Southwest Airlines Bag Fees Uncovered Today
In a revelation that feels like it dropped a bombshell on the skies of 2025, Southwest Airlines has flipped the script on its legendary “Bags Fly Free” mantra. Starting from today, adjustments have kicked in, and there’s quite a lot to unpack. Let’s dive into Southwest’s shiny new fee structure and dissect what it might mean for those lofty clouds of airline finance.
Southwest now charges $35-45 for checked bags
Once upon a time, Southwest was the generous uncle of the airline world, letting us carry our bags for free. Alas, those halcyon days are no more for tickets bought from today onward.
So, what’s the damage now? Well, brace yourself. It’s $35 for the first bit of luggage you want to send on holiday with you. A second? That’ll be $45. Thinking of testing their generosity with a third? That’ll set you back a hefty $150. It doesn’t take a financial genius to recognize these numbers square up with what most other airlines are doing.
But all hope is not lost; some passengers still have the privilege of dodging those pesky fees:
- Book yourself a Southwest Business Select ticket, and you’re still riding free with two bags.
- If you’re an A-List Preferred member, your two bags are free. A-List members? You get one on the house.
- For the savvy spenders wielding the Southwest co-branded credit card, one bag is blissfully unpaid.
Oh, and here’s a little bonus for loyalty: Elite and credit card holders can extend these perks to eight tag-a-longs on the same booking. Little wins, huh?
Hawaiian Hustle: A Paradise Exception
If you’re journeying between those magical Hawaiian islands, you’re in luck. More flyers can enjoy either free or greatly reduced bag fees. Again, this is solely applicable for inter-island hops—it’s not your golden ticket for trans-Pacific journeys from the U.S. mainland.
Southwest hasn’t really lowered fares overnight
“When we unbundle, you pay less,” they say. But with fewer perks than yesterday, did Southwest slash those airfares into your favor? Spoiler alert: “no.”
In my very scientific and data-backed study (picking six flights out of the digital sky), fares were essentially unchanged. Four were identical, one saw a $7 dip, and another gained an extra fiver. Fancy, huh?
The larger question remains: Will Southwest hold onto its fare structure without those inclusive comforts when others come knocking with enticing offers? For perspective, Southwest fares are generally higher than its rivals, so this could be a wild ride.
Let’s talk financials
Historically, Southwest has been the airline with the heart of gold, rebellious against the competitive tide. Its loyal fanbase has been its financial backbone.
But here we are, watching this authentic business makeover unfold. Less than a year ago, their executives warned that charging for bags would lose them market share equivalent to a costly miscalculation. Fast forward, and investor pressure spins the narrative.
What’s at stake? A deep dive into the company’s profitability ditch versus their revenue peaks. Changes abound, not just in bag policies, but across the airline’s business portfolio.
Entrepreneurs and decision-makers from rival companies sniff impending benefits. But, the real proof lies in how customers will react to this bold move.
Bottom line
Tickets purchased from today usher in the era of bag fees at Southwest, with $35 and $45 as their opening gambit. Of course, some folks—high flyers and spenders—get to enjoy their historical freebie.
The curtain falls on a Southwest tradition, but will this be the jackpot they’re hoping for? Only time will tell if it’s a short-sighted game of pocket expansion or a strategic step towards aviation glory.
I’m predicting a bittersweet end to this drama over the years to come. Maybe more will flock for that co-branded credit card reward, but perhaps a few wander off in search of greener pastures. A daring dance indeed, especially with the current demand waltz across domestic airlines.
Now, while we eagerly await Southwest’s next move, how about a relaxing escape to the scenic Val Seny ski resort? After all, a bit of fresh mountain air can clear those airline blues.
Your thoughts? Would you happily hand over your dollars for Southwest’s new bag fees, or does the cynic in you foresee a bumpy flight for the airline’s bottom line?