When Does Southwest Start New Bag Policy

Let’s talk about the elephant in the boarding area. Actually, it’s a suitcase. Your suitcase. Southwest’s famous “bags fly free” policy is changing. When does it start? Grab your pretzels. Let’s dive in.

The Big Date

Southwest’s new bag policy kicks in on May 28, 2025. Mark your calendar. Set an alarm. Tell your mom. That’s the day free checked bags get a little less free.

Only the first two checked bags will still be free. The third bag? You’ll pay $125. Fourth? $150. Fifth? You’re basically moving out. That’s $175.

Why Now? The Plot Thickens

Southwest has been the rebel airline for decades. “Bags fly free” was their battle cry. It made them quirky. It made them loved. But now, they’re chasing profits like a toddler chasing a balloon.

The airline is also buying new planes. New seats. New boarding systems. Money has to come from somewhere. Sorry, over-packers. Your duffel bag is now a luxury item.

The Fine Print (It’s Actually Fun)

Here’s the twist: Rapid Rewards members with A-List status still get their third bag free. If you fly a lot, you’re protected. Think of it as a secret club handshake. The rest of us? We’re paying for extra socks.

And get this—military personnel still fly free with up to five checked bags. That’s the kind of quirky fact that makes you smile. Thank you for your service. Your luggage is honored.

What About Your Carry-On?

Your carry-on is still free. No change there. You can still stuff a week of clothes into a tiny roller bag. It’s the airline’s way of saying, “We won’t take everything from you.” Yet.

Southwest Airlines Sets Baggage Fees - The New York Times

But remember: Southwest’s overhead bins are legendary for being small. If your bag is too big, it gets gate-checked. That’s now a potential $75 mistake if it’s your third bag. Pack smart. Or pay dumb.

Why This Topic Is Fun

Let’s be honest—airline policies are usually boring. This is different. This is the end of an era. It’s like finding out your favorite diner now charges for ketchup. It’s dramatic. It’s weird. It’s nostalgia.

People love to complain about airlines. Southwest gave us one less thing to complain about. Now, they’ve taken it back. It’s like a plot twist in a sitcom. You can’t look away.

The Bottom Line

If you fly Southwest after May 28, 2025, pack your two free bags like a Tetris champion. Use your third bag only for emergency snacks. Or upgrade to A-List. Or just travel lighter.

This is your chance to be a minimalist hero. Do you really need that extra pair of shoes? Probably not. But if you do, it’s $125. That’s cheaper than therapy for your packing addiction.

So there you go. The bag policy is changing. The date is set. The drama is real. Fly free, my friend. Just not with three bags.