We understand how difficult flying can be as a family with small children, but our flight on Southwest Airlines from Miami International Airport's Terminal 5 was actually refreshing. The typical travel-day stress was instantly reduced when we arrived because the terminal felt controlled, tidy, and simple to use. Getting our boarding passes and checking our bags was a breeze thanks to the self-service kiosks and the friendly staff at Southwest's check-in counters. We were able to pack comfortably for our family vacation without worrying about additional costs thanks to Southwest's generous baggage policy, which included two free checked bags per person. Security was quick and, more importantly, handled by TSA agents who were understanding and kind with our kids. Inside the terminal, we found plenty of seating near our gate, clean restrooms, and convenient snack options that worked well for picky eaters. The space wasn’t overly crowded, which made it easier to keep our group together and entertained until boarding. We especially appreciated that Southwest allows families with young children to board early, giving us peace of mind that we’d find seats together without hassle. The entire process felt organized and family-focused — a big win when you're traveling with little ones. While Terminal 5 isn’t the most high-tech or flashy part of MIA, its simplicity worked in our favor. Less noise, fewer crowds, and shorter distances all added up to a smooth, pleasant experience that stood out from past trips through larger, busier terminals. Flying with Southwest at MIA turned what’s often a chaotic process into a surprisingly easy and even enjoyable day of travel.