The end of the era: Southwest Airlines no longer checks bags for free
Passengers check bags for luggage on Southwest Airlines now have to do passenger things on other airlines:
Pay their inspection bags.
The carrier’s long-loved “Two Bags Free” policy ended on May 28, 2025.
Now, passengers without Southwest Airlines without Southwest credit cards, elite status or certain categories of tickets must pay $35 for the first check bag and the second fare is $45.
Baggage Fee for Checks in Domestic Airlines in US
For many travelers, Southwest’s “two bags free” policy is cliche when choosing an airline to fly.
But now, these passengers may be searching for other carriers and trying to find out the shipping bag fee.
So let’s take a look at the current checked baggage charges for most domestic airlines in the United States. Weight and size restrictions apply and are usually different from airline to airline, so be sure to check it out.
In many cases, credit card, cabin class, or airline status will allow you to avoid using these checked baggage fees. And there may be discounts for prepayment of your luggage fee.
As of May 28, 2025, these are some basic luggage fees.
Alaska Airlines: $35 for the first bag; $45 for the second bag.
American Airlines: The first bag is $40 ($35 if you pay online); the second bag is $45.
Delta gas line: $35 for the first bag; $45 for the second bag.
Border Airlines: Prices for carry-on and check bags vary depending on (i.e. online or at the airport) and when to pay. Even the route. It can be confusing. And expensive. Make sure to measure and weigh your luggage and check if there are options at the location.
Hawaiian Airlines:Interisland: First pack: $30, Second bag: $40. North America: $40 for the first bag, $45 for the second bag.
JetBlue: $35-$50 for the first bag, $50-$70 for the second bag. Discounts are based on when you pay for the check bag.
Southwest Airlines: $35 for the first bag; $45 for the second bag.
Spirit Airlines: The prices of carry-on and inspection bags vary.
United Airlines: $35-$40 for the first bag, $45-$50 for the second bag.
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