Navigating the skies can be a thirsty business, and while the thought of a refreshing beverage at 30,000 feet is appealing, it often comes with a price tag. If you're flying Southwest Airlines and wondering "how much does a drink cost on Southwest Airlines?", you've come to the right place! We'll break down everything you need to know about Southwest's drink offerings, from complimentary options to alcoholic beverages for purchase, ensuring you're well-prepared for your next flight.
Step 1: Let's Talk Thirst! What Are You Craving?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of prices, let's consider your inflight beverage desires. Are you looking for a simple, refreshing sip, or are you hoping to kick back with an adult beverage? Understanding your preference is the first step to figuring out what your drink will cost, or if it will cost you anything at all!
Just something to quench my thirst: If you're simply looking for water, soda, or juice, you're in luck!
Something to take the edge off: If an alcoholic beverage is on your mind, we'll cover those options too.
Southwest Airlines has a clear policy regarding inflight refreshments, and it’s important to understand what's complimentary and what requires payment.
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| How Much Does A Drink Cost On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Unveiling the Complimentary Delights
Southwest Airlines is known for its relatively straightforward approach to in-flight service. When it comes to non-alcoholic beverages, they are quite generous!
Complimentary Non-Alcoholic Options
For most flights over 250 miles, Southwest offers a selection of free non-alcoholic beverages. This is a huge perk that sets them apart from some other airlines where even a bottle of water might come with a charge.
Sodas: You can typically expect to find popular choices like Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, and Dr. Pepper.
Juices: Orange juice, apple juice, and cranberry cocktail juice are usually on offer.
Water: Both still water and sparkling water (like AHA Blueberry + Pomegranate flavored sparkling water) are generally available.
Hot Beverages: Coffee (regular and decaf) and hot tea are also complimentary.
Other Refreshers: You might also find ginger ale, seltzer water, and tonic water.
Important Note: For very short flights (generally those traveling less than 175 miles), only water may be available. Always check with a flight attendant if you're unsure about the offerings on your specific flight.
Step 3: Deciphering the Cost of Alcoholic Beverages
If your idea of a perfect flight includes an adult beverage, Southwest Airlines does offer a selection for purchase. Unlike the complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, these come with a price tag. It's important to note that prices were last adjusted in November 2023, and while airlines can change their pricing, these figures should give you a very accurate estimate for now.
Tip: Patience makes reading smoother.
Current Alcoholic Beverage Prices (as of late 2024/early 2025 data):
Beer: A can of beer, such as Miller Lite or Lagunitas IPA, typically costs around $7.
Wine: Wine options, including Carmenet Cabernet Sauvignon, Cruset Brut Sparkling Wine, Mossel Bay Chenin Blanc Chardonnay, and Stone Cellars California Ros�, are generally priced at $8.
Spirits/Canned Cocktails: Liquor, whether served straight or as part of a mixed drink (like Bacardi Rum, Cazadores Tequila, Deep Eddy Vodka, Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, and Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey), and canned cocktails (such as Pineapple High Noon Hard Seltzer or Dogfish Head Strawberry Vodka Lemonade) are typically $9.
Keep in Mind:
Variety: The specific brands and types of alcoholic beverages available can vary based on flight length and availability. Flights to Hawaii, for example, might have unique local offerings like Kula Toasted Coconut Rum or Kona Brewing Big Waves Golden Ale.
Age Restriction: You must be 21 or older to consume alcoholic beverages onboard.
Consumption Rules: FAA regulations prohibit passengers from consuming alcoholic beverages on board that were not served by the airline. All alcohol purchased on a Southwest flight must be consumed on board.
Step 4: Beyond the Basics – How to Potentially Score a Free Alcoholic Drink!
While most alcoholic beverages come with a price, there are a few ways you might be able to enjoy a premium drink on Southwest without opening your wallet.
A-List Preferred Member Perk
If you're a loyal Southwest flyer and have achieved A-List Preferred status in their Rapid Rewards program, you're in for a treat! A-List Preferred Members receive up to two complimentary premium drinks per leg on select flights over 250 miles. This is a fantastic benefit for frequent travelers. To redeem, simply show the drink coupon portion of your mobile boarding pass to the Flight Attendant.
Occasional Promotional Offers
Southwest Airlines has been known to offer free alcoholic beverages on specific holidays or special occasions. Historically, they've offered a complimentary drink on:
Valentine's Day (February 14th)
St. Patrick's Day (March 17th)
Southwest's Birthday (June 18th)
Halloween (October 31st)
While these are not guaranteed year after year, it's always worth checking Southwest's announcements or asking a flight attendant if you're flying on one of these dates.
QuickTip: Look for repeated words — they signal importance.
Business Select Fare
If you purchase a Business Select fare, your ticket includes one complimentary premium drink. This is automatically associated with your mobile boarding pass. Just present it to the flight attendant for your free beverage.
Step 5: Payment Methods Onboard
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So, you've decided on your drink. How do you pay for it?
Southwest Airlines has modernized its payment system. You can typically purchase inflight internet and beverages using:
Credit Card: The most common and widely accepted method.
Debit Card: Many debit cards also work like credit cards for onboard purchases.
Apple Pay: If you have an Apple device, you can use Apple Pay.
Google Pay: Android users can utilize Google Pay for seamless transactions.
It's important to remember that Southwest does not accept cash for onboard purchases.
Step 6: Planning Your In-Flight Refreshment Strategy
Now that you know the costs and options, here are a few tips for planning your in-flight refreshment strategy:
Hydrate Before You Fly: Always a good idea to drink plenty of water before and during your flight to combat dehydration, regardless of whether you plan to purchase drinks.
Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Drinks: You are welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic drinks onboard (after security, of course!). This can be a great way to save money if you prefer a specific beverage not offered or want to avoid buying bottled water.
Consider Your Fare Type: If you're a frequent traveler, look into the benefits of A-List Preferred status. If you're booking a Business Select fare, factor in the included drink.
Check Flight Length: Remember that complimentary snacks and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are generally available on flights over 250 miles. Very short flights might have limited options.
Ask the Flight Attendant: Don't hesitate to ask the flight attendant about the current drink menu and prices if you're unsure.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to navigate Southwest's beverage offerings and enjoy your flight without any unexpected surprises when it comes to your drink bill!
Frequently Asked Questions about Southwest Airlines Drinks:
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
How to get free drinks on Southwest Airlines?
You can get free non-alcoholic drinks on most flights over 250 miles. For alcoholic drinks, A-List Preferred members get two complimentary premium drinks per leg, Business Select fares include one complimentary premium drink, and occasionally Southwest offers free alcoholic drinks on specific holidays like Valentine's Day or St. Patrick's Day.
How to tell if my flight is over 250 miles for complimentary drinks?
While Southwest doesn't always explicitly state the mileage for each flight segment, you can usually infer it based on the duration and destination. Most domestic flights between major cities will be over 250 miles. If in doubt, assume standard service or ask a flight attendant.
How to use a drink coupon on Southwest Airlines?
If you're an A-List Preferred member or on a Business Select fare, your complimentary drink entitlement is integrated into your mobile boarding pass. Simply show the drink coupon portion of your mobile boarding pass to the Flight Attendant for validation.
How to pay for alcoholic drinks on Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for alcoholic beverages onboard using major credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Cash is not accepted for onboard purchases.
How to find out what specific beers or wines are offered on Southwest?
The exact selection of beers, wines, and spirits can vary and is subject to availability. You can ask a flight attendant once you are onboard for the most up-to-date menu. Southwest generally offers popular choices and sometimes regional selections, especially on flights to Hawaii.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
How to bring my own alcoholic drinks on Southwest Airlines?
FAA regulations prohibit passengers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless it is served by the air carrier. This means you cannot bring your own alcoholic beverages and consume them during the flight, even if they are unopened. You can, however, bring unopened alcoholic beverages in your checked baggage (with quantity limitations based on alcohol percentage).
How to know if snacks are free on Southwest Airlines?
Complimentary snacks are served on select flights over 250 miles, similar to non-alcoholic beverages. The specific snack offerings can vary.
How to get internet access for free on Southwest to check drink menus?
Internet access on Southwest Airlines costs $8 per device from takeoff to landing, but it's free for A-List Preferred Members and Business Select Customers. While the inflight entertainment portal is free and may list some beverage options, a comprehensive, real-time menu might be best obtained from a flight attendant.
How to get a refund for a drink if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
If your flight is significantly delayed or cancelled and you haven't had the opportunity to purchase a drink you intended to, you wouldn't be charged. If you had purchased a drink and then the flight was immediately diverted or cancelled, you would need to speak with a flight attendant regarding their policy for such situations.
How to ensure I get my preferred drink on Southwest?
While Southwest aims to stock a variety, specific drink options are subject to availability. If there's a particular non-alcoholic drink you absolutely can't fly without, it's best to bring your own (after security). For alcoholic beverages, have a couple of options in mind in case your first choice isn't available.
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