Southwest Baggage Policy Changes 2025
May 28, 2025 marked a significant shift for Southwest Airlines as they introduced checked baggage fees for most passengers. This comprehensive guide explains exactly what changed, who's affected, and strategies to navigate the new policy.
Timeline of Changes
Before
May 27, 2025
Original "Bags Fly Free" Policy
All passengers received 2 free checked bags (up to 50 lbs, 62 inches each) regardless of fare type or status
Change Date
May 28, 2025
New Fee Structure Implemented
Baggage fees introduced: $35 for first bag, $45 for second bag. Policy aligned with other major U.S. carriers
Current
2025 & Beyond
Tiered System Active
Status members, credit card holders, premium fares, and military continue to receive free bag benefits
What Changed vs. What Stayed the Same
What Changed
- • Standard passengers now pay $35 for first bag
- • Second bag costs $45 (previously free)
- • Basic fare no longer includes free checked bags
- • Fees apply to both domestic and international flights
- • "Bags Fly Free" marketing discontinued
What Stayed the Same
- • Carry-on bags remain free for everyone
- • A-List Preferred: 2 free bags
- • Active military: unlimited free bags
- • Credit card holders: 1 free bag + companions
- • Weight limits: 50 lbs standard, surcharges apply
New Fee Structure Breakdown
| Passenger Type | Before May 28 | After May 28 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Passenger (1st bag) | $0 | $35 | +$35 |
| Standard Passenger (2nd bag) | $0 | $45 | +$45 |
| A-List Preferred | 2 free | 2 free | No change |
| A-List | 2 free | 1 free | -1 free bag |
| Credit Card Holder | 2 free | 1 free | -1 free bag |
| Choice Extra Fare | 2 free | 2 free | No change |
| Active-Duty Military | Unlimited | Unlimited | No change |
Grandfathered Tickets
Legacy Policy for Old Bookings
Southwest honored their commitment to passengers who booked before the policy change went into effect.
Tickets Issued Before May 28, 2025
Passengers with tickets purchased before May 28, 2025, regardless of travel date, still receive 2 free checked bags under the old policy. This applied even if the actual flight occurred after the change date.
Tickets Issued On or After May 28, 2025
All new bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, are subject to the new fee structure, even if the flight departs months later.
Why Did Southwest Make This Change?
Official Reasons Cited
- 1
Revenue Optimization
Aligning with industry standards to generate ancillary revenue and improve profitability
- 2
Competitive Pressure
All other major U.S. carriers charge bag fees; Southwest was leaving money on the table
- 3
Fare Unbundling
Allows lower base fares while passengers pay for only services they use
- 4
Loyalty Program Enhancement
Creates stronger incentive for status members and credit card holders
How to Avoid the New Fees
Free Bag Strategies
- • Get Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card ($69/year)
- • Earn A-List status (25 one-way flights or 35,000 points)
- • Book Choice Extra fare (includes 2 free bags)
- • Travel only with carry-on bags (still free)
- • Ship items separately via USPS/UPS for long trips
Cost Reduction Tips
- • Pack light and use compression bags
- • Wear heavy items on the plane
- • Share bags with travel companions
- • Consider one checked bag vs two for families
- • Use loyalty points to offset baggage costs
Impact on Different Traveler Types
Occasional Leisure Travelers
Impact: High. Passengers who fly 1-2 times per year will now pay $35-45 per bag each way.
Strategy: Pack carry-on only or get Southwest credit card if checking bags regularly.
Frequent Business Travelers
Impact: Low. Most will have A-List or A-List Preferred status through regular flying.
Strategy: Continue earning status through business travel; fees unlikely to affect you.
Families
Impact: Very High. A family of 4 with 2 bags each pays $320 in fees round-trip.
Strategy: Get credit card ($69/year) for free bags for all on same reservation - saves $251/year with just one trip.
Military Members
Impact: None. Active-duty military continue to receive unlimited free checked bags up to 100 lbs.
Strategy: Present military ID at check-in to receive benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
I booked my flight in April 2025 but fly in July 2025. Do I get free bags?
Yes, if you purchased your ticket before May 28, 2025, you're grandfathered into the old policy and receive 2 free checked bags regardless of when you actually fly.
Will Southwest ever bring back "Bags Fly Free" for everyone?
While Southwest hasn't ruled it out, industry analysts consider it unlikely. The revenue from baggage fees helps the airline remain competitive. However, they continue to offer free bags through status, credit cards, and premium fares.
Are the fees the same for international flights?
Yes, the $35 first bag and $45 second bag fees apply to all Southwest flights, whether domestic or international to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
What if I changed my booking from before May 28 to after?
If you substantially changed your reservation (new dates, destinations) after May 28, 2025, the new baggage fees may apply even if originally booked earlier. Contact Southwest directly to confirm your specific situation.
Did other Southwest policies change at the same time?
No, Southwest's other signature policies remain intact: no change fees, no seat assignments (open seating), free same-day standby, and companion pass benefits all continue unchanged.
Can I get a refund if I paid for bags before the policy change?
Southwest did not charge baggage fees before May 28, 2025, so this scenario wouldn't apply. However, if you paid fees for overweight or third bags before the change, those fees would not be refunded as they were legitimate charges.
Calculate Your New Baggage Costs
Understand exactly how the 2025 policy changes affect your specific travel situation. Use our calculator to see your costs under the new fee structure.
Calculate My Fees Under New Policy →Related: Does Southwest have free bags? · Current fee amounts · How to get free bags · Full baggage policy · All fee types · Carry-on guide
All information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available data. Fee information was last verified against official Southwest baggage policy in March 2026. While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained on this website.
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