag exceeds the 50-pound limit, you will be charged an overweight fee. The length limitation for surfboards is significant, as boards over 80 inches (203 cm) may not be accepted. It's a great idea to measure and weigh your bag at home before heading to the airport.
Proper Packing: To prevent damage, your surfboard must be packed in a suitable bag. Southwest will accept surfboards packed in soft-sided bags, but they will be transported with a "limited release of liability." This means the airline is not responsible for damage that occurs during handling. A rigid or hard-sided case is always recommended for protecting your valuable board. You should remove the fins, or if they are permanently affixed, protect them with padding.
Other Items in Surfboard Bag: Your surfboard bag should only contain surf-related items, such as a wetsuit, leash, and wax. Packing other items may subject the bag to additional fees and can cause it to no longer be considered "surfboard equipment," thereby invalidating the oversized baggage fee waiver. You may be asked to open the bag for inspection.
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To check in for a flight with your surfboard, you must go to the ticket counter. Follow these steps for a compliant and easy process:
Prepare in Advance: The most important step is to prepare your board at home. Remove the fins and protect the nose and tail with foam or bubble wrap. Pack the board securely in a durable bag. Double-check the weight of your bag to ensure it is under 50 pounds.
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 will 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. Verbally and clearly declare that you are checking a surfboard. The agent will then guide you through the process.
Present Your Equipment: Present your surfboard bag for inspection and weighing. The agent will confirm that it meets the length and weight limits and is properly packed. You will also be asked to pay the $75 surfboard fee at this time.
Tag Your Item: The agent will place a luggage tag on your surfboard bag. 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, surfboards 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 bag.
Hold Onto Fragile Items: It is a good idea to pack any fragile or valuable items, such as your fins or a camera, in your carry-on luggage to ensure their safety.
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Clarify Policies and Fees: The rules around oversized sporting equipment can be confusing and change over time. An agent can clarify the policy for your specific gear and confirm the most up-to-date fees. For example, they can confirm if your specific itinerary includes free surfboard travel, such as on interisland flights in Hawaii.
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Q1: Do I have to pay to check my surfboard?
A1: Yes, a surfboard is subject to a $75 one-way fee, in addition to any applicable overweight fees.
Q2: Is there an oversized baggage fee for my surfboard?
A2: A surfboard is subject to a flat fee of $75, which covers the oversized nature of the item. An overweight fee will be applied separately if the bag exceeds 50 pounds.
Q3: What if my surfboard is over the 80-inch length limit?
A3: Southwest Airlines will not accept surfboards over 80 inches in length. You may need to consider a different airline or shipping your board via a separate carrier.
Q4: Can I check my surfboard at the self-service kiosk?
A4: No, you must check your surfboard at the ticket counter with an agent.
Q5: Can I pack other items in my surfboard bag?
A5: You can pack surf-related items like a wetsuit, leash, and wax. Packing other items may subject the bag to additional fees and can cause it to no longer be considered "surfboard equipment."
Q6: What happens if my bag is overweight?
A6: An overweight baggage fee will be charged if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. This fee is separate from the $75 surfboard fee.
Q7: Can a phone agent assist with a last-minute flight change?
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Q8: What is the check-in deadline for a surfboard?
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 surfboard at check-in?
A9: Yes, you must verbally declare that you are checking a surfboard so that the agent can ensure all regulations are met.
Q10: What about the fins?
A10: The fins must be removed, or if they are permanently attached, they must be properly protected. They can be packed with the board in the bag or in your carry-on luggage.
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