How to Avoid Checked Bag Fees on Southwest Airlines
📰 Original title: 6 ways to avoid checked baggage fees on Southwest
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How to Avoid Checked Bag Fees on Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines, once known for allowing two free checked bags per passenger, introduced changes in 2025 that now charge $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second on most fare types. Travelers looking to avoid these fees have several options. One is booking a Choice Extra fare, which includes two free checked bags, though it is significantly more expensive than Basic fares. Another option is using a Southwest co-branded credit card, which provides one free checked bag for the primary cardholder and up to eight companions on the same reservation, along with additional perks such as bonus points and boarding benefits. Non-Southwest cards, like Capital One Venture or American Express Platinum, can also help cover baggage fees through points or travel credits. Frequent flyers can earn Southwest Elite Status, with A-List and A-List Preferred members receiving one or two free checked bags, respectively. Booking through Southwest's Getaways service may also include two free checked bags when purchasing travel packages. Certain groups, including active-duty military members and Hawaii residents traveling inter-island, are exempt from these fees. Travelers are encouraged to consider their travel habits and financial tools to minimize extra costs while flying Southwest.







