Southwest Airlines, famously known for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, also stands out with its open seating approach. Unlike most airlines where you select your seat during booking, Southwest operates on a "first-come, first-served" basis once you board the plane. This means securing a "good" seat – be it a window, aisle, or one with extra legroom – is all about getting a better boarding position.
So, how do you master the Southwest boarding game and snag that coveted spot? Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide!
How Do I Get a Good Seat on Southwest Airlines?
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| How Do I Get A Good Seat On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Let's Talk About Your Ideal Seat!
Before we even get into the mechanics of Southwest's boarding, what defines a "good" seat for you? Are you a window gazer who loves watching the world shrink and expand? Or do you prefer the freedom of an aisle seat, allowing you to stretch your legs and access the lavatory easily? Perhaps legroom is your top priority, or maybe you're traveling with family and need to sit together. Understanding your preference is the first crucial step because it dictates your strategy.
Think about it:
Window Seat Fan? You'll want to be among the first to board to grab those coveted spots, especially closer to the front.
Aisle Seat Enthusiast? Similar to window seats, early boarding gives you the best chance.
Legroom is King? Exit rows and bulkhead seats are your target, but they come with specific requirements.
Family Travel? Southwest has a specific family boarding policy, which can be a huge advantage.
Once you know what you're aiming for, let's move on to the practical steps!
Step 2: Mastering the Check-In Time: The 24-Hour Dash
This is arguably the most critical step for getting a good seat on Southwest. Your boarding position (e.g., A1-60, B1-60, C1-60) is primarily determined by when you check in for your flight.
Sub-heading: The Golden Window – Exactly 24 Hours
Southwest's online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is your window to get the earliest possible boarding position.
Set a reminder! Whether it's an alarm on your phone, a calendar notification, or a mental note, make sure you're ready to check in the moment that 24-hour mark hits.
Be prepared: Have your confirmation number and last name handy. You can check in via the Southwest Airlines app or their website.
Speed matters: Every second counts. The faster you check in after the window opens, the better your chances of securing an "A" group boarding pass.
Sub-heading: Why "A" is for Awesome (and Aisle/Window)
The "A" group boards first, followed by "B" and then "C".
Group A: Passengers in this group have the widest selection of seats. This is where you'll find the best chance for window, aisle, or even an empty middle seat next to you if the flight isn't completely full.
Group B: Still offers decent options, especially if you're not overly picky. You might find a good window or aisle seat towards the back of the plane.
Group C: This group typically gets the leftover seats, which often means middle seats or seats towards the very rear of the aircraft.
Step 3: Invest in EarlyBird Check-In (When It Makes Sense)
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
If the 24-hour dash sounds too stressful, or if you simply want a better guarantee of an earlier boarding position, EarlyBird Check-In is your friend.
Sub-heading: What is EarlyBird Check-In?
EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. This means you get a head start on the general public, significantly increasing your chances of a better boarding position.
Cost: EarlyBird Check-In comes at an additional fee per person, per one-way flight. The price can vary based on the popularity and length of your flight.
Is it worth it?
Yes, if: You absolutely must have a specific seat type (window, aisle), you're traveling with someone you want to sit with, or you have an early morning flight and don't want to wake up at an ungodly hour to check in.
No, if: You're a solo traveler who isn't particular about your seat, or you're already flying on a Business Select fare or have A-List status (more on that next!).
Step 4: Consider Business Select Fares for Guaranteed Front Row Access
For the ultimate in boarding priority and seat selection, Business Select fares are Southwest's premium offering.
Sub-heading: The Perks of Business Select
Business Select fares automatically come with an A1-A15 boarding position. This means you'll be among the very first to board the plane, giving you nearly your pick of any seat.
Benefits: Beyond the guaranteed early boarding, Business Select also typically includes Fly By priority lane access at check-in and security, a complimentary premium drink, and more Rapid Rewards points.
Price Tag: As you might expect, Business Select fares are the most expensive. Consider if the guaranteed early boarding and other perks justify the higher cost for your trip.
Step 5: Leverage Your Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred Status
For frequent Southwest flyers, achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status is a game-changer for seat selection.
Sub-heading: Automatic Priority Boarding
A-List and A-List Preferred members (and everyone on their reservation) receive priority boarding, which means their boarding positions are automatically reserved 36 hours prior to the flight, similar to EarlyBird Check-In, but as a complimentary benefit.
A-List: Achieved by flying 20 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year.
A-List Preferred: Achieved by flying 40 qualifying one-way flights or earning 70,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year. A-List Preferred also comes with a 100% earning bonus and free in-flight internet.
If you fly Southwest frequently, aiming for A-List status is an excellent long-term strategy for consistently getting good seats.
Step 6: Utilize Family Boarding (If Applicable)
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
Southwest's Family Boarding policy is a fantastic perk for those traveling with young children.
Sub-heading: Who Qualifies for Family Boarding?
If you are traveling with a child six years old or younger, up to two adults per child (including the child) can board during Family Boarding. This occurs after the "A" group has boarded and before the "B" group begins boarding.
No pre-arrangement needed: You don't need to purchase EarlyBird Check-In or have a specific fare class. Simply listen for the Family Boarding announcement at the gate.
Guaranteed seats together: This essentially gives you an "A-minus" boarding position, allowing you to easily find seats together for your family, often towards the front or middle of the plane.
Important Note: If your entire family has "A" boarding passes, you should board with your assigned "A" positions rather than waiting for Family Boarding.
Step 7: Understanding Special Boarding & Upgraded Boarding at the Gate
Even if you don't have a stellar boarding position, there are still options at the airport.
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Sub-heading: Preboarding for Passengers with Disabilities or Special Needs
Passengers who require assistance or have specific seating needs due to a disability can preboard before the "A" group. This requires speaking with a Southwest Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or gate.
Legitimate needs only: This is intended for those with genuine needs, not just to get a better seat. Southwest may ask "fact-finding questions" to determine eligibility.
One companion: Generally, one companion can preboard with the eligible passenger.
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding at the Gate
If available, you can purchase Upgraded Boarding at the gate (or sometimes via the app within 24 hours of departure) to secure an A1-A15 boarding position.
Limited availability: This is subject to availability and is not always offered.
Cost: The cost varies by flight, but it's typically a set fee per segment.
Good for last-minute decisions: If you find yourself with a C boarding pass and really want a better seat, this can be a good option if available.
Step 8: Strategic Seat Selection Onboard
Once you step onto that plane, your boarding position has done its job. Now it's time for some in-the-moment strategy.
Sub-heading: Head Towards the Back (for groups/empty middles)
If you're in a later boarding group (B or C): Don't be afraid to walk further back into the plane. Many people tend to stop at the first available seats in the front. The back of the plane often has more open seats, increasing your chances of finding a window or aisle, or even a row where you can spread out if the flight isn't full.
For groups sitting together: The very back rows are often where groups can still find multiple seats together.
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
Sub-heading: Eyeing Exit Rows and Bulkhead Seats
Exit Rows: Offer significantly more legroom. However, you must meet specific requirements to sit in an exit row (e.g., be 15 years or older, able to assist in an emergency, understand instructions). Flight attendants will verify this.
Bulkhead Seats (Row 1): These seats are at the very front of the plane, often offering increased legroom as there's no seat in front of them. However, they typically do not have under-seat storage during takeoff and landing, and the armrests are usually immovable.
Sub-heading: Window vs. Aisle Tactics
If you're aiming for a window, look for rows where both the window and middle are open.
If you want an aisle, look for rows with an open aisle and middle.
The "Middle Seat Strategy": If you're traveling solo and want to increase your chances of an empty seat next to you, sometimes the best strategy (especially in Group B) is to take a window or aisle seat in a row where the middle seat is still open. People are often less inclined to choose the middle seat first.
Step 9: Be Prepared and Polite
Regardless of your boarding position or strategy, being prepared and polite goes a long way.
Have your boarding pass ready: No fumbling at the gate!
Be efficient: When you board, move quickly to your desired seat. Don't block the aisle while deliberating.
Politeness wins: If you need assistance or are looking for a specific type of seat, a friendly request to a flight attendant can sometimes work wonders, though they are primarily focused on safety and efficient boarding.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get an A boarding group on Southwest?
The best ways to get an A boarding group are by checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or flying on a Business Select fare.
How to get a window seat on Southwest Airlines?
To get a window seat, aim for an early boarding position (A group is best) by checking in precisely 24 hours prior, using EarlyBird Check-In, or buying a Business Select fare. Once on board, head directly to an available window seat, especially in the front or middle of the plane.
How to get an aisle seat on Southwest Airlines?
Similar to a window seat, securing an aisle seat is about getting an early boarding position. Check in exactly 24 hours out, consider EarlyBird Check-In, or opt for Business Select. Once boarded, swiftly move to an open aisle seat.
How to get an exit row seat on Southwest Airlines?
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
Exit row seats offer more legroom. To get one, you need an early boarding position. Once on board, look for available exit row seats. Be aware that you must meet specific safety requirements to sit in an exit row.
How to sit with family on Southwest Airlines?
If traveling with a child 6 years old or younger, utilize Family Boarding, which occurs after the A group. This allows up to two adults per child to board early and find seats together. For older children or all adults, getting early boarding positions for everyone is key.
How to check in early for Southwest Airlines?
You can check in early by purchasing EarlyBird Check-In (which automatically checks you in 36 hours prior) or by having A-List/A-List Preferred status (also automatic check-in 36 hours prior). Otherwise, set a reminder and check in precisely 24 hours before your flight.
How to upgrade boarding on Southwest Airlines?
You can sometimes purchase Upgraded Boarding at the gate (or through the app within 24 hours of departure) to receive an A1-A15 boarding position, subject to availability and a fee.
How to get more legroom on Southwest Airlines?
For more legroom, target exit row seats or bulkhead seats (Row 1). To secure these, you'll need an early boarding position. Southwest also has new "Extra Legroom" seats associated with their "Choice Extra" fares.
How to tell which Southwest seats recline?
Generally, most seats on Southwest planes recline. However, seats in exit rows, the row directly in front of an exit row, and the very last row of the airplane typically do not recline.
How to avoid a middle seat on Southwest Airlines?
The best way to avoid a middle seat is to get an early boarding position (A group). This gives you the most options. If you're in a later group, try heading towards the back of the plane, where more window and aisle seats might be available.
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