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Southwest Airlines Alters Baggage Policy, Sparks Fee Concerns

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. s-alters-baggage-policy-sparks-fee-concerns.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 20:17 GMT by LiveNow Fox
      Locales: Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, UNITED STATES

Dallas, TX - February 19th, 2026 - Southwest Airlines is implementing a significant shift in its baggage policy this week, aiming for increased customer flexibility but potentially leading to increased fees for some travelers. The changes center around the allowance for personal items, a move that, while seemingly generous on the surface, has sparked debate among frequent flyers and travel analysts.

For years, Southwest has been lauded for its relatively lenient baggage policies, a key differentiator in a landscape dominated by increasingly stringent restrictions and fees. Passengers were previously permitted one carry-on bag and one personal item - typically a purse, small backpack, or laptop bag - free of charge. The new policy expands the definition of a 'personal item,' allowing for larger tote bags, spacious laptop sleeves, and other similarly sized articles to be brought onboard as the free second item.

However, the core concern revolves around the potential for a 'hidden fee' increase. Industry observers suggest that Southwest is subtly incentivizing passengers to check baggage. Previously, travelers could skillfully pack essentials into a compliant personal item, avoiding carry-on fees altogether. With the expansion of the personal item allowance comes a stricter enforcement of size limits. Those who previously managed to 'stretch' the boundaries of the personal item definition may now find themselves forced to check their bags, incurring additional charges.

"This is a classic airline tactic," explains travel analyst Emily Carter of TravelWise Consulting. "They present a change as customer-friendly - more flexibility is always appealing - while simultaneously creating opportunities to generate more revenue through baggage fees. Southwest is betting that the convenience of bringing a slightly larger personal item will outweigh the cost of checking a bag for those who habitually push the limits."

Southwest maintains that the changes are designed to enhance the customer experience. According to a press release issued by the airline, "This new policy provides more flexibility for Southwest Customers, while maintaining the bag appeal that Southwest is known for." The airline emphasizes that it remains committed to its baggage philosophy, but the new parameters are designed to ensure a smoother boarding process and prevent overcrowding in the overhead bins.

The stricter enforcement of size limits is a crucial component of the new policy. Southwest is reportedly increasing gate agent scrutiny to ensure that personal items adhere to the specified dimensions. Passengers exceeding these limits will be required to check their bags, with standard baggage fees applying. The airline's website now features a detailed guide to acceptable personal item sizes, complete with visual examples and a frequently asked questions section.

This change comes at a time when airlines across the board are seeking new revenue streams. While airfare remains a primary source of income, ancillary fees - including baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals - have become increasingly significant contributors to profitability. Many airlines have already implemented complex baggage fee structures, often varying based on weight, size, and destination.

For frequent Southwest flyers, the key takeaway is to carefully review the updated baggage policy and measure their personal items to ensure compliance. Proactive planning and mindful packing could prevent unexpected fees at the airport. Travelers should also consider whether the convenience of the expanded personal item allowance outweighs the potential cost of checking a bag, especially for shorter trips. The airline has also indicated that it's reviewing how it handles oversized personal items - potentially introducing a flat 'oversize' fee.

Furthermore, some social media users are already speculating that this is the first step towards Southwest eventually eliminating the free personal item altogether, mirroring the policies of many other major carriers. Southwest has not commented on these speculations, but the situation warrants watching. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated on any further changes to the airline's baggage policy through the official Southwest Airlines website and social media channels.