Adding a gift card to your Southwest Airlines account isn't quite like adding a balance to a digital wallet. Instead, you redeem the gift card directly during the flight booking process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully use your Southwest gift card for your next adventure!
The Ultimate Guide: Using Your Southwest Airlines Gift Card for Flights
Have you ever received a Southwest Airlines gift card and wondered, "How exactly do I use this thing?" You're not alone! While it might seem straightforward, there are a few important steps and considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth redemption process. Let's dive in!
 |
| How Do I Add A Gift Card To My Southwest Airlines Account |
Step 1: Ready to Fly? Check Your Gift Card Details!
Before you even think about booking, let's make sure you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. This is crucial for a seamless experience.
What You'll Need:
-
Your Southwest Gift Card Number: This is typically a 16-digit number found on the back of a physical card or in the email for an e-gift card.
-
Your 4-Digit Security Code (PIN): Also found on the back of a physical card (often under a scratch-off strip) or in the e-gift card email. Don't lose this! Without it, your gift card is essentially useless.
Pro Tip: Consider taking a photo of both the front and back of your physical gift card or saving the email containing your e-gift card details in a safe, accessible place. This can be a lifesaver if you misplace the physical card!
Step 2: Head to the Southwest Airlines Website or Mobile App
The most common and convenient way to redeem your gift card is online.
A. Using the Website:
-
Open your preferred web browser and navigate to the official Southwest Airlines website:
www.Southwest.com -
If you have a Rapid Rewards account, it's a good idea to log in now. While not strictly required to use the gift card, having an account makes managing your booking much easier. If you don't have one, consider signing up – it's free and offers great perks!
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
B. Using the Mobile App:
-
Download and open the Southwest Airlines mobile app on your smartphone or tablet (available for iOS and Android).
-
Again, logging into your Rapid Rewards account is recommended for a streamlined experience.
Step 3: Search for Your Desired Flight
This is the fun part – planning your trip!
A. Enter Your Travel Details:
-
On the homepage (website or app), you'll see the flight search bar.
-
Enter your departure city, arrival city, and travel dates.
-
Select the number of passengers.
-
Click "Search" or "Find Flights."
B. Select Your Flight:
-
Browse the available flights and choose the one that best fits your schedule and budget.
-
Proceed through the various selection screens until you reach the payment section. This is where your gift card comes into play!
Step 4: Applying Your Southwest Gift Card at Payment
This is the moment you've been waiting for! The payment page is where you'll finally input your gift card information.
A. Locate the Payment Options:
-
Scroll down to the payment section. You'll typically see options for credit/debit cards, PayPal, and other forms of payment.
-
Look for a section titled something like "Southwest LUV Voucher or Southwest Gift Card" or similar. It's usually a clearly marked area.
B. Enter Your Gift Card Information:
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
-
Click on the option to apply a gift card.
-
You will be prompted to enter the 16-digit gift card number and the 4-digit security code. Double-check these numbers for accuracy! A single typo can prevent the card from being recognized.
-
Click "Apply" or "Redeem."
C. Understanding the Application:
-
The system will immediately deduct the value of the gift card from your total flight cost.
-
Important Note on Multiple Gift Cards: Southwest allows you to use up to four (4) Southwest gift cards per reservation. If your purchase exceeds the combined amount of four gift cards, you will only be allowed to use three gift cards, and another form of payment will be required for the remaining balance. If your purchase is less than the total value of your gift cards, the remaining balance will stay on the gift card for future use.
D. Combining with Other Payment Methods:
-
If your flight cost exceeds the value of your gift card(s), you will be prompted to provide an additional form of payment (e.g., a credit card, debit card, or PayPal) to cover the remaining balance.
-
If your flight cost is less than the value of your gift card, the remaining balance will stay on the gift card for future use. Southwest gift cards do not expire!
Step 5: Review and Confirm Your Booking
 |
Before finalizing, take a moment to review all the details of your booking.
A. Check All Information:
-
Verify the flight dates and times.
-
Confirm the passenger names.
-
Ensure the total amount due is correct, reflecting the gift card redemption.
B. Complete Your Purchase:
-
Once you're satisfied with all the details, click the "Purchase" or "Confirm Booking" button.
-
You will receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and e-ticket information shortly after. Keep this email safe!
Important Considerations and Tips:
-
What a Southwest Gift Card Can Be Used For: Southwest gift cards are primarily for Passenger air travel on Southwest Airlines. This includes the base fare and applicable taxes/fees.
-
What a Southwest Gift Card Cannot Be Used For: They generally cannot be used for:
-
Southwest Vacations packages.
-
Group travel.
-
Optional travel charges like EarlyBird Check-In®, Pet Fare, Unaccompanied Minor fees, upgraded boarding at the airport, or inflight purchases.
-
Cargo.
-
Hotel or rental car bookings (unless part of a Southwest Vacations package gift card, which is different from a standard Southwest Airlines gift card).
-
-
No Expiration: Great news! Southwest Airlines gift cards do not expire and do not have dormancy fees.
-
Non-Refundable (Generally): Southwest gift cards are typically non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash or credit, except where required by law.
-
Lost or Stolen Cards: Southwest gift cards are not replaceable if lost, stolen, or destroyed. Treat them like cash!
-
Checking Your Balance: You can check your Southwest gift card balance on the Southwest Airlines website by going to the gift card section and entering your card number and security code, or by calling 1-866-393-2081.
FAQs: How to...
Tip: Review key points when done.
Here are 10 common questions about Southwest Airlines gift cards, along with quick answers:
How to Check My Southwest Gift Card Balance?
You can check your balance directly on the Southwest.com website under the "Gift Cards" section, or by calling 1-866-393-2081.
How to Use Multiple Southwest Gift Cards for One Flight?
You can use up to four Southwest gift cards per reservation. Enter each card's details one by one in the payment section during booking.
How to Use a Southwest Gift Card If It Doesn't Cover the Full Cost?
If your gift card doesn't cover the entire fare, you'll be prompted to pay the remaining balance with another accepted payment method (like a credit card).
How to Use a Southwest Gift Card for Someone Else's Flight?
Yes, Southwest gift cards are transferable. You can use your gift card to book a flight for anyone you choose.
How to Find the Security Code (PIN) on My Southwest Gift Card?
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
For physical cards, the 4-digit security code is usually on the back, often under a scratch-off strip. For e-gift cards, it will be in the email you received.
How to Redeem a Southwest Gift Card Over the Phone?
You can redeem a Southwest gift card by calling Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792 (1-800-I-FLY-SWA®) or at a Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
How to Use a Southwest Gift Card for EarlyBird Check-In or Other Fees?
Southwest gift cards generally cannot be used for optional fees like EarlyBird Check-In, pet fees, or unaccompanied minor charges. These typically require a credit card or other payment.
How to Know If My Southwest Gift Card Has an Expiration Date?
Southwest Airlines gift cards do not expire.
How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Southwest Gift Card?
Unfortunately, Southwest gift cards are generally not replaceable if lost, stolen, or destroyed. Treat them like cash.
How to Purchase a Southwest Gift Card?
You can purchase Southwest gift cards directly from Southwest.com, through their mobile app, or at various approved retail locations.
 |
