Southwest Airlines will officially begin charging for checked bags starting May 28, ending its longstanding policy of allowing two free checked bags per passenger.
Under the new rules, travelers will pay $35 for their first checked bag and $45 for the second. The change also applies to any existing bookings modified on or after May 28, regardless of when they were originally made.
Southwest said the move brings them in line with “industry standards” and is intended to boost revenue. However, not every traveler will be affected. Passengers in Business Select or Choice Extra fare classes, as well as Rapid Rewards A-List members, will still be allowed at least one free checked bag. Certain credit card holders will also continue to benefit from this perk.
For years, the airline’s free bag policy has set it apart from competitors. Its decision to reverse that strategy marks a significant shift in how it positions itself—especially in a highly competitive market where low-cost carriers continue to look for ways to increase ancillary revenue.
What This Means for Business Travel
For companies that rely on Southwest’s simplicity and cost predictability, this change introduces a new variable to watch.
Here’s how it may affect business travel:
- Trip budgets will need adjusting to account for new luggage fees, particularly for employees who routinely check bags for multi-day travel.
- Booking policies may need to be updated to include guidance on fare classes or preferred status eligibility, especially if employees are expected to avoid fees.
- It may influence airline selection, particularly for companies that compare full trip costs—including bags—when booking.
While the $35 fee might seem minor, it adds up quickly across frequent travelers. For teams managing volume travel, now’s a good time to review spend with Southwest and re-evaluate if the airline still aligns with company priorities—especially if checked luggage is common for your workforce.