Southwest Airlines Ends Major Perks, Including Free Bags and Unlimited Flight Credits

NEWS
Southwest Airlines Ends Major Perks, Including Free Bags and Unlimited Flight Credits

Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines will end two major traveler perks. Flight credits will now have expiration dates—six months for basic “Wanna Get Away” fares and 12 months for others. Only higher-tier fares will allow transferable credits between Rapid Rewards members. On the same day, the airline will also eliminate its long-standing policy of two free checked bags. These changes follow other recent shifts like assigned seating, sparking frustration among loyal customers who feel the airline is losing its appeal. Many say they’ll now choose airlines based on price or convenience rather than sticking with Southwest.

American Airlines to Offer Free Wi-Fi in 2026

Starting January 2026, American Airlines will offer free in-flight Wi-Fi to AAdvantage loyalty members on 90% of its fleet, sponsored by AT&T. The service will be available on planes equipped with Viasat or Intelsat, with nearly 500 regional aircraft expected to have Wi-Fi by late 2025. The airline is currently testing free Wi-Fi on select flights ahead of the full rollout. This move aligns American with competitors like Delta, JetBlue, and Hawaiian Airlines, which already offer complimentary Wi-Fi to their loyalty members.

World’s Busiest Airports in 2024

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) was once again the world’s busiest airport in 2024, with over 108 million passengers—a 3% increase from 2023. This marks ATL’s 26th time in 27 years at the top, as global air travel hit nearly 5 billion passengers, setting a new record.

Top 10 Busiest Airports in 2024 (by total passengers):

1. Atlanta (ATL) – 108,067,766

2. Dubai (DXB) – 92,331,506

3. Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) – 87,817,864

4. Tokyo Haneda (HND) – 85,900,617

5. London Heathrow (LHR) – 83,884,572

6. Denver (DEN) – 82,358,744

7. Istanbul (IST) – 80,073,252

8. Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – 80,043,050

9. Delhi (DEL) – 77,820,834

10. Shanghai Pudong (PVG) – 76,878,039

$2,800 Fine for Flip Flops: Cinque Terre’s Strict Hiking Rule

Visiting Cinque Terre? Leave the flip flops at home. Hikers wearing improper footwear—like strappy sandals or beach shoes—can be fined up to €2,500 (about $2,800). The rule helps prevent injuries on the area’s steep, rugged trails, where rescues have become too common.

Park officials are actively checking shoes and have also introduced one-way systems on busy trail sections to reduce congestion. To access the trails, you'll also need a Cinque Terre Trekking Card, priced between €7.50 and €15.

Wear proper shoes, follow the trail rules, and you’re all set for a safe, stunning hike.

ALL-INCLUSIVE DEAL
Hyatt Offers Up to 40% Off All-Inclusive Stays with Extra Perks

Hyatt is offering up to 40% off all-inclusive stays at select Inclusive Collection resorts for bookings made by April 30, valid for travel from June 1 to September 30. These resorts include food, drinks, and activities, minimizing extra vacation costs. Some properties are also adding perks like free kids’ stays, complimentary nights, spa discounts, and airfare credits.

Hyatt has expanded its all-inclusive offerings with premium brands like Impression by Secrets, focused on upscale dining and design, and Hyatt Vivid, aimed at younger, social travelers. Deals include rates as low as $92.50 per person, per night at Sunscape Dominicus La Romana in the Dominican Republic, and $135 at Secrets Aura Cozumel in Mexico.

World of Hyatt members can save more, especially when using the World of Hyatt Credit Card to earn bonus points. Full details and terms are available on Hyatt’s “Savor the Sunshine” sale page.

CRUISE
Win a Free 12-Day Antarctic Cruise With National Geographic

To celebrate Earth Day, National Geographic is giving away a 12-day Antarctic cruise for two aboard the National Geographic Resolution or Endurance. The prize includes round-trip airfare, meals, daily excursions (like kayaking and wildlife viewing), and expert-led educational programming from National Geographic staff.

Operated with Lindblad Expeditions, these Polar Class 5 vessels are built for icy conditions. U.S. residents 18 and older can enter once daily at natgeo.com from April 15 to April 30.

TRAVEL TIP
Use Airport Lounge Access for a Stress-Free Experience

If you have a long layover or want to avoid crowded terminals, consider using an airport lounge. Many lounges offer day passes, even if you’re not flying first class. Enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, snacks, and drinks—making your wait much more relaxing. Plus, they often have quieter spaces and charging stations for your devices. Most airline credit cards cover the cost of lounge access, so check your benefits and take advantage of this travel-friendly perk!

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TODAY’S QUOTE

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. But that’s okay. The journey changes you — it should change you.”
— Anthony Bourdain