Southwest Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares, quirky in-flight announcements, and a fan-favorite perk—free checked baggage. But here’s the big news: Southwest is shaking things up by introducing checked baggage fees for the first time in 2025. If you’re planning a trip with them, you might want to prepare for some changes. In this post, we’ll break down what this means for travelers, why Southwest made the shift, and what you can do to avoid getting hit with unexpected baggage fees.
The End of an Era: Why Southwest Is Charging for Checked Bags Now
For years, Southwest was the golden child of airlines offering free checked bags. This perk set them apart from competitors who charged for nearly everything, from snacks to seat selection. But starting in 2025, all that’s changing. According to reports, Southwest will begin charging for checked luggage, following in the footsteps of other major U.S. carriers like American, Delta, and United.
So why the sudden shift? According to NPR, Airlines are feeling the financial pressure of rising operational costs, including fuel, labor, and maintenance. As a result, Southwest is adopting a revenue model that reflects the current state of the airline industry. With the COVID-19 pandemic still casting a shadow on travel patterns, many carriers are adjusting their fees to make up for lost ground. It’s no surprise that even Southwest, long known for its “bags fly free” mantra, is stepping into the baggage fee game.
What About Southwest’s Carry-On Policy?
The good news is that Southwest isn’t charging for carry-on bags just yet. As of now, the airline still allows passengers to bring one free carry-on and one personal item onboard. This means you can still stow your essentials in the overhead bins or under the seat in front of you, avoiding the baggage claim line altogether.
However, just because carry-ons are free doesn’t mean you should overpack them either. Southwest has specific size restrictions for carry-ons: they must be 10x16x24 inches or smaller. So, if you’re hoping to pack all your essentials in your carry-on, be sure to double-check the dimensions to avoid being told your bag’s too big.
What Does This Mean for Your Travel Plans?
Southwest’s new baggage fees could impact your wallet, but there are ways to make it work to your advantage:
- Consider your luggage needs: If you’re just packing for a weekend trip, you may be able to squeeze everything into your carry-on, avoiding checked baggage fees altogether.
- Pack light: For longer trips, packing efficiently and minimizing what you check can save you money. Consider using compression bags or only bringing the essentials.
- Check your frequent flyer status: Southwest’s Rapid Rewards members and those with certain credit cards might have perks that help minimize baggage fees, so be sure to check your account before booking.
Looking for Alternatives? Other Airlines’ Baggage Fees
If you’re thinking Southwest’s baggage fees will be too steep, it’s worth comparing to what other airlines charge. Most major U.S. carriers have been charging for checked bags for years, and their fees are often in the same range as Southwest’s new pricing. Some low-cost airlines, like Spirit or Frontier, have even higher fees but offer lower base fares. Competitors like Delta, United, and American charge fees starting at $35 per bag.
Final Thoughts: Is Southwest Still Worth It?
While the end of free checked bags on Southwest may be disappointing for loyal fans, the airline is still a strong option for budget travelers. Even with the new fees, Southwest’s overall value can still outweigh other airlines when you consider its flexible policies, no change fees, and strong customer service reputation.
In the end, whether you’re flying Southwest or another airline, being aware of baggage fees and planning ahead can make your trip a whole lot smoother. So, as you book your next adventure, make sure to factor in those baggage fees and pack accordingly! Safe travels!
