Starting today, May 28th, 2025, Southwest Airlines will begin charging fees for checked baggage on all tickets purchased from this date forward. The fee for the first checked bag will be $35, and the second checked bag will cost $45.
Any tickets purchased before today will still be allowed two free checked bags. Members in the A-List tier of Southwest's Rapid Rewards loyalty program, holders of the Southwest-branded credit card, and those traveling on a Business Select fare will also receive free checked bags.
Southwest is also rolling out Basic fares today, which will replace its “Wanna Get Away” low-fare option. Flight credits under this fare will expire after six months.
Cain agents are available for support as needed.