Final opportunity for Southwest flight tickets including two complimentary checked bags, as the policy concludes soon.

Passengers check in for Southwest Airlines flights at Chicago Midway International Airport on Feb. 18, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois. Scott Olson | Getty Images

Set your alarm. Southwest Airlines customers have only one day left before the company begins charging for checked bags for the first time in more than 50 years.

Starting Wednesday, Southwest will discontinue its longstanding “two bags fly free” policy. This perk was cherished by customers and long-time executives alike, helping to set the airline apart from its competitors. However, baggage fees generated nearly $7.3 billion for U.S. airlines last year, according to federal data. Southwest executives, who have consistently defended the policy, are now under pressure to increase revenue.

Although the airline has not disclosed the new baggage fees, competitors typically charge around $35 to $40 for the first checked bag on domestic flights, with some exceptions.

In addition to this change, Southwest has made significant adjustments to its business model over the past year, such as eliminating open seating. The airline is also introducing basic-economy tickets similar to those offered by other major carriers starting Wednesday.

Here’s what travelers should know about the end of free checked bags on Southwest:

What is changing?

Southwest will no longer provide two free checked bags with tickets purchased on or after Wednesday. Tickets bought before that date will still honor the original terms, including the two free checked bags. The fees will apply to its no-frills Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares.

This new policy was announced in March, following pressure from Elliott Investment Management, which acquired a stake in the airline last year and secured five board seats, advocating for significant changes including the baggage policy.

Are there exemptions?

Yes. Travelers with top-tier status in Southwest’s Rapid Rewards loyalty program will still receive two free checked bags. Customers in the highest-level Business Select fares will also be exempt from the fee.

Those with a Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card and their travel companions booked together using the same card will not incur charges for their first standard checked bag. A-List frequent flyer members, who are part of the second-highest tier in the loyalty program, will also have their first checked bag complimentary.

New fare type: Basic

On Wednesday, Southwest will also introduce basic-economy tickets. With the new Basic fare, customers will not be allowed to make changes to their tickets. They will be among the last to board, and their fare credits will expire in six months, compared to 12 months for other ticket types.

Additionally, the airline will phase out the Wanna Get Away fare, which was previously the lowest tier ticket.

What about assigned seats?

For decades, Southwest has operated on an open-seating model, prompting loyal customers to check in a day early to secure a favorable boarding slot. However, later this year, Southwest plans to start selling tickets for flights in 2026 that will include assigned seating. The airline is also adding extra legroom seats, similar to many of its competitors, which will come at higher prices.

Can Southwest handle it?

Southwest executives have indicated that they expect passengers to carry on more luggage (with policies for free carry-ons remaining unchanged) and have stated that the airline is installing larger overhead bins on its Boeing fleet to accommodate the increased volume of carry-on bags. They have also mentioned that staff will receive mobile bag-tag printers at gates and airport lobbies to assist customers.

Are customers upset?

Southwest has faced backlash on social media over the changed baggage policy, even in posts unrelated to the topic. However, CEO Bob Jordan assured that the announcement made on March 11 has not negatively impacted customer bookings. “We have seen no book-down on that day or after that day,” he stated in a recent interview.