Southwest Free Bags Ending: What You Need to Know
Southwest Airlines ends free bags! This major shift means checked bags now cost $35 for the first and $45 for the second. This policy change impacts many flyers, excluding A-List members, those with Business Select fares, and Southwest credit card holders. Beyond the baggage fees, Southwest is also enforcing new rules on portable charger visibility to address safety concerns. This move comes amidst pressure to improve profitability, with more changes—like assigned seating—on the way. Stay informed with News Directory 3 for the latest updates. Discover what’s next for Southwest and how these changes might reshape your travel plans.
Southwest Airlines Introduces Baggage Fees, Ends Decades-Long Tradition
Updated may 27, 2025
Southwest Airlines, known for its customer-friendly policies, has officially ended its long-standing tradition of free checked bags for all passengers. Starting today, travelers booking flights on Southwest will face new fees for checked baggage, marking a notable shift for the budget carrier.
the new baggage policy means a first checked bag will cost $35, while a second will run $45. Standard weight and size restrictions will apply. This change impacts passengers who are not A-List or A-List Preferred members of the Rapid Rewards loyalty program, do not have a Buisness Select fare, or do not possess a Southwest credit card.
Alongside the baggage fee introduction, Southwest Airlines is also implementing a new rule regarding portable chargers. Passengers must now keep their portable chargers in plain sight during use. This measure addresses growing safety concerns related to lithium-ion battery fires on aircraft.
Thes changes come as Southwest grapples with pressure from activist investors to improve profitability. The airline reached an agreement with Elliott Investment Management in October,adding new members to its board. In February, Southwest announced it was cutting 1,750 jobs, representing 15% of its corporate workforce.
Further changes are on the horizon for Southwest. The airline plans to introduce assigned seating and charge extra for increased legroom in the coming year, departing from its conventional open-boarding system.
What’s next
As Southwest adapts to these changes, travelers shoudl carefully consider their baggage needs and loyalty program status to minimize costs. The airline’s move towards assigned seating and other revenue-generating strategies will likely continue to evolve as it seeks to boost its financial performance.