When Does Southwest Change Their Bag Policy

You know that little jolt of panic when you’re packing for a flight and you can’t remember if that extra tote bag is going to cost you an arm and a leg? We’ve all been there. For years, Southwest Airlines has been the glorious exception to the baggage fee madness, letting you check two bags for free. But every now and then, a rumor pops up: Is Southwest changing their bag policy?

The short, happy answer

As of right now, Southwest has not changed their famous two-free-bags policy. You can still roll up with a bulky suitcase and a duffel bag without spending a dime extra. Think of it like that one friend who always brings snacks to the party—everyone loves them, and Southwest is that friend.

So why do people keep asking, “When does Southwest change their bag policy?” Blame the airline industry’s wild west of bag fees. Every time another airline hikes a fee, folks get nervous and wonder if Southwest will follow suit.

Real life at the gate

Picture this: Sarah is flying from Chicago to visit her mom in Phoenix. She’s got a giant suitcase full of gifts and a backpack with her laptop. At check-in, she braces for a fee, but the Southwest agent just smiles and waves her through. That’s the magic. Meanwhile, her cousin on another airline is paying $40 for a carry-on that’s too big by two inches.

It’s a little thing, but it makes your wallet feel hugged. That’s why people care—saving $60 on checked bags means you can splurge on a decent airport coffee and still have cash left for a treat at your destination.

When could it change?

Southwest has been loud and proud about their bags-fly-free promise for decades. It’s their calling card, like how your grandma’s house always smells like cookies. They’ve said they’ll tell customers well in advance if they ever tweak the policy—probably months, not days.

But let’s be real: airlines have broken hearts before. If you see official news on Southwest’s website or hear it from an actual employee, pay attention. Ignore the guy in the airport bar who swears he “heard something.”

Bags No Longer Fly Free: All the Southwest Changes Coming in 2025

Why you should care (yes, you)

If you’re a family of four flying to Disney World, two free bags each saves you up to $320 round-trip. That’s a couple of park tickets, or a massive Mickey Mouse plushie you’ll regret buying. But you’ll do it anyway. For a solo traveler, it means you can bring home that weird local hot sauce without guilt.

Even if you only fly once a year, the policy shapes how you pack. You toss in extra shoes, a book you’ll never read, and a bulky hoodie—all free. It’s the airline equivalent of a “no judgments” zone.

What to do in the meantime

Don’t stress. Keep using those two free checked bags like they’re a superpower. Book your flights with Southwest when you can, and smile at the baggage claim knowing you got a deal. If the policy ever changes, you’ll hear the collective groan from travelers across the country—it’ll be louder than your aunt’s opinion on your haircut.

Until then, enjoy the ride. Pack that extra pair of shoes. You’ve earned it.