Southwest Airlines Ends Its Iconic Free Checked Baggages Policy – What Travelers Need to Know

For over five decades, Southwest Airlines has distinguished itself from other major carriers with its generous policy of allowing passengers to check two bags for free. This customer-friendly approach became a signature feature, even earning Southwest its own registered slogan: “Two Bags Fly Free.” However, starting May 28, 2025, Southwest will eliminate free checked bags for most travelers, a significant departure from one of its most beloved perks.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• Why Southwest Airlines is ending free checked bags
• Who will still qualify for free baggage
• How much Southwest Airlines will charge for checked bags
• What this means for frequent travelers
• How this decision affects Southwest’s reputation

Let’s dive into this major shift in airline policies and its potential impact on both passengers and the industry.

Why Is Southwest Airlines Eliminating Free Checked Bags?

Southwest’s decision to charge for checked luggage is largely profit-driven. In recent years, the airline has faced increasing financial pressure, particularly from activist investor Elliott Investment Management, which acquired a significant stake and won five board seats in 2024. Elliott has been pushing for cost-cutting measures to boost profitability, and baggage fees present a lucrative revenue stream.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, airlines collected a record-breaking $5.5 billion in baggage fees in 2024. While Southwest long resisted this trend, the potential for increased revenue became too attractive to ignore.

Additionally, the airline is aligning with competitors such as Delta, United, and American Airlines, all of which charge for checked luggage. As Southwest aims to streamline operations and cut expenses, this change fits into its broader strategy.

Layoffs and Seating Policy Changes

This decision also follows a series of significant changes at Southwest Airlines:

• Assigned Seating: Southwest recently moved away from its open seating model, opting for assigned seats like other major airlines.
• Company Layoffs: In early 2025, the airline laid off 15% of its corporate employees, further signaling financial restructuring efforts.

Together, these shifts suggest that Southwest is prioritizing short-term financial gains over long-standing customer satisfaction.

Who Will Still Get Free Checked Bags on Southwest Airlines?

While most travelers will now need to pay for checked luggage, some passengers will still qualify for free baggage allowances. Here’s who remains eligible:

1. Top-Tier Frequent Flyers – Members of Southwest’s Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred and Companion Pass holders will still receive two free checked bags.
2. Business Select and Anytime Fare Passengers – Customers who purchase premium fares will continue to get free baggage perks.
3. Military Personnel – Active duty military members traveling on official orders will be exempt from these fees.

For all other passengers, Southwest has not yet revealed its new checked bag pricing structure. However, industry experts predict that fees could range from $30 to $40 per bag, aligning with competitors like Delta and United.

What This Means for Travelers – Increased Costs and Budget Adjustments

For years, Southwest Airlines was a go-to option for budget-conscious travelers who appreciated transparent pricing with no hidden baggage fees. With this change, travelers will need to rethink their packing strategies and budget accordingly.

Potential Impacts:

• Higher Costs for Families – A family of four checking two bags each could face an additional $240 to $320 in baggage fees per trip.
• Business Travelers May Shift Loyalty – Frequent travelers who relied on Southwest’s baggage perks may explore alternative options with more competitive benefits.
• More Carry-On Bags – Expect more passengers to opt for carry-ons, increasing overhead bin congestion.

To mitigate costs, passengers may need to pack lighter, invest in carry-on-friendly luggage, or consider airline credit cards that offer free baggage perks.

How This Decision Affects Southwest’s Brand and Reputation

Southwest Airlines has long been a customer favorite due to its no-frills, transparent pricing and superior customer service. However, this shift signals a departure from the airline’s core values.

Many loyal customers see this as a breaking point where Southwest is becoming just another airline, rather than the customer-first alternative it once prided itself on being.

Customer Reactions

Online discussions and social media reactions show mixed sentiments:

• Disappointed Passengers: Many long-time Southwest travelers express frustration, feeling the airline is abandoning its unique identity.
• Investors’ Perspective: Shareholders may welcome the revenue boost but at the risk of long-term brand erosion.
• Industry Analysts: Experts suggest that while Southwest might benefit financially in the short term, it could suffer from a decline in customer loyalty.

Is This the End of an Era for Southwest Airlines?

Southwest’s decision to charge for checked bags represents a fundamental shift in its business model. The airline that built its reputation on transparent pricing and customer-friendly policies is now adopting the same revenue strategies as its competitors.

While Southwest will likely enjoy an immediate financial boost, the long-term impact on customer loyalty remains uncertain. Travelers who once praised Southwest for its no-hidden-fees approach may now rethink their loyalty, and the airline could face backlash similar to what other major carriers have experienced after introducing additional fees.

What Can Travelers Do?

• Join Southwest’s Rapid Rewards Program – If you frequently fly Southwest, achieving A-List Preferred status can help you retain free baggage benefits.
• Consider Airline Credit Cards – Some credit cards offer baggage fee reimbursements as a perk.
• Pack Smarter – Investing in lightweight luggage and learning carry-on packing hacks can help you avoid checked baggage fees altogether.

Final Thoughts: Will Southwest Regret This Decision?

As Southwest Airlines joins the industry trend of charging for checked bags, the move is a clear attempt to increase revenue amid financial pressures. However, the airline may be underestimating the brand loyalty damage this could cause.

For decades, Southwest was the exception in an industry known for nickel-and-diming passengers. Now, by aligning with competitors, it risks becoming just another airline in the eyes of travelers.

Only time will tell whether Southwest’s gamble pays off financially or if it drives loyal customers to seek alternatives. Either way, one thing is clear: the era of “Two Bags Fly Free” is officially over.

Related Articles:

• Best Airlines for Free Checked Bags in 2025
• How to Avoid Airline Baggage Fees – Expert Packing Tips
• Southwest Airlines vs. Delta: Which Airline Offers the Best Value?

What do you think about Southwest’s decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below!