Southwest Airlines New Baggage Fee Wizfair Travels

Southwest Airlines' “Bags Fly Free” is Now for a Fee

Southwest Airlines has long been a fan favorite, with its "Bags Fly Free" policy standing out as one of the most attractive perks in the airline industry. However, as of May 28, 2025, this iconic policy has undergone a major shift. For the first time in its history, Southwest will charge passengers for their first and second checked bags. This policy could change how travelers view the airline. Eventually, it comes as a significant change from the airline’s decades-long approach that allowed you two free checked bags. This practice has made its mark among its competitors in the highly competitive airline market of the US.

Let’s dive into the details of these changes, who’s impacted, and how Southwest is still offering perks to loyal customers despite the revisions.

What’s Changed with Southwest’s Baggage Policy?

The beloved “Bags Fly Free” policy has officially ended. Starting May 28, 2025, passengers who book flights under the Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, or Anytime fares will now have to pay baggage fees for checked luggage. Take a look:

First checked bag: $35
Second checked bag: $45

The charges apply to all reservations made on or after May 28, 2025, including those that undergo voluntary changes (name updates, ticket modifications, etc.). So, if you're planning to book soon, it’s important to know that Southwest no longer offers free checked bags with most fare types.

For those who do book a flight under these new rules, the airline is still offering standard weight and size restrictions for checked baggage, which passengers can verify directly at the airport.

Southwest Baggage Fees Now in Effect

For travel booked and ticketed and/or changed on or after May 28, 2025.

Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: They must pay $35 for the second bag.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: Their second bag is allowed for $45.
Hawaii residents: Pay $50 for the 3rd checked bag.
Non-Hawaii residents traveling interisland (flight must originate and conclude within Hawaii):
- First checked bag - $15
- Second checked bag - $20
- Third checked bag - $50
Non-Hawaii residents who are Rapid Rewards® A-List Members traveling
inter-island (flight must originate and conclude within Hawaii):
- First bag - Free
- Second bag - $15
- Third checked bag - $50
Non-Hawaii residents who are Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members traveling interisland (flight must originate and conclude within Hawaii): They have to pay $50 for the 3rd checked bag.

However, to know about the Southwest Groups bag policies, contact the airline directly.

Please note

Unless otherwise specified, fees are represented for one-way travel.

Who’s Exempt from the New Fees?

While most passengers will now need to pay for their checked bags, Southwest is still offering some notable exceptions, which can help loyal customers avoid the new fees:

Business Select® Fares: These high-tier bookings still come with the benefit of two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members: If you hold A-List Preferred status with Southwest, you can still bring two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards® A-List Members: A-List members will enjoy the first free checked bag. However, they must pay $35 for the second bag.
Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers: If you hold one of Southwest’s credit cards, you’ll be able to check one bag for free.
Active-duty military Customers - Both bags are free for them.
Hawaii Residents: Residents of Hawaii traveling between the islands will still receive two free checked bags, making this a welcome relief for those frequent flyers.
Non-Hawaii residents who are Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members traveling interisland (flight must originate and conclude within Hawaii): First and second checked bags are free.

Why is Southwest Making These Changes?

It’s no secret that baggage fees have become a revenue goldmine for airlines. Many U.S. airlines have charged for checked bags for years. Southwest's "Bags Fly Free" policy set it apart from other airlines. It focused on offering value instead of charging passengers extra fees.

But as costs rise and competitive pressures mount, Southwest Airlines is adjusting its approach. While the change is sure to disappoint many, it reflects the airline’s need to adapt to shifting economic conditions and the competitive pressures within the industry. And, in some ways, this policy revision may allow Southwest to continue delivering on its other key selling points, such as affordable flight options and a more customer-centric flying experience.

What Does This Mean for Travelers?

If you’ve been loyal to Southwest for the free baggage, it’s important to re-evaluate your travel options. The new fees may make you think twice about your packing strategy. But if you're a frequent flyer or a Rapid Rewards member, the airline still offers valuable benefits. In particular, the A-List and Business Select categories will allow many to bypass these fees altogether, making them worth considering for your next flight.

Additionally, with the new baggage fees in place, travelers may now need to be more strategic about packing or consider shipping luggage separately if they’re seeking to avoid the extra costs. However, for those who can take advantage of the new perks, like credit card holders and loyal status members, the transition may be a smoother one.

In Conclusion: Adapting to Change

Simply put, Southwest ending its free bags policy is a majior shift but expected. And why not? Airline travel is constantly evolving, and in an industry where additional charges are the norm, Southwest’s move aligns with the broader trend. However, the airline’s commitment to its loyal customers through exemptions and benefits is a crucial point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

At the end of the day, this policy change is a reminder that in the world of air travel, nothing stays the same forever. Whether you're a frequent flyer or simply someone who loves the value Southwest once offered, being informed about these changes will help you make better decisions as you navigate your travel experience.