Southwest Airlines is updating its baggage policy starting May 28, 2025. If you frequently fly Southwest, here’s what you need to know.
Current Policy (Valid for Bookings Before May 28, 2025)
For reservations made or changed on or before May 27, 2025, two checked bags remain free (size and weight limits apply), regardless of your travel date.
New Baggage Fees (Effective May 28, 2025)
For bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, checked baggage fees will apply, except for:
- Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred & Business Select Customers: Two free checked bags.
- A-List Members & Select Customers: One free checked bag.
- Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers: One free checked bag for the Cardmember and up to eight passengers on the same reservation.
Exact fee details will be announced soon.
Key Perks for Rapid Rewards & Companion Pass Holders
- A-List Members’ baggage benefits extend to up to eight passengers on the same reservation.
- Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will have their first checked bag waived upfront (no more refunds needed).
- Companion Pass holders’ travel partners will initially pay baggage fees but receive an automatic refund after travel.
Other Southwest Fare & Flight Credit Updates
- New Basic Fare (May 28, 2025): Lower fares but fewer perks.
- Flight Credits Expiration: Flight credits issued after May 28, 2025, will expire within one year. Credits issued before this date do not expire.
Plan Ahead
Book before May 28, 2025, to lock in the current two-free-bag policy. After that, check your status and credit card perks to minimize fees. For full details, visit Southwest’s official page.