Say Bon Voyage check bags for free. Southwest Airlines ends popular revitalization

This is the end of a (freedom) era: Southwest Airlines will start charging checked baggage fees by the end of May.

Amid the sinking profits, the budget airline announced in a press release on Tuesday that it would end its long-term policy to allow passengers to check two bags for free, limiting privileges to its elite members starting May 28. The airline also announced that it also announced basic economic fares, which many Southwest customers have not enjoyed until now.

• Customers who purchase base fares on or after May 28 will be unable to choose a seat or ask for additional legroom. The airline announced last year that it would end its open seating policy, instead offering quality seating options that offer more legroom.

• Now customers earn fewer quick bonus points in cheaper places, wanting to escape and wanting to escape fares.

• Flight credit issued by the basic fare purchased on or after May 28 will expire in six months. After one year, flight credits for higher fares will expire in one year.

However, you can now buy Southwest tickets on Expedia, which started offering fares for the airline starting last month.

Although travelers have different views on allocated seats, the cost of checked bags can be frustrated with the hustle and bustle of Fliers.

Why does the Southwest change its policies?

One word: profitability.

The airline's profit fell 46% in early 2024, although touting record revenue by the end of the year. According to Southwest CEO Bob Jordan, the airline is introducing its new policies as it continues to rebuild.

“We have a huge opportunity to meet current and future customer needs, attract our new customer base that is not competitive today, and return to the profit levels we and our shareholders expect,” Jordan said in a press release on Tuesday.

Charging of check bags provides an additional source of income for airlines. It follows a script from a large airline that typically offers cheap tickets to customers willing to give up any privileges or amenities.

What should you do to avoid check bag fees?

If you don't want to pay to check the bag on your next flight, you still have some options.

Southwest Quick Rewards A-list Preferred Members and Booking Business Customers who choose fares can still check two bags for free. A-List members and other “optional” customers will enjoy a free check bag. Rapids reward credit card members will receive a cheque bag of declared credit.

If you are unfaithful to Southwest Airlines, other airline credit cards may also reward cardholders with privileges such as free check bags. For example, the Delta Skymiles Gold American Express card provides cardholders with the first checked bag for free on Delta flights.

Terms and conditions applicable to American Express benefits and offers. Admission may be required to obtain American Express benefits and offers. access Americanexpress.com learn more.

And, if all other methods fail, consider a lighter packing to fit in a travel wardrobe.

“Use compressed cubes and vacuum bags to save space,” said Mariana Mendoza of Vibe Adventures Travel Agency. “Pick a suitcase with compression belts and expandable compartments to help you get more suitable for carrying around.”