One child over 14 days and under 2 years of age, not occupying a seat, may be carried as a Lap Child when traveling with an adult (18 years of age or older).

• Each adult may travel with one Lap Child.
• A Lap Child can be carried free of charge domestically. For international travel, applicable government-imposed taxes and fees must be paid.

If a child is not eligible to travel as a Lap Child (either because the child has reached age 2 or because the accompanying Passenger is not 18 years of age or older), a seat must be purchased for the child.

Identification

Southwest^® accepts original or photocopied government-issued identification as the only valid proof that a child is under two (2) years old and eligible to travel as a lap child. Acceptable documents include a passport, birth certificate, or government-issued photo identification card. Electronic versions such as screenshots, photos, or immunization records are not accepted. Southwest personnel may request proof of age. If proof cannot be provided, a ticket must be purchased for the child at the applicable fare. If an adjacent seat is not available on the original flight, Southwest will assist the family in rebooking on the next flight with available seats.

Using Child Restraint Systems (CRS)/Car Seats Onboard

Purchasing a seat for your child is the only way you will be able to ensure that a CRS can be used onboard. Car seats cannot be placed in an aisle seat, and we prefer that they be placed in a window seat. A car seat cannot be placed in a middle seat if it blocks the exit path of a Customer in the window seat.

Baby carriers/wraps for baby wearing or any device that secures a child to the body or lap of another person cannot be used for taxi, takeoff, and landing per FAA safety regulations.

Learn more about accepted CRS.

Checking Strollers and Child Restraint Systems (CRS)/Car Seats

When traveling with a child(ren), an accompanying Customer may check one (1) stroller and one (1) car seat/child restraint system per child free of charge. Strollers and child restraint systems are transported only with a limited release of liability.

Items such as portable/folding cribs or ‘pack and plays’ count as regular bags and our checked baggage policy will apply. See details about our baggage policies

A Lap Child may not check or carry on any baggage. Review our carryon policy.

Learn more about traveling with formula or while nursing.

Learn more about the boarding experience when traveling with children.

Learn more about the seating experience when traveling with children.