Southwest Ends Free Checked Bags: Who Pays Now?

Southwest Airlines has announced several changes to its baggage policy and loyalty program, set to take effect on May 28, 2025. These adjustments are part of the airline’s strategy to enhance profitability and cater to its frequent flyers.  

What’s changing?

Here’s the breakdown:

• Two Free Bags: This perk will now be reserved for Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and those flying Business Select fares.
• One Free Bag: A-List Members and select customers will receive one free checked bag.
• Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: These cardholders will receive a credit for one checked bag.
• Everyone Else: If you don’t fall into the above categories, you’ll now have to pay for your checked bags, both first and second.  

This marks a big change from Southwest’s long-standing tradition and is part of a broader strategy to boost profitability and reward loyal customers.

More than just baggage fees

The changes don’t stop at checked bags. Southwest is also:

• Adjusting its loyalty program, offering more points for Business Select fares but decreasing rewards for lower-tier tickets.  
• Introducing a new Basic fare for budget-conscious travelers, which will come alongside assigned seating and extra legroom options.  
• Expanding distribution channels, with flights now available on Expedia.  
• Reducing flexibility for flight credits, which will now expire one year or earlier from the date of purchase.

What does this mean for you?

For many of us, this means we’ll need to rethink our packing strategies or factor in the cost of checked bags when booking flights.

If you’re a loyal Southwest flyer, you might want to look into the benefits of A-List or A-List Preferred status or the Rapid Rewards Credit Card.

Silver linings?

Despite these changes, Southwest is emphasizing its commitment to operational excellence. They’ve got the best on-time performance in the industry for 2025 and a 98.3% completion rate for scheduled flights.

As Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan stated, the goal is to “meet current and future customer needs, attract new customer segments we don’t compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our Shareholders expect.”

So, while you might be paying for bags, you can hopefully expect a smooth and reliable travel experience.  

What are your thoughts on these changes?

Are you disappointed? Do you think this is a necessary move for Southwest? Let me know in the comments below! I’d love to hear your perspectives.