If you’ve been playing around with the idea of booking a trip, now’s the time to stop scrolling and start locking it in. Southwest Airlines’ BIGDEAL sale officially ends tonight, and those low fares you’ve been eyeing are about to take off.
We’re talking flights under $100 to cities across the country — but once midnight hits, those prices are gone.
But before you book that escape, there’s something you need to know — Southwest has changed their baggage policy. And if you haven’t flown with them in a while, this might catch you off guard.
What’s the BIGDEAL Again?
Southwest’s BIGDEAL promotion has been all about budget-friendly flights, giving travelers the chance to hop from city to city without breaking the bank. From ATL to Miami, LAX to Vegas, BWI to Chicago — folks have been scooping up roundtrip flights for the low.
But the sale ends today, so if you’re serious about a trip in the next few months, now is the time to book it at Southwest.com.
No More 2 Bags Fly Free: What Changed?
For years, Southwest stood out by letting passengers check two bags for free. That was their thing. But in 2025, they finally gave in to what most major airlines have already done — bag fees are here.
Here’s how it breaks down:
Checked Bags:
- 1st checked bag: $35
- 2nd checked bag: $45
- Overweight or oversized bags: $100+
Carry-On Bags:
- Still free to bring 1 personal item (like a backpack or purse) and 1 carry-on bag (like a small roller that fits overhead)
- Personal items must fit under the seat
- Carry-ons must meet size requirements (24 x 16 x 10 inches)
So yes — while carry-on bags are still free, if you’re someone who travels heavy or likes to check luggage, add that cost to your travel budget.
Who Can Still Skip the Fees?
Not everybody has to pay. If you fall into one of these categories, you might still get perks:
- Business Select passengers still get 2 free checked bags
- A-List Preferred members (frequent flyers)
- Certain Southwest credit card holders may get one checked bag free (depends on the card)
But for the everyday flyer just grabbing a deal? Expect to pay if you plan on checking bags.
Urban Travel Tip: How to Move Smart
- Pack light and stick to carry-on only if you can
- Use packing cubes to maximize space
- Flying with a friend or bae who has status or a rewards card? Book both tickets under their name and see if you can share those perks
- Use apps like Google Flights or Hopper to compare the full trip cost with baggage fees included
The BIGDEAL sale gave folks a real shot at taking trips without draining their wallet — but the sale ends today. And while Southwest is no longer the “2 bags fly free” champ, you can still catch a solid flight for the low — if you’re strategic.
So if travel is in the air for you, move fast. Lock in that flight now, and plan your packing wisely.
Catch flights — not feelings and definitely not regrets!!
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