DALLAS — Southwest Airlines baggage policy is changing, breaking the long-standing expectation that all passengers get two free checked bags. The airline will now limit free baggage allowances and introduce new fees for travelers who don’t qualify for exemptions. These updates take effect for flights booked on or after May 28, 2025.
Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy: Who Still Gets Free Bags?
Under the revised Southwest Airlines baggage policy, only Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select passengers will continue to receive two free checked bags. A-List Members and select travelers will get one free checked bag, while Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will receive a credit for one checked bag.
All other passengers will now have to pay for their first and second checked bags, subject to standard weight and size limits. This shift moves Southwest closer to industry norms, marking a departure from its signature two-bag-free policy.
Southwest Airlines Introduces Basic Fare with Stricter Rules
Alongside baggage policy changes, Southwest will roll out a Basic fare, its lowest-priced ticket option. Passengers choosing this fare will face restrictions, earning fewer Rapid Rewards points and receiving no flight credit flexibility. Flight credits for Basic fares will expire six months from the ticketing date, while standard credits will expire one year from purchase.
Why Southwest Airlines Is Changing Its Baggage Policy
The airline says these changes aim to increase revenue and improve profitability while still offering competitive options for loyal customers. Southwest has also updated its Rapid Rewards program, increasing points on Business Select fares but reducing them for Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fares. Additionally, the airline will introduce variable redemption rates, meaning points will fluctuate based on demand.
Operational Performance and Future Plans
Despite these adjustments, Southwest continues to lead in on-time performance. As of February 28, 2025, 98.3% of scheduled flights operated without cancellations, showing a year-over-year improvement.
Southwest Airlines is also preparing to introduce assigned seating and extra legroom options. Additionally, it recently launched its first airline partnership with Icelandair on February 13, 2025, alongside its first-ever overnight redeye flights.
What This Means for Southwest Travelers
For years, Southwest Airlines stood out as the only major U.S. carrier offering two free checked bags to all passengers. With the new Southwest Airlines baggage policy, that era is ending for many travelers. The airline’s strategy now prioritizes frequent flyers and premium fare passengers, aligning more closely with industry trends while still keeping perks for its most loyal customers.
BY YOONJAE JUNG [jung.yoonjae@koreadaily.com]
