Southwest Airlines New Checked Baggage Fees: Southwest vs. International Baggage Policies

Introduction: A Legacy of Free Bags Comes to an End

Southwest Airlines maintained its reputation in the airline market for five decades through policies which included its trademark "Bags Fly Free" concept. Since its founding Southwest Airport established itself through its two free baggage allowance which continues to distinguish it from other airlines that burden travelers with bag fees. Southwest Airlines implemented a substantial policy change toward its southwest baggage policy on March 11, 2025 by ending free baggage services for most of its passengers. The implementation of southwest airlines checked baggage fees will begin on May 28, 2025 to affect many users who have historically chosen southwest for its entertaining charm and economical fares.

The History of Southwest’s Free Checked Bag Policy

The company Southwest Airlines established its brand foundations from straightforward service and cost-effective solutions. Since its foundation in 1971 Southwest Airlines developed a popular business model through affordable fares together with basic services while ensuring satisfaction for its customers. The southwest free checked bag policy of Southwest Airlines provided all ticketed passengers with the ability to check two bags which weighed up to 50 pounds each with a total 62 inches size at no expense. The southwest bag policy provided free checked bag service which Southwest Airlines managed to market through its trademarked "Southwest Bags Fly Free" slogan.

The southwest airlines baggage fee exemption operated as an essential differentiator between Southwest Airlines and its competitors Delta, United and American because it made customers choose Southwest over them. The southwest checked bags policy found positive reception from people who traveled often along with families and those watching their budgets since they liked not needing to factor in extra expense for their baggage. Southwest continued to enforce its modest fee structure despite industry competitors obtaining billions in baggage fees during 2023 and beyond—Southwest earned only $73 million from extra or oversized bags’ fees.

The Big Announcement: Southwest Ending Free Bags

The Southwest Airlines news outlet notified southwest customers on March 11, 2025 about how the company planned to drop its free checked bag policy. Beginning on May 28, 2025 Southwest Airlines will apply charging for baggage fees to all passengers except those with elite status and select fare class holders. For the first time in its 54-year existence southwest charge for bags will affect all flyers nationwide thus ending its precedence of giving free travel bags to standard passengers.

Industry experts predict southwest transportation fares for baggage services will match competitor rates in the range of $35 per bag although the company has yet to unveil exact details. The standard fee for initial checked baggage with Delta United and American stands at $35 and second bag fees amount to $45 on all domestic flights. Southwest Airlines has verified that elite Rapid Rewards members including A-List and A-List Preferred and Business Select fare bookers will maintain southwest free checked bag rights. The southwest checked bag fee change will force almost all of their customers to pay for checked luggage.

Why the Change? Financial Pressures and Strategic Shifts

Swantown Airlines has decided to terminate its free baggage policy starting today. The implementation combines financial requirements with a strategic presentation of company goals. The airline Southwest Airlines faces multiple strength challenges since 2019 as operational costs advance and workers contest pay rates alongside inconsistent market travel conditions after the pandemic. Southwest Airlines keeps trailing behind its competitors in profitability even though loyal passengers support the airline because competitors use southwest airlines baggage fees as a profitable revenue stream.

The performance of southwest stock known as LUV stock serves as an important driving force according to analysts. λούβ stock failed to reach its pre-pandemic peak during 2024 thus driving leadership to pursue additional revenue solutions. Southwest implemented this change to increase earnings through their bag fees which forecast to produce hundreds of millions annually while that money could stabilize the southwest stock and fund aircraft upgrading or addition to the fleet.

Southwest adaptively responds to current changes occurring across the industry. The competitors perfected their fare structures alongside loyalty programs which made Southwest Airlines' whole package pricing scheme start to look outdated. The company hopes southwest checked baggage fees will let it stay competitive through low base fares while causing disagreement between passengers and investors.

• Southwest Airlines Gives Away This Complete Breakdown Of Its Updated Baggage Fee Plan And Policies
• The updated southwest baggage policy consists of classic liberal policies with new policy requirements. Southwest Airlines passengers need to understand the following points about their checked baggage policies:
• The majority of standard travelers have to pay southwest baggage fees starting from May 28, 2025 for every piece they check. Each southwest baggage fee level will be revealed after the policy takes effect although it will follow standard industry standards.
• Rapid Rewards A-List and A-List Preferred members maintain their privilege for two free southwest checked bags as part of their loyalty program benefits.
• Higher fares under Business Select will grant passengers free southwest check-in privileges just like standard premium customers.
• All existing southwest baggage restrictions using the 50 pounds maximum weight and 62 inches dimensions measurement (length + width + height) stand in force. Passengers requiring airport checked baggage overweight or extra large than southwest bag restrictions will face payment amounts starting at $150 to $200 for each direction of travel.
• The cost for each southwest checked bag that exceeds two pieces remains at $150 as per existing southwest luggage policy.
• Those who presently fly with southwest bags at no cost face the sensation of abandonment with this policy change. Users on X express their anger through posts because they mainly chose Southwest based on free bag policy and plan to switch carriers. Southwest maintains that southwest airlines checked bags fees will maintain affordable base fares but their assertion remains to be proven through time.

The change in customer experience leads customers toward loyalty decisions

A large group of devoted Southwest Airlines customers exists due to their southwest free bags and no change fee benefits. Southwest Airlines checked bag fees have the potential to damage the positive customer relationships that previously existed. The customers who depended on southwest checked bag allowances for their family vacations or longer travels will start exploring different options because competing airlines provide better loyalty rewards and credit card benefits.

The southwest credit card presents an opportunity for customers to reduce southwest airlines baggage cost while keeping faithful to the service. Southwest frequently rewards its cardholders with ticketing advantages together with companion voucher programs while sometimes offering complimentary baggage benefits to keep their user base loyal. Any additional baggage fee costs imposed on casual southwest airlines passengers without elite status will likely steer them toward competitors.

Sentiment on X highlights this tension. Users on X expressed their broken commitment followed by an assessment of Southwest Airlines as an “overpriced Spirit Airline” since the policy changes. The negative customer response indicates southwest's main user base could shift away if the company does not offer sufficient new benefits to justify the removal of free bags.

The Broader Industry Context: Baggage Fees as the Norm

The alignment of Southwest's policies with industry standards makes it comparable to other companies that depend on southwest airlines baggage fees for profits. Southwest failed to gain over $6 billion in baggage income which U.S. airlines successfully collected in 2023. The airline has joined numerous other travel companies by starting to charge fees for baggage service which is now standard for all passengers.

Throughout its existence Southwest has stood against industry standards. The southwest bags fly free policy operated as more than a technical policy because it established clear differences between southwest and other airlines. The way Southwest Airlines defines itself becomes uncertain after losing its primary differentiating factor. The new lower fares will cover the costs of implementation for requiring customers to pay baggage fees. The company aims to protect its cult-like character while maintaining its operational speed despite other airlines charging a variety of fees. Southwest news and southwest stock performance during the coming years depend on the decisions that the airline makes now.

Comparison of the International baggage policies for Southwest Airlines with major U.S. competitors

The international baggage policies from Southwest Airlines and its biggest competitors Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines are compared for March 11, 2025. An analysis examines economy-class worldwide passenger requirements and presents details about fee structures together with limitations in international flight baggage regulations. The number of destinations Southwest serves internationally remains limited because it focuses on Mexico and Central America and the Caribbean whereas Delta, United, and American reach destinations worldwide.

1. Southwest Airlines

Travelers get one complimentary carry-on baggage of 24 x 16 x 10 inches that includes handles/wheels alongside a personal item that fits within dimensions of 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches.  

Checked Baggage Allowance:  

1. Southwest allows customers to check in two complimentary bags that must not exceed 50 pounds weight and a combined size of 62 linear inches.  
2. Third bag and beyond: $150 each.  
3. Overweight (51-100 pounds): $150-$200 per bag.  
4. Oversized (63-80 inches): $150-$200 per bag.

Southwest Airlines extends its free baggage allowance under the “Bags Fly Free” policy to encompass all destinations beyond the United States including Mexico and Central American and Caribbean regions. Routes do not disrupt this baggage policy for economy passengers.  

Southwest’s cost policy for baggage across all markets differs from most North American airlines because it maintains consistent pricing. Elite Rapid Rewards members at A-List/A-List Preferred tier receive free two checked bags like standard passengers although Business Select fares add this benefit as well. Starting May 28, 2025 most customers except elite members and Business Select passengers must pay fees amounting to $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second one.

2. Delta Air Lines

Customers get one free carry-on with 22 x 14 x 9 inches dimensions and the option of one personal item such as a purse or laptop bag.  

Checked Baggage Allowance:  

1. One free checked piece of baggage with 50 pound weight and 62 inch dimensions is available on Delta Air Lines flights between U.S. destinations and Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East.  
2. U.S. to/from Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, South America: $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second (50 pounds, 62 inches each).  
3. Third bag and beyond: $150-$200 each.  
4. Oversized (63-80 inches): $200 per bag.

The airline permits one piece of luggage with restrictions at different weight categories from 51 to 70 pounds while charging between $100 and $200 for this service and refusing any load above 100 pounds.  

International Specifics:  

• Two free bags (70 pounds each) for premium cabins (First Class, Delta Premium Select, Delta One).  
• U.S. to Brazil: Two free bags (50 pounds each) for economy.  
• Members of SkyMiles Medallion and Delta SkyMiles Credit cardholders who possess designated cards (select cards) will receive one free bag on all routes.

Beginners should note that Delta Air Lines allows free checked bags on transpacific and transatlantic flights but short international routes maintain similar costs to domestic baggage rules. The Basic Economy class allows passengers to carry their personal items for free whereas other airlines charge for this service.

3. United Airlines

Clients in Basic Economy must pay a $35 fee as well as a $25 gate handling fee when checking their full-sized carry-on measuring 22 x 14 x 9 inches. However, all other clients can bring either a smaller 17 x 10 x 9 personal item free of charge or their full-sized carry-on free without fees when not in Basic Economy.  

Checked Baggage Allowance:  

1. Passengers traveling on United Airlines between U.S. and Europe, Asia, Australia, along with Africa will receive one free checked bag which must not exceed 50 pounds or 62 inches in dimensions.  
2. U.S. to/from Mexico, Central America, Caribbean: $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second.  
3. Third bag and beyond: $150-$200 each.  
4. Oversized (63-80 inches): $200-$400.

Traveling with bags weighing between 51 to 70 pounds incurs costs between $100 and $200 and different prices exist for bags weighing 71 to 100 pounds depending on the flight route.  

International Specifics:  

• Two free bags (70 pounds each) for premium cabins (United Polaris, First, Business).  
• U.S. to Canada: $35 for the first bag in economy.  

Premier-level MileagePlus members together with United Explorer cardholders qualify for free baggage service based on their member status.

4. American Airlines

Passengers can bring one free carry-on bag measuring 22 by 14 by 9 inches combined with one personal item that can fit within dimensions of 18 by 14 by 8 inches.  

Checked Baggage Allowance:  

1. American Airlines allows customers to check one piece of luggage free of charge on U.S. to/from Europe, Asia, Australia, Middle East routes with a weight limit of 50 pounds (62 inches).  
2. U.S. to/from Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, South America: $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second.  
3. Third bag and beyond: $150-$200 each.  
4. Overweight (51-70 pounds): $100; 71-100 pounds: $200.  
5. Oversized (63-80 inches): $200.

International Specifics:  

• U.S. to Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru: Two free bags (50 pounds each) for economy.  
• Premium cabins (First/Business): Two to three free bags (70 pounds each).  

Members of AAdvantage elite and Citi/AAdvantage cardholders obtain complimentary bag service from one to three pieces. The free baggage policy of American Airlines provides significantly larger limits on specific South American routes. The Basic Economy on American provides free carry-on service which United does not offer.

5. Spirit Airlines

Customers can bring a free personal item sized 18 x 14 x 8 inches yet a full-size carry-on of 22 x 18 x 10 inches incurs fees spanning $35 to $99 according to time of travel and flight route.  

Checked Baggage Allowance:  

1. All international routes: $35-$60 for the first bag, $45-$70 for the second (40 pounds, 62 inches each).  
2. Third bag and beyond: $85-$150 each.  
3. Overweight (41-50 pounds): $50; 51-70 pounds: $75; 71-100 pounds: $125.  
4. Oversized (63-80 inches): $100-$150.

Spirit Airline does not provide free checked baggage services on any of its international flights which extend to destinations across Colombia and Peru. The costs adjust frequently because they tend to rise as departure dates draw nearer. Through its bare-bones strategy Spirit divides every service into separate pricing structures which includes even the basic requirement of bringing a carry-on. Free Spirit Gold members can obtain minimal fee reductions on baggage costs but widespread waivers are absent.

6. Frontier Airlines

A single free personal item with dimensions 18 x 14 x 8 inches accompanies the $35-$99 fee for checking a full-size carry-on sized 24 x 16 x 10 inches.  

Checked Baggage Allowance:  

1. All international routes: $35-$60 for the first bag, $45-$70 for the second (40 pounds, 62 inches each).  
2. Third bag and beyond: $85-$150 each.  
3. Overweight (41-50 pounds): $50; 51-100 pounds: $100.  
4. Oversized (63-80 inches): $75-$150.

International Specifics: 

No free bags, even to destinations like Mexico or the Dominican Republic. Fees fluctuate with demand. Similar to Spirit Airlines Frontier extracts payment for every airline service it provides. Frontier Elite members receive free carry-on privileges without regard to checked baggage benefits.

Comparison Highlights

1. Free Checked Bags:  

Southwest: Two free bags on all international routes (until May 28, 2025, for most passengers).  

The airlines of Delta/United/American offer free checked baggage rights only for long-distance flights between Europe and Asia however they impose fees on all destinations including Mexico and the Caribbean and South America with limited exemptions for Brazilian routes.  

Spirit/Frontier: No free bags, period.

2. Fee Structure:  

Southwest: No fees for first two bags now; post-May 2025, likely $35/$45, competitive with legacy carriers.  

Short international flight passengers of Delta/United/American can receive fee exemptions when they possess either elite or credit card user status.  

Passengers will encounter Spirit/Frontier dynamic pricing which can reach between $35 and $150 while frontline fees apply on top of carrier prices.

3. Weight Limits:  

Southwest/Delta/United/American: 50 pounds standard (70 pounds for premium cabins).  

Spirit/Frontier: 40 pounds, with steeper overweight penalties.

4. International Reach:  

Southwest: Limited to nearby regions (e.g., Mexico, Costa Rica).  

Delta/United/American: Extensive networks (50+ countries).  

Spirit-Frontier airlines operate primarily in Latin America and Caribbean areas while offering reduced long-distance traveling options.

5. Exceptions and Perks:  

Southwest: Universal policy, fewer loyalty perks.  

Delta/United/American: Generous waivers for elites, credit cardholders, and premium fares.  

Spirit and Frontier operate with minimal fee waivers because they focus on low base fare price.

Comparison of baggage policies for major European airlines 

Major European airlines have maintained the following baggage policies for economy-class travelers during short-haul and long-haul international flights from March 11, 2025. The analysis covers both legacy and low-cost carriers such as British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France alongside Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air to examine their carry-on and checked baggage policies and fee structures and their distinct features. Verify airline policies through specific route and fare type and loyalty status examination as such conditions determine restrictions and exemptions.

1. British Airways (Legacy Carrier)

Carry-On:  

• British Airways (Legacy Carrier) enables customers to bring one personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag with measurements not exceeding 16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm) and unspecified weight restrictions.  
• All passengers are permitted one carry-on bag up to 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm) limit which includes handle and wheels at 51 pounds maximum weight (23 kg).

Checked Baggage:  

• On most flights less than 550 miles British Airways extends free baggage allowance for one item not more than 23 kilograms (51 pounds) with dimensions of 90 x 75 x 43 cm (35 by 29 by 16 inches) yet Basic fares do not provide this advantage.  
• Long-haul (e.g., UK to U.S.): One free bag up to 51 pounds (23 kg).  
• Second bag: £65-£75 ($85-$100) if prepaid; higher at airport.  
• Overweight (51-70 pounds): £65 ($85); oversized (over 75 inches): £65 ($85).
• The weight limits for carry-on baggage are large and eligible checked baggage service depends on the purchased fare type. Executive Club members of the Elite tier receive additional free baggage allowances from the airline.

2. Lufthansa (Legacy Carrier)

Carry-On:  

• One personal item up to 16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm).  
• Passengers are permitted to carry either one carry-on bag that must not exceed 22 x 16 x 8 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm) and not exceed 18 pounds (8 kg).

Checked Baggage:  

• On Economy Light fares within Europe passengers do not receive complimentary checked bags but Economy Classic/Standard passengers obtain one free bag weighing no more than 51 pounds (23 kg).  
• Long-haul (e.g., Europe to U.S./Asia): One free bag up to 51 pounds (23 kg).  
• Second bag: €75-€100 ($80-$105) short-haul; €100-€200 ($105-$210) long-haul.  
• Overweight (51-70 pounds): €100-€200 ($105-$210); oversized (over 62 inches): €150 ($160).
• Passengers holding Miles & More elite and Star Alliance Gold membership are entitled to free extra baggage allowance in addition to the weight restrictions for carry-on items.

3. Air France (Legacy Carrier)

Carry-On:  

• One personal item up to 16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm).  
• One carry-on bag up to 22 x 14 x 10 inches (55 x 35 x 25 cm), max 26 pounds (12 kg) combined with personal item.

Checked Baggage:  

• Short-haul (within Europe): No free bag on Light fares; Standard fares include one bag up to 51 pounds (23 kg).  
• Long-haul (e.g., Europe to U.S./Africa): One free bag up to 51 pounds (23 kg).  
• Second bag: €50-€70 ($53-$74) short-haul; €100-$200 ($105-$210) long-haul.  
• Overweight (51-70 pounds): €100 ($105); oversized (over 62 inches): €100-$200 ($105-$210).

Notes: Combined carry-on weight allowance is lenient; Flying Blue elites get extra perks.

4. Ryanair (Low-Cost Carrier)

Carry-On:  

• One personal item up to 16 x 8 x 10 inches (40 x 20 x 25 cm), no weight limit specified.  
• Priority fare adds one carry-on bag up to 22 x 16 x 8 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm), max 22 pounds (10 kg), for €6-€20 ($6-$21).

Checked Baggage:  

• No free checked bags.  
• 22 pounds (10 kg): €15-€35 ($16-$37) prepaid; higher at airport.  
• 44 pounds (20 kg): €25-€50 ($27-$53) prepaid.  
• Overweight (per 2 pounds over): €11 ($12); oversized (over 62 inches): €50 ($53).

Notes: Strict enforcement at gates; fees escalate closer to departure. Ideal for light packers.

5. easyJet (Low-Cost Carrier)

Carry-On:  

• One personal item up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 36 x 20 cm), max 33 pounds (15 kg), must fit under seat.  
• Large cabin bag (22 x 18 x 10 inches, 56 x 45 x 25 cm) with extra fee or easyJet Plus membership, max 33 pounds (15 kg).

Checked Baggage:  

• No free checked bags.  
• 33 pounds (15 kg): £7-£35 ($9-$46) prepaid.  
• 51 pounds (23 kg): £10-£50 ($13-$65) prepaid.  
• Overweight (per 6 pounds over): £12 ($16); oversized (over 62 inches): £60 ($78).

Notes: Flexible carry-on weight but requires lifting into overhead bins unassisted; dynamic pricing for checked bags.

6. Wizz Air (Low-Cost Carrier)

Carry-On:  

• One personal item up to 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm), max 22 pounds (10 kg).  
• Wizz Priority adds one carry-on bag up to 22 x 16 x 8 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm), max 22 pounds (10 kg), for €5-€40 ($5-$42).

Checked Baggage:  

• No free checked bags.  
• 22 pounds (10 kg): €10-€40 ($11-$42) prepaid.  
• 44 pounds (20 kg): €20-€60 ($21-$63) prepaid.  
• Overweight (per 2 pounds over): €12 ($13); oversized (over 62 inches): €60 ($63).

Notes: Known for strict size checks; fees vary by route and season.

Comparison Highlights

1. Carry-On Allowance:  

Legacy Carriers: British Airways offers the most generous policy with a 51-pound (23 kg) carry-on limit, while Lufthansa (18 pounds, 8 kg) and Air France (26 pounds combined, 12 kg) are stricter but still include a personal item.  

Low-Cost Carriers: Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air limit free carry-on to a small personal item, with fees for larger bags. easyJet’s 33-pound (15 kg) weight cap is notably lenient if you pay for a large bag.

2. Checked Baggage:  

Legacy Carriers: Free checked bags are standard on long-haul flights (one bag, 51 pounds) and often included on short-haul with higher fares (e.g., British Airways Standard, Lufthansa Classic). Fees for extra bags are moderate (£65-€100, $85-$105).  

Low-Cost Carriers: No free checked bags; fees start low (£7-€15, $9-$16) but rise with weight and proximity to departure. Ryanair and Wizz Air cap at 44 pounds (20 kg) standard, while easyJet offers 51 pounds (23 kg).

3. Fees for Excess:  

Legacy Carriers: Overweight/oversized fees range from €100-€200 ($105-$210), with British Airways at the lower end (£65, $85).  

Low-Cost Carriers: Cheaper per-pound overweight fees (€11-€12, $12-$13), but strict enforcement and higher base costs for extra bags at the gate.

4. Enforcement:  

Low-cost carriers (Ryanair, Wizz Air) are notorious for rigorous size/weight checks at gates, often charging steep penalties. Legacy carriers (e.g., British Airways) are more flexible, especially for elites, but may charge for excess at check-in.

5. Regional Variations:  

Short-haul within Europe often excludes free checked bags on budget fares (e.g., Lufthansa Light, Air France Light), while long-haul flights consistently offer at least one free bag with legacy carriers. Low-cost carriers maintain a fee-based model regardless of distance.

Broader Context

European baggage policies reflect a split between legacy carriers, which prioritize customer perks (especially for long-haul and loyal passengers), and low-cost carriers, which unbundle services to keep base fares low. The European Parliament has pushed for standardized carry-on rules since 2023, but as of March 2025, no binding EU-wide policy exists—leaving airlines to set their own limits. This inconsistency frustrates travelers, especially on budget airlines where fees can exceed ticket costs (e.g., Ryanair’s £23 cabin bag vs. £15 fare). Meanwhile, legacy carriers align more closely with international norms, offering free checked bags on transatlantic routes akin to U.S. carriers like Delta or United.

For travelers, legacy carriers like British Airways provide the best value for heavy packers, while low-cost options like easyJet suit those traveling light with prepaid add-ons. Always measure bags (including wheels/handles) and weigh them before heading to the airport—European airlines, especially budget ones, don’t mess around with enforcement.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines reached an important business milestone through the implementation of checked baggage fees despite maintaining its status as a company that maintains favorable policies for passengers. Southwest checked bag fees have become mandatory since May 28, 2025 thus concluding the era where bags could fly free for all southwest airline travelers. Southwest Baggage Fees serve to strengthen financial stability while following industry standards yet potentially disillusion their devoted customers who found southwest bag flight fees a significant airline advantage.

Passengers must modify their travel routines by assessing the price of southwest checked bag charges against the retained amenities of the airline. Investors will follow LUV stock performance to confirm if the airlines' decision will yield positive results. The future prospects of Southwest Airlines to keep its unique appeal will become evident as the airline continues adjusting its budget travel strategy in the changing skies of the industry.