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Let Harshman Travel Agency book your next vacation.

Book your cruise or travel through Harshman Travel Agency today!
https://harshmantravel.com

There's an AM Radio and an FM Radio website now to add to the Youmongus Radio Network.

Harshman Travel Agency is the place to book your next vacations, especially cruises.
Ocean Cruises, River Cruises, Worldwide Cruises are available through Pam Harshman and Ron Harshman.
The New Youmongus Radio shows also feature Harshman travel Radio. The premiere on https://youmongusradio.com .

https://youmongus.radio.am and
https://youmongus.radio.fm

Southwest Airlines Ends "Bags Fly Free" Policy: Impact on Travel Costs

For over half a century, Southwest Airlines distinguished itself in the U.S. airline industry with its customer-friendly "two bags fly free" policy, a rarity among major carriers. However, as of May 28, 2025, Southwest has eliminated this perk, introducing baggage fees for most passengers. This seismic shift, driven by financial pressures and activist investor influence, aligns Southwest with competitors like Delta, United, and American Airlines, which have long charged for checked luggage. The change significantly impacts travel costs and could reshape consumer behavior and airline loyalty.

Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest customers booking Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, or Anytime fares face a $35 fee for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. Exceptions exist: Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and Business Select fare passengers still receive two free checked bags, while A-List members and Rapid Rewards credit cardholders get one free checked bag. These fees mirror industry standards, with competitors charging $35-$40 for the first bag and $45-$50 for the second. However, for travelers accustomed to Southwest's no-fee policy, this change adds a new layer of expense to air travel.

The financial implications for passengers are notable. A round-trip flight for a family of four checking two bags each could now incur an additional $280 in baggage fees ($35 per first bag, $45 per second, per person, each way). This increase erases much of Southwest's cost advantage, particularly for budget-conscious travelers who relied on the airline's low fares and free baggage to keep trips affordable. Posts on X reflect widespread disappointment, with users lamenting the loss of a key reason for choosing Southwest over other carriers. One user called it "a bad move,” signaling potential erosion of customer loyalty.

Southwest's decision stems from a need to boost revenue after reporting a $149 million net loss in Q1 2025. The airline projects baggage fees could generate up to $1.5 billion annually, though it risks losing $1.8 billion in market share due to customer backlash. The move follows pressure from activist investor Elliott Investment Management, which acquired a $1.9 billion stake in Southwest and pushed for revenue-enhancing changes, including ending free baggage and open seating. While Southwest's stock rose 8% after the announcement, competitors like Delta and United anticipate gaining customers who valued Southwest's unique perks.<