Whether you’ve been a Southwest Airlines loyalist for years or just love scoring a good deal, your future flights might look a little different.

The airline known for its "bags fly free" promise and open seating is introducing major changes that will affect how you book, board, and even choose your seat.


If you’re planning a getaway with the grandkids, visiting family, or just enjoying retirement travel, it’s worth taking a closer look at what’s new—and what’s sticking around.

Here’s a breakdown of Southwest’s upcoming fare bundles, how they compare to what other airlines are offering, and what it all means for you.

Southwest’s new fare bundles: The basics​

Starting in the third quarter of this year, Southwest will introduce four new fare bundles for travel in 2026 and beyond: Choice Extra, Choice Plus, Choice, and Basic.

Each bundle is designed to offer a different balance of comfort, flexibility, and affordability.

1. Choice Extra (Top tier)​

• What you get: Early boarding, two free checked bags, complimentary extra legroom seating at booking, and free internet.
• Refund policy: Fully refundable up to 10 minutes before departure.
• Best for: Frequent flyers, business travelers, or anyone who wants comfort and peace of mind.

2. Choice Plus​

• What you get: Access to preferred standard seats and earlier boarding group.
• Refund policy: Also fully refundable up to 10 minutes before departure.
• Best for: Travelers who want earlier boarding and better seats without paying top dollar.

3. Choice​

• What you get: Standard seat assignment (often toward the back) and general boarding.
• Refund policy: Not refundable, but cancellations earn a flight credit valid for 12 months.
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who still want a little flexibility.

4. Basic (Lowest price)​

• What you get: Seat assigned at check-in and last to board.
• Refund policy: Flight credit valid for 6 months.
• Best for: Bargain hunters who care more about price than perks.

Also read: Southwest Airlines expands horizons: Flights to Europe available next month​

What’s changing—and what’s not​

Assigned seats are coming​

Southwest has long been known for its open seating policy.

But with the new fare bundles, assigned seating will become the new standard—especially for higher-tier fares.

If you’ve enjoyed choosing your own seat after boarding, you might miss that feature.

But for those who prefer to know exactly where they’ll sit, this change could be a welcome shift.

Also read: Are your flight plans in jeopardy? Southwest Airlines’ sudden changes might affect your travel!​

​

Bag fees and perks​

The airline’s beloved "two bags fly free" policy will now apply only to the Choice Extra fare.

Other tiers—including Choice Plus, Choice, and Basic—will charge for checked bags.

Premium perks like free internet and drinks will also be reserved for the higher fare options.

Refunds and flight credits​

While Southwest still offers more flexibility than some airlines, the new bundles introduce some limits.

Only Choice Extra and Choice Plus are fully refundable.

The lower tiers offer flight credits that expire in either six or 12 months, depending on the fare.

Also read: Switching from Southwest to Frontier? Here’s how to snag your free checked bag!​

​

How does Southwest compare to other airlines?​

If this new structure sounds familiar, that’s because it is.

Airlines like JetBlue, Delta, United, and American already offer tiered fare systems with similar perks.

Southwest is now aligning with that model—but still maintains a few unique offerings, like fully refundable tickets and the potential for two free bags with higher fares.

What does this mean for you?​

1. If you love a bargain: Basic fares are still available at a lower cost, but come with fewer benefits. If you pack light and don’t mind where you sit, this could be your go-to.
2. If you value comfort and flexibility: Choice Extra or Choice Plus might be worth the upgrade. You’ll board earlier, get a better seat, and enjoy full refunds if your plans change.
3. If you’re traveling with family: Assigned seating will make it easier to sit together, but may require paying a little more to guarantee that comfort.
4. If you’re a longtime Southwest fan: It’s normal to feel hesitant about these changes. But with more customization, Southwest is aiming to stay competitive and give passengers greater control over their travel experience.

​

Also read: Say goodbye to a beloved perk: How Southwest’s shocking policy change will affect your wallet​

​

Tips for navigating the new Southwest​

1. Compare fare bundles carefully: Weigh what each bundle offers before booking—you might save money in the long run by paying a little more upfront.
2. Book early: Higher-tier fares will likely sell out faster, especially on busy routes.
3. Watch for sales: Keep an eye on Southwest’s deals as the new bundles roll out.
4. Check your rewards status: Make sure you understand how these changes affect your Rapid Rewards or A-List benefits.

Southwest’s new fare system is a significant change, but not necessarily a bad one.

With four options to choose from, you can book the experience that fits your travel style and budget.

Whether you’re chasing a deal, traveling with family, or simply want peace of mind when you fly, there’s likely a bundle that suits your needs!

Read next: Unruly passenger’s X-rated mid-flight incident forces plane back to gate


Are you on board with the new assigned seating, or will you miss the old system? Will you pay more for the perks, or stick with the basics? If you’ve flown other airlines with similar bundles, how do they compare? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!