You're about to embark on a Southwest Airlines adventure, and while you might know they operate a bit differently than other airlines when it comes to seating, don't worry! This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to navigate the Southwest seating system to get the best possible seat for your flight. Forget the assigned seat scramble of other airlines – with Southwest, it's all about strategy and being prepared. So, let's dive in and unlock the secrets to a comfortable journey!
The Southwest Seating Philosophy: Open Seating Explained
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of selecting your seat, it's crucial to understand Southwest's unique approach: open seating. Unlike most airlines where you choose your seat when you book your ticket or check-in, Southwest doesn't assign specific seats. Instead, passengers board the plane in groups and then pick any available seat once onboard. This system has been a hallmark of Southwest for decades, aiming to streamline boarding and offer flexibility.
But don't mistake "open seating" for chaos. There's a very organized process to how you get on the plane, and that process directly impacts your seat selection opportunities.
Step 1: Understanding Your Boarding Position – The Key to Your Seat
This is where the magic (or the initial scramble) happens! Your ability to pick your preferred seat on Southwest hinges almost entirely on your boarding position. This position is comprised of a letter (A, B, or C) and a number (1-60). The earlier your letter and lower your number, the earlier you get to board and, consequently, the more seat choices you'll have.
So, how do you get a good boarding position? Let's explore the options:
Sub-heading: The 24-Hour Check-In Rush
This is the most common method for most travelers to secure their boarding position.
Southwest Airlines allows you to check in for your flight exactly 24 hours before its scheduled departure time. This is a critical window! The moment online check-in opens, you want to be there, refreshing that page, ready to hit "check-in."
Why it matters: The earlier you check in within that 24-hour window, the better your boarding position will be. Those who check in right at the 24-hour mark often secure "A" group or early "B" group positions. Waiting even a few minutes can significantly push you back into the "B" or even "C" group, limiting your seat choices.
What to do: Set a reminder on your phone for precisely 24 hours before your flight's departure. Be at your computer or have the Southwest app open, ready to check in the second it becomes available.
Sub-heading: Paying for Priority – Guaranteed Early Boarding
If you absolutely want to ensure you get a prime seat, or if you're traveling with a group and want to sit together, Southwest offers a few ways to bypass the 24-hour check-in rush:
Business Select Fares: This is Southwest's most premium fare option. If you purchase a Business Select ticket, you are automatically assigned a boarding position in the A1-A15 group. This guarantees you among the very first people on the plane, giving you the pick of almost any seat. While more expensive, it offers unparalleled peace of mind for seat selection.
EarlyBird Check-In®: This is a popular add-on for many Southwest travelers. For a fee (which varies by route and demand, typically $15-$99 per person, per one-way flight), Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before your flight. This is 12 hours before general check-in opens, giving you a significant advantage in securing an earlier boarding position (often in the A or early B group).
Consider this if: You have a strong preference for window or aisle seats, want to ensure overhead bin space, or are traveling with companions you want to sit with and don't want to rely on the 24-hour sprint.
When to buy: You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In at the time of booking your flight or add it later, up to 26 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. Purchasing it earlier generally gives you a better spot within the EarlyBird group.
Upgraded Boarding: If you missed out on Business Select or EarlyBird, you might have a last-minute chance to improve your position. Upgraded Boarding allows you to purchase an A1-A15 boarding position within 24 hours of your flight's departure, if available. This is sold at the gate or through the Southwest app, and is subject to availability.
When to use it: If you find yourself with a C group boarding pass and really need a specific seat or to sit with someone, this can be a lifesaver, but it's not always guaranteed.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards A-List & A-List Preferred Status
For frequent Southwest flyers, achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status comes with fantastic perks, including priority boarding.
A-List and A-List Preferred Members: If you hold either of these elite statuses, Southwest automatically reserves a boarding position for you and anyone else on your reservation 36 hours prior to the flight. This generally lands you in the A group (typically A16-A30 for A-List, and often A1-A15 for A-List Preferred if not already taken by Business Select). You still need to check in within 24 hours to retrieve your boarding pass, but your position is secured.
Sub-heading: Family Boarding
Southwest understands the challenges of traveling with young children.
Families with young children (ages 6 and under): Southwest offers "Family Boarding" between the A group and the B group. This allows up to two accompanying adults to board with a child aged six or younger. This is a fantastic benefit that ensures families can find seats together without needing to purchase EarlyBird or higher fares. You don't need to arrange this in advance; simply listen for the announcement at the gate.
Step 2: Strategizing at the Gate – The Pre-Boarding Dance
Once you have your boarding position, the next step is to prepare for the actual boarding process at the gate.
Sub-heading: Locating Your Boarding Group and Number
Your boarding pass will clearly display your group (A, B, or C) and your number (1-60).
At the gate, you'll see illuminated poles or signs with numbers indicating where each boarding position should line up. Find your corresponding number within your group's section. Don't be shy about asking a gate agent if you're unsure!
Sub-heading: The Boarding Order
Here's the general flow of boarding:
Pre-Boarding: This is for passengers with disabilities or those needing special assistance, who have arranged it in advance.
Business Select (A1-A15): The highest priority group.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred & A-List (often A16-A30): Following Business Select.
Family Boarding: For families with children aged 6 and under (after the A group, before B).
Remaining A Group: A31-A60.
B Group: B1-B60.
C Group: C1-C60.
Be attentive to announcements at the gate. The gate agent will call out when it's time for each group to line up and board.
Step 3: Onboard! – Making Your Seat Selection
This is it! You're on the plane, and now it's time to choose your seat.
Sub-heading: Assessing Available Seats
Look strategically: As you walk down the aisle, quickly scan for your preferred type of seat. Are you a window person who loves the view? An aisle person who values easy access to the restroom? Or do you need a middle seat to be with a companion?
Front vs. Back: Generally, the front of the plane fills up first. If you're in a later boarding group (B or C), you'll likely find more open seats towards the back. Don't be afraid to walk all the way to the back to find a good spot.
Exit Rows: Southwest has begun introducing "Extra Legroom" seats, which are typically found in the first few rows and exit rows. These offer more space, but exit row seats have specific requirements (e.g., passengers must be 15 years or older, able to assist in an emergency, and understand English). If you don't meet these requirements, avoid these seats.
Saving Seats (The Unwritten Rule): While not officially endorsed by Southwest, you'll often see passengers "saving" seats for companions who are boarding in a later group (e.g., by placing a jacket on a seat). This is generally tolerated for 1-2 seats but can sometimes lead to mild tension. If you're looking for a seat and see a saved one, politely ask if it's available. It's best to avoid saving more than one seat if you're in an early group and your companions are in a much later one.
Sub-heading: Common Seat Selection Strategies
For Window Seat Lovers: Aim for an A or early B boarding position. If you're in B or C, head towards the back of the plane.
For Aisle Seat Enthusiasts: Similar to window seats, early boarding helps. Aisle seats often open up as people fill window and middle seats first.
Traveling with Companions:
If everyone has a good boarding position: You'll likely have no trouble sitting together.
If some have later positions: Consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In for everyone, or utilize Family Boarding if applicable. If not, the earlier boarder should try to save seats. If all else fails, politely ask other passengers if they'd mind moving to help your group sit together. Many people are accommodating!
Overhead Bin Space: An earlier boarding position also gives you better access to overhead bin space. If you have a larger carry-on, getting on early is key.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions about selecting your seat on Southwest, with quick answers:
How to get an "A" group boarding pass on Southwest?
You can get an "A" group boarding pass by purchasing a Business Select fare, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, having A-List or A-List Preferred status, or by checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight's departure (the moment check-in opens).
How to ensure I sit with my family on Southwest?
Utilize Southwest's Family Boarding policy if you're traveling with children aged 6 or younger. Otherwise, the best way to ensure you sit together is for everyone in your party to secure an early boarding position (e.g., through Business Select, EarlyBird Check-In, or by checking in precisely at the 24-hour mark).
How to get extra legroom on Southwest?
Southwest has introduced "Extra Legroom" seats, often located in the first few rows and exit rows. While not a dedicated "premium economy" cabin, these offer more space. You can try to select these by getting an early boarding position (A1-A15 is ideal) and being among the first to board.
How to choose a window or aisle seat on Southwest?
To secure a window or aisle seat, aim for an "A" or early "B" boarding position. The earlier you board, the more options you'll have to choose your preferred seat type. If you have a later boarding position, head towards the back of the plane as those seats tend to fill last.
How to check in 24 hours before my Southwest flight?
Set a timer for exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. Log into your Southwest account on their website or app and click the "Check-in" button the moment it becomes available. Be quick!
How to use EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest?
Purchase EarlyBird Check-In either when you book your flight or anytime up to 26 hours before departure. Southwest will then automatically check you in 36 hours before your flight, securing an earlier boarding position for you.
How to handle overhead bin space on Southwest?
An earlier boarding position means you'll have better access to overhead bin space. If you're in a later boarding group, overhead bins near the front of the plane might be full, so be prepared to walk further back or potentially gate-check your bag if space runs out.
How to know my boarding group and number on Southwest?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and number (1-60) will be clearly printed on your boarding pass, which you receive after checking in.
How to board as an unaccompanied minor on Southwest?
Unaccompanied minors (ages 5-11) on Southwest are typically pre-boarded or boarded early with assistance from a Southwest employee. They will be introduced to the flight attendant.
How to get a good seat if I'm in the "C" group on Southwest?
If you're in the "C" group, your best strategy is to walk directly to the back of the plane upon boarding. Often, window or aisle seats can still be found in the rear rows as most passengers fill seats from front to back. Be polite and quick in your search!
