Hey there, fellow traveler! Are you, or is someone you know, a member of our incredible military? If so, you're likely wondering how you can leverage that service for some travel savings, especially with a popular airline like Southwest. Well, you've come to the right place! While Southwest Airlines doesn't publicize a fixed "percentage off" military discount like some other airlines, they absolutely do offer special considerations and fares for active-duty military members and their eligible dependents. It's more about accessing government and military fares which can be significantly lower than standard published fares, along with some fantastic perks.
Let's dive into how you can unlock these benefits with Southwest Airlines.
The Lowdown on Southwest Airlines Military Discounts
Unlike many airlines that might offer a simple percentage off, Southwest Airlines approaches military discounts a bit differently. They provide access to special government and military fares that are not available to the general public online. The exact discount amount isn't published and can vary based on the route, date, and availability, but these fares are specifically designed to be beneficial for service members.
Beyond the special fares, Southwest also offers some truly valuable perks that can save you a lot of money and make your travel experience much smoother.
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| How Much Is The Military Discount For Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Are You Eligible? Confirming Your Military Status
Before we proceed, let's make sure you qualify! This is the most crucial first step.
Who is typically eligible for Southwest's military benefits?
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Active Duty U.S. Military Personnel: This includes members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, and Public Health Service (PHS).
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Reservists: Members of the Reserve components with active orders.
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National Guard Members: Members of the National Guard with active orders.
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Cadets/Midshipmen: Those attending U.S. military academies (e.g., West Point, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy).
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Eligible Dependents: Spouses and dependent children of eligible active-duty military personnel. It's important to note that dependents traveling without the active-duty military member may be subject to normal baggage policies, so always verify when booking.
What you'll need for verification:
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Current, Valid Military ID: This is essential. Have your U.S. Services Active Duty Identification card or Dependent ID card readily available.
If you're unsure about your specific eligibility, it's always best to call Southwest directly (we'll cover that in Step 2!).
Step 2: Don't Go Online! How to Book Your Military Fare
This is where many people make a common mistake! You won't find Southwest's military fares by searching on their public website (Southwest.com). These special rates are not publicly listed online.
Here's the step-by-step guide to booking your military fare:
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Power of the Phone Call
The primary and most effective way to book a military fare is by calling Southwest Airlines directly.
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Grab Your Phone: Dial 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792). This is Southwest's main reservation line.
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Speak to a Representative: When you connect, clearly state that you are active-duty military (or a dependent of one) and are inquiring about military or government fares.
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Provide Your Travel Details: Be ready to provide your desired origin, destination, and travel dates. The representative will then search for available military fares for your specific itinerary.
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Be Prepared to Verify: The agent will guide you through the verification process, which will involve confirming your military status. Have your valid military ID ready to present if you were booking in person, or be ready to confirm details over the phone.
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Compare Fares: It's worth asking the representative to compare the military fare with any standard "Wanna Get Away" or other public fares available for your dates. While the military fare is usually advantageous, it's good to be informed.
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Complete Your Booking: Once you've confirmed the fare and your eligibility, the representative will help you complete the booking.
Sub-heading 2.2: Visiting a Southwest Ticket Counter
If you prefer an in-person interaction, you can also book military fares at a Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport.
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Head to the Airport: Visit your local airport with a Southwest Airlines presence.
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Locate the Ticket Counter: Find the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
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Speak to an Agent: Inform the agent that you are looking to book a military or government fare.
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Present Your ID: Be ready to show your current, valid military ID for verification.
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Provide Travel Information: Give the agent your travel details, and they will assist you in finding and booking the military fare.
Step 3: Beyond the Fare! Maximizing Your Military Benefits
The special fare is just one part of the excellent benefits offered by Southwest.
Sub-heading 3.1: Baggage Bliss
This is arguably one of the biggest and most valuable perks for active-duty military personnel.
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Exemption from Two-Piece Baggage Limit: Active-duty military customers traveling with a valid military ID are exempt from the standard two-piece baggage limit. This means you can check more bags without incurring additional fees.
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No Excess, Oversize, or Overweight Baggage Charges: Provided each piece of baggage does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (L+W+H), you will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges. This is a massive saving, especially for those moving or carrying equipment.
Remember: This generous baggage allowance typically applies to active-duty military members themselves. Dependents traveling without the active-duty member might be subject to regular baggage fees, so always confirm with Southwest if you're a dependent traveling alone.
Sub-heading 3.2: Priority Boarding Advantage
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
Southwest is known for its open seating policy, and getting an early boarding position can make a big difference.
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Board Between A and B Groups: Active-duty military members with a valid military ID who did not receive an "A" boarding pass (e.g., if you booked a "Wanna Get Away" fare) can board between the A and B groups. This gives you a significant advantage in securing your preferred seat. Simply present your valid military ID at the gate.
Step 4: Important Considerations and Tips for a Smooth Journey
Knowing these nuances will help you navigate the process effectively.
Sub-heading 4.1: Understanding the "Discount" Itself
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Variable Pricing: As mentioned, there isn't a fixed percentage discount. The military/government fares are specific rates that can fluctuate. They are often competitive, but it's not guaranteed to always be the absolute lowest price compared to a deeply discounted "Wanna Get Away" fare that might be available during a sale. Always compare.
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Not Redeemable with Rapid Rewards Points: You typically cannot use Southwest Rapid Rewards points to book military/government fares. These fares are generally paid for with cash.
Sub-heading 4.2: Changes and Cancellations
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Southwest's General Flexibility Applies: One of Southwest's major selling points is its flexible change and cancellation policy. Generally, if you need to change an upcoming flight, you'll only pay the difference in fare (if one applies). If you cancel, you can often receive flight credit for future use. This general flexibility extends to military fares as well, which is a great benefit for service members whose plans can often change unexpectedly.
Sub-heading 4.3: Always Verify Current Policies
Airline policies can change. While this guide provides the most up-to-date information, it's always prudent to double-check directly with Southwest Airlines when you're planning your travel, especially for specific situations or if you have unique baggage needs.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines truly values military service members and demonstrates this appreciation through dedicated military and government fares, coupled with generous baggage allowances and priority boarding. While you won't find a simple discount code online, a quick call to their reservation line or a visit to a ticket counter can unlock significant savings and a more comfortable travel experience. So, salute to your service, and happy travels with Southwest!
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to access Southwest Airlines military fares?
You can access Southwest Airlines military fares by calling 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) or by visiting a Southwest Airlines ticket counter in person. These fares are not available on Southwest.com.
How to verify military status for Southwest Airlines?
To verify military status for Southwest Airlines, you will need a current and valid military ID (e.g., U.S. Services Active Duty Identification card or Dependent ID card) when booking over the phone or in person, and potentially at the gate for boarding benefits.
How to get free checked bags on Southwest Airlines as military?
Active-duty military customers traveling with a valid military ID are exempt from the standard two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided each bag does not exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches (L+W+H).
How to get priority boarding on Southwest Airlines as military?
Active-duty military members with a valid military ID who did not receive an "A" boarding pass can board between the A and B groups by presenting their ID at the gate.
How to know the exact military discount amount on Southwest Airlines?
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
The exact discount amount for Southwest Airlines military fares is not publicly disclosed and varies by route and availability. These are special government/military fares, not a fixed percentage discount. You'll learn the fare when you call to book.
How to use Rapid Rewards points for military fares on Southwest Airlines?
Generally, you cannot use Southwest Rapid Rewards points to purchase military or government fares. These special fares are typically paid for with cash.
How to book Southwest Airlines military flights for dependents?
Eligible dependents of active-duty military personnel can also access military fares by calling Southwest Airlines or visiting a ticket counter, provided they have a valid Dependent ID card. Baggage policies for dependents traveling alone may differ from those of the active-duty member.
How to change a military fare flight on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest's general flexible change policy applies to military fares. You can typically change your flight and only pay the difference in fare if one applies. It's best to call Southwest's reservation line for any changes to military fare bookings.
How to combine the military discount with other Southwest Airlines offers?
It is generally not possible to combine military fares with other promotional offers or discount codes. Military fares are a separate class of booking. You can always ask a Southwest representative if any stacking is possible for your specific situation.
How to know if a Southwest military fare is cheaper than a standard fare?
While military fares are designed to be advantageous, it's not guaranteed they will always be the absolute lowest price, especially during a "Wanna Get Away" fare sale. When you call to book, ask the representative to compare the military fare with any standard public fares available for your desired dates.
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