Traveling on Southwest Airlines is known for its unique boarding process and friendly service, but what about grabbing a refreshing drink mid-flight? While Southwest offers complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on most flights, they also have a selection of premium (alcoholic) drinks available for purchase. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to buy drinks on your next Southwest flight, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience from takeoff to landing.
Your In-Flight Refreshment Journey on Southwest Airlines
So, you've settled into your seat, the cabin door is closed, and you're ready to soar. Perhaps you're craving a cold beer, a glass of wine, or a spirit to kick off your vacation. Here's how to make it happen:
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| How Do You Buy Drinks On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Get Comfortable and Signal Your Thirst (Subtly!)
Are you excited for your trip? We certainly hope so! Once you're comfortably seated and the flight attendants have completed their initial safety demonstrations, they will begin their in-flight service. This is your cue! Keep an eye out for them making their way down the aisle with their beverage cart.
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Pro Tip: While it's tempting to flag them down immediately, giving them a moment to get organized ensures a smoother service for everyone. A friendly wave or a polite "excuse me" when they're close by is usually sufficient.
Step 2: Review the In-Flight Menu (It's Simpler Than You Think!)
Unlike some airlines with elaborate menus, Southwest keeps it concise. You won't find a dedicated food menu for purchase, as snacks are complimentary. However, they do have a list of premium beverages.
What to Expect on the Menu:
Tip: Use the structure of the text to guide you.
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Complimentary Beverages: These typically include a variety of soft drinks (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.), juices (orange, apple, cranberry), coffee, and hot tea. These are always free, so don't hesitate to ask for your favorite!
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Premium (Alcoholic) Beverages for Purchase: This is where your wallet comes in! Southwest usually offers:
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Beer: A selection of domestic and sometimes a craft option. Prices are generally around $7.
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Wine: Typically red and white options, often individual-sized bottles. Expect to pay around $8.
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Spirits and Ready-to-Drink Cocktails: These often include popular liquor brands and pre-mixed cocktails. These are usually priced around $9.
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Note: Beverage options and prices can occasionally vary based on flight length, availability, and route. Flights over 250 miles typically offer alcoholic beverages for purchase.
Step 3: Choose Your Payment Method (Cash is NOT King Here!)
This is a crucial step! Southwest Airlines operates as a cashless cabin when it comes to in-flight purchases. This means you absolutely cannot use cash to buy drinks on board.
Accepted Payment Methods:
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Credit Cards: This is the most common and widely accepted method. Southwest accepts major credit cards, including:
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American Express®
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MasterCard®
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Visa®
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Discover®
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Diners Club®
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Japan Credit Bureau® (JCB)
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China Union Pay®
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Debit Cards: Many debit cards linked to the above networks are also accepted.
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Southwest Airlines® Drink Coupons: If you're a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Member, you might receive complimentary premium drink coupons. These are a fantastic perk! Make sure they haven't expired and present them to the flight attendant. Note: Drink coupons often have specific terms and conditions, so read them carefully.
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Mobile Payment: While not explicitly stated for in-flight drink purchases on all Southwest resources, it's always a good idea to have your physical card as mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay are primarily mentioned for online or airport counter transactions. However, some newer payment terminals may support them. Be prepared with your card as a backup.
Step 4: Place Your Order and Enjoy!
When the flight attendant reaches your row, simply tell them what you'd like. Be ready with your chosen payment method.
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For alcoholic beverages, you must be 21 years or older. Flight attendants are required to verify your age, so be prepared to show a valid government-issued ID if requested.
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The flight attendant will process your payment electronically. You'll likely receive a small receipt.
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Remember: Alcoholic beverages purchased onboard must be consumed onboard. You cannot bring your own alcohol to consume on the flight, per FAA regulations.
Step 5: Savor Your Drink and the Flight!
Once you have your drink, relax and enjoy the rest of your flight. Southwest aims for a pleasant experience, and a refreshing beverage can certainly add to that!
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
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Hydration Tip: Even if you're enjoying an alcoholic beverage, remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during your flight. Complimentary water is always available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Buying Drinks on Southwest Airlines
Here are 10 common questions related to purchasing drinks on Southwest, with quick answers:
How to pay for drinks on Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for drinks on Southwest Airlines using major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, etc.) or Southwest Airlines® drink coupons. Cash is not accepted onboard.
How to get a free drink on Southwest Airlines?
Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages (soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, water) are available free of charge on most flights. Southwest A-List Preferred Members also receive up to two complimentary premium drink coupons per flight segment.
How to use Southwest Airlines drink coupons?
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
Simply present your valid Southwest Airlines® drink coupon to the flight attendant when you order your premium beverage. Ensure the coupon has not expired.
How to know if my flight serves alcohol on Southwest?
Alcoholic beverages for purchase are generally available on Southwest flights that are over 250 miles. Flight attendants will announce available services.
How to bring your own alcohol on a Southwest flight?
You cannot consume your own alcoholic beverages onboard a Southwest Airlines flight. FAA regulations prohibit passengers from drinking alcohol on an aircraft unless it is served by the air carrier. You can, however, bring your own non-alcoholic beverages.
How to find out the price of drinks on Southwest Airlines?
While prices can vary slightly, as of early 2025, beer is typically around $7, wine around $8, and spirits/canned cocktails around $9. The flight attendant will have the current pricing.
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
How to ensure I can buy a drink if I don't have a credit card?
If you don't have a credit card, you would need to rely on having valid Southwest Airlines® drink coupons. Alternatively, you can always enjoy the complimentary non-alcoholic beverage options.
How to get a receipt for my in-flight drink purchase on Southwest?
When you pay with a credit or debit card, the flight attendant's payment device will usually generate a small paper receipt. You can also typically view transactions on your credit card statement.
How to get drink options if I have dietary restrictions on Southwest?
Southwest offers a variety of complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, including water and juices, which are usually suitable for most dietary needs. If you have specific concerns, it's best to bring your own specialized beverages.
How to check if Southwest drink service is available on my specific flight?
While most flights over 250 miles offer drink service for purchase, service may be modified or limited at Southwest's discretion. The flight attendants will announce the available beverage service once airborne.
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