One of the most popular Southwest perks is flying off into the sunset, but here's how you can keep your access.

If you don't have Southwest elite status, the cheapest option for getting a free checked bag will be the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card. It has a $69 annual fee, which may be as much as the baggage fees for a round-trip flight.

Southwest Airlines, known for free bags and open seating, is overhauling policies, leaving loyalists questioning if it’s still the airline they loved.