Southwest Airlines has introduced fees for checked bags on most fares, ending a long-standing policy that once set the carrier apart from competitors. The change raises costs for many travelers who previously flew without extra charges for luggage. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card provides a straightforward way to regain the free checked bag benefit, along with other targeted perks, for an annual fee of $99. ([1])
The Baggage Fee Shift and Who It Affects
Southwest now charges $45 for the first checked bag each way on most tickets, a move that directly impacts leisure and occasional business travelers who rely on the airline for domestic routes. Families and groups traveling together feel the increase most acutely, as multiple bags quickly add up. The policy applies broadly, though some fare types and elite status levels retain exceptions. This adjustment aligns Southwest more closely with other major U.S. carriers but removes one of its traditional advantages. Travelers who fly the airline a few times a year now face new decisions about packing light or paying extra. The Rapid Rewards Plus card steps in as one option to offset that expense without requiring a premium annual fee.
Core Perks That Offset the Fee
The card delivers several Southwest-specific benefits that can deliver immediate savings. Cardholders receive a free first checked bag for themselves and up to eight companions on the same reservation. They also gain Group 5 boarding and the ability to select standard seats at no charge within 48 hours of departure when available. Additional features include a 10 percent flight discount code each year after the card anniversary, excluding basic fares, and 25 percent back on inflight purchases of drinks and Wi-Fi when paid with the card. Baggage delay insurance, extended warranty coverage, purchase protection, and lost luggage reimbursement round out the protections. These elements address common pain points during travel without overlapping into luxury territory. The free checked bag alone often covers the $99 fee on a single round-trip where bags would otherwise cost $90. Group 5 boarding places holders ahead of later groups, while free seat selection avoids add-on charges that Southwest now applies in many cases.
Earning Points and Progress Toward Status
Cardholders earn 2 points per dollar on Southwest purchases, at gas stations, and at grocery stores on the first $5,000 combined each year. Lyft purchases also earn 2 points per dollar through the end of 2027. All other spending earns 1 point per dollar. The card issues 3,000 anniversary bonus points after renewal. Through 2026, holders receive an extra 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points annually. Starting in 2027, the structure shifts to tier qualifying points, with a one-time boost available upon reaching 130,000 TQPs by year-end. Points redeem primarily for Southwest flights under dynamic pricing, where availability tends to remain strong when seats are open for cash purchase.
Comparing Options and Deciding Fit
The Rapid Rewards Plus sits below higher-tier Southwest cards in both fee and benefits. The Priority version carries a higher annual fee but provides stronger earning rates, more anniversary points, and preferred seating at booking. Occasional flyers often find the Plus sufficient for basic needs, while frequent travelers may prefer the richer package.
| Card | Annual Fee | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Rewards Plus | $99 | Free first checked bag + basic boarding |
| Rapid Rewards Priority | $229 | Higher earning + preferred seating |
The card suits those who value Southwest-specific conveniences over broad flexibility. A welcome offer of 80,000 bonus points after $1,000 in spending within three months adds upfront value, though approval follows standard Chase rules including the 5/24 guideline. Southwest loyalists who fly a couple of times annually can often recoup the fee through the bag benefit and seat selection alone. Those who rarely check luggage or prefer transferable points may find other cards more suitable. The decision ultimately rests on how often the restored free bag and related perks align with actual travel patterns.
