Say Bon Voyage to free checked bags. Southwest Airlines completes a popular perk

This is the end of (free) era: Southwest Airlines will start charging for checked bags in late May.

Against the background of the sinking of the budget airline announced in a Press release On Tuesday, it is terminating its long -standing policy to allow passengers to check two bags free of charge, limiting Perk to their elite members starting on May 28. The carrier has also announced that it is introducing a basic economical tariff that does not include much of the bonuses of southwestern customers so far rejoiced:

• Customers who buy basic tariffs on or after May 28 will not be able to choose their place or ask for an extra leg. The carrier announced last year that he would end his An open seating policy and Instead, offer first -class seating options with more foot space.

• Customers are now earning less quick prizes for the cheaper wants to get out and want to get plus rates.

• Flight loans issued for tickets for tariff tickets purchased on or after May 28 will expire in six months. Flight loans for price prices will expire in a year.

However, you can now buy tickets for the Southwest of Expedia, which started offering the airline’s rates last month.

While travelers have had mixed views on the appointed seating areas, fees for checked bags are likely to be met with powerlessness as flyers stick to More expensive airline ticketsS

Why does the Southwest change its policy?

In a word: profitability.

The airline’s profits dropped 46% in early 2024, although it advertised Record revenue by the end of the yearS According to Southwest CEO, Bob Jordan, the airline is unfolding its new policy as it continues to recover.

“We have a huge opportunity to meet the current and future needs of customers, to attract new segments of customers, for whom we do not compete today, and to return to the levels of profitability that we and our shareholders expect,” Jordan said in the press release on Tuesday.

Charging for checked bags offers an additional flow of airline revenue. Following is the book about the bigger airlines that usually offer more expensive tickets to customers who want to give up any advantages or amenities.

What can you do to avoid checked bag fees?

If you do not want to pay to check the bag next time you fly, you still have some options.

Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List preferred members and customers who book a business selection fix can still check two bags for free. Members of A-List and other “selected” customers will enjoy a free registered bag. Members of the Rapids Credit Card will receive a statement for a check for a check.

If you are not loyal to the southwest, others Airline Credit Cards It can also reward card holders with fins like free checked bags. Thehe Delta Skymiles Gold American Express CardFor example, it offers the card holders its first bar bag free of charge for Delta flights.

Terms apply to American Express Advantages and Offers. Enrollment may be required for Select American Express Advantages and Offers. Visit AmericanExpress.com To learn more.

And if everything else fails, consider packing a lighter to Put your wardrobe for traveling in carryingS

“Use compression cubes and vacuum bags to save space,” said Mariana Mendoza of Adventures Adventures Travel agency. “Select a suitcase with compression straps and expanding compartments to help you fit more into your transfer.”