No more ‘bags fly free:’ Here’s how much Southwest fliers will pay

Tuesday, 27 May, 2025 2

Southwest Airlines recently announced its much vaunted ‘bags fly free’ policy is coming to an end.

The airline has now detailed how much most travelers will pay for checked bags.

The first checked bag will cost $35, and a second checked bag will be $45.

The new policy goes live tomorrow, May 28 for new bookings.

The no bag fee policy has arguably been Southwest’s main USP.

It is the first time in its more than five decades history it will charge for bags.

However, not everyone will have to pay.

Business Select/Choice Extra and A-List Preferred customers will still receive two free checked bags.

A-List and Chase Rapid Reward credit card members will get one checked bag for free.

In March, Southwest announced the bags fly free policy was ending – one of a number of major changes aimed at improving its bottom line.

Other initiatives included operating red eye flight for the first time and extra legroom seats.

TravelMole Editorial Team

Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.

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