Southwest Airlines Ends Free Checked Bags – What You Need to Know

Introduction

For decades, Southwest Airlines stood out in the competitive airline industry by offering two free checked bags to passengers—a policy that set it apart from other major U.S. airlines. However, in a recent policy shift, Southwest Airlines has announced that free checked bags will soon be a thing of the past, making way for new baggage fees.

This major change has left frequent flyers wondering how it will impact their travel expenses and whether Southwest’s pricing advantage over other airlines will remain intact. Here’s everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines’ new baggage policy, fees, and what travelers should expect.

Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Policy Update

Southwest Airlines’ decision to eliminate free checked bags comes amid rising operational costs and pressure to increase revenue. The airline has long marketed its “Bags Fly Free” slogan, but starting May 28, 2025, the policy will change significantly.

Key Changes to Southwest Airline Baggage Check Policy:

✅ New Baggage Fees – Passengers who don’t qualify for exemptions will now have to pay for checked bags.
✅ Who Gets Free Bags? – Only Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, Business Select passengers, and Southwest credit card holders will receive free checked bags.
✅ Fee Schedule Not Yet Announced – Southwest hasn’t disclosed exact baggage fees, but industry experts estimate charges similar to competitors ($30-$40 per checked bag).
✅ New Fare Class Introduced – Along with baggage fee changes, Southwest is rolling out a Basic Fare for budget-conscious travelers.

This marks a huge shift for Southwest, which built a loyal customer base by avoiding hidden fees and offering a more transparent pricing structure.

Why is Southwest Airlines Changing Its Baggage Policy?

Many travelers are wondering: Why would Southwest Airlines introduce baggage fees after years of free checked bags? The answer lies in financial performance and competition.

🔸 Increased Revenue: Charging for checked bags could bring in an estimated $1.5 billion annually, helping Southwest recover lost profits.
🔸 Pressure from Investors: Activist investors have been urging the airline to increase revenue streams, including baggage fees.
🔸 Competitive Alignment: Other airlines like Delta, American, and United already charge for checked bags. By following suit, Southwest can remain competitive while generating additional income.
🔸 Operational Costs: Rising fuel prices, labor costs, and fleet maintenance expenses have pushed airlines to look for new revenue streams.

How Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees Compare to Other Airlines

While Southwest hasn’t officially announced its new baggage fees, it’s expected to align with industry standards. Here’s a comparison of baggage fees from other major U.S. airlines:

These prices indicate that Southwest will likely charge similar rates, putting an end to its long-standing free baggage policy.

Will Southwest Airlines Still Be a Budget-Friendly Option?

For many travelers, the introduction of checked baggage fees raises concerns about affordability. One of Southwest’s biggest selling points was transparent pricing—unlike other airlines that rely on hidden fees.

However, Southwest still retains several budget-friendly advantages:

✅ No Change Fees: Southwest remains one of the few airlines that doesn’t charge change or cancellation fees, giving travelers flexibility.
✅ Free Carry-On Bags: The airline continues to allow one free carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger.
✅ Rapid Rewards Benefits: Frequent flyers with elite status will still get free checked bags and priority boarding.

While the introduction of baggage fees is disappointing for some, Southwest remains one of the most flexible and customer-friendly airlines in the U.S.

Passenger Reactions to Southwest’s Baggage Fee Policy

Travelers have taken to social media platforms to express their thoughts on Southwest Airlines eliminating free checked bags.

🗣️ Frequent flyer John M. tweeted:
“I always chose Southwest because of the free checked bags. Now that they’re charging like everyone else, I might as well book with Delta or United.”

🗣️ Budget traveler Sarah K. commented:
“I get that airlines need to make money, but this is disappointing. I might just pack lighter and stick to a carry-on.”

🗣️ Travel blogger Lisa R. posted:
“It was only a matter of time before Southwest joined the baggage fee club. At least they still don’t charge change fees!”

Reactions have been mixed, with some passengers understanding the financial necessity behind the change, while others feel Southwest is losing its unique appeal.

Tips to Avoid Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Fees

If you’re a frequent Southwest traveler and want to avoid paying baggage fees, here are some tips:

🎒 Stick to Carry-Ons: Southwest still allows free carry-ons—pack light to avoid paying for checked baggage.
💳 Use a Southwest Credit Card: Cardholders receive one free checked bag as a perk.
🏆 Join Rapid Rewards: Frequent flyers who reach A-List or A-List Preferred status still get free checked bags.
🎟️ Book Business Select Tickets: Although more expensive, Business Select fares include two free checked bags.
👕 Use Packing Strategies: Travel with space-saving packing cubes to fit everything into your carry-on.

Conclusion

The end of Southwest Airlines’ free checked bags policy marks a significant change for one of the most customer-friendly airlines in the industry. While it’s a disappointing shift for budget travelers, Southwest still offers several perks, including free carry-ons and flexible booking policies.

As the airline joins the ranks of competitors charging baggage fees, travelers will need to adjust their packing strategies and consider rewards programs to minimize costs.

📢 What do you think about Southwest Airlines ending free checked bags? Share your thoughts in the comments below!