Southwest Airlines, long the champion of “bags fly free,” has finally caved to the forces of economics—and now charges $35 for your first checked bag and $45 for the second. It’s a tough day for travelers who’ve built entire wardrobes around squeezing everything into a carry-on. While elite passengers still get a pass, the rest of us are left wondering how we’ll afford both baggage fees and overpriced airport snacks.
But amid this policy shake-up, one unlikely traveler remains blissfully untouched by the new rules: plantation-grown pine. Yes, while your suitcase now needs a boarding budget of its own, bundles of neatly cultivated trim boards continue to cruise in the cargo hold—completely free of charge. Why the favoritism? No one’s sure. Maybe the airline has a soft spot for sustainable lumber. Maybe pine boards don’t complain about middle seats. Either way, it’s clear: if you’re a piece of plantation-grown pine destined to become crown molding or baseboards, the skies are still friendly—and free! So next time you fly Southwest, consider ditching the duffel and just checking a stack of WindsorONE 1×4 S4SSE. At least they won’t cost you extra and it also comes with a 30 year warranty against rot, insects, and mold.