Airline Credit Cards Offering Free Checked Bags

With Southwest Airlines recently announcing the end of their popular policy offering 2 free checked bags for all customers, many travelers have been left wondering how they can continue to save on luggage fees. This shift has sparked discussions about the potential benefits of airline credit cards that offer free checked bags, making it an ideal time to explore these options.

In response to this change, I decided to take a deep dive into credit cards that, when purchased and used, provide valuable perks such as free checked luggage. Airline credit cards have long been a popular choice for frequent flyers, not just for the points or miles they offer, but for the additional travel benefits like free checked bags.

The Situation with Southwest Airlines

While Southwest is making adjustments to their baggage policies, there’s an ongoing, yet unclear, situation. A few Southwest customer service representatives have indicated that Rapid Rewards credit card holders who make a reservation for up to 8 passengers on the same booking may be eligible for one free checked bag each once the airline transitions to a paid baggage system. This would be a significant shift, but the official communication from Southwest still only mentions that the cardholder is entitled to one free checked bag. For now, travelers will have to wait and see if this information proves accurate and becomes part of Southwest’s new baggage policy.

Airline Credit Cards that Offer Free Checked Bags

In light of Southwest's recent announcement and the potential shift in policies, many travelers are considering how they can offset baggage fees with credit cards from other airlines. To help with this, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of airline credit cards that offer free checked bags as part of their perks.

Here’s a detailed comparison of some of the most popular credit cards in the market, including the number of free checked bags they offer, whether companions are included, their annual fees, and their introductory offers.

With many airlines moving toward more restrictive baggage policies, it’s becoming increasingly important to understand how to leverage the benefits of credit cards to save on baggage fees. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just looking to save on your next flight, the right airline credit card can provide significant value by offering free checked bags, along with other valuable perks.

While Southwest’s future baggage policy remains unclear, the information provided by customer service representatives has created some hope for Rapid Rewards cardholders. For now, it’s best to stay informed and watch for official updates from the airline. In the meantime, the table above gives you a comprehensive look at how other airlines are offering free checked bags through their credit cards, helping you choose the best option for your travel needs.