How to still get a free checked bag on Southwest flights
Editor's Note
The era is over.
Southwest Airlines is now charging bag fees for all flights, an unfortunate change for Southwest and budget flyers who enjoyed two free checked bags on all flights.
Now, the best way to ensure you'll get a free checked bag on Southwest is to apply for one of the airline's cobranded cards.
The Southwest credit cards were refreshed in July 2025, but you can still hold one and get a free checked bag.
As a reminder, the new bag fees are $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second bag.
1 free checked bag with Southwest credit cards
Southwest overhauled its entire business model in 2025 by adding bag fees, extra-legroom seats, new fare classes and seat selection.
These changes have made Southwest credit cards a worthwhile investment because cardholders will now receive one checked bag for free. This perk also applies to up to eight companions traveling with the main cardholder on the same reservation.
Eligible credit cards that offer a free checked bag for Southwest flights include:
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card (see rates and fees)
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card (see rates and fees)
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
- Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card (see rates and fees)
- Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card (see rates and fees)
The information for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
If you fly Southwest a couple of times a year, the $99 annual fee Southwest Plus card may be enough for you. By checking a bag three times a year, you'll entirely offset this card's cost.
In addition to making it easy to check a bag on all Southwest flights without paying a hefty annual fee, the entry-level card also provides you with a standard seat selection 48 hours before departure, when available.
If you want more benefits apart from a free checked bag, such as selecting a preferred seat at the time of booking or an upgrade to extra legroom within 48 hours, when available, consider other cards like the Southwest Priority or Southwest Performance Business.
Elite status
Another way to get a free checked bag or two is with Southwest elite status. A-List members will get one free checked bag, and A-List Preferred members will still get two free checked bags. If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, elite status will pay off in terms of baggage allowance.
Bottom line
The day is finally upon us, and Southwest has joined the ranks of all the other legacy carriers in charging for checked bags.
Don't let these changes discourage you. Being a Southwest cardholder (or having the right elite status) can still get you free checked bags.
Ultimately, if you're committed to Southwest but aren't a cardholder, it's best to apply for a Southwest credit card. If you fly often or fly as a family, a Southwest credit card can help you save hundreds of dollars a year.