With an overnight connection, you will have a layover of up to eight hours in a connecting city during the middle of the night. Young Travelers and Unaccompanied Minors may not travel on itineraries with overnight connections.
What to expect at the airport during an overnight connection
Baggage
You will not be able to retrieve any checked bags, so we recommend you keep any needed medication and other necessities in a carryon bag or personal item. Customers are responsible for their carryon and personal items while at the airport.
Food
We recommend carrying food or snacks with you to ensure you have what you need overnight. Some airports may have limited options like vending machines available within the terminal.
Leaving the airport
You can leave the airport, but you will not be able to reenter the terminal until the TSA security checkpoint reopens (TSA checkpoint hours vary by airport). Please check the TSA hours for your specific airport before exiting the secure area.
Restroom availability
Restrooms are open 24/7 at all participating airports at which Southwest offers overnight connections. Please follow the signs and directions at the airport.
Help at the airport
While a Customer Service Agent may not be available in the airport overnight, you can contact us. Alternatively, you can search the Help Center for additional information.
Suggestions for your overnight connection
If you have space in your carryon, we recommend that you bring items that will make your overnight stay more pleasant such as:
- Medication
- Snacks
- Blanket/pillow
- Eye mask
- Ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones
- Entertainment such as books, electronic gaming devices, etc.
- Chargers for your electronic devices
- Toiletries such as a toothbrush/toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
