Going to Napa and want to bring back a 3L bottle and check it with the check in agents. Came across Southwest Sip and Ship program where you can bring back a package of wine without the checked bag fee. The 3L would be in special styrofoam packaging which would exceed Southwest requirements but they also require a “sealed, leak-proof plastic bag with professional packaging to prevent breakage.” See policy below. I am not aware of any truly sealable plastic bags for 3L, I have only seen in 750ml. Best option seems to be a sturdy oven or turkey bag sealed with duct tape. Called Southwest and they were nice but said check in agent would have to confirm if its acceptable. We will talk to the check in agents when we land but wanted to check to see if anyone had issues with shipping large format wine back on Southwest in terms of wine in a “sealed, leak-proof bag.”
Please understand the reason I ask is that we lost $600 of wine last week on Delta as we checked in 42 minutes before our departure with our full wine suitcase and they rejected the bag due to a 45 minute requirement for liquids. Thus we had to leave our wine in the car for 5 days in 90 degree Dallas heat while we enjoyed Key West. We have traveled with wine for over 5 years and never had an issue until last week. Thus, I want to make sure we make sure we don’t get screwed again.
Pack your wine in a sturdy, leak-proof container—but don’t seal it.
- The container must be a single box or specialized wine suitcase.
- Your bottles must be placed inside a sealed, leak-proof, plastic bag with professional packaging to prevent breakage.
- Additional leak-proof packaging including packing materials such as Styrofoam, molded foam inserts, cardboard liners, bubble wrap, and additional padding of glass packaging is strongly recommended.