When Does Southwest End Their Free Bag Policy

Let’s talk about the golden unicorn of air travel: Southwest Airlines and its free bags. You know the drill—every other airline charges you for breathing near a carry-on, while Southwest lets you bring a suitcase the size of a small car for free. But here’s the burning question circling like a baggage carousel: when does this magic end?

The short answer: never (kind of)

Southwest’s free bag policy is permanent—as in, not going anywhere until pigs fly with TSA PreCheck. As of 2024, they still let you check two bags for free, no weighing on a bathroom scale required. But here’s the catch: this policy could change with a single Board of Directors meeting where someone sneezes and says, “Let’s charge for overhead bins.”

So far, Southwest has stuck to its guns since 1972, when they started the policy to stand out like a clown in a funeral. They even advertised “Bags Fly Free” while other airlines added fees for looking at the gate agent funny. But nothing lasts forever—except maybe your Aunt Linda’s fruitcake.

Wait, are there any exceptions?

Yes, and they’re weirder than a pilot doing stand-up. Your free bags must be under 50 pounds—anything heavier, and you’ll pay a fee that makes you question your life choices (currently $75–$125). Also, if your bag is wider than you are tall (over 62 linear inches), it’s considered a “special item” like a surfboard or a coffin—and guess what? That isn’t free.

Oh, and if you’re flying on a Basic fare? You still get two free bags, because Southwest’s “Basic” is less punishing than their coffee. But here’s a surprise: if you’re a Rapid Rewards member with A-List status, you can bring a third bag free—like a luggage taxidermist.

But what if they change the policy?

Southwest has given zero hints of ending free bags, but the corporate graveyard is full of “forever” promises (RIP, free peanuts in coach). If it does happen, you’ll hear about it through a press release that’s sadder than a wobbly landing gear. They’d probably grandfather existing tickets, so your future flights might still be free—like a reverse zombie apocalypse for your luggage.

Southwest Officially Ends 'Bags Fly Free' Policy: Here's What You'll

Surprising fact: Southwest saves $1 billion annually by not charging for bags, because it makes customers loyal enough to forgive the occasional 12-hour delay in Denver. They’d rather have you angry in the terminal than angry at your credit card statement.

So, should you worry?

Not unless you’re a professional worrier (in which case, carry a stress ball). For now, pack that second bag with a pumpkin or a bowling ball—Southwest won’t blink. Just don’t try to check a live alligator; they’ll make you pay for a whole seat.

Remember: this policy is as safe as a Southwest landing—a little bumpy, but it gets you there. And if it ever ends, you’ll be the first to know, because I’ll be crying into my free bag of pretzels right next to you.