Hey Reader,
​
Well, it finally happened—Southwest just announced it’s cutting the two free checked bags policy that made it a fan favorite. So what now? Are we all doomed to pay $35 per bag forever?

Not quite.

I put together a guide on how to still fly with free checked bags, even if you’re not loyal to any one airline. From credit cards that reimburse fees to airline-specific perks, this article has everything you need to keep your luggage (and your budget) under control.

Maybe in an effort to combat this negative news, Southwest is offering a new perk on its card where you can earn Companion Pass® good through 2/28/26 plus 30,000 bonus points. This is a solid offer to help you score 2x1 tickets with just one new card. Plus Capital One is offering a $250 travel credit on one of its classic cards (making the $95 annual fee very worth it).

I've also been recapping some of my favorite destination activities – from burlesque shows in Paris to hot springs in Costa Rica - all on Inside the Upgrade.

How To Get Free Checked Bags on Any Airline Yet another reason to love a solid travel credit card. Free checked bags are a perk that a lot of people forget about, and as airlines cut perks it's becoming more important than ever. Not every card offers this though, so I've broken down the ones I actually use. Check it Out

Le Crazy Horse: The Best Burlesque In Paris Paris is known for many things — the Eiffel tower, delicious cheese and wine, and more art than you could ever possibly see in a year. But it also has a vibrant nightlife scene, and Le Crazy Horse Paris should be on your list. Check it Out

Elevated Card Offers 💰 As always, here are the elevated sign up offers I'm seeing right now. This week its a $250 travel credit from Capital One Venture and a Southwest card to help you snag companion fare access (which gets you an additional free ticket with each purchase) from just one welcome bonus: ​Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year (which more than covers the $95 annual fee) plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening ​Lower Fee Card I Recommend: Earn Companion Pass® good through 2/28/26 plus 30,000 Bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Looking for a beginner travel card? You can learn more here about my favorite beginner card for earning 60,000 flexible points for just $95.

Hope this helps and feel free to reply if you have questions!

Cheers to your next adventure ✈️🥂,

Deryn and the team at Inside the Upgrade

​www.InsideTheUpgrade.com​

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Want to know my travel must haves? Check out my Amazon storefront (I think I might about 80 cents off these, so I promise I only recommend what I really believe in!)

You + Me, We're a Team I always want to know what you want to learn. Feel free to reply to this email and let me know if you have any questions. ​ I also offer free card consultations if you need a little more help!