After years of standing out from other airlines, Southwest is changing course. Starting May 28, 2025, passengers will now have to pay to check their bags.
What are the new baggage fees?
For flights booked on or after May 28, Southwest Airlines will charge:
- $35 for the first checked bag
- $45 for the second checked bag
This marks the end of the airline’s long-running “bags fly free” policy, bringing it in line with most other major U.S. carriers.
Who still gets free baggage?
Some passengers will continue to enjoy free checked bags based on their fare class or loyalty status. These include:
- Business Select and Choice Extra fare holders: two free checked bags
- Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members: two free checked bags
- A-List members and Southwest credit card holders: one free checked bag
Other changes coming to Southwest
The new baggage fees are just one part of a broader update to the airline’s policies. Here’s what else is changing:
Introduction of Basic Fare
A new low-cost fare class will replace the “Wanna Get Away” option. Basic fares will offer lower prices but come with added restrictions, such as no flight changes or same-day standby.
Flight credit expiration
Flight credits issued on or after May 28 will now expire. Basic fares will have a six-month expiration, while all other fare types will retain a one-year validity.
Assigned seating coming in 2026
Southwest plans to introduce assigned seating and premium seat upgrades, ending its signature open seating approach. This change is expected to launch in 2026.
Why this matters
Southwest estimates that the new baggage fees could generate around $1.5 billion per year. However, the airline also acknowledges potential losses, estimating up to $1.8 billion in lost revenue if customers choose other airlines in response to these changes.
Key updates
- Start date: May 28, 2025
- New baggage fees: $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second
- Free bag eligibility: Based on fare class or loyalty status
- Other changes: Basic fare, credit expirations, assigned seating coming in 2026
Travelers are encouraged to check their fare type and loyalty benefits before booking, as Southwest’s policies are now more in line with the rest of the airline industry.