Ever wonder how some people always seem to snag the best seats on Southwest Airlines? You know, the ones with a little extra legroom, or the aisle seat that lets you stretch out? It's not just luck! Southwest's unique open seating policy means that getting a good seat is all about understanding their boarding process and being strategic.
If you're tired of being stuck in a middle seat or fighting for overhead bin space, then you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to maximize your chances of getting a great seat on your next Southwest flight.
Understanding Southwest's Open Seating System
Before we dive into the strategies, let's quickly recap how Southwest's boarding works. Unlike most airlines, Southwest doesn't assign specific seats when you book your ticket (though this is reportedly changing in early 2026, for now, it's open seating!). Instead, they assign you a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a number within that group (1-60+). Your boarding position determines when you get to board the plane, and once on board, it's a free-for-all – you pick any available seat. The earlier you board, the more choices you have!
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| How Can I Get A Good Seat On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Master the Check-In Time
Do you know when your flight departs? This is the most crucial piece of information for securing a good seat on Southwest.
The golden rule for Southwest is: Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time.
Why is this so important? Boarding positions are assigned based on a first-come, first-served basis, starting exactly 24 hours before your flight. The sooner you check in, the lower your boarding number will be (e.g., A15 is better than B30), giving you a better chance at your preferred seat.
Pro Tip: Set an alarm on your phone for 24 hours and 5 minutes before your flight's departure. This gives you a few minutes to get ready and be at your computer or on the Southwest app precisely at the 24-hour mark.
Sub-heading: Don't Rely on Airport Check-in!
While you can check in at the airport kiosk or ticket counter, this will almost certainly result in a later boarding position (likely B or C group), as many proactive travelers will have already checked in online. Avoid this if a good seat is your priority.
Step 2: Invest in EarlyBird Check-In (If It Aligns with Your Needs)
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
If you're not confident you'll remember to check in precisely at the 24-hour mark, or if you simply want to guarantee a better boarding position without the hassle, EarlyBird Check-In is your friend.
What is EarlyBird Check-In? For an additional fee (typically $15-$99 per one-way flight, varying by route and demand), Southwest will automatically check you in and assign your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's departure. This is 12 hours before general online check-in opens, giving you a significant advantage.
Benefits:
Automatic Check-in: No need to set alarms or worry about missing the 24-hour window.
Better Boarding Position: While it doesn't guarantee an "A" position, it significantly increases your chances of getting into the early "A" or "B" groups.
Earlier Overhead Bin Access: More choices for stowing your carry-on luggage.
When to Consider It:
Traveling with family or a group and want to sit together.
You have a tight connection and want to be among the first off the plane.
You highly value choosing your seat (window, aisle, front of the plane).
You often forget to check in exactly at the 24-hour mark.
How to Purchase: You can usually add EarlyBird Check-In during the initial booking process or later via the "Manage Reservations" section on Southwest.com or the Southwest app, up to 36 hours before departure, subject to availability. It's best to purchase it as early as possible.
Step 3: Explore Business Select Fares (The Ultimate Advantage)
For those who want the absolute best boarding position without question, purchasing a Business Select fare is the way to go.
What is Business Select? This is Southwest's highest fare class and comes with a host of benefits, including a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position.
Benefits:
Guaranteed A1-A15 Boarding: This means you'll be among the very first to board, giving you your pick of any seat on the plane.
Two Free Checked Bags: Unlike other fare types which may have bag fees, Business Select includes two free checked bags.
Premium Drink Coupon: Enjoy a complimentary alcoholic beverage onboard (on select flights).
More Rapid Rewards Points: Earn 14x Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent.
Free Inflight Internet: Stay connected during your flight.
When to Consider It:
When the cost difference is acceptable for the guaranteed top-tier boarding and other perks.
When a specific seat is absolutely critical (e.g., you need extra legroom due to height, or a window for photos).
For important business trips where convenience and efficiency are paramount.
Step 4: Leverage Rapid Rewards A-List & A-List Preferred Status
If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, earning A-List or A-List Preferred status is a fantastic way to consistently secure better boarding positions.
A-List Status: Earned by flying 20 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year.
Benefits: Priority boarding (automatic check-in 36 hours before departure, often resulting in A-group positions), one free checked bag, 25% earning bonus on points, and priority lane access at check-in and security.
A-List Preferred Status: Earned by flying 40 qualifying one-way flights or earning 70,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year.
Benefits: All A-List benefits, plus even higher priority boarding (often resulting in A1-A15 positions), two free checked bags, free inflight internet, 100% earning bonus on points, and two complimentary premium drinks.
How it Helps with Seating: Both A-List and A-List Preferred status automatically give you earlier boarding positions, significantly increasing your chances of getting your preferred seat.
Step 5: Consider Upgraded Boarding at the Gate (Last Resort)
If you missed the 24-hour check-in window and didn't purchase EarlyBird or Business Select, there's still a chance to improve your boarding position by purchasing Upgraded Boarding at the gate.
What is Upgraded Boarding? Subject to availability, Southwest sometimes sells A1-A15 boarding positions at the gate on the day of departure. The cost typically ranges from $30-$80 per segment, depending on the route and demand.
When to Consider It:
You checked in late and received a C-group boarding pass.
You really need to be in the front of the plane for a quick exit or to ensure overhead bin space.
It's a very full flight, and you want to avoid a middle seat.
How to Purchase: Ask a Gate Agent if Upgraded Boarding is available. You may also be able to purchase it through the Southwest app. Note that availability is not guaranteed.
Step 6: Utilize Family Boarding (If Applicable)
Southwest offers a special boarding perk for families traveling with young children.
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
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Eligibility: Up to two adults traveling with a child six years old or younger may board during Family Boarding.
When it Occurs: Family Boarding takes place after the "A" group has boarded and before the "B" group begins boarding.
Benefits: This allows families to board earlier than their assigned B or C group positions, increasing their chances of finding seats together.
Important Note: If you or your children have "A" boarding passes, you should board with the "A" group as that's even earlier than Family Boarding.
Step 7: Be Smart About Seat Selection (Once Onboard)
Even with an excellent boarding position, you still need to know where to look for the best seats.
Window vs. Aisle:
Window seats offer views and a place to rest your head.
Aisle seats provide easy access to the lavatory and the ability to stretch your legs.
Middle seats are generally the least desirable, so try to avoid them unless you're traveling in a group and want to sit together.
Front of the Plane: These seats are ideal for quick deplaning. They often fill up first, so an early boarding position is key.
Exit Row Seats: These offer significantly more legroom. However, you must be 15 years or older, willing and able to assist in an emergency, and store all your belongings in the overhead bin during takeoff and landing. If you qualify and value legroom, these are often the first to go.
Over-wing Seats: While they might not have the best view, seats directly over the wing tend to experience less turbulence due to the aircraft's design.
Back of the Plane: These seats are generally the last to fill up. While they might be less convenient for deplaning, they can sometimes offer a quieter ride or a bit more space if the flight isn't completely full.
Step 8: Be Prepared and Polite
Once your boarding group is called, have your boarding pass ready and proceed directly to your preferred seating area.
Be Decisive: When you get on the plane, have a general idea of where you want to sit. Hesitating can mean someone else snags your desired spot.
Don't Hog Space: Be mindful of other passengers and their belongings, especially in overhead bins.
Communicate: If you're traveling with someone and need to find seats together, kindly ask other passengers if they wouldn't mind shifting a seat. Many people are accommodating if asked politely.
Step 9: Consider Flight Timing (Impact on Crowds)
The time of day and week you fly can significantly impact how easy it is to get a good seat.
Mid-week Flights (Tuesday, Wednesday): Generally less crowded than peak travel days (Friday, Sunday, Monday), increasing your chances of a less-full flight and more seat options.
Early Morning or Late Night Flights: Often have fewer passengers than midday flights, again providing more seating choices.
Red-Eye Flights: These overnight flights can sometimes be less full, offering more flexibility in seating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 10 common questions about getting a good seat on Southwest Airlines:
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
How to get an A boarding group on Southwest Airlines?
You can get an A boarding group by purchasing a Business Select fare, having Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred status, or by purchasing EarlyBird Check-In and being among the first to check in automatically. Checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight can also secure an A or early B position.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for my Southwest flight?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In during the initial booking process on Southwest.com or the Southwest app. If you've already booked, you can add it later via the "Manage Reservations" section, up to 36 hours before your flight's departure, subject to availability.
How to know if EarlyBird Check-In is worth it?
EarlyBird Check-In is often worth it if you value getting a specific seat (window/aisle, front of the plane), want to ensure overhead bin space, are traveling with a group and want to sit together, or if you simply don't want the stress of checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight.
How to secure an exit row seat on Southwest Airlines?
To get an exit row seat, you need an early boarding position (A group is best). Once onboard, head directly to an exit row. Remember, you must be 15 years or older and willing/able to assist in an emergency to sit there.
How to board early with children on Southwest Airlines?
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Southwest offers Family Boarding after the "A" group and before the "B" group. Up to two adults traveling with a child aged six years or younger can board during this time, regardless of their assigned boarding position.
How to upgrade my boarding position at the airport on Southwest?
You can inquire about "Upgraded Boarding" at the gate on the day of your flight. Subject to availability, you may be able to purchase an A1-A15 boarding position for an additional fee.
How to get more legroom on Southwest Airlines?
The best way to get more legroom is to secure an early boarding position and aim for an exit row seat. Additionally, Southwest is reportedly introducing "Extra Legroom" seats for purchase, which will offer more space at the front of the cabin and near exit rows.
How to sit with my group on Southwest Airlines?
To sit with your group, ensure everyone in your party checks in as early as possible (ideally exactly 24 hours before departure) or considers purchasing EarlyBird Check-In for everyone. If traveling with young children, utilize Family Boarding. Once on board, try to move quickly to find a block of seats together.
How to find out my Southwest boarding group and number?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and number (1-60+) will be assigned when you check in for your flight. This information will be displayed on your mobile boarding pass or printed boarding pass.
How to change my seat on Southwest Airlines after boarding?
Once you are on the plane, Southwest has an open seating policy. You are free to choose any unoccupied seat. If you've chosen a seat but then find a better one available before departure, you can move, as long as it's not a seat designated for specific needs (e.g., exit row if you don't meet the requirements).
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