Southwest Airlines is introducing significant changes in 2025 that have sparked both interest and debate among travelers. From new fare bundles to assigned seating and updated Rapid Rewards benefits, these updates have generated mixed reactions. Here’s what families need to know as they plan their next trip.
New Fare Bundles: More Options, More Complexity
Starting in the third quarter of 2025 (for flights beginning in the first quarter of 2026), Southwest introduces four fare bundles: Choice Extra, Choice Preferred, Choice, and Basic. These bundles aim to offer more choices but have also drawn criticism for complicating Southwest’s traditionally simple pricing model.
- Choice Extra: Includes Extra Legroom seats (with up to 5 extra inches of space on 737-700 aircraft), two free checked bags, a 14X points multiplier on fares, priority boarding, inflight internet, premium drinks, and more. This fare caters to those seeking a premium experience.
- Choice Preferred: Offers Preferred seats near the front of the cabin, a 10X points multiplier, early general boarding, and refundable fares. It’s a mid-tier option with added convenience.
- Choice: Provides Standard seats in the back, a 6X points multiplier, and general boarding. Fares are refundable with flight credits lasting 12 months.
- Basic: The most budget-friendly option, with Standard seats assigned at check-in, a 2X points multiplier, and non-refundable fares (flight credits last 6 months). Changes or same-day standby aren’t available, which has frustrated some travelers.
While these bundles provide more options, many loyal Southwest customers feel the airline is straying from its hallmark simplicity and affordability, leading to a hot topic of discussion in travel communities.
Assigned Seating and New Seat Options
Southwest is moving away from its open-seating policy, introducing assigned seating with three seat types on aircraft like the 737-800/MAX 8:
- Extra Legroom Seats: Located at the front and near exit rows, offering up to 5 extra inches of legroom (varies by aircraft), earlier bin space access, enhanced snacks, and complimentary premium beverages.
- Preferred Seats: Standard legroom seats near the front of the cabin for quicker boarding and deplaning.
- Standard Seats: Located in the back of the cabin, typically the most budget-friendly option.
This shift to assigned seating has caused a stir, with some families appreciating the ability to secure preferred seats, while others miss the flexibility of open seating that Southwest was known for.
Free Checked Bags for Rapid Rewards Members
Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest offers free checked bag benefits for Rapid Rewards members, which could help offset costs for families:
- Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers and A-List Members: Get a free first checked bag for the member and up to 8 passengers on the same reservation.
- A-List Preferred Members: Enjoy first and second checked bags free for the member and up to 8 passengers, plus the ability to select Extra Legroom seats at booking (when available).
Weight and size limits apply, so families should review Southwest’s guidelines to avoid additional fees.
Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember Benefits
Southwest is also updating benefits for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers, starting in the third quarter of 2025 (for flights beginning in the first quarter of 2026). These perks vary by card type:
- Plus and Plus Business Cards: Cardmembers can select a Standard seat within 48 hours of departure (when available), plus enjoy boarding benefits and new ways to earn points.
- Premier and Premier Business Cards: Cardmembers can select a Standard or Preferred seat within 48 hours of departure (when available), along with boarding benefits and new earning opportunities.
- Priority and Performance Business Cards: Cardmembers can select a Standard or Preferred seat at booking and upgrade to Extra Legroom seats within 48 hours of departure (when available), plus boarding benefits and new earning options.
Additionally, starting May 28, 2025, all Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will receive a free first checked bag for themselves and up to 8 passengers on the same reservation—a significant perk for families traveling with luggage.
Enhanced Tier Benefits for Loyal Travelers
Southwest is updating its loyalty program for A-List and A-List Preferred members, with benefits extending to up to 8 passengers on the same reservation:
- A-List Members: Starting May 28, 2025, enjoy a free first checked bag, plus the ability to select Preferred or Standard seats at booking (coming soon) and upgrade to Extra Legroom seats 48 hours before departure (when available).
- A-List Preferred Members: Get all A-List perks, plus first and second checked bags free, Extra Legroom seat selection at booking (coming soon), earlier boarding, free inflight internet, and up to two premium drinks.
- Companion Pass Holders: Coming soon, you’ll be able to select seats for your designated Companion, with tier benefits extending to both travelers.
Rapid Rewards members still benefit from no blackout dates, uncapped reward seat availability, and points that never expire, though some feel the new tier benefits don’t fully address the concerns raised by the broader changes.
What This Means for Families
For families flying on Southwest Airlines, these updates bring both opportunities and challenges. The free checked bag benefits for Rapid Rewards credit card holders can help reduce costs, especially for larger families. However, the new fare bundles, lack of the previous 2 bags fly free policy, and assigned seating have sparked debate, with many feeling that Southwest is moving away from its budget-friendly, flexible model. Families will need to weigh the benefits of premium fares like Choice Extra against the simplicity of the Basic fare, considering their travel needs and budget. Visit southwest.com to explore these changes and book your flights. Stay informed as Southwest continues to roll out these updates throughout 2025.