Southwest Airlines has announced significant changes to its baggage policies, which will impact many passengers starting May 28. While the airline has long been known for offering free checked bags, the new policy will require some customers to pay for their luggage. Now, no airline offers free checked bags to all its customers.
Under the new rules, Southwest will continue to offer two free checked bags to Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members and customers flying on Business Select® fares. A-list Members and other select travelers will be eligible for one free checked bag. However, for most customers, the days of free checked bags will be over. Passengers who do not meet these criteria will now be required to pay for their first and second checked bags, with standard weight and size limitations still in place.
Additionally, Southwest will offer a credit for one checked bag to customers who hold a Rapid Rewards Credit Card, further emphasizing the airline’s loyalty focus.
These changes are part of a broader shift in Southwest’s strategy, as the airline aims to grow its revenue while still rewarding its most loyal customers. The new baggage policy comes alongside several other initiatives, including adjustments to the airline’s Rapid Rewards points structure, which now offers more points for Business Select fares but fewer for lower-tier Wanna Get Away® and Wanna Get Away Plus® tickets.
For those booking flights on or after May 28, 2025, the introduction of a Basic fare, Southwest’s lowest-priced option, also signals a shift toward more traditional airline practices like assigned seating and extra legroom options.
The decision to begin charging for checked bags marks a shift in Southwest’s long-standing approach to pricing and services. As the airline looks to balance rewarding its loyal customers with attracting new passengers, these changes reflect an evolving strategy to meet both business goals and customer needs.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
