International
Southwest Airlines international flights: what to know before you go
Southwest Airlines flies internationally to Caribbean and Mexico. International travel differs from domestic in two key ways: baggage fees are typically waived or discounted on premium fares, and passport + entry documentation rules apply to every passenger.
Where Southwest Airlines flies internationally
Caribbean and Mexico — limited international: Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Nassau, Aruba, Dominican Republic. No transatlantic service.
International checked bag fees
Passport requirements
Passport required for all Caribbean and Mexico destinations. Some may accept US passport card. Always verify entry requirements for your specific destination at travel.state.gov before you fly.
ESTA & visa notes
Not applicable for most Southwest international routes (Mexico/Caribbean destinations have their own visa/entry requirements — check each country).
Check-in times & bag cutoff
Check in online at exactly T-24 hours for the best boarding position. Arrive 2.5–3 hours early at international departure airports.
International check-in cutoffs are strict — airlines will close the flight to latecomers.
International terminals
MDW and other hubs: Southwest uses domestic terminals; international gates handled at those airports' international sections
Global Entry & trusted traveler
Global Entry helps on return through CBP kiosks. Southwest does not have dedicated international terminals at most airports. See our step-by-step guide: How to enroll in Global Entry →
Pro tip for Southwest Airlines international travelers
Southwest's 2 free bags policy applies on international routes — a major advantage vs. other carriers for vacation baggage to Caribbean/Mexico destinations.
Do I need a passport for Southwest Airlines international flights?
Yes — a valid passport is required for all Southwest Airlines international routes. Passport required for all Caribbean and Mexico destinations. Some may accept US passport card.
How much is a checked bag on Southwest Airlines international routes?
First checked bag: First 2 bags free on international routes (Southwest's signature policy). Second checked bag: Free — Southwest includes 2 checked bags free on all routes including international. Fees vary by fare class and elite status — always confirm at booking.
How early should I arrive at the airport for a Southwest Airlines international flight?
Check in online at exactly T-24 hours for the best boarding position. Arrive 2.5–3 hours early at international departure airports.
Does Southwest Airlines fly to Europe?
Southwest Airlines does not currently operate transatlantic routes to Europe. Southwest Airlines focuses on: Caribbean and Mexico — limited international: Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Nassau, Aruba, Dominican Republic. No transatlantic service.
More Southwest Airlines guides
International policy data verified . Baggage fees, passport requirements, and entry rules are subject to change — always confirm current terms at Southwest Airlines's official website before flying internationally.