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Unlocking Savings: A Comprehensive Guide to Southwest Airlines Military Discounts
Are you a brave member of the U.S. military or an eligible dependent, looking to travel with Southwest Airlines? Then you're in the right place! Southwest Airlines is known for its customer-friendly policies and its appreciation for the armed forces. While they don't advertise a "military discount" in the traditional sense on their website, they do offer special military and government fares, along with exceptional baggage benefits, that can significantly reduce your travel costs.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of applying these valuable military discounts to ensure you get the best possible deal on your next Southwest flight. So, let's get started on making your travel plans as smooth and affordable as possible!
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| How To Apply Military Discount On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understand Southwest's Military Fare Philosophy
Before we dive into the booking process, it's crucial to understand how Southwest Airlines approaches military discounts. Unlike some airlines that offer a simple percentage off public fares, Southwest provides special "military and government fares" which are often more flexible and can sometimes be significantly lower than publicly available fares, especially for last-minute travel.
Key Points to Remember:
Not Available Online: This is perhaps the most important detail. You will not find military fares listed on Southwest.com. These special rates are exclusively available by phone or at a Southwest ticket counter.
Eligibility: Southwest's military fares are typically available to:
Active-duty U.S. military personnel (including Reservists, National Guard members, and Coast Guard members with active orders).
Cadets/Midshipmen attending U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy (West Point), and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.
Authorized dependents of the above.
Identification is Key: You will always need to present a valid United States Armed Forces identification at the time of check-in, and sometimes even during the booking process. Dependents 12 years or older will need a card displaying their active-duty military dependent status.
Flexible & Refundable: A major perk of these military fares is their flexibility. They are often refundable and changeable without penalties or rebooking fees, which is incredibly helpful given the often unpredictable nature of military schedules.
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Information
Preparation is key to a smooth process. Before you make that call or head to the airport, ensure you have the following information readily available:
2.1 Your Military Identification
Active-duty military ID (CAC card): This is your primary form of identification.
Dependent ID card: If you are a military dependent.
Military orders: If you are traveling on official orders (Temporary Duty/TDY or Permanent Change of Station/PCS), have a copy readily accessible. While not always required for booking the fare, it can be helpful for verification and for specific baggage exemptions.
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
2.2 Your Travel Details
Desired travel dates: Be as specific or as flexible as possible. Having a range of dates can help the agent find the best military fare.
Departure and arrival airports: Know your exact origin and destination.
Number of passengers: Specify if dependents are traveling with you and their ages.
Any connecting cities: If your travel involves multiple legs.
2.3 Contact Information
Your phone number and email address.
Step 3: Choose Your Booking Method
As mentioned, military fares are not available online. You have two primary methods to book:
3.1 By Phone (Recommended for Convenience)
This is generally the most convenient way to book your military fare.
Dial the Dedicated Line: Call Southwest Airlines' reservation line directly. The general number is 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
State Your Intent Clearly: As soon as you connect with a representative, clearly state that you are inquiring about military or government fares. This will help them direct you to the right department or agent.
Provide Your Travel Details: The agent will ask for your desired travel dates, origin, destination, and the number of travelers.
Inquire About Military Fares: Explicitly ask, "Are there any military or government fares available for this route and these dates?"
Be Prepared for Verification Questions: The agent may ask about your military status to confirm eligibility. While they typically won't require you to provide your ID over the phone, they will emphasize that you must present valid military identification at check-in.
Compare Fares: Even when offered a military fare, it's a good idea to briefly check public fares online (if you have another device handy) to ensure the military fare truly offers a better deal. While often it does, especially for last-minute bookings or flexible tickets, it's wise to compare.
Confirm Baggage Benefits: Reconfirm the generous baggage allowance for active-duty military. Southwest generally waives baggage fees for active-duty military for additional pieces of baggage, provided they meet weight and size limits (up to 100 pounds and 80 inches in size per piece, up to 20 pieces total). This is a significant saving!
Complete the Booking: Once you're satisfied with the fare and have confirmed all details, the agent will process your payment and provide you with a confirmation number.
3.2 In Person at a Southwest Ticket Counter
If you prefer face-to-face interaction or happen to be at an airport, you can also book military fares at a Southwest ticket counter.
Locate the Ticket Counter: Head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at your nearest airport.
Inform the Agent of Your Military Status: Politely inform the agent that you are looking to book a flight and are eligible for military fares.
Present Your Military ID: Be ready to show your valid military identification (CAC card, dependent ID, or orders) as requested by the agent.
Provide Travel Details: Share your travel dates, destination, and other pertinent information.
Discuss Available Fares: The agent will look up applicable military fares for your itinerary.
Confirm Baggage Allowance: Reiterate your understanding of the military baggage benefits to ensure they are properly applied to your reservation.
Finalize Your Booking: The agent will assist you with payment and provide your flight details and confirmation.
Step 4: Traveling with Your Military Discount
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Once your flight is booked, here’s what you need to remember for a smooth travel day:
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
4.1 At the Airport: Check-in and ID Verification
Always Carry Your ID: Do not forget your valid military ID! You must present it at the check-in counter to verify your eligibility for the military fare and baggage exemptions.
Checked Baggage: When checking bags, remind the agent of your active-duty military status and the associated baggage benefits. They will ensure you are not charged for any eligible bags.
Early Boarding (Benefit for Active Duty): Southwest Airlines offers an added perk for active-duty military members. If you did not receive an "A" boarding group, you are often allowed to board between the A and B groups. Look for the announcement at the gate or inquire with the gate agent, presenting your military ID.
4.2 During Your Flight
Flexibility on Changes: Should your military duties require a change in your travel plans, remember the flexibility of military fares. Contact Southwest Airlines as soon as possible. With military fares, you typically won't incur change or cancellation fees, only the difference in fare if applicable. This is a huge advantage compared to standard tickets!
Step 5: Understanding Additional Military Benefits
Beyond the special fares, Southwest offers other valuable benefits for military personnel:
5.1 Enhanced Baggage Allowance
No Fee for Additional Pieces: Active-duty military customers are exempt from the standard two-piece baggage limit. This means you won't be charged for additional pieces of baggage.
Waiver of Excess, Oversize, or Overweight Fees: For active-duty military, excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges are generally waived, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size (Length + Width + Height). This is a major saving, especially if you're traveling with deployment gear or moving personal belongings.
Important Note: Dependents traveling without the active-duty military member are typically subject to normal baggage policies, including excess, oversized, and overweight charges. Always confirm this with the agent if you're a dependent traveling alone.
5.2 Boarding Privileges
As mentioned in Step 4, active-duty military members who did not receive an A boarding pass can board between the A and B groups. This can be very helpful for securing overhead bin space and your preferred seat.
Step 6: What to Do If You Encounter Issues
While the process is generally straightforward, sometimes issues arise.
Remain Polite and Persistent: If an agent seems unaware of military fares or benefits, politely explain what you know and ask them to consult their resources or a supervisor.
Reference Southwest's Official Policy: If needed, you can reference Southwest's official "Military Travel and Benefits" information (though it mainly details baggage, it implicitly points to the existence of military fares via phone/counter).
Escalate if Necessary: If you feel you are not receiving the correct information or benefits, politely ask to speak with a supervisor or contact Southwest's customer relations department after your initial call.
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related "How to" questions with quick answers to further assist you:
How to find Southwest military discount prices online?
Answer: You cannot find Southwest military discount prices online. These fares are only available by calling Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) or visiting a ticket counter at the airport.
How to verify my military status for Southwest Airlines?
Answer: You verify your military status by presenting a valid United States Armed Forces identification (e.g., CAC card) at the time of check-in, and sometimes when booking in person. Dependents need a valid military dependent ID.
How to know if I am eligible for Southwest military fares?
Answer: You are eligible if you are active-duty U.S. military personnel (including Reservists, National Guard, Coast Guard with active orders), cadets/midshipmen at U.S. military academies, or their authorized dependents.
How to change a Southwest military fare flight?
Answer: Call Southwest Airlines' reservation line. Military fares are typically flexible and changeable without penalties or rebooking fees; you will only pay any applicable fare difference.
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
How to cancel a Southwest military fare flight?
Answer: Contact Southwest Airlines by phone. Military fares are generally refundable to your original form of payment if canceled.
How to get free checked bags as military on Southwest?
Answer: As an active-duty military customer, you get free checked bags beyond the standard two-piece limit, and your oversize, overweight, and excess baggage fees are waived (up to 100 lbs and 80 inches per piece, 20 pieces total), provided you show a valid military ID at check-in.
How to get early boarding on Southwest as active military?
Answer: Active-duty military members with a valid ID who did not receive an "A" boarding group can generally board between the A and B groups. Simply present your military ID to the gate agent.
How to book a military discount flight for my dependent on Southwest?
Answer: You can book for your dependent by calling Southwest Airlines, provided your dependent meets the eligibility criteria and you can provide the necessary identification for them (e.g., dependent ID card).
How to ensure I get the best military fare for my travel?
Answer: Be flexible with your travel dates if possible, and always call Southwest directly to inquire about military fares. Compare the quoted military fare with publicly available "Wanna Get Away" or "Anytime" fares to ensure you're getting the best deal.
How to handle issues with applying the military discount at Southwest?
Answer: Politely explain your eligibility and the policy to the agent. If needed, ask to speak with a supervisor or contact Southwest Customer Relations for further assistance. Always have your military ID ready for verification.
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