Sip and Ship

Southwest Airlines is giving wine lovers a reason to raise a glass and bring the whole case home with them. 🍷✈️

The airline’s new “Sip and Ship” program, launching April 24, lets travelers flying out of select West Coast wine destinations check one full case of wine for free. No more awkward suitcase stuffing or praying your cabernet survives baggage claim.

Southwest says the goal is simple: make your wine country getaway last a little longer. Chief Operating Officer Andrew Watterson says the program is all about convenience and letting travelers keep the good vibes flowing long after the trip ends.

Here’s how it works: a “case” means one box or wine suitcase holding up to 12 bottles, weighing no more than 50 pounds. Bottles must be unopened, properly labeled, and packed securely. Yes, you’ve got to be 21 or older to take part.

The timing isn’t random either. Southwest is expanding its California footprint, adding a new route to Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa. With nonstop flights to San Diego, Las Vegas, Denver, and Burbank, getting to wine country and back with your liquid souvenirs, just got a whole lot easier.

Cheers to that!
Lana Backman