‘Doing the Lord’s work’: Southwest worker says oversized bag fee is $100. Then she shows how to only pay $25 

A TikTok creator has travelers taking notes. She claimed her tip could save passengers money at the airport.

TikToker Brandi Keeping Up With B (@beehivenews) shared the video with 556,800 views.

The woman claimed that passengers facing a $100 overweight baggage fee may have another option.

She suggested purchasing an additional $25 bag from the airline and moving the excess items into it. The bag is then used as a carry-on bag and not checked in.

The advice struck a chord with travelers looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing what they pack.

What Did the Comments Section Say?

Viewers shared their grievances with the relatively new baggage policies.

“Tell Southwest to bring back the 2 free bags and this wont be a problem,” said @Emily Williams.

Many argued why weight is made an issue when it is going on the plane anyway.

“But the weight is still goin on the plane no matter what weight is still there,” said one commenter.

“Its all the same weight on the plane. Make it make sense,” said another.

For these users, excess baggage fees seemed like an unnecessary cost for travelers.

What Did Other Users Say?

Commenters also shared advice of their own, with several urging travelers to weigh their luggage before leaving home to avoid surprises at the airport.

Others suggested keeping a portable luggage scale on hand to make packing easier.

“Or…. I’ve had this weigher since 2019. I keep it in my bag,” stated one user.

Users flooded the comments with follow-up questions, eager to find out whether the advice could actually help them avoid one of the most frustrating parts of flying, unexpected baggage costs.

As the discussion grew, the creator continued answering viewers’ concerns and offering additional suggestions for making travel a little less stressful.

What was the Most Frequently Asked Question?

Most viewers wondered whether the tip would still work if they had already reached their carry-on limit. The creator responded that passengers can check their additional carry-on bag at the gate for free.

Who Is the Woman Behind This Viral Video?

Brandi appears to be a Southwest Airlines employee. While dressed in the airline uniform, she regularly posts airline travel-related content. She shares tips for navigating airports, reminders about passenger etiquette, and advice aimed at helping both travelers and airline employees have a smoother experience.

Many viewers praised her practical approach and behind-the-scenes insight into the realities of air travel. Southwest Airlines has not yet confirmed this information.

What is Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy?

According to Southwest Airlines’ baggage policy, a first checked bag costs $35 and a second checked bag costs $45. A third bag has a high $150 cost. 

Standard checked bags can weigh up to 50 pounds. Bags over that weight are subject to an overweight charge.

Those weighing between 51 and 70 pounds incur an additional $100 overweight surcharge. 

Bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds cost an extra $200. 

In that context, the TikToker’s advice appears to offer a useful option. A traveler can purchase an airline-branded bag and redistribute items into it. They would only pay the bag cost of $25.  Then the bag is taken as a carry-on item. This avoids both the excess baggage and additional bag fees.

However, the creator’s tip appears to rely on Southwest Airlines having extra duffel bags available for purchase at the check-in counter.  Travelers should keep in mind that availability may vary by airport and stock may not always be guaranteed.

Has This Hack Worked Before?

One TikToker went viral after posting her experience using this exact hack.

In April, TikToker Kennedy Hira (@kennedyhira9) shared a clip about the Southwest Airlines “duffel bag” workaround. In the video, Hira described her personal experience as “actually embarrassing but I guess we’re building character.” She showed off the bright blue Southwest-branded bag she said helped her avoid a $100 overweight baggage fee.

The viral moment first sparked the wider conversation among travelers about baggage costs, airport hacks, and whether a little embarrassment is worth the savings. 

@beehivenews If they have the bags, they’ll sell you one ! #fyp #airportlife #travel #southwestairlines ♬ original sound – Brandi | Keeping up with B

Why Are Viewers Eager To Learn Travel Tips?

Travelers’ enthusiasm for baggage tips may also reflect growing frustration with the rising number of add-on fees associated with flying. Beyond the price of a ticket, passengers are increasingly paying extra for checked bags, seat selection, priority boarding, and in-flight meals. These services were once included in the fare.

According to aviation industry reports, airlines worldwide generated more than $148 billion in ancillary revenue in 2024. These included baggage fees, seat upgrades, onboard purchases, and loyalty programs accounting for a significant share of that total.

The popularity of travel hacks reflects growing frustration with the extra costs of flying. But social media advice should still be verified before travelers put it into practice. Some tips are based on official policies. Others depend on specific circumstances or outdated information.

It echoes a previous viral travel controversy in which a woman followed online advice at Disneyland. Then her family faced consequences when the tip conflicted with the park’s rules. 

This latest Southwest baggage discussion appears to offer a practical workaround. Yet it also serves as a reminder to check official policies before relying on advice found online.

The Mary Sue reached out to Southwest Airlines via email and Brandi by TikTok comment and direct message.

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