Southwest Airlines will start charging for checked bags beginning May 28, 2025. This marks the end of their long-standing policy of allowing two free checked bags per passenger, a benefit that had been in place since the airline's founding in 1967. The fees will be $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. These charges will apply to reservations booked on or after May 28, 2025. However, flights booked before that date will still allow two checked bags free of charge. There are some exemptions where customers will not have to pay these fees, including members of Southwest's Rapid Rewards A-List loyalty program, holders of the airline's branded credit card, and those flying on business fares. This change aligns Southwest's baggage fees with those of other major U.S. airlines, which have long charged for checked bags. It follows other recent changes by Southwest such as ending open seating and introducing new fare categories. In summary:
- Bag fees start: May 28, 2025
- Cost: $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second
- Exemptions: A-List members, credit card holders, business fares
- Booked before May 28: free bags still apply
This represents a significant shift in Southwest's customer policies aimed at increasing revenue and reducing costs.
