When Does Southwest New Bag Policy Go Into Effect

So, you’ve heard the news: Southwest Airlines is finally changing its famously generous, “bags fly free” policy. And your first thought—right after a tiny, wistful sigh for the good old days—is probably, “Okay, but when does this whole new bag policy go into effect?” I got you. Let’s cut through the turbulence.

The short, sweet answer is: starting May 28, 2025. Mark it on your calendar with a little sad-face emoji, because that’s the day free checked bags become a thing of the past for most of us mere mortals. (Unless you’re a Southwest credit card holder or an elite A-Lister, in which case you can still strut past baggage claim with your free bag like royalty—you lucky duck.)

Here’s the real tea: if you book a ticket before May 28, you are grandfathered in. Yep, that’s right—your bags fly free on that trip, even if you fly after the cutoff. So, if you’ve been hemming and hawing over a summer trip to San Diego or a fall jaunt to Nashville, book it now. Your wallet will thank you with a little happy dance.

What about carry-on bags? Still free, thank heavens. Honestly, the only thing changing is that extra-large suitcase you love to overstuff with “just-in-case” outfits (we both know you wear the same two pairs of shorts the whole trip). So, for the love of all that is good, pack lighter. Or better yet, embrace the chaos of a personal-item-only challenge.

In the end, change is coming, but it’s not the end of the world. Embrace the smaller suitcase, hoard those Southwest credit card perks like a dragon with gold, and remember: you’re still saving compared to a legacy carrier. The sun will rise, the planes will fly, and you’ll be one step lighter—literally. Now go book that trip before May 28, and let’s keep that smile in the overhead bin.