So, you're flying Southwest, and you're wondering how to snag that perfect seat, whether it's a window with a view, an aisle for easy access, or just a little extra space. Unlike most airlines that assign seats at booking, Southwest operates on a unique "open seating" policy. This means the early bird truly gets the worm! Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to mastering the Southwest seating game.
Understanding the Southwest Seating Philosophy
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it's crucial to understand Southwest's approach. They don't assign seats. Instead, they assign boarding positions. Your boarding position, a combination of a letter (A, B, or C) and a number (1-60), determines when you get on the plane. The earlier you board, the more choices you have.
This means your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to secure the best possible boarding position.
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| How Do I Choose A Seat On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Get Engaged – Your First Move!
Alright, let's kick this off right now! When is your Southwest flight? Knowing your flight's departure time is the absolute most critical piece of information. Why? Because the entire Southwest seating strategy revolves around the 24-hour mark before your flight. Get that detail solidified in your mind, or even better, set a reminder on your phone exactly 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This is your launchpad!
Step 2: Mastering the Check-In Window
This is where the magic (or madness, depending on your approach) happens.
Sub-heading: The 24-Hour Dash
Southwest's online check-in opens precisely 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is your primary opportunity to secure a good boarding position for free. As soon as that 24-hour window opens, be ready to check in. The faster you are, the lower your boarding number within your group will be.
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How to Check-In:
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Southwest Airlines Website: Go to Southwest.com, click "Check In," and enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name.
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Southwest Airlines Mobile App: Even easier! Download the Southwest app, log in, and you'll often see a prominent "Check In" button when your window opens. It's usually just a few taps.
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Pro Tip: Set an alarm for 5-10 minutes before the 24-hour mark. This gives you time to open the app or website and be ready to hit "check in" the second it becomes available. Every second counts, especially on popular routes.
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
Step 3: Elevating Your Boarding Position (Optional, but Recommended)
While the 24-hour dash is your free ticket to a better seat, Southwest offers several ways to secure an even earlier boarding position, often guaranteeing you a spot in the coveted "A" group.
Sub-heading: Option A: EarlyBird Check-In
This is perhaps the most popular paid option for a better boarding position. EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight's departure, giving you a significant head start over those waiting for the 24-hour mark.
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Benefits:
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Automatic Check-In: No need to set an alarm or race to your computer.
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Earlier Boarding Position: Generally results in an A or early B boarding group, offering a much wider selection of seats.
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Better Overhead Bin Access: An earlier boarding position means you're more likely to find space for your carry-on luggage.
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Cost: EarlyBird Check-In varies in price, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per one-way flight segment, depending on the popularity and length of the flight. You can purchase it when you book your flight or add it later, up to 36 hours before departure, if available.
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Who it's for: Anyone who wants peace of mind and a better seat selection without the stress of the 24-hour check-in scramble. Highly recommended for families or those traveling with carry-on bags.
Sub-heading: Option B: Upgraded Boarding
If you missed the EarlyBird window or simply want the best possible boarding position, Upgraded Boarding is your last-minute savior. This allows you to purchase one of the highly sought-after A1-A15 boarding positions.
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How to Purchase:
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Within 24 Hours of Departure: You can purchase Upgraded Boarding online via Southwest.com or the Southwest app.
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At the Gate: If available, you can also purchase Upgraded Boarding at the departure gate on the day of your flight.
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Cost: Upgraded Boarding generally costs between $30 and $149 per passenger, per segment, depending on the flight.
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Who it's for: Travelers who absolutely want to be among the first on the plane, ensuring first pick of seats (window, aisle, or even an entire row if the flight isn't full) and ample overhead bin space.
Sub-heading: Option C: Business Select Fares
If you purchased a Business Select fare, congratulations! Early boarding is included with your ticket, typically guaranteeing an A1-A15 boarding position. This is the ultimate "no-fuss" option for premium seating.
Sub-heading: Option D: Rapid Rewards A-List & A-List Preferred
For frequent Southwest flyers, elite status pays off! Rapid Rewards A-List and A-List Preferred members automatically receive priority boarding, usually securing A group positions. A-List Preferred members can even select any available seat, including Extra Legroom seats, at the time of booking.
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
Step 4: The Boarding Process – Your Moment of Truth
Once you have your boarding group and position (e.g., A35, B12, C48), it's time for boarding.
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Listen for Announcements: Gate agents will call boarding groups in order: Preboarding, then A group (often broken down into smaller segments like A1-30, then A31-60), followed by Family Boarding, then B group, and finally C group.
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Line Up at Numbered Posts: Southwest gates have numbered poles or signs indicating where you should stand based on your boarding position (e.g., "1-5", "6-10"). Find your spot and line up accordingly.
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Board the Aircraft: When your group is called, proceed down the jet bridge and onto the plane.
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Step 5: Choosing Your Seat – The Art of the Open Seating Dance
This is where your early boarding position truly shines.
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Scan the Cabin: As you walk down the aisle, quickly scan for your preferred seat.
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Window Seat: If you love views and leaning against the wall, head for the window.
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Aisle Seat: If you prefer easy access to the lavatory or overhead bin, or just more stretch room, an aisle seat is for you.
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Middle Seat: The least desirable, but sometimes unavoidable, especially with a C boarding group.
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Consider Exit Rows: Exit rows offer significantly more legroom, but come with responsibilities (you must be able-bodied and willing to assist in an emergency). If you qualify and desire the space, these are often popular choices for early boarders.
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Front vs. Back:
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Front of the Plane: Generally allows for a quicker deplaning process.
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Back of the Plane: Sometimes has more open seats later in the boarding process, as many people gravitate towards the front.
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Seeking an Empty Row: If the flight isn't completely full, and you're in an early boarding group, you might be able to snag an entire row to yourself. Look for rows where no one is seated, or perhaps just one person is in an aisle or window seat. Avoid taking a window seat if the aisle is already taken, or vice versa, if your goal is an empty middle seat. Instead, take the window if the aisle is taken, making it less appealing for someone else to fill the middle.
Special Circumstances
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Family Boarding: If you're traveling with a child age six or younger, up to two adults can board during Family Boarding, which occurs after the A group has boarded and before the B group. This is a fantastic benefit for families to sit together.
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Special Assistance/Preboarding: Customers with disabilities who need assistance boarding or a specific seat to accommodate a disability can request preboarding at the ticket counter or gate. This allows them to board first, often with one companion.
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Children 7-13: If your child is between 7 and 13, you'll board with your assigned group. However, flight attendants will do their best to help you find seats together if needed.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about choosing a seat on Southwest Airlines, all starting with "How to":
How to get a window or aisle seat on Southwest Airlines?
The best way is to secure an early boarding position (A group or early B) by checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or buying an Upgraded Boarding position.
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
How to ensure my family sits together on Southwest Airlines?
If you have a child aged six or younger, utilize Family Boarding. Otherwise, the best strategy is for all members of your party to have the earliest possible boarding positions by checking in simultaneously at the 24-hour mark or purchasing EarlyBird Check-In for everyone.
How to get an exit row seat on Southwest Airlines?
To get an exit row seat, you need to board early (A group or early B) and be an able-bodied individual willing to assist in an emergency. These seats offer extra legroom and are popular, so being among the first to board is key.
How to check in for a Southwest flight to get a better seat?
Check in precisely 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time via the Southwest website or mobile app. Set an alarm to remind yourself.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for Southwest Airlines?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest.com or via the Southwest app when you book your flight, or add it to an existing reservation up to 36 hours before departure, depending on availability.
How to buy Upgraded Boarding on Southwest Airlines?
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
Upgraded Boarding can be purchased online or via the Southwest app within 24 hours of your flight's departure, or at the gate on the day of travel, subject to availability.
How to find out my Southwest Airlines boarding group and position?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60) will be assigned and displayed on your boarding pass after you check in for your flight.
How to board Southwest Airlines if I need special assistance?
If you have a disability and require assistance boarding or a specific seat, request preboarding from a Southwest customer service agent at the ticket counter or departure gate.
How to deal with a late boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
If you get a late boarding position (C group), be prepared for potentially fewer seat choices, likely a middle seat. Your best bet is to scan quickly for any available window or aisle seats, even if it means sitting further back in the plane.
How to determine the best time to check in for a Southwest flight?
The best time to check in for a Southwest flight is exactly 24 hours before its scheduled departure. This is when boarding positions are assigned, and the earlier you check in, the better your position will be (unless you've purchased EarlyBird Check-In or have elite status).
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