Southwest Airlines Ends Free Baggage Policy: What Travelers Need to Know

Southwest Airlines Ends Free Baggage Policy, Announces Assigned Seating Southwest Airlines, long known for its generous baggage allowance, is making a significant change to its operations. Starting May 28, 2025, the airline will begin charging for checked bags, marking the end of its "two bags fly free" policy. This change will affect many travelers, especially those who frequently use Southwest's Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares. The new policy will charge $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. There are some exceptions, but these details have yet to be fully clarified. "This is not insignificant," stated a TODAY Show news anchor in a recent video report, highlighting the impact of the new fees. The report also revealed that Southwest plans to implement assigned seating later in the year, further changing the airline's previously more flexible approach to passenger accommodations. While customers with the Southwest credit card will be exempt from the baggage fees, the overall shift represents a move towards a more traditional airline model. This change is likely to impact passenger costs and travel planning, and the airline's rationale for these changes will be closely watched by industry analysts and consumers alike. The shift away from its unique baggage policy is a significant moment in Southwest's history and could set a precedent for other airlines.