Have you ever settled into your seat on a Southwest Airlines flight, ready to relax, and suddenly realized you're craving a refreshing beverage – perhaps a soda, a coffee, or even something a bit stronger to kick off your vacation? If so, you're in the right place! Southwest Airlines has a straightforward system for purchasing drinks onboard, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your in-flight thirst is quenched with ease.
How Do I Buy Drinks on Southwest Airlines? Your Ultimate Guide
Unlike some airlines that offer elaborate meal services, Southwest focuses on a more streamlined approach, including their beverage service. While complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are typically offered on flights over 250 miles, alcoholic beverages and certain premium non-alcoholic options are available for purchase. Let's dive into how you can secure your preferred drink.
 |
| How Do I Buy Drinks On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Settle In and Get Comfortable – But Also Be Aware!
Before you even think about ordering a drink, the first step is to get settled into your seat after boarding. However, while you're getting comfortable, it's a good time to keep a few things in mind about Southwest's in-flight service.
Listen to the Announcements: Your flight attendants will make announcements regarding the availability of in-flight service, including drinks. Pay attention to these, as service can sometimes be modified or limited due to factors like turbulence or flight length.
Flight Length Matters: Generally, alcoholic beverages and a wider selection of non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase on flights over 250 miles. If you're on a very short hop, the service might be limited to just water.
No Cash Accepted Onboard: This is a crucial point! Southwest Airlines does NOT accept cash for in-flight purchases. You'll need to have a credit card, mobile payment, or a valid Southwest Airlines drink coupon ready.
Step 2: Spot Your Friendly Flight Attendant and Wait for Service
Flight attendants typically begin their beverage service once the aircraft has reached a safe cruising altitude. They will usually start from the front of the plane and work their way back, or vice versa, depending on the cabin layout and crew's discretion.
Be Patient: Don't be shy, but also don't rush them. They are working hard to serve everyone efficiently and safely.
Look for the Cart: The most common way service is delivered is via a beverage cart rolled down the aisle. This is your cue!
Polite Engagement: When the flight attendant approaches your row, make eye contact and be ready to articulate your order. A simple "Excuse me, could I get a [drink name] please?" is usually sufficient.
Step 3: Explore the Menu – What's Available?
While Southwest doesn't have a physical menu at every seat, the flight attendants will often announce the available options, or you can simply ask. Here's a general idea of what you might find:
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
Sub-heading: Complimentary Offerings
On most flights over 250 miles, you can expect:
Water
Coffee
Tea
Soft Drinks (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.)
Juices (Orange, Apple, Cranberry)
Complimentary Snacks (usually pretzels, cookies, or other small bites)
Sub-heading: Alcoholic Beverages (For Purchase)
For those looking for a premium drink, Southwest typically offers:
Beer: Expect a selection of popular domestic and sometimes a craft beer option. As of early 2025, beer is generally priced around $7.
Wine: Usually, red and white wine options are available. Wine is typically priced around $8.
Hard Seltzer and Ready-to-Drink Cocktails: These have become increasingly popular. Expect them to be around $9.
Liquor: Individual spirits (e.g., vodka, whiskey, rum) with mixers are available. Liquor is generally priced around $9.
Please note: Beverage options can change, and availability may vary based on flight and stock. You must be 21 years or older to consume alcoholic beverages, and alcohol purchased onboard must be consumed onboard. FAA regulations prohibit customers from consuming alcoholic beverages onboard that were not served by Southwest Airlines.
Step 4: Payment Methods – Get Ready to Tap or Swipe!
As mentioned, cash is not accepted. Be prepared with one of the following payment methods:
Credit Card: This is the most common and convenient method. Southwest accepts major credit cards like American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and others.
Mobile Payment: Many travelers use mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, which are increasingly accepted on Southwest flights.
Southwest Airlines Drink Coupons: If you have these, they are a fantastic way to enjoy a complimentary alcoholic beverage.
How to Get Them: A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards Members typically receive up to two complimentary premium drinks per flight leg, which are often delivered as digital coupons on their mobile boarding passes. You might also have received physical coupons in the past through various promotions or by flying Business Select fares (which often include one complimentary premium drink).
Redeeming Coupons: Simply present your digital coupon (on your phone via the Southwest app, Apple Wallet, or Google Wallet) or physical coupon to the flight attendant when ordering.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Beverage and Practice Responsible Consumption
QuickTip: Revisit this post tomorrow — it’ll feel new.
Once your drink is in hand, take a moment to relax and enjoy it.
Stay Hydrated: Even if you're enjoying an alcoholic beverage, it's always a good idea to drink plenty of water, especially during air travel, to stay hydrated.
Responsible Consumption: Drink responsibly. Flight attendants reserve the right to refuse service to anyone appearing intoxicated.
Waste Disposal: When you're finished, the flight attendants will usually come by to collect trash. Dispose of your empty cups and cans responsibly.
Step 6: Don't Forget the Freebies!
Even if you're splurging on a paid drink, remember that Southwest still offers complimentary non-alcoholic options and snacks on most flights over 250 miles. If you're on a budget or just prefer the basics, these are always available. Don't hesitate to ask for a refill of your complimentary drink if needed.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Check if My Flight Offers Drinks for Purchase?
Most Southwest flights over 250 miles offer drinks for purchase. You can confirm by checking the in-flight menu announced by flight attendants or by asking a flight attendant once you are onboard.
How to Pay for Drinks on Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for drinks using major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), mobile payment methods (Apple Pay, Google Pay), or valid Southwest Airlines drink coupons. Cash is not accepted.
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
How to Get Free Drinks on Southwest Airlines?
A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards members receive up to two complimentary premium drinks per flight leg. Additionally, Business Select fares often include one complimentary premium drink. Southwest may also offer free drinks on select holidays.
How to Use Southwest Airlines Drink Coupons?
Present your digital drink coupon (available on your mobile boarding pass via the Southwest app, Apple Wallet, or Google Wallet for A-List Preferred members) or a physical coupon to the flight attendant when ordering your drink.
How to Find the Drink Menu and Prices on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest typically doesn't have physical menus at every seat. Flight attendants will announce available options and prices. Generally, beers are around $7, wine around $8, and liquor/hard seltzers around $9.
How to Know if My Flight is Over 250 Miles?
While you can look up your flight distance online, the easiest way to know if drink service (beyond water) will be available is to listen to the flight attendant announcements after takeoff. They will clarify service offerings.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
How to Bring My Own Drinks on a Southwest Flight?
You are welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic drinks onboard. However, FAA regulations prohibit passengers from consuming alcoholic beverages onboard that were not served by Southwest Airlines.
How to Get Water on a Southwest Flight?
Water is always available and complimentary on Southwest flights, regardless of flight length. Simply ask a flight attendant for water when they come through the aisle or by pressing your call button.
How to Tip Flight Attendants for Drink Service?
While not expected, if you wish to tip for exceptional service, a small cash tip can be given. However, since cash isn't accepted for purchases, it's less common for drink service specifically. Appreciation through words is always valued.
How to Check My Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Drink Coupons?
For A-List Preferred members, digital drink coupons are automatically associated with your mobile boarding pass in the Southwest app, Apple Wallet, or Google Wallet. You can typically see them directly on your digital boarding pass.
 |
