Dreaming of that spontaneous getaway, or a well-planned family vacation with the flexibility you deserve? Southwest Airlines is renowned for its unique approach to air travel, offering two free checked bags per passenger and no change fees, making it a favorite for many. But how exactly do you navigate the Southwest experience, from booking to landing? Let's dive in!
Your Ultimate Guide to Flying on Southwest Airlines
Step 1: Are you ready to embark on a seamless travel journey? Let's plan your Southwest adventure!
Before you even open a browser, consider where and when you want to fly. Southwest operates primarily within the United States and to a select number of international destinations. Their route map is extensive, but it's always good to have an idea of your desired cities.
Step 2: Booking Your Flight – Finding Your Perfect Fare
Southwest offers several fare types, each with varying levels of flexibility and benefits. Understanding these will help you choose the best option for your travel needs.
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
Sub-heading: Understanding Southwest Fare Types
Basic: This is Southwest's most affordable fare. While it offers no change fees, if you cancel, the refund is in the form of a flight credit that must be used within six months. No same-day changes or standby are allowed. You earn 2 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent.
Wanna Get Away Plus: A step up, offering transferable flight credits (valid for 12 months) if you cancel, and free same-day standby and confirmed flight changes. You earn 6 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent.
Anytime: Provides even more flexibility, allowing refunds to your original form of payment (or a flight credit valid for 12 months). Perks include EarlyBird Check-In and priority/express lane access. You earn 10 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent.
Business Select: The highest tier, offering guaranteed A1-A15 boarding, free in-flight internet, a complimentary premium drink, priority lane access, and full refunds to your original form of payment. You earn a generous 14 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent.
Sub-heading: The Booking Process on Southwest.com or the Southwest App
Navigate to the Southwest Website or App: Open southwest.com or the Southwest mobile app.
Enter Your Travel Details: You'll see fields for "Origin," "Destination," and "Date(s) of travel." Choose "Round trip," "One-way," or "Multi-city" as needed. You can book for up to nine passengers at a time.
Select Your Dates: Southwest also has a Low Fare Calendar that can help you find the cheapest dates to fly if your travel dates are flexible.
View Available Flights and Fares: Once you've entered your details, the system will display available flights and their corresponding fare types (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select).
Choose Your Flight(s): Select the outbound and return flights that best suit your schedule and budget.
Review and Customize: You'll have the opportunity to add extras like EarlyBird Check-In (more on this later!), rental cars, or hotels.
Enter Passenger Information: Provide the names, dates of birth, and contact information for all travelers. This is also where you can add your Rapid Rewards number or Known Traveler Number (TSA PreCheck/Global Entry).
Payment: Complete your booking using a credit card, Southwest LUV Voucher, gift card, or Rapid Rewards points. If using a flight credit, ensure the name associated with the credit matches the name in the reservation.
Step 3: Baggage – Pack Smart, Fly Free (Mostly!)
Southwest is famous for its generous baggage policy.
Sub-heading: Carry-on and Personal Item
Each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item.
Your carry-on bag should fit in the overhead bin and typically measure no more than 24 x 16 x 10 inches (including wheels and handles). Southwest doesn't specify a weight limit for carry-ons, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin without assistance.
Your personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack.
Sub-heading: Checked Baggage Policy – The Southwest Advantage
Southwest allows two checked bags per passenger for free, provided they meet the size and weight limits.
Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and weigh no more than 50 pounds.
If your bag exceeds these limits, overweight (51-70 lbs) or oversized baggage fees will apply (typically $100-$125 per bag). Bags over 100 lbs are generally not accepted.
Pro-Tip: Label your bags clearly with your contact information!
Step 4: Check-in – Securing Your Boarding Position
Southwest's open seating policy means that your check-in time significantly impacts your boarding position. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+).
Sub-heading: When and How to Check In
24 Hours Before Departure: Online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. Be ready to check in right at this mark for the best possible boarding position.
Online/Mobile Check-in: The easiest way to check in is via Southwest.com or the Southwest mobile app. You'll need your confirmation number and your first and last name.
EarlyBird Check-In®: If you want to avoid the 24-hour dash, you can purchase EarlyBird Check-In (typically $15-$25 per person, per one-way flight) during booking or up to 36 hours before departure. Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before your flight, assigning you the earliest available boarding position before the general 24-hour check-in. While it doesn't guarantee an "A" position, it significantly improves your chances.
Airport Check-in: You can also check in at the airport via self-service kiosks or at the ticket counter. However, this will likely result in a later boarding position.
Minimum Check-in Times: You must be checked in at least 30 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights.
Step 5: At the Airport – From Curb to Gate
Arriving at the airport with ample time is crucial for a smooth experience.
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
Sub-heading: Baggage Drop-off
If you have checked bags, head to the Southwest baggage drop-off counter or a self-tagging kiosk (where available). Check bags at least 60 minutes before domestic departure.
Express Bag Drop: Look for this option at select airports for a quicker process.
Sub-heading: Security Checkpoint
Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and a valid photo ID ready.
Priority Lanes/Express Lanes: Business Select and Anytime Customers, along with A-List and A-List Preferred Members, often have access to dedicated lines to speed through check-in and security.
Sub-heading: Finding Your Gate
Your gate number will be displayed on your boarding pass and on airport monitors.
Keep an eye on flight status updates, as gate assignments can sometimes change.
Step 6: Boarding – The A, B, C System
Southwest's unique open seating means you choose your seat once on board. The boarding process is designed to manage this efficiently.
Sub-heading: Understanding Boarding Groups and Positions
Your boarding pass will display your boarding group (A, B, or C) and your position within that group (e.g., A15, B32, C48).
Preboarding: This is for passengers who need special assistance or extra time to board (e.g., those with disabilities, or who need a specific seating accommodation). You must request preboarding from a Southwest agent at the ticket counter or gate. One companion may preboard with you.
A Group (1-60): These are the first to board, generally consisting of Business Select passengers, A-List/A-List Preferred members, those who purchased Upgraded Boarding, and EarlyBird Check-In customers.
Family Boarding: Occurs between the A and B groups. If you're traveling with a child age six or younger, you and up to one other adult can board during this time. Active-duty military in uniform also board here.
B Group (1-60): The next group to board, in numerical order.
C Group (1-60): The last group to board, in numerical order.
Sub-heading: The Boarding Lane Setup
Southwest gates have numbered poles or signs corresponding to boarding positions (e.g., 1-5, 6-10, etc.).
When your group is called, line up between the two posts that correspond to your boarding number.
Be attentive! Gate agents will call groups in order.
Sub-heading: Choosing Your Seat
Once on the plane, you can choose any open seat.
If you're traveling with companions, checking in early increases your chances of sitting together. Otherwise, be prepared to spread out or ask other passengers to switch.
Exit Rows: These seats have specific requirements and cannot be occupied by preboarding passengers or those unable to assist in an emergency.
Step 7: In-Flight Experience – Comfort and Connectivity
Southwest strives for a comfortable and enjoyable flight experience.
Sub-heading: Snacks and Drinks
Southwest offers complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and a variety of snacks on flights over 250 miles.
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
Note: Southwest does not typically serve full meals.
Sub-heading: In-flight Entertainment and Wi-Fi
Southwest offers free in-flight entertainment via their entertainment portal, accessible on your personal device (phone, tablet, laptop). This includes movies, TV series, and live TV (though restrictions may apply on international flights).
Wi-Fi is available for purchase ($8 per device from takeoff to landing), or free for A-List Preferred Members and Business Select Customers.
Pro-Tip: Download the Southwest app before your flight to access entertainment. Don't forget your headphones!
Southwest is also rolling out in-seat power (USB-A and USB-C ports) on some aircraft, but it's always best to charge your devices beforehand.
Sub-heading: Cabin and Seating
Southwest's aircraft are typically Boeing 737s, featuring a single aisle and a single cabin with three seats on each side.
Seat pitch (distance between rows) and width can vary slightly by aircraft model.
They are in the process of retrofitting aircraft with a new cabin design.
Step 8: Arrival – Reaching Your Destination
Sub-heading: Deplaning
Listen for announcements from the flight crew regarding deplaning procedures.
Be mindful of other passengers and gather your belongings efficiently.
Sub-heading: Baggage Claim
Follow signs to baggage claim. Your checked bags will arrive on a designated carousel.
Southwest agents are usually available to assist if you have any questions or issues.
If your baggage is delayed, missing, or damaged, immediately contact a Southwest baggage service agent at the airport.
Step 9: Rapid Rewards – Earning and Redeeming Points
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
Southwest's loyalty program, Rapid Rewards, is a valuable asset for frequent flyers.
Sub-heading: Earning Points
You earn Rapid Rewards points based on the fare type you purchase (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select) and the dollar amount spent on the base fare.
You can also earn points through Southwest's co-branded credit cards, hotel and car rental partners, and other promotions.
Points never expire!
Sub-heading: Redeeming Points
Points can be redeemed for flights on Southwest Airlines with no blackout dates.
The number of points required for a flight varies based on the fare type and the cash price of the ticket.
Sub-heading: Elite Status (A-List & A-List Preferred)
Achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status through qualifying flights or tier qualifying points offers perks like priority boarding, earning bonuses on points, same-day standby, and dedicated phone lines. A-List Preferred also gets free in-flight Wi-Fi.
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| How To Fly On Southwest Airlines |
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get the best boarding position on Southwest Airlines? The best way is to check in online exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. Alternatively, purchase EarlyBird Check-In for automatic check-in 36 hours prior, or fly Business Select for a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position.
How to change or cancel a Southwest Airlines flight? Most flights can be changed or canceled online via Southwest.com or the Southwest app up to 10 minutes before departure. Southwest does not charge change fees, but you may pay a fare difference. Basic fares cannot be changed directly but require an upgrade. Canceled flights (except for Business Select/Anytime to original payment) convert to flight credits.
How to add a Rapid Rewards number to an existing Southwest reservation? You can usually add your Rapid Rewards account number to an existing reservation by going to "Manage Reservations" on Southwest.com or through the Southwest app. You'll need your confirmation number and name.
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
How to find my confirmation number for a Southwest flight? Your confirmation number is typically included in your booking confirmation email from Southwest. If you have a Rapid Rewards account, you can also find it under your "My Trips" section.
How to use a Southwest flight credit? When booking a new flight, you can apply a flight credit during the payment process. Ensure the name associated with the flight credit matches the name on the new reservation. Flight credits usually have an expiration date (often 12 months from original ticketing for those booked/changed after May 28, 2025).
How to travel with a pet on Southwest Airlines? Southwest allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin for a pet fare. There are limits on the number of pets per flight, so it's essential to reserve a spot in advance. Your pet must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
How to get special assistance when flying Southwest Airlines? If you need special assistance (e.g., wheelchair assistance, pre-boarding due to a disability, traveling with a service animal), contact Southwest Airlines customer service in advance to make arrangements and ensure your needs are documented in your reservation. You can also speak to a Southwest agent at the airport.
How to track my checked bags on Southwest Airlines? Southwest offers digital bag tracking through their website or mobile app. You can typically enter your confirmation number or bag tag number to see the status of your checked luggage.
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines? Free Wi-Fi is a perk for A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards members and Business Select fare customers. For other passengers, Wi-Fi is available for purchase at $8 per device for the duration of the flight.
How to become an A-List member with Southwest Airlines? To achieve A-List status, you need to fly 20 qualifying one-way flights or earn 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year. You can earn tier qualifying points through revenue flights or by spending on eligible Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards.
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