Have you ever wondered what it's like to fly with an airline that does things a little differently? Southwest Airlines is renowned for its unique approach to air travel, from its open seating policy to its generous baggage allowance. If you're planning your first trip with Southwest, or just need a refresher, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Step 1: Booking Your Southwest Flight – Let's Get Started on Your Adventure!
So, you're ready to book your flight with Southwest? Fantastic! This is where your journey truly begins. Southwest's booking process is fairly straightforward, but there are a few key things to keep in mind that set them apart from other airlines.
Understanding Southwest's Fare Types
Southwest offers several fare types, each with different levels of flexibility and perks. It's crucial to understand these to pick the best option for your travel needs.
Wanna Get Away: This is generally the lowest fare and offers the least flexibility. While you can cancel without a fee, you might receive a flight credit instead of a refund.
Wanna Get Away Plus: A step up from "Wanna Get Away," offering more flexibility with flight changes and cancellations.
Anytime: These fares are fully refundable and offer more flexibility for changes.
Business Select: The most premium fare, offering guaranteed A1-A15 boarding, a complimentary premium drink, and full refundability.
Think about your travel plans and how much flexibility you need before selecting your fare. If your plans are set in stone, "Wanna Get Away" might be perfect. If you anticipate changes, a higher fare type could save you money and hassle in the long run.
Searching for Flights
Head over to the Southwest Airlines website (southwest.com) or use their mobile app.
Enter Your Details: Input your origin and destination, travel dates, and the number of passengers.
Flexible Date Search: If your dates are flexible, use their "Low Fare Calendar" to find the cheapest days to fly. This can often lead to significant savings.
Review Flight Options: You'll see a list of available flights with different departure times and fare types. Compare the prices and benefits to make your choice.
Adding Extras During Booking
While Southwest is known for its "Transfarency" (transparent pricing), there are a few optional extras you might consider adding during booking:
EarlyBird Check-In: This is a popular option that automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight, securing an earlier boarding position (more on this in Step 3!). It's a great way to improve your chances of getting your preferred seat.
Upgraded Boarding: If available, you can upgrade your boarding position to A1-A15 (the very first to board) starting 24 hours before your flight. This is usually purchased closer to the departure time.
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| How To Fly With Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Preparing for Your Flight – Getting Ready for Takeoff!
You've booked your flight – congratulations! Now it's time to get everything else in order for a smooth travel day.
Baggage Policy – The Southwest Advantage!
One of Southwest's biggest perks is their baggage policy.
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
Two Free Checked Bags: That's right! Every ticketed customer gets two checked bags for free, as long as they meet the size and weight requirements. Each bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.68 kg) and 62 inches (length + width + height).
Carry-On and Personal Item: You're also allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack). Your carry-on must fit in the overhead bin (24 x 16 x 10 inches), and your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you (18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches).
Special Items: Southwest has policies for various special items like sports equipment, musical instruments, and car seats. Always check their website for specific guidelines if you're traveling with something unusual.
Pro-tip: If you're close to the weight limit, distribute items between your two free bags to avoid overweight fees!
Required Documents
Ensure you have all necessary identification and travel documents ready:
Valid Photo ID: For domestic flights, a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) is required for all passengers 18 and older.
Confirmation Number: Keep your 6-character alphanumeric confirmation number handy. This is essential for check-in.
International Travel: For international flights, a valid passport is mandatory, and you may need a visa depending on your destination. Double-check entry requirements for your destination well in advance.
Travel Alerts and Notifications
Sign up for flight status updates! Southwest allows you to receive text or email notifications about your flight's status, including any delays or gate changes. This is invaluable for staying informed.
Download the Southwest App: The app is a powerful tool for managing your trip, from checking in to tracking your bags.
Step 3: Check-In and Boarding – The Unique Southwest Experience
This is where Southwest truly stands out from other airlines. There are no assigned seats on Southwest flights, meaning you pick your seat when you board. This makes your check-in time crucial for a good boarding position.
The 24-Hour Check-In Window
Set a Reminder! Southwest's online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. The sooner you check in, the better your boarding position will be. Many seasoned Southwest travelers set an alarm!
How to Check In:
Go to southwest.com or open the Southwest app.
Click on "Check In."
Enter your confirmation number and your first and last name.
Follow the prompts to complete your check-in and get your boarding pass. You can print it, have it emailed, or save it to your mobile device.
Understanding Boarding Groups (A, B, C) and Positions (1-60+)
Your boarding pass will show a Boarding Group (A, B, or C) and a Boarding Position (a number from 1 to 60+).
Group A: These are the first passengers to board. This group typically includes Business Select passengers, A-List/A-List Preferred members, and those who purchased EarlyBird Check-In or Upgraded Boarding.
Group B: Boards after Group A.
Group C: Boards last.
Within each group, you'll board in numerical order based on your position (e.g., A1, A2, ..., A60). The lower your number, the earlier you board within your group.
Strategies for a Better Boarding Position
Check in exactly at the 24-hour mark: This is the most common and effective way for standard fares.
Purchase EarlyBird Check-In: This automatically checks you in 36 hours prior, guaranteeing an earlier position than general boarding.
Purchase Business Select Fare: This fare type guarantees an A1-A15 boarding position.
Attain A-List or A-List Preferred Status: Elite status members receive preferential boarding.
Purchase Upgraded Boarding at the Gate: If available, you can often purchase an A1-A15 boarding position at the gate on the day of your flight.
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Family Boarding
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
If you're traveling with a child six years old or younger, you can utilize Family Boarding. This allows up to two adults traveling with the child to board between the A and B groups. This is a huge benefit for families, ensuring you can find seats together.
At the Gate
Arrive Early: Get to your gate well before boarding begins, especially if you have a later boarding position and want more seat options.
Line Up: Look for the numbered poles at the gate area. When your group is called, line up according to your boarding position. Southwest gate agents are usually very helpful in guiding passengers.
Step 4: Onboard Experience – Settling In and Enjoying Your Flight
You're on the plane! Now it's time to find your seat and get comfortable.
Open Seating
Find Your Seat: Since there are no assigned seats, you're free to choose any available seat. Many passengers prefer window or aisle seats, so if you're in a later boarding group, you might find more middle seats available.
Overhead Bins: Stow your carry-on bag in the overhead bin above your seat, and your personal item under the seat in front of you. Remember, early boarders have the best selection of overhead bin space.
In-Flight Amenities
Southwest offers a variety of amenities to make your flight more enjoyable.
Free Snacks and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: On most flights over 250 miles, you'll receive complimentary snacks and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages.
Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. A-List Preferred members may receive complimentary premium drinks.
Free Inflight Entertainment: Southwest offers a free Inflight Entertainment Portal accessible on your personal device (phone, tablet, laptop). This includes live TV, movies, TV series, and a flight tracker. No Wi-Fi purchase is necessary to access the entertainment.
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available for purchase on most Wi-Fi-enabled aircraft. A-List Preferred members receive free Wi-Fi.
Customer Service
Southwest is known for its friendly and personable flight attendants. Don't hesitate to ask them for assistance if you need anything during your flight.
Step 5: Arrival and Beyond – Completing Your Journey
You've landed! The last steps involve deplaning, retrieving your baggage, and planning your next adventure.
Deplaning
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
Passengers typically deplane row by row, from front to back. Be patient and wait for your turn.
Baggage Claim
Follow signs to baggage claim. Since Southwest offers two free checked bags, many passengers utilize this, so baggage claim areas can be busy. You can often track your checked bags through the Southwest app.
Ground Transportation
Once you have your bags, proceed to your chosen ground transportation, whether it's a rental car, taxi, rideshare, or public transport.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about flying with Southwest Airlines, with quick answers:
How to get the best boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
The best way is to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchase EarlyBird Check-In, buy a Business Select fare, or achieve A-List/A-List Preferred status.
How to bring a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin on domestic flights in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. You must make a reservation in advance by calling Southwest and pay a pet fare at the airport.
How to change a flight on Southwest Airlines?
You can change your flight online through the "Manage Reservations" section of their website or app. Depending on your fare type, a fare difference may apply, but Southwest typically does not charge change fees.
QuickTip: Skim the ending to preview key takeaways.
How to use a Southwest Airlines flight credit?
When booking a new flight, select "Southwest LUV Voucher," "Travel Funds," or "Flight Credit" as your payment method and enter the confirmation number from your original flight.
How to check in for a Southwest Airlines flight online?
Go to southwest.com or the Southwest app exactly 24 hours before your flight, click "Check In," and enter your confirmation number and last name.
How to get a refund from Southwest Airlines?
Refundability depends on your fare type. Business Select and Anytime fares are fully refundable. Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fares are typically non-refundable but may be eligible for a flight credit. Cancellations must be made at least 10 minutes before departure.
How to track my baggage on Southwest Airlines?
You can track your checked bags digitally through the Southwest Airlines app after check-in.
How to get special assistance when flying with Southwest Airlines?
Contact Southwest Airlines directly by phone or speak to a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or gate to arrange for special assistance, such as wheelchair services or preboarding for customers with disabilities.
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
Wi-Fi is available for purchase on most Wi-Fi-enabled aircraft. A-List Preferred members receive free Wi-Fi. Inflight entertainment, however, is always free and does not require Wi-Fi purchase.
How to earn Rapid Rewards points with Southwest Airlines?
You can earn Rapid Rewards points by flying with Southwest (points earned vary by fare type), using a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card, shopping through the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal, or dining with Rapid Rewards Dining partners.
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