Navigating the New Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy: What You Need to Know
Fellow Wanderers, it’s time to address a significant shift in Southwest Airlines’ baggage policy that has many loyal customers, including us, feeling a bit nostalgic. For over two decades, the airline embraced a generous approach, allowing two free checked bags for all passengers—an amazing benefit for those of us who relied on it while flying for work and leisure.
A Personal Connection to Southwest Airlines
When I was working as a film and video producer, Southwest was my top choice for air travel because their baggage policy helped minimize costs when transporting crew and equipment for commercial and music video shoots throughout the United States. As someone who has flown Southwest more times than I can count, this change feels like saying goodbye to an old friend.
We have flown Southwest Airlines almost exclusively for all of our domestic and Caribbean travel (Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos). Effective May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has adjusted its policy, reserving the two free checked bag allowance for A-List and Business Select ticket holders only. While this change marks the end of an era, it’s important to remember that there are still ways to enjoy complimentary baggage allowances without earning elite status or pricey Business Select tickets.
The Solution: Southwest Airlines Co-Branded Credit Card
The good news is the Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card. With this card, you can check one bag for free, not just for yourself but also for up to eight passengers traveling on the same reservation. This offers a practical solution for families and groups planning their travels together, all while sidestepping unnecessary fees.
Additionally, Southwest credit cardholders also have a quicker path to securing a Companion Pass, allowing a designated travel companion to fly alongside you for free, including their checked bags, depending on the fare class purchased. This feature can be particularly beneficial for frequent flyers who wish to share travel experiences without stretching their budgets.
Looking Back on the Companion Pass Experience
I qualified for the Companion Pass two years in a row, which was a at the start of our full-time travel adventure. We took full advantage of it, exploring amazing destinations like Arizona, Las Vegas, Seattle, Hawaii, Florida, Puerto Rico, and the Turks and Caicos. However, since we haven’t flown much within Southwest’s network during our years of traveling abroad, we’ve missed out on that benefit lately.
Conclusion: Embracing Change with Strategic Planning
Although the changes may take some getting used to, they shouldn’t deter you from flying Southwest Airlines. (this is not a sponsored endorsement). The airline continues to be our go to when we are back in the United States seeing family and friends. With strategic planning, you can still make the most of your flights while navigating these new baggage policies.
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I transitioned from being an award-winning film and video producer to embracing the life of a full-time slow traveler and digital nomad. In 2019, my wife and I took a bold step by selling our home in Nashville along with most of our possessions to embark on this adventure. Since then, we've been capturing our experiences around the globe through videos for both YouTube and this platform. Our journey as slow travelers has allowed us to live an abundant life abroad, and we’re passionate about inspiring others to pursue their own adventures too.
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