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Southwest Airlines has made a significant move by proclaiming the elimination of its long-standing luggage policy, which previously allowed two free checked bags per passenger.
This change aligns Southwest with other major U.S. carriers, a departure from the company’s previous stance. Company executives had consistently highlighted this popular policy as the key differentiator between Southwest and other budget airlines.
Travelers who book their Southwest flight after May 28 will have to pay for checked bags unless they purchase a Business Select ticket, which will still include two complimentary checked bags.
Frequent flyers with A-List Preferred status will also get two bags, while A-List level members will get one free checked bag. Southwest credit card holders will also get one free checked bag.
While the airline has not yet disclosed the exact cost of checked luggage, it’s expected to be in line with the fees charged by other major carriers. Based on industry standards, passengers can anticipate paying around $35 for their first checked bag.
Southwest’s decision to reverse its luggage policy is part of recent changes to boost revenue. The airline has also removed other perks, such as changeable tickets and open seating. With federal data indicating that U.S. airlines collectively earned over $5 billion from bag fees in 2024, Southwest’s policy change could significantly enhance its financial performance.
Southwest’s policy change has not gone unnoticed by its competitors, who see it as an opportunity to attract new customers.
Delta Air Lines President Glen Hauenstein expressed his thoughts on the potential customer shifts, saying, “I think there are some customers who [chose Southwest] because of that [bags fly free policy], and now those customers are up for grabs.”
This sentiment reflects the potential for significant changes in the industry as Southwest continues to implement multiple product changes.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
