When Does Southwest New Bag Policy Take Effect
For millions of travelers, the joy of flying Southwest has long been tied to its famously generous bag policy. The freedom to check two bags for free has simplified packing, s...
For millions of travelers, the joy of flying Southwest has long been tied to its famously generous bag policy. The freedom to check two bags for free has simplified packing, saved families hundreds of dollars, and eliminated the frantic shuffle of trying to cram everything into an overhead bin. This policy is a cornerstone of the airline’s brand, valuing simplicity and customer trust over complex fees.
However, a major change is on the horizon. Southwest recently announced a new bag policy that will take effect for flights booked on or after May 28, 2025. The key purpose of this shift is financial: the airline aims to generate new revenue streams and improve its profitability after years of pressure from investors. For everyday life, this means that the era of free checked bags for everyone is ending.
Under the new rules, only A-List Preferred status members, holders of the Southwest credit card, and passengers booked in Business Select fares will continue to enjoy two free checked bags. For everyone else, only one free checked bag will be allowed. This change directly impacts the family packing for a week-long beach vacation, who now must either pay for a second bag or become masters of capsule packing.
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The benefits for Southwest are clear: increased ancillary revenue and a more streamlined operation. For the average traveler, the benefit is now comparative—a single bag is still free, which beats many competitors who charge for the first one. Consider a traveler flying to Chicago for a weekend conference: they can still pack a week’s worth of business attire in one checked suitcase without paying a dime, a scenario that remains a win.
To navigate this change, here are three simple tips. First, book your flights before May 28, 2025 to lock in the current two-bag policy for your travels. Second, consider applying for the Southwest credit card to regain the second free bag benefit on all flights. Finally, invest in a quality carry-on that meets overhead bin dimensions to avoid needing a second checked bag altogether.
