Should You Book Southwest Flights Now? Here’s What You Should Know About Upcoming Changes

Updated: May 21, 2025, 2:02pm CDT

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Big Changes Coming: Bag Fees, Expiring Credits, and Stricter Fares
Should You Book Now?
Final Thoughts

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Southwest Airlines is set to roll out several significant policy changes starting May 28, 2025 — and if you’re planning to fly with the airline anytime soon, the timing of your booking could make a big difference.

Should you go ahead and book your Southwest flight before these changes take place? Continue reading to learn more.

Big Changes Coming: Bag Fees, Expiring Credits, and Stricter Fares

One of the most significant updates is the end of Southwest Airlines‘ signature “Bags Fly Free” policy. Beginning May 28, passengers who book flights will be subject to checked baggage fees — aligning the airline more closely with its U.S. competitors.

That said, A-List Preferred Members and Business Select fare holders will still receive 2 free checked bags, while A-List Members and Southwest credit cardholders will receive 1.

Southwest luggage check — Southwest’s generous checked luggage policy is ending. Starting May 28, Southwest passengers will have to pay for a checked bag on their next trip. Image Credit: Southwest

In addition, Southwest is introducing a new “Basic” fare that will replace the current “Wanna Get Away” fare class. These new Basic fares will come with more restrictions, including:

No transferable flight credits
Limited flexibility for changes or cancellations

Another important change: Flight credits will no longer be unlimited. For bookings made on or after May 28:

Basic fares will have a 6-month expiration
All other fare types will have a 12-month expiration

Previously, flight credits never expired — a benefit disappearing under the new system.

Hot Tip:

Do you need a quick rundown of Southwest’s upcoming changes? Check out our guide on the airline’s most significant policy shift yet.

Should You Book Now?

Your booking date, not your travel date, determines the timing of these changes. By booking your flight before May 28, you can secure the more favorable policies, regardless of how far in advance your trip is.

A Southwest 737-800 taxiing at FLL — Booking your Southwest flights before May 28 might be advantageous for you. Image Credit: Alberto Riva

If you’re eyeing a Southwest flight, booking before May 28 could save you money and give you greater flexibility.

Here’s what you stand to gain:

Free Checked Bags: Secure up to 2 complimentary bags before fees kick in.
Non-Expiring Flight Credits: Maintain unlimited-use credits in case your plans change.
More Flexibility: Avoid the strict change rules and limitations of the new Basic fares.

However, remember that if you change your flight after May 28, even if it was booked before, the new rules apply. You might forfeit your complimentary checked bags or face expiring flight credits.

Final Thoughts

If you have upcoming travel with Southwest — or even think you might — now’s a smart time to book. Lock in today’s traveler-friendly policies and avoid the stricter fare rules rolling out in just a week’s time. Just plan carefully, because changes after May 28 could cost you valuable perks.