Hey there, frequent flyer! Have you ever found yourself wishing for a little more personal space on a Southwest Airlines flight? Perhaps you're a "Customer of Size," traveling with a delicate musical instrument, or maybe you just crave that extra elbow room for a more comfortable journey. Whatever your reason, booking an extra seat on Southwest is a fantastic option, and the good news is, Southwest has one of the most accommodating policies out there, especially for those who need it due to size.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to secure that coveted extra seat, step-by-step. Let's get you flying in comfort!
Your Guide to Booking an Extra Seat on Southwest Airlines
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| How To Book An Extra Seat On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understand Southwest's Extra Seat Policy
Before you even think about booking, it's crucial to grasp Southwest's philosophy regarding extra seats. Unlike many airlines that might charge you full fare with no refunds for an additional seat just for comfort, Southwest has a specific and generous policy, particularly for "Customers of Size."
Customers of Size: Southwest defines a Customer of Size as someone who encroaches upon any part of the neighboring seat(s), with the armrest serving as the definitive boundary. If you fit this description, you can purchase an extra seat and request a refund for it after travel is complete. This is a significant perk and sets Southwest apart.
Other Reasons: While the primary focus of their refund policy is for Customers of Size, you might also purchase an extra seat for a large musical instrument that needs to travel in the cabin, or even for general comfort. However, the refund policy typically only applies to Customers of Size.
Important Note: While Southwest has historically been very accommodating at the airport for Customers of Size needing an extra seat on the spot, it is highly recommended to book the extra seat in advance to guarantee availability, especially on full flights. If you wait until the airport and the flight is full, you might be rebooked on a later flight.
Step 2: Booking Your Initial Flight (and Your Extra Seat)
This is where the magic happens! You'll treat the extra seat as if it's for another person during the booking process.
Sub-heading 2.1: Online Booking (Recommended)
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
Go to Southwest.com: Open your web browser and navigate to the official Southwest Airlines website.
Start a New Flight Search: Enter your departure and arrival airports, travel dates, and select the number of passengers.
Crucial Point: If you are a Customer of Size needing one extra seat for yourself, you will select 2 Adults for the passenger count. If you need two extra seats, select 3 Adults, and so on.
Select Your Flights: Browse the available flights and choose the one that suits your travel plans.
Enter Passenger Information: This is where you'll differentiate between your actual self and your "extra seat."
Passenger 1 (You): Enter your full name (First Name, Middle Name, Last Name) exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID.
Passenger 2 (Your Extra Seat - if a Customer of Size):
First Name: Enter your actual first name.
Middle Name: This is key for Customers of Size. Enter "XS" (without quotes) as the middle name. This flags the reservation for Southwest's Customer of Size policy.
Last Name: Enter your actual last name.
For other reasons (e.g., musical instrument): You'd still enter your own name for the second passenger, but "XS" is typically for Customer of Size. For instruments, you'll generally indicate the type of instrument. It's often best to call Southwest for these specific situations to ensure proper handling.
Provide Contact Information: Enter your email and phone number.
Review and Purchase: Double-check all your details – dates, times, passenger names, and the total cost. Proceed to payment. You'll be paying for both seats at this point.
Sub-heading 2.2: Booking by Phone
While online booking is generally more straightforward, you can also book by calling Southwest Customer Service.
Call Southwest Customer Service: Dial 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
Explain Your Need: Clearly state that you need to book an extra seat.
If you are a Customer of Size, explicitly mention that you are booking an extra seat under their "Customer of Size" policy and would like to be eligible for a refund after travel.
If it's for a musical instrument, explain the instrument and its dimensions to ensure it qualifies for a cabin seat.
Provide Information: The representative will guide you through the process of providing your personal details and the details for the extra seat. They will ensure the reservation is correctly tagged for an extra seat.
Step 3: Preparing for Your Journey: At the Airport
Even with an extra seat booked, there are a few important steps to take on your travel day.
Sub-heading 3.1: Check-in Process
Online Check-in: You can check in online for both "passengers" (you and your extra seat) starting 24 hours before your flight. This will allow you to get sequential boarding positions.
At the Airport - See a Customer Service Agent: This is a crucial step if you purchased an extra seat for any reason, especially if you're a Customer of Size seeking a refund.
Upon arrival at the airport, head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter or a Customer Service Agent at the departure gate.
Inform them that you have purchased an extra seat.
If you are a Customer of Size, explain that you qualify for their Customer of Size policy. The agent will verify your reservation and provide you with a "Seat Reserved" document for your additional seat. This document is essential for indicating that the seat next to you is occupied and for processing your refund later.
Sub-heading 3.2: Boarding the Aircraft
Preboarding (for Customers of Size): If you are a Customer of Size and need extra time or assistance boarding, or need a specific seat to accommodate your needs, you are eligible for preboarding. Present your "Seat Reserved" document to the Gate Agent, and they will allow you to preboard.
One travel companion may also preboard with you if needed.
General Boarding: If you don't require preboarding, you can board with your assigned boarding group and position.
Securing Your Seats: Once onboard, locate a row with three available seats (if you booked one extra seat).
Place the "Seat Reserved" document on the adjoining seat. This visually indicates to other passengers and the flight attendants that the seat is occupied.
If you need a seatbelt extension, don't hesitate to ask a Flight Attendant.
Step 4: After Your Journey: Requesting Your Refund (for Customers of Size)
QuickTip: Revisit this post tomorrow — it’ll feel new.
This is the rewarding part for Customers of Size who proactively purchased an extra seat!
Wait Until After Travel is Complete: Southwest processes refunds for extra seats after the travel has occurred.
Contact Southwest Customer Relations: You'll need to submit a request for a refund.
Online: The easiest way is usually through Southwest's website. Look for a "Customer Relations" or "Contact Us" section, and specifically search for information on "Extra Seat Refund" or "Customer of Size Refund." You may need to fill out an online form.
By Phone: You can also call Southwest Customer Service (1-800-435-9792) and explain that you need to request a refund for an extra seat purchased under the Customer of Size policy.
Provide Necessary Information: Be prepared to provide:
Your confirmation number for the flight.
The names on both tickets (yours and the "XS" ticket).
The reason for the extra seat (Customer of Size).
Any other details they request to verify your eligibility.
Pro Tip: Keep a copy of your initial booking confirmation and any documentation you receive at the airport (like the "Seat Reserved" document) as proof of your extra seat purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about booking an extra seat on Southwest, along with quick answers:
How to book an extra seat for a child on Southwest?
You can purchase an extra seat for a child if you prefer them to travel in a child restraint system (car seat). Book it as a separate passenger, ensuring you select the appropriate age during the booking process.
How to get a refund for an extra seat on Southwest if I'm a Customer of Size?
After your travel is complete, contact Southwest Customer Relations via their website or phone to request a refund for the extra seat, citing their Customer of Size policy.
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
How to handle check-in when I've booked an extra seat?
You can check in online for both "passengers" (you and your extra seat). However, you must see a Customer Service Agent at the airport to receive a "Seat Reserved" document for the additional seat.
How to ensure no one sits in my extra seat on Southwest?
After obtaining your "Seat Reserved" document from a Customer Service Agent at the gate, place it on the unoccupied seat next to you to indicate it is reserved.
How to preboard with an extra seat on Southwest?
If you are a Customer of Size and need extra time or assistance, you can preboard. Present your "Seat Reserved" document to the Gate Agent. One travel companion may also preboard with you.
How to book an extra seat for a musical instrument on Southwest?
You can purchase an extra seat for a large musical instrument that won't fit in the overhead bin. It's often best to call Southwest Customer Service directly for this type of booking to ensure proper handling and compliance with their policies for musical instruments.
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
How to know if I qualify as a "Customer of Size" for Southwest's policy?
Southwest defines a Customer of Size as someone who encroaches upon any part of the neighboring seat(s), with the armrest serving as the definitive boundary.
How to get an extra seat for free on Southwest at the airport?
While Southwest's policy historically allowed for complimentary extra seats at the gate if space was available, it is not guaranteed on full flights. It's highly recommended to purchase the seat in advance for assurance, especially if you are a Customer of Size, as you can request a refund post-travel.
How to add an extra seat to an existing Southwest reservation?
It's generally recommended to book both seats together. If you need to add an extra seat to an existing reservation, you should call Southwest Customer Service directly to see if this is possible and how to proceed.
How to choose the best seats when booking an extra seat on Southwest?
Since Southwest has open seating, booking an extra seat and preboarding (if eligible as a Customer of Size) gives you the advantage of selecting a preferred row with three available seats (for one extra seat). Aim for a window or aisle seat, leaving the middle seat empty for your comfort.
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