Southwest is saying goodbye to free perks
Southwest Airlines is flipping the script in 2025. The open seating scramble and “Bags Fly Free” days are coming to an end, and fans aren’t sure what to think.
What was once the carefree way to fly is giving way to assigned seats and new fees. If you love planning, or hate surprises, you’ll want to know what’s changing before your next trip.
Open seating is officially over
After more than 50 years, Southwest is ditching open seating. Starting July 29, 2025, passengers will pick assigned seats, with eight boarding groups replacing the old system. It changes the way families and friends board together.
This brings more order but ends the fun first-come, first-served scramble. Frequent flyers with elite status or credit cards will get early seat selection. It also allows travelers to know exactly where they’ll sit.
Free bags aren’t flying anymore
The famous “Bags Fly Free” policy ends May 28, 2025. Most passengers will now pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. This could add up for families traveling with multiple bags.
Elite members and certain credit card holders still get free bags. If you’re a regular traveler, plan for these extra costs when budgeting your trips. Checking bag allowances before each flight becomes more important than ever.
Flight credits will expire again
During the pandemic, Southwest allowed flight credits without expiration. Flight credits issued after July 28, 2022, will now expire 12 months from the original booking date starting in 2025. Travelers must use them before they vanish.
This means you’ll need to use your vouchers sooner. Keeping track of expiration dates will save you from losing travel funds. Planning trips ahead becomes more essential for using credits efficiently.
Assigned seating tiers explained
Not all seats are the same under the new system. Southwest now offers standard, preferred, and extra-legroom seats with pricing and boarding priority differences. Choosing a seat may affect both comfort and cost.
Elite members and cardholders get early access to the best seats. This new setup gives travelers more options but also more decisions. It also helps people avoid the chaos of old open seating.
Credit card perks get a boost
Southwest’s Chase co-branded cards are upgrading. While annual fees rise, cardholders get extra-legroom access, earlier boarding, and new bonus points on dining, groceries, and gas. The perks aim to make cardholders feel like VIPs on every flight.
This also speeds up reaching A-List elite status. Travelers using these cards will enjoy perks not available to everyone else. It’s a strong incentive to consider the card if you fly often.
Boarding groups are now eight
Instead of the old A/B/C system, there are now eight boarding groups. Higher-paying passengers, elite members, and cardholders will board earlier. Everyone else will need to plan to arrive at their designated time.
This creates a more structured process. It may feel less spontaneous, but it reduces the chaos of open seating. Organized boarding helps families and large groups find seats together.
Free WiFi comes on board
Starting October 24, 2025, Rapid Rewards members get free WiFi on unlimited devices. This is a huge perk for travelers wanting to stay connected. Streaming, checking emails, or video calls is easier than ever.
Streaming, work, or messaging is now easier. It also gives Southwest a modern edge compared to other airlines still charging for WiFi. Passengers can now stay productive or entertained at 35,000 feet.
Fare classes now affect benefits
Southwest introduced Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares. Each comes with different boarding privileges and seat options. Travelers need to pick carefully based on comfort, timing, and budget.
Higher fare classes get perks like early boarding or free seat upgrades. Travelers need to pick the fare that fits their comfort and budget. Understanding the differences helps avoid paying for perks you don’t need.
How Southwest compares to other airlines
Assigned seating and baggage fees are standard at most major U.S. carriers. Southwest is now closer to Delta, United, and American in pricing models. The airline now plays in the same competitive space.
Extra-legroom seats and tiered boarding are familiar perks for flyers of other airlines. This change levels the playing field for competition. Passengers can expect more predictable pricing and seating.
What this means for loyalty members
Rapid Rewards elite members still benefit with free bags and priority boarding. Credit card holders also keep some perks like extra-legroom seating. Loyalty now matters more than ever if you want to maximize comfort.
The goal is to reward loyal customers while generating new revenue. If you fly frequently, your status matters more than ever. Elite and cardholder perks make the new system feel fairer for frequent flyers.
Costs for preferred and extra-legroom seats
On popular routes, preferred seats cost around $41-$46, and extra-legroom seats can hit $96. That’s similar to other airlines’ pricing for comparable seats. Families may need to plan ahead for these additional expenses.
This makes Southwest competitive but not “free-spirited” like before. Travelers will need to budget carefully for seat upgrades. The extra-legroom option remains a popular choice for taller passengers.
Pros of the new system
The assigned seating and boarding structure reduces boarding chaos. Travelers know exactly when to get on and where to sit. Families may find it easier to board together without scrambling.
Credit card perks and loyalty rewards also make flying more rewarding for frequent flyers. Some changes offer comfort that open seating never did. Travelers who plan ahead benefit the most.
Cons to keep in mind
The simplicity of Southwest’s old policies is gone. Fees for bags and seats mean extra costs for regular travelers. Budget-conscious flyers may feel frustrated with the changes.
Passengers who loved open seating may miss the casual boarding experience. These changes are about revenue, not nostalgia. Travelers must weigh perks versus extra fees when flying.
Tips for saving money
Sign up for Rapid Rewards and use a Southwest credit card for free bags and early boarding. Choosing fare classes wisely can help avoid extra fees. Booking early often gets the best seat options.
Booking in advance often secures the best seats. Tracking your flight credits and expiration dates also saves money. Planning flights carefully helps you make the most of the perks. Check more tips on when to book flights (and when to hold off) to save big and fly smarter
Planning your next flight
Expect fees for most extras, but prioritize loyalty and card benefits. Check seat and fare options before booking to maximize perks. Planning can make flying less stressful and more comfortable.
Staying informed is key to enjoying Southwest’s new system. Even with changes, frequent flyers can still get value from the airline. Timing, fare class, and card perks now matter more than ever. Read more about how Southwest Airlines sparks debate with new plus-size seating rule.
Flying loyal or thinking twice? Drop your take on Southwest’s 2025 updates.
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