| Need to Know: Southwest Airlines’ Policy Change |
|---|
| – Southwest Airlines ends its two free checked bags policy on May 28, 2025, for most passengers. |
| – Book by May 27, 2025, to secure free checked bags, regardless of travel date. |
| – A-List Preferred, Business Select, and select customers retain free bag benefits. |
Southwest Airlines, long celebrated for its customer-friendly perks, is making a seismic shift that has travelers buzzing. After 54 years of offering two free checked bags to all passengers, the airline announced it will start charging for checked luggage on flights booked on or after May 28, 2025. This change marks the end of an era for Southwest Airlines, a carrier that built its brand on no hidden fees, open seating, and, of course, those beloved free bags. If you’re planning to fly with Southwest, now is the time to act—book by May 27, 2025, to lock in two free checked bags, no matter when you travel. This move, driven by pressure to boost profits, has sparked mixed reactions, with loyal flyers wondering if Southwest will lose its unique charm.
Why Southwest Airlines Is Dropping Free Bags
For decades, Southwest Airlines stood out in a sea of nickel-and-diming competitors. Its “Bags Fly Free” slogan wasn’t just marketing—it was a promise. Travelers could check two bags, each up to 50 pounds, without paying a cent. This policy attracted budget-conscious flyers, families, and even those packing heavy for long trips. But financial pressures have shifted the airline’s strategy. In 2023, Southwest earned just $73 million in baggage fees, a fraction compared to American Airlines’ $1.4 billion or United’s $1.2 billion. With activist investors pushing for higher profits, Southwest decided to align with industry norms.
The change, effective for bookings after May 27, 2025, aims to increase revenue while rewarding loyal customers. Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and Business Select fare passengers will still enjoy two free checked bags. A-List members and Southwest credit cardholders get one free bag. Everyone else? You’ll pay for both, though the airline hasn’t yet revealed the fee structure. Expect prices to mirror competitors, likely $35-$45 per bag, based on industry standards.
Who’s Exempt from the New Fees?
Not every Southwest Airlines passenger will face baggage fees. The airline is keen to keep its most loyal customers happy, so it’s carved out exceptions:
- Business Select Fares: These premium tickets still include two free checked bags.
- A-List Preferred Members: Top-tier Rapid Rewards members keep their two free bags.
- A-List Members and Credit Cardholders: They’ll get one free checked bag.
- Hawaii Inter-Island Travelers: Residents flying between Hawaiian islands retain two free bags.
If you’re a casual flyer booking a Wanna Get Away or Basic fare after May 27, brace for fees. Southwest’s website promises more details on pricing closer to the rollout date, but for now, booking early is your best bet to avoid costs.
How This Impacts Southwest Airlines’ Brand
Southwest Airlines has long been the darling of budget travelers, thanks to its no-frills, customer-first approach. The free bags policy was a cornerstone of that identity, often cited as the top reason passengers chose Southwest over rivals. But this change, coupled with other recent shifts like assigned seating and basic economy fares, makes the airline feel more like Delta or United. Some loyalists are already reconsidering their allegiance, with travelers like Maddi Bourgerie, an Austin-based marketing director, saying the free bags were why she stuck with Southwest.
Analysts warn this could dent Southwest’s brand. One industry expert called it “the slaying of a sacred cow,” noting that competitors see an opportunity to poach Southwest’s customers. Yet, the airline’s stock rose nearly 9% after the announcement, suggesting investors are optimistic about the revenue boost. Southwest expects the fees to add hundreds of millions to its bottom line, but at what cost to customer loyalty?
What’s Next for Southwest Airlines Passengers?
As Southwest Airlines navigates this new chapter, travelers have a narrow window to take advantage of the old policy. Book your flights by May 27, 2025, and you’ll still get two free checked bags, even if you’re traveling months later. This deadline is critical for anyone planning summer vacations or holiday trips. Beyond bags, Southwest is rolling out other changes: assigned seating starts in 2026, flight credits will expire within a year, and Rapid Rewards points will vary based on fare price. These moves aim to modernize the airline but risk alienating its core fanbase.
For now, Southwest remains a leader in operational performance, boasting a 98.3% flight completion rate in 2025. The airline is also expanding, with flights now bookable on Expedia and a new partnership with Icelandair. But as it sheds its quirky, customer-first image, Southwest must find new ways to stand out. Will lower fares or better service keep travelers loyal? Only time will tell.
Act Now to Save on Your Next Flight
Don’t miss your chance to book Southwest Airlines flights with two free checked bags. The clock is ticking—reservations made by May 27, 2025, lock in this perk, no matter when you fly. Check Southwest’s website or Expedia now to secure your tickets and avoid future baggage fees. Whether you’re a loyal Rapid Rewards member or a first-time flyer, planning ahead will save you money and hassle.