The airline industry is constantly evolving, and even long-standing policies are subject to change. For years, Southwest Airlines was a beacon of "Bags Fly Free," setting them apart from other major U.S. carriers. However, that era has officially come to an end for most travelers. As of May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has implemented new baggage fees. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest's updated baggage policy.
Ready to unpack the new changes with us? Let's dive in and make sure you're well-prepared for your next Southwest journey!
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| How Much Will Southwest Airlines Start Charging For Bags |
Step 1: Understanding the Core Change - Bags No Longer Fly Free for Everyone
The most significant shift in Southwest's baggage policy is the discontinuation of their signature "Bags Fly Free" perk for the majority of passengers. This move aligns Southwest with its competitors like American, Delta, and United Airlines, all of whom have been charging for checked bags for years.
The New Standard Fees:
First Checked Bag: You will now generally be charged $35 USD for your first checked bag.
Second Checked Bag: The fee for your second checked bag will typically be $45 USD.
These fees apply to flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. If you booked your flight before this date, your previous "Bags Fly Free" policy (up to two checked bags) still applies, regardless of your travel date, provided you don't voluntarily change your reservation.
Step 2: Who Still Gets Free Bags? Exemptions and Perks
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is largely gone, Southwest has retained some benefits for specific traveler categories. Don't despair just yet if you fall into one of these groups!
Sub-heading: Elite Status Holders
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved this top-tier elite status with Southwest, you're in luck! You will continue to receive two free checked bags. This perk also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation as the A-List Preferred member.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members: As an A-List member, you'll still get your first checked bag free. However, the second checked bag will incur the standard $45 fee. This benefit also applies to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
Sub-heading: Southwest Credit Cardholders
Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: If you hold a Southwest co-branded credit card, you are eligible for your first checked bag free. This is a significant benefit for frequent Southwest flyers and applies to the primary cardmember and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation, provided the primary cardmember is on the reservation and has included their Rapid Rewards account number.
Sub-heading: Business Select Fare Class
Tip: Review key points when done.
Business Select Fares: Passengers who purchase Southwest's top-tier Business Select fare will still enjoy the benefit of two free checked bags. This fare class offers the most flexibility and benefits, and free checked bags are a part of that premium offering.
Sub-heading: Hawaii Residents (Inter-island Travel)
For Hawaii residents traveling between the islands, Southwest continues to offer two free checked bags. This is a specific exemption to support local travel within the Hawaiian islands.
Sub-heading: Active Duty Military
Active Duty Military Passengers: With a current, valid military ID, active duty military personnel are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversized, or overweight baggage charges, provided each bag does not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches in size.
Step 3: Understanding Weight and Size Limits (and the Additional Fees)
Even with free checked bags, or if you're paying the standard fees, it's crucial to adhere to Southwest's weight and size limitations for checked luggage. Exceeding these limits will result in additional charges.
Standard Checked Bag Limits:
Weight: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Size: The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height, including handles and wheels) for a standard checked bag are 62 inches (157 cm).
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
51 - 70 pounds: If your bag weighs between 51 and 70 pounds, you will incur an additional fee of $100 USD. This fee is in addition to any standard checked bag fees that may apply.
71 - 100 pounds: For bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds, the additional fee is $200 USD. Bags exceeding 100 pounds will not be accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as air cargo.
Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
63 - 80 inches: If your bag's linear dimensions are between 63 and 80 inches, you will be charged an additional fee of $200 USD. This fee is in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
Over 80 inches: Bags exceeding 80 linear inches will not be accepted as checked baggage.
Sub-heading: Combining Overweight and Oversized Fees
If a single bag is both oversized and overweight, you will generally be charged the higher of the two applicable fees, not both. For example, if a bag is over 51 pounds and over 63 inches (but under 100 pounds and 80 inches), the fee would typically be $200 (the oversized fee).
Sub-heading: Third (and Subsequent) Checked Bags
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
For a third checked bag, and any additional bags thereafter, the fee is $150 USD per bag. These bags are also subject to the standard weight and size limits, and overweight/oversized fees will apply if exceeded.
Step 4: Strategizing to Avoid or Minimize Baggage Fees
Now that you're aware of the new costs, let's explore ways to potentially avoid or reduce these fees for your next Southwest flight. A little planning can go a long way in saving you money!
Sub-heading: Embrace Carry-On Travel
Southwest still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free.
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Carry-on Bag: Must not exceed 24" (L) x 16" (W) x 10" (H) and fit in the overhead bin.
Personal Item: Must fit under the seat in front of you (e.g., purse, laptop bag, backpack).
Maximizing your carry-on allowance is the most straightforward way to avoid checked bag fees. Consider using packing cubes to compress your items and make the most of the space available in your carry-on.
Sub-heading: Consider a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card
As mentioned, holding a Southwest co-branded credit card can grant you a free first checked bag. If you fly Southwest frequently, the annual fee for the card might be less than the cost of multiple checked bag fees over a year. Do the math to see if it makes sense for your travel habits!
Sub-heading: Aim for A-List or A-List Preferred Status
For very frequent flyers, earning A-List or A-List Preferred status through Southwest's Rapid Rewards program can provide ongoing baggage benefits. This requires a significant number of qualifying flights or points, but the perks extend beyond just baggage.
Sub-heading: Pack Smart and Light
Pare Down: Ask yourself if you truly need everything you're planning to bring. Can some items be left at home?
Wear Bulky Items: Wear your heaviest shoes and jackets on the plane to save space and weight in your luggage.
Ship Your Luggage: For longer trips or if you're traveling with a lot of gear, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than airline baggage fees, especially for multiple heavy or oversized bags.
Sub-heading: Understanding Fare Types
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Remember that the new fees apply to Southwest's "Basic," "Wanna Get Away Plus®," and "Anytime" fares booked or changed on or after May 28, 2025. Only "Business Select®" fares consistently include two free checked bags. When booking, consider the total cost, including potential baggage fees, across different fare types.
Step 5: Staying Informed about Future Changes
The airline industry is dynamic. While the current changes are significant, it's wise to remain vigilant for any future adjustments.
Check Southwest's Official Website: Always refer to the "Checked Bag Policy" or "Optional Travel Charges" section on Southwest.com for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Sign up for Rapid Rewards Emails: Southwest often communicates policy changes to its Rapid Rewards members.
Follow Reliable Travel News Sources: Stay tuned to reputable travel news outlets for announcements regarding airline policies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if my existing booking is affected by the new fees?
If your flight was booked and ticketed on or before May 27, 2025, your first two checked bags will still fly free, regardless of your travel date, unless you voluntarily change your reservation on or after May 28, 2025. For reservations booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, the new fees apply.
How to measure my bag to ensure it meets size limits?
To measure your bag's linear dimensions, use a tape measure to determine its length, width, and height. Add these three numbers together. This sum should not exceed 62 inches for a standard checked bag. Remember to include wheels and handles in your measurements.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards status qualifies me for free bags?
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members get two free checked bags. Rapid Rewards A-List members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers get their first checked bag free. You can check your current status by logging into your Rapid Rewards account on Southwest.com.
How to pay for checked bags on Southwest Airlines?
QuickTip: Pause when something clicks.
Southwest does not allow prepayment for checked bags online. Baggage fees must be paid at the airport at the self-tagging kiosks (where available) or at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
How to avoid overweight baggage fees?
The best way to avoid overweight fees is to pack light and weigh your bag at home before heading to the airport. Consider using a portable luggage scale. If your bag is overweight, consider transferring heavier items to your carry-on or shipping them separately.
How to pack efficiently to maximize carry-on space?
Roll your clothes tightly, use packing cubes to compress items, and wear your bulkiest clothing on the plane. Strategic placement of items can also help utilize every inch of space in your carry-on bag.
How to understand the new "Basic" fare that Southwest introduced?
The new "Basic" fare is Southwest's lowest price point, offering less flexibility than other fares. It still allows one carry-on and one personal item for free, but checked baggage fees will apply. This fare is expected to evolve further, potentially with assigned seating and last-to-board priority for Basic ticket holders in 2026.
How to claim a lost or damaged bag with Southwest Airlines?
Damaged or lost baggage must be reported in person at the Southwest Airlines baggage claim office within four hours of your arrival at your destination. Make sure to receive a separate claim check for each piece of baggage you've checked.
How to get a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card to earn free bags?
You can apply for a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card through Chase Bank. Visit Chase's website or a Chase branch to explore the different card options and their benefits.
How to know if special items (like sports equipment) incur additional fees?
Southwest generally considers most sports equipment as a standard checked bag, meaning it counts towards your baggage allowance and may incur the standard checked bag fees. However, oversized or overweight fees may apply if the equipment exceeds the standard dimensions or weight. Always check Southwest's "Checked Baggage Policy" for specific details on sports equipment.
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