Southwest Airlines Ends Free Bags: Major Changes in 2026
Southwest Airlines ended its universal two-free-checked-bags policy on May 28, 2025, introduced a restrictive Basic fare, changed Rapid Rewards earning and redemption rules, and transitioned to assigned seating on January 27, 2026. These changes have fundamentally altered how passengers book flights, select seats, earn points, and calculate travel expenses.
Previously, Southwest stood apart from many competitors by letting all passengers check two standard bags without extra charges. The airline also operated an open-seating system, letting travelers choose available seats after boarding.
That model has changed. Most passengers purchasing Basic, Choice, or Choice Preferred fares now pay for checked baggage unless they qualify for a specific exemption. Meanwhile, assigned seating and new fare bundles have made the differences between economy ticket options clearer.
The changes also affect Rapid Rewards members, with adjusted points-earning rates, more variable redemption pricing, and additional benefits tied to elite status and Southwest credit cards.
This guide explains the latest Southwest Airlines baggage fees, Basic fare restrictions, loyalty program updates, seating changes, and practical considerations for booking flights in 2026.
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Southwest Airlines Changes at a Glance
Southwest’s transformation began with announcements in March 2025, followed by phased implementation throughout 2025 and 2026.
| Major Change | Implementation | What It Means |
| Universal free checked bags ended | May 28, 2025 | Most passengers began paying baggage fees |
| Basic fare introduced | May 28, 2025 | Lowest-priced tickets gained additional restrictions |
| Flight credit expiration rules changed | May 28, 2025 | Most new flight credits no longer remain valid indefinitely |
| Rapid Rewards adjusted | 2025 onward | Earning rates and redemption values became more variable |
| New fare bundles | 2025 | Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra |
| Assigned seating began | January 27, 2026 | Passengers received designated seats |
| Extra Legroom seats introduced | January 27, 2026 | More spacious seats became available through eligible fares and benefits |
| Checked bag fees increased | April 9, 2026 | Standard first and second bag fees rose by $10 |
The changes were initially announced as part of Southwest’s business transformation. Since then, several policies have been updated further, making the original March 2025 announcement insufficient for determining current travel costs.
Why Did Southwest Airlines End Its Free Checked Baggage Policy?
Southwest discontinued its universal two-free-bags benefit as part of a broader strategy to generate additional revenue and improve profitability.
For decades, complimentary checked baggage was one of the airline’s most recognizable advantages. Passengers could compare Southwest’s advertised fares without adding the cost of their first two standard checked suitcases.
The revised policy ties baggage allowances to fare selection, loyalty status, credit card benefits, and certain travel exemptions.
The airline has also introduced more differentiated ticket products, allowing passengers to purchase additional flexibility, seat preferences, and baggage benefits.
When Did Southwest Start Charging for Checked Bags?
The new checked baggage policy took effect for flights booked and ticketed, or changed, on or after May 28, 2025.
Reservations originally ticketed before that date may retain earlier baggage entitlements, provided subsequent changes do not trigger the newer policy.
A separate fee increase took effect on April 9, 2026.
This means two different dates matter: May 28, 2025, when the universal allowance ended, and April 9, 2026, when standard baggage charges increased.
Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Fees in 2026
For standard travel within the US mainland, Southwest currently charges $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second on Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares booked or changed on or after April 9, 2026.
| Fare Type | First Checked Bag | Second Checked Bag |
| Basic | $45 | $55 |
| Choice | $45 | $55 |
| Choice Preferred | $45 | $55 |
| Choice Extra | Free | Free |
Standard US mainland charges per passenger, each way, for eligible reservations booked or changed on or after April 9, 2026. Exceptions apply.
How Much Did Southwest Baggage Fees Increase?
Southwest increased the first and second checked bag charges by $10 each.
| Checked Bag | Previous Fee | Current Fee |
| First bag | $35 | $45 |
| Second bag | $45 | $55 |
| Third bag | $150 | $150 |
For example, a traveler checking two standard bags on a round-trip Basic ticket could pay $200 in baggage charges: $100 outbound and $100 returning.
That amount is separate from the airfare.
Travelers should compare the total cost of their journey rather than choosing a fare based only on its advertised price.
What About Flights Booked Before April 9, 2026?
Eligible tickets booked and ticketed before April 9, 2026, may retain the earlier $35 first-bag and $45 second-bag rates.
However, changes made on or after the effective date may cause the updated charges to apply.
The booking and ticket-change dates matter, not just the flight’s departure date.
Does Southwest Still Allow Free Carry-On Bags?
Yes. Southwest continues to allow one standard carry-on bag and one personal item without an additional charge, including on Basic fares.
The carry-on must satisfy the airline’s applicable size requirements, and the personal item must fit under the seat.
Introducing checked baggage charges did not eliminate the complimentary carry-on allowance.
Who Still Gets Free Checked Bags in Southwest?
Although Southwest discontinued complimentary checked baggage for most passengers, several groups remain eligible for free allowances.
These exemptions are based on fare type, Rapid Rewards membership, credit card benefits, or qualifying travel circumstances.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members
A-List Preferred members receive two complimentary checked bags.
The benefit extends to up to eight additional passengers traveling on the same reservation, subject to the airline’s requirements.
Standard baggage weight and size limits still apply.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members
A-List members receive one complimentary checked bag.
The first-bag benefit also extends to up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
A second checked bag may incur a reduced fee under the applicable loyalty rules.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders
Eligible Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cardholders receive their first checked bag free.
The benefit extends to the cardholder and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation.
The cardholder’s Rapid Rewards account number must be included in the reservation as required by the airline.
Choice Extra Passengers
Choice Extra fares include two complimentary checked bags.
This benefit is attached to the fare, so eligible passengers don’t need elite status or a Southwest credit card to receive it.
Other Eligible Travelers
Additional exemptions apply to certain travelers, including eligible active-duty military personnel and passengers purchasing qualifying Getaways by Southwest vacation packages.
Special rules also apply to interisland Hawaii travel.
Southwest Airlines Baggage Rules for Hawaii
Southwest maintains separate baggage allowances for qualifying flights operating entirely within Hawaii.
These rules differ from the standard US mainland baggage structure.
| Interisland Passenger Category | First Bag | Second Bag |
| Eligible Hawaii residents | Free | Free |
| Non-Hawaii residents | $30 | $40 |
| A-List Preferred members | Free | Free |
| A-List members | Free | Reduced fee |
| Eligible Southwest credit cardholders | Free | Applicable fee |
Eligible Hawaii residents must satisfy the airline’s residency verification and Rapid Rewards requirements.
The interisland policy applies to qualifying flights that both originate and conclude within Hawaii.
A flight between Hawaii and the US mainland is not considered an interisland journey merely because one airport is located in Hawaii.
Southwest Airlines Introduces the Basic Fare
Southwest introduced its Basic fare on May 28, 2025, replacing the previous Wanna Get Away product.
Basic is now the airline’s lowest-priced fare bundle, designed for passengers who prioritize the lowest ticket price over added flexibility.
However, the fare includes several restrictions involving seat assignments, boarding, ticket changes, and flight credits.
What Is Included in Southwest Basic Fare?
Basic passengers receive a standard seat assigned at check-in, free carry-on baggage within the permitted allowance, and access to eligible inflight entertainment.
The fare also earns Rapid Rewards points, although at the lowest rate among Southwest’s four fare bundles.
Its main limitations include:
- Standard seat assignment at check-in rather than unrestricted advance selection.
- Boarding toward the end of the process.
- Checked baggage charges unless an exemption applies.
- Flight changes requiring an upgrade to a higher fare.
- Nonrefundable tickets, subject to applicable exceptions.
- Flight credits expiring six months after the original ticketing date.
Basic fares may suit travelers with firm plans and limited checked baggage requirements.
However, passengers who need seat flexibility or expect itinerary changes may find a higher fare more practical.
Southwest Basic vs. Choice vs. Choice Preferred vs. Choice Extra
Southwest now offers four principal fare bundles.
| Feature | Basic | Choice | Choice Preferred | Choice Extra |
| Seat selection | Assigned at check-in | Standard at booking | Preferred at booking | Extra Legroom at booking |
| Boarding | Last groups | General | Earlier | Priority |
| Rapid Rewards earning | 2x | 6x | 10x | 14x |
| Checked bags | Fees apply | Fees apply | Fees apply | Two free |
| Ticket refundability | Nonrefundable | Nonrefundable | Refundable | Refundable |
| Flight credits | Six months | Twelve months | Refund option | Refund option |
| Same-day flexibility | Limited | Included, conditions apply | Included | Included |
The differences extend beyond seat selection.
Choice provides more flexibility than Basic, while Choice Preferred adds refundable ticket benefits and access to preferred seating.
Choice Extra includes the most extensive fare benefits, including two checked bags and Extra Legroom seating.
Travelers should compare the fare difference with the value of the benefits they intend to use.
Southwest Airlines Changes Its Flight Credit Policy
Another significant change concerns when unused flight credits expire.
Previously, many Southwest flight credits never expired.
For tickets purchased on or after May 28, 2025, the airline introduced defined expiration periods.
| Fare | Flight Credit Validity |
| Basic | Six months from ticketing |
| Choice | Twelve months from ticketing |
| Choice Preferred | Refundable fare; transferable credit may apply when selected |
| Choice Extra | Refundable fare; transferable credit may apply when selected |
Passengers generally must cancel eligible reservations at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time to preserve the applicable travel funds.
Basic flight credits are not transferable in the same manner as Choice credits.
Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra may provide transferable credits under applicable conditions, with transfers generally limited to one eligible recipient.
Importantly, the expiration period is calculated from the original ticketing date rather than the cancellation date.
For example, a Basic ticket purchased on February 1, 2026, and canceled on April 1 would ordinarily have a flight credit expiring six months after February 1, not six months after April 1.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Program Changes
Southwest also modified its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, changing the number of points earned on qualifying flights and introducing greater variation in award ticket pricing.
The updated structure places greater emphasis on the fare purchased.
Passengers buying higher-priced fare bundles earn more points per eligible dollar than those purchasing Basic tickets.
| Fare Bundle | Points Earned per Eligible Dollar |
| Basic | 2 |
| Choice | 6 |
| Choice Preferred | 10 |
| Choice Extra | 14 |
These are base earning rates before applicable elite bonuses or qualifying credit card rewards.
For example, a $300 eligible base fare would earn approximately 600 points on Basic or 4,200 points on Choice Extra.
The calculation excludes taxes and other amounts that do not qualify for earning.
What Changed With Rapid Rewards Redemptions?
Southwest also introduced more variable redemption rates.
The number of points required for a flight can change based on factors such as fare pricing and demand.
As a result, two flights with similar cash prices may not always offer the same redemption value.
Travelers should compare the points required with the available cash fare before redeeming rewards.
Do Rapid Rewards Still Have Value?
Rapid Rewards continues to provide opportunities to earn and redeem points for eligible Southwest travel.
Members can earn points through qualifying flights, participating credit cards, and selected travel partners.
However, the updated earning structure makes fare selection more important.
Passengers who frequently purchase Basic tickets earn points more slowly than travelers who book higher fare bundles.
Southwest Airlines Introduces Assigned Seating in 2026
Southwest officially replaced its open-seating system with assigned seating on January 27, 2026.
Previously, passengers boarded according to assigned boarding positions and selected any available seat after entering the aircraft.
Under the new system, most travelers choose a specific seat during booking, while Basic passengers generally receive a seat assignment at check-in.
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What Types of Seats Does Southwest Offer?
Southwest now categorizes seating into three principal types.
Standard seats provide conventional economy seating and are generally located toward the rear of the aircraft.
Preferred seats are positioned closer to the front, providing convenient access to the exit after landing.
Extra Legroom seats offer more space than standard seating, with availability depending on aircraft configuration.
Choice Extra passengers can select eligible Extra Legroom seats when booking.
Other passengers may be able to purchase preferred seating or receive access through qualifying loyalty and credit card benefits.
How Has Southwest Boarding Changed?
The previous A, B, and C boarding structure with numbered positions has been replaced by boarding Groups 1 through 8.
Boarding priority now depends on fare selection, seat category, loyalty status, and other qualifying benefits.
Passengers holding higher-tier fares generally board earlier.
Basic passengers typically board toward the end of the process.
This change reduces the importance of checking in early solely to obtain a better boarding position, although timely check-in remains essential.
How Do A-List and A-List Preferred Benefits Work?
Rapid Rewards elite status remains important under Southwest’s updated system.
A-List and A-List Preferred members receive benefits involving baggage, boarding, seat selection, and bonus points.
A-List Status
Members can qualify for A-List by completing 20 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier-qualifying points during a calendar year.
Benefits include one free checked bag, preferred seat selection when available, and a 25% bonus on eligible flight earnings.
A-List members also receive earlier boarding and selected same-day travel benefits.
A-List Preferred Status
A-List Preferred offers more extensive benefits, including two complimentary checked bags and a higher points-earning bonus.
The program also provides additional seating advantages, subject to availability and applicable rules.
For frequent travelers, these benefits can offset expenses that would otherwise be charged separately.
However, evaluate elite qualification requirements against expected travel frequency.
How Much More Could Southwest Flights Cost?
The overall cost of Southwest travel now depends more heavily on the selected fare and optional services.
Consider a traveler purchasing a $180 one-way Basic ticket and checking two standard bags.
| Expense | Illustrative Cost |
| Basic airfare | $180 |
| First checked bag | $45 |
| Second checked bag | $55 |
| Total | $280 |
The baggage charges increase the total cost by $100.
For a round-trip journey with identical baggage requirements, the additional checked baggage cost would reach $200.
However, travelers with an eligible credit card, elite status, or Choice Extra fare may avoid some or all standard baggage charges.
A higher-priced fare may offer better overall value if it includes benefits you would otherwise have to buy separately.
How to Avoid Southwest Checked Baggage Fees
Southwest passengers can reduce baggage expenses by selecting fares and benefits that match their travel requirements.
The most relevant options include:
- Booking Choice Extra when the fare difference is justified by included benefits.
- Using an eligible Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card.
- Qualifying for A-List or A-List Preferred status.
- Traveling with a complimentary carry-on and personal item instead of checking luggage.
- Checking whether military, Hawaii resident, or vacation package exemptions apply.
- Reviewing the total booking cost before purchasing optional services.
Travelers should also consider baggage weight and dimensions.
Overweight and oversized baggage can incur additional charges even when the standard checked bag fee is waived.
For most standard checked bags, the usual allowance is 50 pounds and 62 linear inches.
The applicable restrictions may differ for sports equipment, musical instruments, and other special items.
What Do Southwest’s Changes Mean for Travelers?
Southwest’s revised business model creates a greater distinction between passengers who prioritize low initial fares and those who value flexibility and additional services.
Travelers with minimal luggage may continue to find Basic fares suitable.
Passengers checking multiple bags should compare the cost of Basic, Choice, and Choice Extra before booking.
Frequent flyers may benefit from Rapid Rewards elite status and eligible credit card perks, especially if they regularly use complimentary baggage and preferred seating.
Assigned seating may also appeal to travelers who prefer confirming their seats before arriving at the airport.
However, expiring flight credits make booking decisions more consequential, especially for passengers with uncertain travel plans.
Final Thoughts
Southwest Airlines‘ changes represent a significant departure from its traditional approach to baggage allowances, ticket flexibility, and seating.
The introduction of checked baggage fees, Basic fares, and more variable Rapid Rewards earning has made the total cost of travel more dependent on the selected fare and passenger benefits.
At the same time, assigned seating and expanded premium seat options give passengers more opportunities to choose preferred onboard accommodations.
Before booking, passengers should compare fare bundles, baggage costs, credit expiration rules, and Rapid Rewards benefits to choose the option that offers the best practical value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but not to every passenger. Choice Extra travelers and eligible A-List Preferred members receive two complimentary checked bags. Additional exemptions apply to certain passenger categories.
Southwest ended its universal two-free-checked-bags policy for eligible bookings made or changed on or after May 28, 2025.
For standard US mainland travel booked or changed on or after April 9, 2026, the first checked bag costs $45 and the second costs $55 on Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares, unless an exemption applies.
Yes. Basic passengers can bring one complimentary carry-on bag and one personal item within the applicable size limits.
Basic tickets can be changed through an upgrade to Choice, Choice Preferred, or Choice Extra, subject to applicable fare differences and conditions.
Rapid Rewards points generally do not expire while the account remains open. However, flight credits have separate expiration rules.
Southwest began assigned seating on January 27, 2026. Passengers now receive designated seats rather than selecting any available seat after boarding.
Choice Preferred and Choice Extra fares offer refundable ticket benefits. Basic and Choice are generally nonrefundable, although eligible cancellations may provide flight credits under the applicable fare rules.