Southwest Airlines is ending its “bags fly free” policy starting May 28, 2025. Most passengers will now pay for checked bags, with fees based on weight, size, and the number of bags. Key points:
- Checked Bag Fees: Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares will incur charges.
- Fee Structure:
- 1st-2nd bag: Standard fees apply.
- Overweight (51–70 lbs): $150 per bag.
- Oversized (over 62 inches): $200 per bag.
- 3rd bag and beyond: $150 per bag.
- Exemptions: Business Select passengers, A-List Preferred members, and Hawaii residents (inter-island flights) still get 2 free bags. A-List members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers get 1 free bag.
Book flights before May 28, 2025, to avoid fees, even for travel after this date. Group bookings made by January 26, 2026, also qualify for the old policy.
Prepare for these changes by evaluating your fare type, packing lighter, and leveraging loyalty or credit card perks.
Southwest Ends ‘Bags Fly Free’ – What Travelers Need to Know
When Changes Take Effect and Who They Impact
Southwest’s updated baggage policy sets a clear timeline for when the changes begin, making it easier to plan and manage your travel budget.
Start Date for New Policy
The new baggage fee structure officially starts on May 28, 2025. Any reservations finalized on or after this date will follow the updated fee guidelines. However, if you book your ticket by May 27, 2025, you’ll still enjoy the current policy of two free checked bags – even if your flight occurs after the policy change.
For group reservations, there’s an extended grace period. Group bookings finalized by January 26, 2026, will still qualify for the free baggage allowance. This provides a bit of extra flexibility for corporate groups, wedding parties, and similar travelers to secure this benefit.
It’s also worth noting how flight credits are impacted. Starting May 28, 2025, most fare credits will expire after one year, while Basic fare credits will expire in six months. However, credits issued before this date are unaffected – unless they are rebooked after the policy change.
Now, let’s break down which tickets and fare classes are impacted by these updates.
Which Tickets Are Affected
The new fee structure applies to specific fare types, and it’s important to understand how the changes affect different passengers. Checked bag fees will apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares for bookings made on or after May 28, 2025.
Certain groups, however, will continue to enjoy free baggage benefits. Business Select passengers, A-List Preferred Members, and Hawaii residents traveling inter-island will still receive two free checked bags. Additionally, A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will get one free checked bag, and the credit card benefit extends to up to eight companions on the same reservation.
If you book through Getaways by Southwest vacation packages, you’re in luck – these bookings will still include two free checked bags per person, no matter when you finalize your reservation.
For travelers who need help navigating these changes, services like Flight Booking 247 provide round-the-clock assistance for booking, modifying, or canceling flights, helping you stay on top of your travel plans in real time.
New Baggage Fees and Rules
Southwest has introduced updates to its baggage policy, including new fees and size limits. Knowing these changes can help you avoid unexpected charges.
Checked Bag Fee Structure
Starting May 28, 2025, checked bag fees will apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares. The exact fees depend on your fare type.
However, free checked bag benefits for certain groups remain unchanged. If you book a vacation package through Getaways by Southwest, you’ll still enjoy the free baggage benefit.
For those needing more than their free allowance, the third and each additional checked bag will cost $150 per bag. Southwest allows up to 20 checked bags per customer per flight, combining both free and paid bags.
If you’re packing light, Southwest’s carry-on and personal item rules continue to offer fee-free options.
Carry-On and Personal Item Rules
Carry-on bags and personal items remain free under the new policy. Each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag (maximum dimensions: 10 x 16 x 24 inches) and one personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.
Personal items can include purses, briefcases, or laptop bags, but they must fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment. Since size limits are strictly enforced, it’s a good idea to measure your bags before heading to the airport.
These free options can help travelers save money, especially if they manage to pack efficiently in their carry-on luggage.
Extra Fees for Heavy and Large Bags
New fees will apply to bags that exceed the standard size and weight limits. The standard limits remain at 62 inches total dimensions (length + width + height) and 50 pounds per bag.
| Bag Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Overweight (51-70 lbs) | $150 per bag |
| Overweight (71-100 lbs) | $200 per bag |
| Oversized (over 62 inches, up to 80 inches) | $200 per bag |
| Both overweight and oversized | $200 per bag (single charge) |
For bags that are both overweight and oversized (up to 100 pounds), a single $200 fee applies. Southwest will accept bags weighing up to 100 pounds maximum.
Additionally, sporting equipment and large media camera gear will incur a $75 fee per item. However, active-duty military members and certain media professionals may qualify for fee waivers.
To avoid extra costs, take the time to weigh and measure your luggage at home before heading to the airport. Proper preparation can save you both money and hassle.
Who Gets Free Baggage and Special Benefits
Southwest Airlines continues to offer free checked bags to specific groups under its updated policy. Knowing who qualifies can help you plan your travel more effectively.
Passengers Who Keep Free Checked Bags
Certain passengers still enjoy free checked baggage benefits. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies and what they receive:
- Business Select passengers and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members: Get two free checked bags as part of their perks.
- A-List members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: Receive one free checked bag. Credit Cardmembers can share this benefit with up to eight companions on the same reservation, as long as everyone is booked together.
- Hawaii residents on inter-island flights: Continue to enjoy two free checked bags, keeping travel affordable within the state.
- Active duty military personnel: Benefit from unlimited free checked bags, regardless of fare type. This includes exemptions for oversized or overweight items and media camera equipment.
- Getaways by Southwest vacation package customers: Receive two free checked bags per person included in their booking.
Here’s a quick reference table:
| Passenger Type | Free Checked Bags | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Business Select / A-List Preferred | 2 | Highest tier benefit |
| A-List / Rapid Rewards Credit Card | 1 | Cardmembers can extend benefits to companions |
| Hawaii Residents (inter-island) | 2 | For inter-island flights only |
| Active Duty Military | Unlimited | Includes overweight/oversized exemptions |
| Getaways by Southwest Customers | 2 per person | Applies to vacation package bookings |
Extra Benefits for Select Groups
Some groups also enjoy additional perks beyond free baggage allowances:
- Companion Pass holders: When flying together, both the pass holder and their designated companion receive the same free checked bag allowance. This effectively doubles the benefit.
- Group reservations booked or changed before January 26, 2026: These bookings are protected under Southwest’s former “bags fly free” policy, even if the travel takes place after May 28, 2025. This grandfathering provision ensures no additional fees for qualifying group reservations.
For any questions about eligibility or to make the most of your baggage benefits, Southwest offers 24/7 support through Flight Booking 247. Whether you’re leveraging loyalty status, credit card perks, or military exemptions, understanding the details of these benefits can help you sidestep unexpected fees under the updated policy.
What Travelers Need to Know
Southwest’s baggage policy update marks the end of its famous “bags fly free” promise, requiring travelers to rethink how they book flights and plan trips.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Timing matters: If you book your flight before May 28, 2025, you can avoid the new checked bag fees. However, any changes to these bookings after that date will be subject to the updated charges.
- Budgeting for baggage fees: The impact on your wallet will depend on your travel habits. For instance, a family of four could face separate checked bag fees for each traveler, significantly increasing total travel costs. Business travelers without complimentary baggage perks will need to account for these fees in their expense reports. On the bright side, frequent flyers with A‑List status will still enjoy some baggage perks.
- Credit card perks: If you hold a Rapid Rewards Credit Card, you can extend the free checked bag benefit to up to eight companions traveling with you. This can be a game-changer for group trips.
- Packing adjustments: Be mindful of your bag’s weight and size. Bags weighing 51–70 pounds will cost $150, while those between 71–100 pounds will incur a $200 fee. Oversized bags measuring over 62 inches (up to 80 inches) will also cost $200. A luggage scale might be a smart investment to avoid surprises at check-in.
- Fare considerations: When booking, think about the total trip cost, including baggage fees. For trips with multiple bags, fares like Basic and Wanna Get Away Plus may end up costing more in fees compared to Business Select.
Finally, the booking process now requires extra diligence. Before confirming your reservation, check your loyalty status, review credit card benefits, and calculate any potential baggage costs. For group travelers, reservations made before January 26, 2026, will still follow the old policy.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, Flight Booking 247 offers round-the-clock support to help you navigate these changes and avoid unexpected fees.
FAQs
How do Southwest Airlines’ 2025 baggage policy changes affect flight costs?
Southwest Airlines has announced updates to its baggage policy for 2025, which include changes to fees and allowances that could affect your travel expenses. Although the exact details of the new fees have not been disclosed yet, it’s a good idea to check the most recent policy directly on Southwest’s website or get in touch with their customer service team to stay informed about any potential costs for checked or carry-on bags.
If you need help with flight bookings or understanding baggage policies, Flight Booking 247 offers round-the-clock support to assist with your travel needs.
How can I avoid or reduce baggage fees with Southwest Airlines’ updated policy?
To sidestep or cut down on baggage fees with Southwest Airlines’ updated policy, try these strategies:
- Pack smart: Southwest still lets you check two bags for free, as long as they meet the size and weight requirements. Be efficient with your packing to stick to these limits.
- Check your luggage weight at home: Grab a household scale to double-check that your bags don’t go over the weight limit – this helps you avoid unexpected extra fees.
- Maximize carry-ons: Southwest allows one personal item and one carry-on bag that fit their size guidelines. Use this to your advantage to avoid additional checked bag costs.
By planning ahead and familiarizing yourself with Southwest’s baggage rules, you can save money and steer clear of last-minute surprises at the airport.
Who is eligible for waived checked bag fees under Southwest Airlines’ updated policy, and how can I make sure I qualify?
Southwest Airlines is keeping its popular two free checked bags policy for all passengers, but there are some updates to note for 2025. While this perk remains, oversized or extra bags may now come with additional charges. However, certain travelers can still enjoy fee exemptions.
Passengers traveling with infants, active-duty military personnel, or those with specific fare types or loyalty benefits might qualify for waivers on these fees.
To avoid surprises, double-check the details of your ticket and fare type before your trip. Not sure if you’re eligible for an exemption? Reach out to Southwest Airlines directly or consider using a travel service like Flight Booking 247 for tailored guidance and the latest information on your booking.
