For decades, Southwest Airlines has distinguished itself in the U.S. airline industry by offering a suite of complimentary amenities that are often charged for by competitors. These perks have been a cornerstone of the airline's customer-friendly reputation, appealing to families, budget-conscious travelers, and frequent flyers alike. However, recent announcements indicate significant changes to one of its most famous freebies, prompting a reassessment of what passengers can expect. This article details the complimentary offerings available as of the provided documentation, alongside the impending policy shifts, based exclusively on the source materials provided.
Southwest's model has historically focused on transparency and value, avoiding the "nickel and dime" approach common among other carriers. For families purchasing multiple tickets, the cumulative savings from these free services can be substantial. The airline's current system provides several amenities at no additional cost, ranging from baggage allowance to in-flight entertainment. Understanding these benefits is crucial for travelers looking to maximize value. It is important to note that the source material includes an editorial note from March 11, 2025, indicating that Southwest announced major changes to core policies and fares effective May 28, 2025. The information below reflects the policies as described in the sources prior to that implementation date, with explicit notes on the announced changes.
Complimentary Checked Baggage Policy
For over fifty years, a defining feature of Southwest Airlines has been its "Bags Fly Free" policy. According to the source material, all ticketed passengers on domestic and international flights have historically been entitled to two free checked bags, each weighing up to 50 pounds. This policy has been a significant differentiator, as other U.S. airlines typically charge for the first checked bag, with fees ranging from $30 to $60, and additional fees for a second bag. The potential savings by flying Southwest could be up to $112 on baggage fees alone for a round trip.
The baggage allowance extends to certain special items. The documentation specifies that golf bags and skis can count toward the free checked bags, provided they meet the standard weight and size restrictions (under 50 pounds and smaller than 62 inches). Bags exceeding these limits incur a fee of $100 to $125 per bag, each way.
However, a critical change is imminent. An article dated May 2025 reports that Southwest will begin charging for checked bags for the first time in its history, effective May 28, 2025. For any flights booked on or after this date, passengers will generally have to pay for checked bags. There is an exception: passengers who are A-List Preferred members or those flying on Business Select fares will still receive free checked bags under the new policy. This shift marks a fundamental change to the airline's business model and has generated notable customer feedback, with thousands of complaints reported and some loyal customers stating they would consider other airlines as a result.
In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity
Southwest provides in-flight entertainment at no cost, a practice that differs from many domestic airlines where such content may be pay-per-view or limited. The system requires passengers to use their own devices—such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop—to access the content. The offerings are described as extensive, typically including several dozen recently released movie choices and many live streaming TV channels.
Additionally, Southwest offers complimentary access to iMessage and WhatsApp. This allows passengers to stay in touch via text-based messaging without purchasing a WiFi package. This is a specific, limited free connectivity option, distinct from full internet browsing, which would require a paid WiFi plan.
Complimentary Food and Snacks
In an era where many U.S. airlines have significantly reduced complimentary food options in economy class, Southwest maintains a more generous snack policy. The airline is described as a "no frills" carrier, meaning it does not sell premium food items like croissant breakfast sandwiches. Instead, flight attendants offer free snack mix on shorter flights, which includes pretzels, bagel chips, and cheese crackers. On longer routes, passengers can typically receive both the snack mix and Brownie Brittle snacks, and the source notes that flight attendants are "super-generous," implying passengers can take more than one serving.
For flights to Hawaii, a more extensive complimentary snack box is provided. This box is equivalent in value to what other airlines might charge between $7 and $10 for. This specific offering on a particular route highlights a tiered approach to in-flight refreshments, even within a complimentary framework.
Other Complimentary Services and Perks
Beyond the major categories, Southwest offers several other free services that are often charged elsewhere. A key benefit is the absence of fees for redeeming award tickets. Unlike many airlines that impose fuel surcharges, phone booking fees, or partner award fees, Southwest's Rapid Rewards points can be redeemed with no hidden fees. The only cost for an award ticket is the government-mandated fee, which is $5.60 each way for U.S. travel.
Seat assignments are another area where Southwest's policy has differed from competitors. The airline has not charged for the privilege of selecting a seat, as it has operated on an open seating model (first-come, first-served for boarding groups). However, the source material indicates that assigned seating is part of the business-model tweaks that Southwest is implementing to align more closely with other airlines. This suggests a move away from its traditional open seating, though the specifics of any potential fees for assigned seats are not detailed in the provided chunks.
For passengers who wish to secure a better boarding position without the uncertainty of open seating, Southwest offers EarlyBird Check-In for a fee. This service, priced at $15 to $25 one-way per passenger, automatically checks the passenger in 36 hours prior to the flight, increasing the chance of being in the A boarding group. This is a paid add-on, not a freebie, but it is mentioned in the context of the airline's seating policy.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines has built a loyal following through a suite of complimentary amenities that provide tangible value and savings, particularly for families and frequent travelers. The free checked baggage policy, in-flight entertainment, and complimentary snacks have been hallmarks of its service. However, the airline industry is in flux, and Southwest is not immune to the pressures affecting its competitors. The announced changes, set to take effect on May 28, 2025, signal a strategic shift. The introduction of fees for checked bags for most passengers represents the end of a long-standing freebie, while the move toward assigned seating aligns Southwest with industry norms. Travelers should carefully review the current policies when booking flights after this date, as the value proposition of flying Southwest will be altered. The other complimentary services, such as free award ticket redemption and in-flight entertainment, remain available as of the provided information, but the overall landscape of what is free is evolving.