Southwest Airlines started charging for checked bags beginning May 28, 2025. The new policy ends their longtime "two bags fly free" practice. From that date, passengers pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second unless they qualify for exemptions. Exemptions include:
- A-List Preferred members of the Rapid Rewards loyalty program (who still get two free bags)
- Business Select fare passengers (also two free bags)
- A-List members and Southwest branded credit card holders (who get one free checked bag)
These fees apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fare tickets booked or changed on or after May 28, 2025. Tickets purchased before that date still include the original free baggage benefit. Third and subsequent checked bags and overweight/oversize charges still apply as well, with specific fees for those. In summary, Southwest charges for bags starting May 28, 2025, except for high-tier loyal customers and specific fare classes, aligning its baggage fees with industry standards.
