when does southwest start charging for bags

Southwest Airlines started charging for checked bags on May 28, 2025. From that date, the airline began charging $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag for reservations booked, ticketed, or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. This marked the end of their long-standing "two bags fly free" policy. However, certain passengers such as Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, Business Select or Choice Extra fare passengers, and Rapid Rewards credit card holders still receive one or two free checked bags depending on their status. The new bag fees apply to Southwest's Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fare categories but not to Business Select fares or partner carrier flights booked through Southwest.