Southwest Airlines is ditching its free checked bag policy—starting May 28, 2025, most passengers will have to pay.
Here’s what you need to know before booking your next flight.
✈️ Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy Update: Say Goodbye To Free Checked Bags
Welp, Southwest Airlines just did the unthinkable.
The airline that built its reputation on Bags Fly Free is scrapping that perk for most travelers.
Starting May 28, 2025, unless you fall into a select group, you’ll be paying to check your bags.
Here’s who still gets to skip the fees:
- Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members
- Business Select fare holders
- Southwest Airlines credit card holders (one free bag credit)
For everyone else? Expect to pay up.
While Southwest hasn’t dropped the exact numbers yet, this move aligns them with airlines like Delta and United, where checked bag fees are the norm.
📉 Why Is Southwest Doing This?
Turns out, Southwest is feeling the financial squeeze, and now, passengers are footing the bill.
After cutting 1,750 corporate jobs earlier this year—the airline’s first major layoffs in 53 years—Southwest is looking for new ways to boost revenue.
Enter: baggage fees.
It’s not just about the bags, though.
This is part of a bigger shake-up that also includes:
- Assigned seating (so long, open boarding!)
- Basic economy fares (cheaper tickets, fewer perks)
- Extra-legroom upgrades
- Red-eye flights
Southwest is betting these changes will help them stay competitive, but longtime customers might not be so thrilled.
🎟️ How This Affects Southwest Passengers
For many loyal Southwest travelers, this change is a big deal.
Just ask Dorothy Severson, who was waiting for her flight at Chicago Midway when she heard the news:
“I would rather have the free checked bags, that’s for sure. It’s one of the main reasons I still fly Southwest.”
And Southwest’s competitors? They’re rubbing their hands together.
Delta Airlines President Glen Hauenstein has already hinted that this move could send budget-conscious travelers looking for new options.
❓ FAQs About Southwest Airlines’ New Baggage Policy
1. Will Southwest still let some passengers check bags for free?
Yep, but only if you’re a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member, flying Business Select, or using a Southwest credit card (you’ll get one free bag credit). Everyone else? It’s pay-to-play.
2. When do Southwest’s baggage fees start?
The new policy kicks in for flights booked on or after May 28, 2025.
3. How much will Southwest charge for checked bags?
We don’t have the exact numbers yet, but industry experts predict fees will match competitors like Delta and United.
4. What other changes is Southwest making?
In addition to baggage fees, Southwest is rolling out assigned seating, basic economy fares, and extra-legroom upgrades as part of a broader shift in its business model.
🔎 Is Southwest Airlines Still Worth It?
Southwest, we had a good run. But now? Travelers have to rethink their options.
While the airline may still have decent fares, the loss of free checked bags takes away one of its biggest selling points.
Will this new policy change your go-to airline, or are you rocking with Southwest? Sound off in the comments!
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