Southwest Airlines Announces Policy Updates: What You Need to Know

If you or your family love flying with Southwest Airlines, there are some important changes coming that could impact your future trips. Southwest recently announced updates to its checked baggage policy and fare bundles, giving travelers more options while also adjusting some benefits. Here’s what you need to know before booking your next Southwest flight.

🎥 Prefer to learn about these updates in a video format? Click here to watch our video covering this update!

Changes to Southwest’s Checked Baggage Policy (Effective May 28, 2025)

Southwest Airlines has long been known for its generous baggage policy, but starting May 28, there will be some key changes:

✅ Who Gets Free Checked Bags?

• Two free checked bags: Available for Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members and Business Select® fare travelers.

• One free checked bag: Available for A-List Members and other select Customers.

• One checked bag credit: Offered to Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers.

  
  

🚨 Who Will Pay for Checked Bags?

• All other travelers will now pay for their first and second checked bags.

• Southwest will continue to charge fees for third and fourth checked bags.

Fare Bundle Updates: More Choices, More Changes

Southwest is rolling out changes to its fare options in two phases, impacting how travelers earn rewards, redeem points, and choose fares.

Phase 1 – Already in Effect

• Increased Rapid Rewards points on Business Select fares.

• Lowered Rapid Rewards points on Wanna Get Away® and Wanna Get Away Plus™ fares.

• Redemption rates will vary for high- and low-demand travel periods.

Phase 2 – Effective May 28, 2025

• New “Basic” fare introduced – Southwest’s lowest-priced option with fewer benefits.

• Flight Credits will now have expiration dates, varying by fare type purchased.

What This Means for You:

If you regularly fly Southwest, these updates could impact your future bookings:

• Frequent flyers with status or credit cards will still enjoy free baggage perks, but all other travelers should budget for baggage fees.

• Budget-conscious travelers may see savings with the new Basic fare, but it will come with more restrictions.

• Earning and redeeming Rapid Rewards points will change, so it’s essential to check how your fare type affects your rewards.

Need Help Booking Your Next Southwest Flight?

At Polaroid Travel, LLC, we do our best to stay on top of airline policy changes so you don’t have to! Whether you need help selecting the best fare, maximizing rewards, or planning a seamless trip, we’re here to make travel easier.

📩 Contact us today to start planning your next getaway with Southwest or any other airline!

Happy Travels,

Megan at Polaroid Travel, LLC

Schedule a 1:1 FREE Travel Planning Consultation with me today by clicking here!