What To Know
- If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, travelers may want to consider flying a different airline that still offers free checked bags.
- If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, it would be a major change for the airline and its customers.
- If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, it is likely that the airline would charge a fee similar to its competitors.
The rumor mill has been churning for months, and now it seems that Southwest Airlines may finally be considering charging for checked bags. The airline has been under increasing pressure from competitors like Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines, which have both adopted bag fees in recent years.
Why Southwest Airlines Might Start Charging for Bags
There are several reasons why Southwest Airlines might decide to start charging for bags.
- To increase revenue. Bag fees are a major source of revenue for airlines. In 2022, Spirit Airlines collected $1.4 billion in bag fees, while Frontier Airlines collected $824 million.
- To reduce costs. Southwest Airlines has been struggling to control costs in recent years. The airline’s fuel costs have risen sharply, and it has also been facing increased competition from low-cost carriers.
- To level the playing field. Southwest Airlines is one of the few major airlines that still offers free checked bags. By charging for bags, Southwest would be aligning itself with its competitors.
The Impact on Travelers
If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, it would have a significant impact on travelers.
- Increased costs. Travelers would have to pay an additional fee for each checked bag. This could add up to a significant expense for families and groups traveling together.
- Reduced convenience. Free checked bags are a major convenience for travelers. They allow travelers to pack more items and avoid having to pay for overweight or oversized luggage.
- Increased frustration. Charging for bags could lead to increased frustration among travelers. Many travelers have come to rely on Southwest Airlines’ free checked bag policy.
What Travelers Can Do
If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, there are several things that travelers can do to reduce the impact on their travel plans.
- Pack light. Travelers should try to pack light and avoid checking bags altogether. This can be difficult, but it can save travelers a lot of money in the long run.
- Use a credit card that offers free checked bags. Some credit cards offer free checked bags as a perk. Travelers who have one of these cards can avoid paying Southwest Airlines’ bag fees.
- Consider flying a different airline. If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, travelers may want to consider flying a different airline that still offers free checked bags.
Southwest Airlines’ Response
Southwest Airlines has not officially announced any plans to start charging for bags. However, the airline has said that it is “evaluating all options” in order to remain competitive.
The Future of Free Checked Bags
It is unclear whether Southwest Airlines will ultimately decide to start charging for bags. However, the airline’s recent statements suggest that it is at least considering the possibility. If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, it would be a major change for the airline and its customers.
Recommendations: The Sky’s the Limit
The future of Southwest Airlines‘ free checked bag policy is uncertain. However, one thing is for sure: the airline is facing increasing pressure to start charging for bags. If Southwest Airlines does decide to change its policy, it would have a significant impact on travelers.
Questions You May Have
Will Southwest Airlines start charging for bags?
Southwest Airlines has not officially announced any plans to start charging for bags. However, the airline has said that it is “evaluating all options” in order to remain competitive.
How much would Southwest Airlines charge for bags?
If Southwest Airlines does start charging for bags, it is likely that the airline would charge a fee similar to its competitors. Spirit Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag. Frontier Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag.
What can travelers do to avoid paying Southwest Airlines‘ bag fees?
Travelers can avoid paying Southwest Airlines’ bag fees by packing light and avoiding checking bags altogether. Travelers can also use a credit card that offers free checked bags. Finally, travelers may want to consider flying a different airline that still offers free checked bags.
