What is Southwest Airlines policy for infants?


Flying with a baby can feel like a big step, especially if it’s your first time doing it. From booking tickets to packing essentials, parents want clarity, not confusion. The good news is that Southwest Airlines keeps things refreshingly simple when it comes to traveling with infants. Their rules are easy to understand, family-friendly, and designed to reduce stress rather than add to it.

Below is a clear, human-friendly explanation of Southwest Airlines’ infant policy, written to help parents plan confidently and travel comfortably.

How Southwest Defines an Infant

Southwest Airlines considers an infant as a child under 2 years old. As long as your child has not reached their second birthday on the day of travel, they qualify as an infant under Southwest’s rules.

Once a child turns two, they must travel in their own seat and have a purchased ticket, just like any other passenger.

Lap Infant Policy on Southwest Airlines

Southwest allows infants under two years old to travel as lap infants. This means the baby sits on an adult’s lap for the duration of the flight instead of occupying their own seat.

Key Lap Infant Rules

  • Only one lap infant per adult is allowed

  • The infant must be held securely during taxi, takeoff, and landing

  • Lap infants do not require a separate ticket for domestic flights

This option is popular with parents because it helps keep travel costs down, especially on short trips.

Cost of Flying With an Infant on Southwest

Domestic Flights

For flights within the United States:

  • Lap infants typically fly free

  • No base fare is charged

  • Government taxes may still apply in some cases

International Flights

For international travel:

  • Lap infants are usually charged taxes and fees

  • The amount depends on the destination country

Southwest does a good job of keeping infant travel affordable, especially compared to many international carriers.

Booking an Infant on Southwest Airlines

You can add an infant to your reservation in a few ways:

  • During online booking

  • After booking by using the Manage Reservation option

  • At the airport with a Southwest agent

Parents are required to provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport, especially for lap infant travel.

For assistance with booking or adding an infant, you can also contact Flights Counsel: +1 (877) 337-0761.

Buying a Seat for Your Infant

While lap travel is allowed, Southwest also gives parents the option to purchase a separate seat for their infant.

Why Parents Choose a Separate Seat

  • More personal space

  • Increased comfort on longer flights

  • Ability to use an approved car seat

If you purchase a seat, your infant must remain secured in an FAA-approved child restraint system for taxi, takeoff, and landing.

Car Seat Rules on Southwest Airlines

Southwest is very supportive of car seat use.

Approved Car Seat Guidelines

  • Must be FAA-approved

  • Must fit within the aircraft seat

  • Can be rear-facing or forward-facing

Using a car seat can make flights feel more familiar and comfortable for babies, especially those used to riding in one.

Baggage Allowance for Infants

One of the most parent-friendly parts of Southwest’s infant policy is the baggage allowance.

Southwest allows:

  • One stroller checked free of charge

  • One car seat checked free of charge

These items do not count toward your standard baggage allowance and can usually be gate-checked for convenience.

Carry-On Items for Infants

Parents are allowed to bring essential baby items onboard, including:

  • Diaper bags

  • Baby food and formula

  • Breast milk

Southwest understands that traveling with a baby requires extra supplies, and security rules generally allow these items even if they exceed liquid limits.

Boarding Process for Families With Infants

Southwest offers Family Boarding, which makes a big difference for parents.

Family Boarding Benefits

  • Families with children under six board after Group A

  • Extra time to get settled

  • Easier access to overhead bins

This relaxed boarding process helps reduce pressure and rushing.

Seating Rules for Infants

There are a few seating guidelines to be aware of:

  • Lap infants are not allowed in exit row seats

  • Only one lap infant per seat row

  • Car seats must be placed in window seats

These rules are in place for safety and evacuation reasons.

Feeding and Comfort During the Flight

Southwest is supportive of infant care during flights.

Parents can:

  • Breastfeed openly

  • Prepare bottles onboard

  • Request warm water from flight attendants when available

Feeding during takeoff and landing often helps reduce ear pressure discomfort for infants.

Documentation for Infant Travel

For domestic flights, documentation is rarely required unless age verification is requested.

For international flights:

  • Infants must have a valid passport

  • Some destinations may require visas

  • Booking name must exactly match passport

Always double-check documentation well before travel day.

Traveling With Twins or Multiple Infants

Southwest’s rules are clear:

  • One lap infant per adult

  • A second infant requires a purchased seat

Parents traveling with twins often choose to buy at least one additional seat for safety and comfort.

Helpful Tips for Flying Southwest With an Infant

Here are a few real-world tips that make travel easier:

  • Board during family boarding, not early boarding

  • Pack extra diapers and clothes

  • Bring a lightweight stroller for gate-checking

  • Choose window seats if using a car seat

These small steps can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts on Southwest Airlines’ Infant Policy

Southwest Airlines offers one of the most parent-friendly infant policies in the industry. With free lap infant travel on domestic flights, generous baggage allowances, family boarding, and flexible seating, the airline makes flying with a baby far less intimidating.

The key is preparation. Know your options, book early if you need a seat or car seat space, and keep essential documents handy. If you need help with reservations or infant travel questions, Flights Counsel: +1 (877) 337-0761 is available to guide you.

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