Southwest Airlines to End Free Checked Bag Policy: What It Means for Travelers

Southwest Airlines, long known for its “Bags Fly Free” policy, is making a major shift by ending free checked bags for many passengers. This marks a significant departure from a key perk that has set the airline apart from competitors for years.

A New Era for Southwest Travelers

For decades, Southwest Airlines has been a favorite among budget-conscious travelers, offering not just competitive fares but also generous baggage allowances. Unlike other major U.S. airlines that charge for checked bags, Southwest’s policy allowed passengers to check two bags for free—an incentive that made the airline a top choice for families, group travelers, and those needing extra luggage.

However, Southwest recently announced that this long-standing benefit will soon be replaced with a new pricing structure, bringing it more in line with industry norms. While details are still emerging, the airline has confirmed that passengers will have to start paying for checked luggage under certain fare types, with exceptions for higher-tier customers and loyalty members.

How This Affects Group Tours

For group travelers—such as student tours, performance groups, and sports teams—the impact could be significant. Many groups rely on Southwest’s free baggage allowance to transport uniforms, instruments, and equipment without additional fees. With this policy change, tour planners may need to rethink their airline choices or budget for extra baggage costs.

Some potential consequences include:

• Higher Costs: Additional fees for checked bags could raise overall travel expenses for groups.
• Packing Restrictions: Groups may need to reconsider luggage requirements or opt for carry-on-only options.
• Airline Alternatives: Depending on the final pricing, other airlines may become more competitive when factoring in baggage fees.

How Gerber Tours is Responding This Change

At Gerber Tours, we understand that airline policy changes can create uncertainty for group travelers. That’s why our dedicated Air Department is committed to finding the best fares and ensuring a smooth travel experience for every group we serve. As Southwest Airlines implements these new baggage fees, we are proactively evaluating all airline options to secure the most cost-effective and convenient flights.

Our team works closely with major carriers to compare pricing, baggage policies, and overall value, ensuring that our travelers get the best possible deal without unexpected costs. Whether it’s securing competitive group fares or selecting an airline that best fits your group’s needs, we handle all the logistics—so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Final Thoughts

Southwest’s decision to end free checked bags marks a major shift in its business model and could reshape the airline’s appeal to frequent flyers and group travelers.

For further details on Southwest’s policy change, you can read more in this CBS News article.