Have you ever dreamed of giving the gift of travel, or perhaps saving a little on your next adventure with Southwest Airlines? Southwest Airlines gift cards are a fantastic way to do just that! They offer incredible flexibility, never expire, and can be used for flights to a wide range of destinations. Whether you're planning a surprise for a loved one or looking for a smart way to manage your own travel budget, buying a Southwest Airlines gift card is a straightforward process once you know the steps.
This lengthy guide will walk you through every single detail of purchasing Southwest Airlines gift cards, from choosing your preferred format to understanding their terms and conditions. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Discovering Where to Buy Your Southwest Airlines Gift Card
Ready to embark on your gift card journey? The first decision you need to make is where to purchase your Southwest Airlines gift card. You have a few convenient options, each with its own advantages.
Option A: Direct from Southwest.com
The most direct and often recommended way to buy a Southwest Airlines gift card is through their official website. This ensures authenticity and direct support from the airline itself.
Pros:
Guaranteed authenticity.
Access to the latest terms and conditions directly from the source.
Option for both physical and e-gift cards.
Cons:
Daily purchase limits for individuals (typically up to $1,000 per credit card per day).
Physical cards may take a few business days to arrive.
Option B: Authorized Retailers
Southwest Airlines gift cards are also available at a variety of approved retail locations, both online and in physical stores. These can be a great alternative if you're already shopping elsewhere or looking for specific denominations.
Popular Online Retailers:
Walmart.com: Often carries physical Southwest gift cards in various denominations.
Office Depot: Offers e-gift cards, making them a quick option.
Best Buy: You can find both physical and digital Southwest gift cards here.
Other online gift card marketplaces: Websites like CardDepot.com sometimes offer discounted Southwest gift cards, though always exercise caution and verify the seller's reputation when purchasing from third-party sites.
Physical Retailers:
Major grocery stores.
Drug stores.
Electronics stores.
Check with your local stores for availability, as inventory can vary.
Why consider authorized retailers? Sometimes, these retailers run promotions or offer loyalty points that can make your purchase even more rewarding!
Step 2: Choosing Your Gift Card Format: Physical vs. E-Gift Card
Now that you know where to buy, it's time to decide on the format. Southwest offers both traditional physical gift cards and convenient e-gift cards.
Sub-heading: The Charm of a Physical Gift Card
A physical gift card is perfect for those who enjoy the tangible feeling of a gift. It can be beautifully wrapped and presented, making it ideal for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
Key Features:
Looks and feels like a traditional gift.
Can be mailed directly to the recipient.
Shipping options usually include standard USPS (4-7 business days) or FedEx Standard Overnight (next business day, for an additional fee). Orders over $500 may receive free FedEx shipping from Southwest.com.
Things to Consider:
Shipping costs (if applicable).
Delivery timeframes.
Cannot be shipped internationally or to P.O. boxes/APO/FPO addresses.
Sub-heading: The Convenience of an E-Gift Card
E-gift cards are the ultimate in speed and convenience. They are delivered digitally, usually via email, making them perfect for last-minute gifts or for recipients who prefer a digital format.
Key Features:
Instant or near-instant delivery.
Environmentally friendly.
Easy to send to recipients far away.
Often available from a wider range of online retailers.
Things to Consider:
Ensure the recipient's email address is correct to avoid delivery issues.
The "gift" aspect might feel less personal to some.
Step 3: Selecting the Right Denomination
Southwest Airlines gift cards are available in various denominations to suit your gifting needs or travel budget.
Common Denominations: You'll typically find Southwest gift cards in amounts like:
$25
$50
$100
$150
$200
$250
$500
Custom Amounts: Some online platforms, including Southwest.com, may allow you to specify a custom amount within a certain range (e.g., $25 to $500).
Pro Tip: Consider the average cost of a Southwest flight when choosing a denomination. A $100 or $200 gift card can often cover a significant portion of a one-way trip or even a round-trip on shorter routes during sales.
Step 4: The Purchase Process – A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Let's assume you're purchasing directly from Southwest.com, as it's the most common and comprehensive method.
Sub-heading: Purchasing Online at Southwest.com
Navigate to the Gift Card Section: Go to Southwest.com and look for a "Gift Cards" or "Purchase Gift Card" link, usually found in the footer or under a "Travel" or "Special Offers" menu.
Choose Gift Card Type: Select whether you want a physical gift card or an e-gift card.
Select Denomination/Amount: Choose from the pre-set denominations or enter a custom amount (if available and within limits).
Enter Recipient Information (for gifting):
If sending to someone else, you'll enter their name and email address (for e-gift cards) or mailing address (for physical cards).
You can often add a personalized message to make it extra special.
For e-gift cards, you may be able to schedule the delivery for a future date.
Enter Purchaser Information: Provide your billing details. Only forms of payment with billing addresses in the United States are eligible for Southwest gift card purchases.
Select Delivery Method (for physical cards): Choose between standard USPS or FedEx expedited shipping. Note any associated fees.
Review Your Order: Double-check all the details – the amount, recipient information, and delivery method. A small error here can cause delays!
Make Payment: Enter your credit card details. Remember the daily purchase limits for individuals. Corporate customers looking to purchase over $1,000 can typically fill out a special order form and may have an unlimited threshold.
Confirmation: Once your payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation email. For e-gift cards, the recipient will receive their email shortly after (or on the scheduled delivery date). For physical cards, you'll receive shipping updates.
Sub-heading: Purchasing from Authorized Retailers (Online)
The process is largely similar to Southwest.com:
Visit the Retailer's Website: Go to Walmart.com, OfficeDepot.com, BestBuy.com, etc., and search for "Southwest Airlines gift card."
Select Card Type and Denomination: Choose between physical or digital, and your desired amount.
Add to Cart: Proceed to checkout.
Enter Shipping/Delivery Information: For digital cards, this will be the recipient's email. For physical cards, it will be the shipping address.
Complete Payment: Use the retailer's accepted payment methods.
Confirmation: You'll receive an order confirmation and delivery details.
Step 5: Understanding Gift Card Terms and Conditions (Crucial!)
While Southwest gift cards are incredibly versatile, there are a few important terms and conditions to be aware of. Knowing these upfront will help you and your recipient get the most out of the card.
Sub-heading: Key Terms to Remember
No Expiration Date: This is a huge benefit! Southwest gift cards do not expire and do not have dormancy fees. This gives the recipient ample time to plan their trip.
Non-Refundable: Southwest gift cards are generally non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash, except where required by law.
Redemption Locations: Gift cards can be redeemed at:
Southwest.com (the most common method).
Southwest Airlines mobile apps and mobile website (for initial flight booking).
By calling Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792 (1-800-I-FLY-SWA).
At Southwest Airlines ticket counter locations.
What They Can Be Used For: Primarily for Passenger travel on Southwest Airlines. This includes the base fare and government-imposed taxes and fees.
What They Cannot Be Used For:
Southwest Vacations® packages (flight + hotel/car).
Cargo services.
Hotel or rental car bookings (unless part of a flight booking).
Southwest Airlines merchandise.
Southwest Airlines group tickets.
Optional travel charges like EarlyBird Check-In®, Pet Fare, or Unaccompanied Minor fees.
Upgraded boarding at the airport.
Multiple Gift Cards: You can generally use up to three Southwest gift cards per Passenger on each reservation. If your purchase exceeds the amount of three gift cards, you'll need to use another form of payment for the remaining balance. If you're paying entirely with gift cards, you might be limited to a total of three cards per reservation.
Not Replaceable if Lost/Stolen: Treat your Southwest gift card like cash. They are generally not replaceable if lost, stolen, or destroyed.
No Reloading: You cannot reload an existing Southwest gift card. You'll need to purchase a new one if you wish to add more value.
Step 6: Checking Your Gift Card Balance
It's always a good idea to know the balance on your Southwest Airlines gift card before you plan your travel.
How to Check:
Online: Visit Southwest.com and look for a "Check Gift Card Balance" link. You'll need the 16-digit card number and the 4-digit security code (PIN).
By Phone: Call Southwest Airlines at 1-866-393-2081 (some sources list 1-800-435-9792 as well, but the dedicated balance check line is 866-393-2081).
Third-party balance check sites: While some sites claim to offer balance checks, it's always safest to use Southwest's official channels to protect your card information.
Step 7: Redeeming Your Southwest Airlines Gift Card
The moment has arrived! You're ready to use your gift card to book a flight.
Search for Flights: Go to Southwest.com or use the mobile app and search for your desired flight dates and destinations.
Select Your Flight(s): Choose the flights that best suit your needs.
Proceed to Payment: During the checkout process, you'll reach the payment screen.
Apply Gift Card: Look for an option to apply a "Southwest Gift Card" or "Southwest LUV Voucher."
Enter Details: Input the 16-digit gift card number and the 4-digit security code (PIN). Click "Apply" or "Add Payment."
Apply Multiple Cards (if needed): If you're using more than one gift card, repeat the process for each card, up to the maximum allowed per passenger per reservation.
Complete Payment: If the gift card balance doesn't cover the full cost of your flight, you'll be prompted to provide another form of payment (credit card, PayPal, etc.) for the remaining balance.
Confirm Reservation: Once all payments are processed, confirm your reservation!
Important Note: If you cancel a flight purchased with a gift card, the funds will generally be held as a flight credit under the confirmation number. These flight credits also do not expire if they originated from a gift card purchase.
This comprehensive guide should equip you with all the knowledge you need to confidently purchase and use Southwest Airlines gift cards. Happy travels!
Related FAQ Questions
How to purchase Southwest Airlines gift cards online?
You can purchase Southwest Airlines gift cards directly from Southwest.com or from authorized online retailers like Walmart.com, OfficeDepot.com, and BestBuy.com. Simply navigate to their gift card sections, choose your preferred format and denomination, and complete the purchase.
How to buy Southwest Airlines gift cards in bulk for corporate use?
For corporate or business use exceeding the individual online limit of $1,000, Southwest Airlines offers a specific bulk purchase order form on their website. You'll typically need to email the completed form to their gift card department, and they will provide payment instructions.
How to check the balance of a Southwest Airlines gift card?
You can check your Southwest Airlines gift card balance online at Southwest.com by entering the 16-digit card number and 4-digit security code, or by calling Southwest Airlines' dedicated gift card balance line at 1-866-393-2081.
How to redeem a Southwest Airlines gift card for a flight?
To redeem, go to Southwest.com, search for your flight, and on the payment screen, select the option to use a "Southwest Gift Card." Enter your 16-digit gift card number and 4-digit security code to apply the balance.
How to combine multiple Southwest Airlines gift cards for one purchase?
You can typically use a maximum of three Southwest Airlines gift cards per passenger on a single reservation. During the payment process, you will apply each gift card's number and security code individually.
How to replace a lost or stolen Southwest Airlines gift card?
Unfortunately, Southwest Airlines gift cards are generally not replaceable if lost, stolen, or destroyed. It's crucial to treat them like cash and keep them in a secure place.
How to know if a Southwest Airlines gift card expires?
Southwest Airlines gift cards do not expire and do not have dormancy fees. This is one of their significant benefits, allowing ample time for redemption.
How to use a Southwest Airlines gift card for something other than flights?
Southwest Airlines gift cards are primarily valid for Passenger travel on Southwest Airlines. They cannot be used for Southwest Vacations packages, cargo, hotel/rental car only bookings, merchandise, or certain ancillary fees like EarlyBird Check-In or pet fares.
How to get a discount on Southwest Airlines gift cards?
Occasionally, third-party gift card marketplaces (like CardDepot.com) or major retailers may offer promotional discounts on Southwest Airlines gift cards. Keep an eye out for these deals, but always verify the seller's legitimacy.
How to send a Southwest Airlines gift card directly to someone else?
When purchasing an e-gift card online, you can specify the recipient's name and email address, along with a personalized message and often a scheduled delivery date. For physical cards, you can enter the recipient's mailing address during checkout.
