"How much is Southwest Airlines?" is a question that can send even the most seasoned traveler down a rabbit hole of pricing, policies, and perks. It's not just about the ticket price – it's about what that ticket includes, and what extra costs might sneak up on you. But don't worry, you're about to become a Southwest savvy flyer!
This comprehensive guide will break down all the costs associated with flying Southwest Airlines, helping you understand their unique approach to pricing and how to make the most of your travel budget.
Understanding Southwest's Unique Pricing Model
Unlike many other airlines that charge for everything from seat selection to checked bags, Southwest has historically prided itself on its "Transfarency" philosophy. While some things have recently changed (we'll cover those!), their core commitment to a more straightforward pricing structure remains.
Southwest primarily operates on a point-to-point system, rather than a hub-and-spoke model, which often translates to more direct flights and potentially lower costs for certain routes. They also employ a "dynamic pricing" model, meaning ticket prices fluctuate based on demand, time of booking, and even the day of the week.
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| How Much Is Southwest Airlines |
Southwest's Fare Types: A Quick Look
Southwest offers different "fare families" that come with varying levels of flexibility and perks. Knowing these will help you choose the right ticket for your needs:
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Wanna Get Away: This is generally the lowest fare and is non-refundable, though you can apply the value to future travel if you cancel.
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Wanna Get Away Plus: A step up from the basic Wanna Get Away, offering more flexibility for changes.
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Anytime: This fare provides more flexibility, including refundable options and often a better boarding position.
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Business Select: The highest tier, offering premium benefits like guaranteed A1-A15 boarding, a complimentary alcoholic beverage, and higher Rapid Rewards earning potential.
Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating Your Southwest Flight Cost
Let's break down how to figure out your total Southwest travel expense.
Step 1: Find Your Base Airfare (and Engage with Your Inner Bargain Hunter!)
Ready to start saving? The first and most significant cost is your flight ticket itself. This is where Southwest's dynamic pricing comes into play, and where your flexibility can truly pay off.
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Head to Southwest.com: This is the best place to find official pricing and availability. While third-party sites might show Southwest flights, booking directly ensures you have access to all fare types and policies.
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Enter Your Travel Details: Input your origin and destination, desired travel dates, and the number of passengers.
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Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are not set in stone, use Southwest's Low Fare Calendar feature. You might be surprised how much the price can drop by shifting your departure or return by just a day or two! Weekday travel (Tuesday, Wednesday) and off-peak seasons generally offer the best deals.
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Consider Different Fare Types: As mentioned above, Southwest has several fare types. When you search, you'll see options like "Wanna Get Away," "Anytime," and "Business Select."
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For the absolute lowest price, you'll typically select "Wanna Get Away." Just remember, these are often non-refundable, though you usually get a flight credit if you cancel.
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If you need more flexibility (e.g., you might need to change your flight), consider "Anytime" or "Wanna Get Away Plus," but be prepared for a higher price tag.
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"Business Select" is the priciest but offers premium perks.
Pro Tip: Sometimes the difference between "Wanna Get Away" and "Wanna Get Away Plus" isn't huge, so compare the benefits carefully to see if the slight increase is worth the added flexibility.
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QuickTip: Stop scrolling if you find value.
Step 2: Account for Baggage – A Recent Change You Need to Know!
Historically, Southwest was famous for "Bags Fly Free." However, this has recently changed for most travelers. It's crucial to understand the new baggage policy to avoid surprises.
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First Checked Bag: For most new bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, your first checked bag will cost $35.
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Second Checked Bag: Your second checked bag will cost $45.
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Weight and Size Limits Apply: Be sure to check Southwest's official website for the most up-to-date information on weight and size restrictions for checked bags to avoid overweight/oversize fees.
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Exceptions for Free Bags:
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Business Select flyers and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members may still check two bags for free.
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A-List status holders and Southwest credit card users can check one bag at no extra cost.
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Always verify the latest policy on Southwest's website as these can be subject to change.
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Carry-on and Personal Item: Southwest still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a backpack or purse) for free. Ensure these fit within their specified dimensions to avoid having them checked at the gate (which could incur fees).
Step 3: Evaluate Optional Services and Their Costs
While Southwest is known for fewer "hidden fees," there are still optional services that can add to your total.
Sub-heading: Enhancing Your Boarding Position
Southwest's open seating policy means your boarding position matters. The earlier you board, the more seat choices you'll have.
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EarlyBird Check-In: This popular option automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight, giving you an earlier boarding position. EarlyBird Check-In starts at $15 one-way and is subject to availability. This can be a smart investment, especially on popular routes or if you want to ensure you sit with your travel companions.
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Upgraded Boarding: If available, you can purchase an Upgraded Boarding position (A1-A15) at the gate within 24 hours of your flight. The cost varies but offers the best chance at a prime seat.
Sub-heading: In-Flight Connectivity
Want to stay connected or entertained during your flight?
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Wi-Fi: Southwest offers Wi-Fi for messaging and in-flight entertainment for free. If you want full internet access (Browse, email, social media), it costs $8 per device, per flight.
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A-List Preferred members get complimentary Wi-Fi.
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Certain Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards, like the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card, offer annual Wi-Fi credits.
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Sub-heading: Pet Travel
If you're bringing a furry friend, there's a cost involved.
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Pet Fare: Southwest allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in an appropriate carrier in the cabin on domestic flights. There's a pet fare (check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page for current pricing, as it's subject to change). Space is limited, so reservations for pets are highly recommended in advance by calling Southwest.
QuickTip: Compare this post with what you already know.
Sub-heading: Unaccompanied Minors
For children ages 5-11 traveling alone:
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Unaccompanied Minor Service Charge: Southwest charges a service fee for each unaccompanied minor, per one-way trip. This service is only available on non-stop flights or flights with a stop but no change of planes. Check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page for current pricing.
Step 4: Don't Forget Taxes and Fees
While the base fare is the largest component, remember that all flight tickets include government-imposed taxes and fees. These are usually incorporated into the price you see when searching for flights, but it's good to be aware they exist. For flights booked with Rapid Rewards points, you'll still pay taxes, fees, and other government/airport charges of at least $5.60 per one-way flight.
Step 5: Consider Rapid Rewards Points (and Their Evolving Value)
If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, their Rapid Rewards program can significantly reduce your "out-of-pocket" costs.
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Earn Points: You earn points by flying Southwest or by using their co-branded credit cards and partners.
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Redeem Points: You can redeem points for flights with no blackout dates. However, it's important to note that Southwest has shifted to fully variable pricing for award flights. This means the number of points required for a flight will fluctuate based on the cash price of the ticket and demand. During peak travel times, your points might be worth less than during off-peak periods.
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Cash + Points: Starting January 1, 2025, you can combine points and other eligible forms of payment to purchase flights. These bookings will now earn Rapid Rewards points and tier qualifying points.
Putting It All Together: A Hypothetical Scenario
Let's imagine you're planning a trip from City A to City B.
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Base Fare (Wanna Get Away): $150
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Checked Bag (1): $35 (since you don't have A-List or Business Select)
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EarlyBird Check-In: $20 (to get a better boarding position)
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Wi-Fi (full internet access): $8
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Total Estimated Cost (one-way): $150 + $35 + $20 + $8 = $213
Remember, this is just an example, and your actual costs will vary based on your specific travel plans and choices.
Related FAQ Questions
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
How to: Find the cheapest Southwest flights?
The best way is to be flexible with your travel dates and use Southwest's Low Fare Calendar, which shows prices across an entire month. Flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays often yields lower fares.
How to: Avoid baggage fees on Southwest?
You can avoid baggage fees by being a Business Select flyer, a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member, an A-List member, or by using a qualifying Southwest credit card that offers free checked bags. Otherwise, limit yourself to a carry-on and a personal item.
How to: Get a good boarding position on Southwest?
Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight to get the best possible free boarding position. Alternatively, purchase EarlyBird Check-In or Upgraded Boarding, or fly Business Select.
How to: Get free Wi-Fi on Southwest?
A-List Preferred members receive complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, some Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards, like the Performance Business Card, offer annual Wi-Fi credits that effectively make it free.
How to: Book a flight with a pet on Southwest?
You must call Southwest Airlines to make a reservation for your pet in advance, as space is limited. There will be a specific pet fare charged at the airport ticket counter.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
How to: Check in for a Southwest flight?
You can check in online at Southwest.com or via the Southwest app starting 24 hours before your flight's departure. You can also check in at the airport at a self-service kiosk or ticket counter.
How to: Understand Southwest's open seating?
Southwest does not have assigned seats. Instead, you are assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position (1-60+) based on when you check in. You board in that order and choose any available seat once on the plane.
How to: Change or cancel a Southwest flight?
Southwest is known for its flexibility. Most fares allow you to change your flight without a change fee (though you'll pay the difference in fare if the new flight is more expensive) or cancel for a flight credit (for Wanna Get Away fares) or a refund (for Anytime and Business Select fares). This can typically be done online or via their app.
How to: Earn and redeem Rapid Rewards points?
You earn Rapid Rewards points by flying with Southwest, using their co-branded credit cards for everyday purchases, or through various partners. Points can be redeemed for any seat, any time, with no blackout dates, though the number of points required is now dynamically linked to the cash price of the ticket.
How to: Contact Southwest Airlines customer service?
You can reach Southwest Airlines customer service by calling 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792). You can also find contact information on their website for email and written correspondence.
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