Southwest Airlines is a popular airline that offers low fares, no change fees, and two free checked bags. However, unlike some other airlines, Southwest Airlines does not have a baggage tracking service that lets you see where your bags are and when they will arrive. You can only check your bags at the airport and hope for the best. In this article, we will tell you why Southwest Airlines does not have baggage tracking, what to do if your bags lost, delayed, or damaged, and how to prevent baggage issues in the future.
The Reason Behind the Lack of Baggage Tracking
Some major airlines, such as Delta, American, and United, have a baggage tracking service that allows you to scan your bag tags with your phone or enter your confirmation numbers on their website or app and see the real-time status and location of your bags. You can also get notifications or alerts when your bags ready to picked up.
However, Southwest Airlines does not have this service. According to a post on the Southwest Airlines Community forum, Southwest Airlines does not have this IT enhancement even though the major carriers do have it. The post also suggests that this service should made available forthwith by Southwest Airlines IT department.
The reason why Southwest Airlines does not have baggage tracking is not clear. It may be because of the cost, complexity, or compatibility of implementing such a system. It may also be because Southwest Airlines has a different business model and philosophy than other airlines. Southwest Airlines known for its low fares, no change fees, and two free checked bags policy. It may not see the need or the benefit of investing in baggage tracking, especially if it has a high rate of baggage delivery and customer satisfaction.
The Steps to Take If Your Baggage Is Lost, Delayed, or Damaged
Even though Southwest Airlines does not have baggage tracking, it still tries to ensure that your baggage arrives safely and on time at your destination. However, sometimes things can go wrong and your baggage may lost, delayed, or damaged. In that case, what can you do?
According to the Southwest Airlines website , if your baggage lost, delayed, or damaged, you should make a report in person to the Baggage Service Office (located in the baggage claim area or at the ticket counter). You can also scan a QR code outside the Baggage Service Offices to make a report. And you should do this as soon as possible, preferably within four hours of your arrival. You will need to provide your baggage claim check, boarding pass, and a photo ID. You will also need to describe your baggage and its contents. And you will then receive a report number and a phone number to call for updates.
Southwest Airlines will try to locate and deliver your baggage as soon as possible. You can also check the status of your baggage online by entering your report number and last name on the BagAgent Portal. If your baggage delayed for more than 24 hours, you may be eligible for reimbursement of reasonable interim expenses, such as toiletries and clothing. You will need to submit receipts and a claim form to Southwest Airlines within 45 days of your arrival.
If your baggage damaged, you should also report it to the Baggage Service Office within four hours of your arrival. You will need to show your damaged baggage and complete a claim form. Southwest Airlines will either repair your baggage or reimburse you for the cost of repair or replacement, depending on the extent of the damage and the original value of the baggage.
The Tips to Follow to Avoid Baggage Problems in the Future
While Southwest Airlines does not have baggage tracking, there are some things you can do to avoid baggage problems in the future. Here are some tips:
- Check the baggage policies and fees of Southwest Airlines before you fly. Make sure your baggage meets the size and weight limits and does not contain any prohibited items. You can check up to two bags for free, but each bag must not exceed 50 pounds and 62 inches in size (length + width + height). If your bag is overweight, oversize, or extra, you will have to pay additional fees. You can find more information about baggage policies and fees on the Southwest Airlines website.
- Label your baggage clearly and securely. Attach a tag or sticker with your name, address, phone number, and email address to your baggage. You can also include your flight number and destination. This will help Southwest Airlines identify and return your baggage if it lost or delayed. You can also use a distinctive color, pattern, or accessory to make your baggage stand out from others.
- Pack your valuables, essentials, and medications in your carryon baggage. You allowed to bring one carryon bag and one personal item on board. Your carryon bag should fit in the overhead bin and your personal item should fit under your seat. You should pack your valuables, such as jewelry, electronics, documents, and money, in your carryon baggage. You should also pack your essentials, such as toiletries, clothing, and chargers, and your medications, in case your checked baggage delayed or lost. You can find more information about carryon baggage on the Southwest Airlines website.
- Keep your baggage claim check and boarding pass with you. You will need these documents to claim your baggage at your destination. You will also need them to report any baggage problems to the Baggage Service Office. Do not lose or discard them until you receive your baggage safely and in good condition.
- Arrive at the airport early and check your baggage at least 45 minutes before your departure. This will give you enough time to check in, go through security, and board your flight. It will also reduce the risk of your baggage delayed or misplaced. If you check your baggage within 45 minutes of departure, Southwest Airlines will not be responsible for any baggage problems. You should also avoid flying standby after checking your baggage, as this may cause your baggage to separated from you.
Summary
Southwest Airlines does not offer any baggage tracking service for its customers. You can only check your baggage at the airport and hope that it will arrive safely and on time at your destination. If your baggage lost, delayed, or damaged, you should report it to the Baggage Service Office as soon as possible and follow the instructions given by Southwest Airlines. You can also check the status of your baggage online by using the BagAgent Portal.
To avoid baggage problems in the future, you should follow the baggage policies and fees of Southwest Airlines, label your baggage clearly and securely, pack your valuables, essentials, and medications in your carryon baggage, keep your baggage claim check and boarding pass with you, and arrive at the airport early and check your baggage at least 45 minutes before your departure. We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. Have a safe and pleasant flight with Southwest Airlines!
