“Southwest Airlines Checked Bags: Updated Rules, Fees & Tips to Maximize Your Free Allowance in 2025”

Southwest Airlines’ famous “two bags fly free” promise officially expires on May 28 2025, marking the first time in the Dallas-based carrier’s 53-year history that most passengers will pay to check luggage. Travelers who purchase or change tickets on or after that date will be subject to new Southwest checked bag fees, while flights booked by 11:59 p.m. CT on May 27 will still qualify for up to two complimentary checked bags—no matter when the trip occurs. What’s changing • Tiered fees: Southwest says detailed pricing will be unveiled closer to launch, but executives hinted at industry-standard rates of about $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second on most domestic routes. • Basic Economy rollout: The airline will introduce a lower “Wanna Get Away Basic” fare that does not include any free checked luggage, early boarding or same-day confirmed changes. Customers upgrading to “Wanna Get Away Plus,” “Anytime,” or “Business Select” will retain at least one complimentary bag, and top-tier Business Select flyers will continue to receive two for free. • Weight and size limits unchanged: Each piece must stay under 50 lbs. and 62 linear inches; oversize or overweight items will incur additional penalties. Why the shift matters Southwest checked bags have long been a competitive differentiator, saving families and budget travelers up to $140 round trip compared with rivals. The airline estimates the new policy could generate more than $800 million in annual ancillary revenue—a critical boost after pandemic-era losses and rising fuel costs. How to avoid Southwest checked bag fees after May 28 1. Book now: Lock in tickets before the May 27 cutoff; the reservation can be modified later as long as the base fare isn’t re-issued. 2. Pack light: Southwest’s generous two-item carry-on rule—one full-size carry-on plus one personal item—remains free. 3. Leverage credit cards: Co-branded Rapid Rewards® Visa Priority and Premier cards will reimburse the first checked bag when the annual fee is paid with the card (pending issuer approval). 4. Earn elite status: A-List Preferred members keep two free checked bags regardless of fare. 5. Use travel credits: Companion Pass travelers can apply credits from canceled flights toward bag fees at checkout. Key deadlines and tips • May 27 2025, 11:59 p.m. CT: Last moment to purchase or re-price flights and preserve the existing two-bag allowance. • May 28 2025: New Southwest checked bag policy and Basic Economy fares go live system-wide. • Summer travel surge: Analysts predict a rush of bookings during Memorial Day week as travelers race to sidestep the fee introduction. Bottom line Southwest Airlines’ decision to start charging for checked luggage closes a chapter in U.S. aviation and brings the carrier in line with competitors—yet savvy travelers still have a narrow window to secure free bags. Lock in flights now, know your fare class, and pack strategically to keep costs down once the historic grace period ends.