Southwest Airlines has announced significant changes to their baggage policy and fare structure that will take effect in 2025. As a long-time fan of the airline known for its "Bags Fly Free" approach, I wanted to break down what these changes mean for travelers.
The End of an Era: Changes to Checked Baggage Policy
Starting May 28, Southwest will no longer offer free checked bags to all passengers. Instead, the airline is moving to a tiered approach based on loyalty status and fare type:
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Who Still Gets Free Bags?
- A-List Preferred Members and Business Select customers will receive two free checked bags
- A-List Members will get one free checked bag
- Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will receive credit for one checked bag
- All other passengers will pay for their first and second bags (with third and fourth bags continuing to incur charges)
This represents a major shift for the airline that built its reputation partly on the "Bags Fly Free" policy that distinguished it from competitors.
Revamped Fare Bundles
Southwest is rolling out these changes in two phases:
Phase 1 (Already Started)
- Business Select fares now earn more Rapid Rewards points
- Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fares earn fewer points
- Redemption rates will vary based on demand (similar to other airlines' dynamic pricing models)
Phase 2 (Beginning May 28)
- Introduction of a new "Basic" fare option at the lowest price point but with limited flexibility
- Flight Credits will have expiration dates, varying based on the fare type purchased
What This Means For Travelers
These changes align Southwest more closely with industry standards while still maintaining some unique benefits for loyal customers. The introduction of a Basic fare tier suggests Southwest is working to compete more directly with ultra-low-cost carriers.
For frequent Southwest flyers, the value proposition is changing. If you typically check bags, you might want to consider:
- Applying for a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card
- Working toward A-List status
- Booking Business Select when the perks justify the premium
For occasional travelers, these changes mean more careful consideration when booking Southwest versus competitors, as one of the airline's key differentiators is being modified.
The Bottom Line
Southwest Airlines is evolving its business model to balance competitive pricing with profitability. While some travelers may be disappointed by the end of universal free checked bags, the airline is working to preserve value for its most loyal customers.
As these changes roll out, it will be interesting to see how travelers respond and whether Southwest maintains its strong customer satisfaction ratings in this new era.
