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✈️ Need to Know Before You Fly Southwest
- Last Day: You must book or change your flight by May 27, 2025 to lock in two free checked bags.
- Big Shift: Starting May 28, Southwest Airlines will charge baggage fees for most passengers.
- Loyalty Pays: Business Select, A-List, and credit card holders can still enjoy some free bag perks.
Southwest Airlines Shakes Things Up With Major Policy Change
Southwest Airlines, long admired for its customer-friendly policies, is ending its iconic “bags fly free” perk. Beginning May 28, 2025, the airline will introduce baggage fees for most passengers — a dramatic shift in how travelers budget for flights with Southwest Airlines.
For decades, Southwest stood out as the only major U.S. airline allowing passengers to check two bags for free. That legacy is changing. Now, only a select group of flyers will continue receiving some form of complimentary luggage allowance.
The new fee-based model has stirred reactions across the travel industry, as Southwest Airlines follows the lead of its competitors in monetizing checked baggage. Passengers have just days left to take advantage of the old rules.
Who Keeps the Free Bags with Southwest Airlines?
Not everyone will be impacted equally. Here’s who still gets to enjoy free baggage benefits — and under what conditions:
| Passenger Type | Free Checked Bags | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Business Select Fare | 2 Bags | Premium fare; retains full benefit |
| A-List Preferred Members | 2 Bags | Top loyalty tier |
| A-List Members | 1 Bag | Mid-tier loyalty members get partial benefit |
| Southwest Credit Card Holders | 1 Bag | Applies to cardholder and up to 8 companions on same booking |
Passengers in Wanna Get Away, Anytime, or the newly introduced Basic Fare categories will no longer receive free checked bags unless they fall under one of the privileged categories above.
New Fare Rules and Features Introduced by Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines isn’t just stopping with baggage policy changes. It’s rolling out several new fare and service updates that reshape its brand entirely:
🔹 Basic Fare – The Lowest Price, Fewer Perks
Aimed at ultra-budget-conscious travelers, the new Basic Fare removes many of the flexibilities Southwest has been known for:
- No flight changes or same-day standby
- Flight credits expire after 6 months
- No EarlyBird Check-In options
- No free checked bags
This move mirrors competitors’ “Basic Economy” offerings, signaling a shift toward revenue-focused operations.
🔹 Assigned Seating Coming Soon
Starting in 2026, Southwest Airlines plans to transition from open seating to an assigned seat system — another historic change. Passengers will be able to:
- Select their seat when booking (at a fee)
- Pay for premium seats with more legroom
- Avoid the current “first come, first seated” process
This new seating structure could increase comfort but will likely come at a cost.
How This Affects Frequent Flyers
If you’ve relied on Southwest Airlines for affordable family vacations or business travel with zero luggage fees, this update might change how you book.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Book before May 28, 2025 – You’ll still receive two free checked bags, no matter when you travel.
- Fly after May 28 with a new booking – Expect to pay for every checked bag unless you qualify under loyalty or cardholder benefits.
- Got Rapid Rewards status or a Southwest credit card? You still have partial protection from fees.
Travelers who frequently check bags may now want to re-evaluate fare comparisons, especially if traveling as a family or with gear-heavy luggage.
What You Should Do Now
If you’re planning a trip — for business, summer vacation, or a last-minute getaway — don’t wait. Book now.
Lock in:
- Two free checked bags
- Flexible ticket changes (unless Basic Fare)
- Avoid upcoming charges and restrictions
This is your final chance to fly Southwest Airlines under the old, traveler-friendly rules. Once May 28 hits, it’s a new game — one that may cost more and offer less flexibility.
Final Thoughts: The End of an Era
The phase-out of free checked bags marks the end of a signature Southwest Airlines advantage. While other changes — like assigned seating and Basic Fares — are designed to keep prices competitive, they may come with hidden costs.
If you’ve been loyal to Southwest for its simplicity and perks, this shift could feel like a letdown. But it also opens the door to new benefits for travelers willing to pay for premium options or maintain elite status.
One thing is clear: change is here. So, if two free checked bags made Southwest your go-to airline, it’s time to book while you still can.
Don’t Miss Your Last Free Bags!
You’ve got until May 27, 2025 to secure Southwest flights with two free checked bags. Book now to lock in savings before these changes go live.