Have you ever considered flying Southwest Airlines but felt a little intimidated by their unique boarding process or wondered about their policies? You're in the right place! Southwest is known for its customer-friendly policies, like two free checked bags and no change fees, which can make your travel experience significantly less stressful. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from booking your flight to stepping off the plane, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey with Southwest.
Step 1: Getting Started - Booking Your Southwest Flight
So, you've decided to fly Southwest! Excellent choice! Now, let's get that flight booked.
1.1 Finding the Best Fares
Southwest offers several fare types, each with varying levels of flexibility and Rapid Rewards points earning potential. These include:
Basic (Wanna Get Away Basic): Southwest's most affordable fare. While it's great for your wallet, remember that flight credits from cancellations for this fare type expire after six months.
Wanna Get Away Plus: A newer fare offering transferable flight credits (good for 12 months) and free same-day standby/confirmed changes.
Anytime: More flexible, allowing cancellations to be credited back to your original form of payment or as a credit valid for 12 months. Includes perks like priority and express lane access and EarlyBird Check-In.
Business Select: The highest fare, offering the most perks, including priority boarding (A1-A15), priority security lanes, free in-flight internet, and a complimentary premium drink.
To find the best deals, especially on Wanna Get Away fares, consider using Southwest's Low Fare Calendar on their website. It allows you to see the lowest prices across an entire month.
1.2 The Booking Process
Booking your flight is straightforward:
Online: Visit Southwest.com or use the Southwest mobile app. You can book one-way or roundtrip flights for up to nine passengers.
Input Details: Enter your origin, destination, and travel dates.
Apply Credits/Promo Codes: If you have flight credits or promo codes, be sure to apply them during checkout. For flight credits, the name on the credit must match the passenger's name. Transferable Flight Credits can be transferred once between Rapid Rewards Members.
Payment: Southwest accepts various forms of payment.
Pro Tip: For the absolute best fares, try to book several months in advance, especially for popular routes or peak travel times.
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| How To Travel On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Preparing for Departure - Beyond the Booking
Once your flight is booked, there are a few crucial steps to take to ensure a stress-free travel day.
2.1 Understanding Southwest's Baggage Policy
Southwest has one of the most generous baggage policies among U.S. airlines, but it's essential to know the specifics:
Two Free Checked Bags: Every ticketed Customer is allowed two checked bags free of charge. This is a huge money-saver!
Weight Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Size Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Overweight/Oversized Fees: Bags exceeding these limits will incur additional charges ($100 for 51-70 lbs, $125 for 71-100 lbs; $125 for oversized up to 80 inches).
Carry-On Baggage: You are allowed one carry-on bag and one small personal item.
Carry-On Dimensions: Typically, carry-on bags should not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches. These go in the overhead bin.
Personal Item Dimensions: Your personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag, small backpack) must fit under the seat in front of you, generally not exceeding 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches.
Special Baggage & Sports Equipment: Many special items and sports equipment can be substituted as part of your checked baggage allowance, often subject to the same weight and size limits. Check Southwest's website for specific details on items like skis, golf clubs, etc.
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
2.2 Pre-Flight Necessities
Identification: Ensure you have a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) that matches the name on your ticket. For international travel, a valid passport and any necessary visas are crucial.
Travel Documents: Keep your confirmation number handy, either printed or on your mobile device.
Pack Smart: Given Southwest's generous baggage policy, you have more flexibility. However, always double-check TSA regulations for prohibited items.
Step 3: The Unique Southwest Check-In Process
This is where Southwest truly stands out! Unlike most airlines with assigned seats, Southwest operates on an open seating policy. Your boarding position determines when you get on the plane and, consequently, your seat choice.
3.1 Understanding Boarding Groups (A, B, C) and Positions (1-60+)
Upon check-in, you'll be assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position within that group (e.g., A35).
Group A: Boards first, offering the best seat selection.
Group B: Boards after Group A.
Group C: Boards last, typically leaving only middle seats or seats towards the back.
3.2 The Golden Rule: Check-In Early!
Your boarding position is largely determined by when you check in.
Standard Check-In: Online check-in begins 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. Set an alarm! The sooner you check in after this window opens, the better your boarding position will be.
EarlyBird Check-In®: For an additional fee (typically $15-$25 each way per person), Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before departure, often securing you an earlier boarding position than general check-in. This is a popular option if you want to avoid the 24-hour check-in rush and increase your chances of an A or early B boarding pass.
Business Select Fares: As mentioned, these fares automatically receive a boarding position between A1 and A15.
A-List/A-List Preferred Members: These Rapid Rewards elite status members also receive preferential boarding positions, often with automatic check-in 36 hours prior.
Upgraded Boarding: If available, you can purchase an upgraded boarding position (A1-A15) within 24 hours of your flight, typically at the gate or ticket counter.
3.3 How to Check-In
You have several options:
Online: The most common and recommended method. Go to Southwest.com, click "Check In," and enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name.
Southwest App: Similar to the website, providing a mobile boarding pass.
Airport Kiosk: Self-service kiosks are available at the airport.
Ticket Counter: You can check in with a Southwest agent at the ticket counter.
Important Note: Even if you purchase EarlyBird Check-In or have A-List status, you still need to retrieve your boarding pass (online, app, or airport) within 24 hours of departure.
Step 4: Airport Experience and Boarding
Now that you're checked in, let's navigate the airport and the unique Southwest boarding process.
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
4.1 Arriving at the Airport
Allow Ample Time: Especially if you're checking bags, plan to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
Bag Drop: Head to the Southwest ticket counter or curbside check-in (where available) to drop off your checked bags. Remember, bags must be checked at least 45 minutes before departure.
Security Checkpoint: Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and valid photo ID ready for TSA.
4.2 The Southwest Boarding Process Explained
This is often the most discussed aspect of flying Southwest. It's truly as "easy as A, B, C!"
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Gate Area: Look for the numbered posts at your gate. These indicate where to line up based on your boarding position.
Listening for Announcements: Gate agents will call boarding groups in order:
Pre-boarding: For customers with disabilities who need specific seating or assistance, and unaccompanied minors (ages 5-11).
A Group: A1 through A60.
Family Boarding: Occurs after the "A" group has boarded and before the "B" group. This is for adults traveling with children six years old or younger. Up to two adults per child can board during this time.
B Group: B1 through B60.
C Group: C1 through C60+.
Line Up: When your group is called, find your designated place in line (e.g., if you're A35, you'd stand between the A31-A35 and A36-A40 poles).
Boarding: Board the aircraft in numerical order within your group.
Open Seating: Once onboard, simply choose any available seat! There are no assigned seats on Southwest flights. This is why an earlier boarding position is so coveted – it gives you more options for window or aisle seats, and increases your chances of sitting with your travel companions.
Tip for Groups/Families: If you're traveling with others and want to sit together, checking in early is paramount. For families with young children (6 and under), leveraging Family Boarding can be a huge help.
Step 5: Enjoying Your Flight with Southwest
You're onboard! Now it's time to settle in and enjoy the ride.
5.1 In-Flight Experience
Seating: Once you've chosen your seat, stow your carry-on in the overhead bin and your personal item under the seat in front of you.
Free Snacks & Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Southwest offers complimentary snacks and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
In-Flight Entertainment: Southwest offers free in-flight entertainment accessible via your personal device (phone, tablet, laptop). You don't need Wi-Fi access for this. Just download the Southwest app before you fly or access it through your web browser once airborne.
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available for purchase on most flights. Business Select passengers and A-List Preferred members typically receive complimentary Wi-Fi.
5.2 Customer Service
Southwest is renowned for its friendly and engaging flight attendants. Don't hesitate to ask them for assistance if needed.
Step 6: Arrival and Beyond
Congratulations, you've arrived at your destination!
6.1 Deplaning
Tip: Use the structure of the text to guide you.
Deplane in an orderly fashion when your row is called or when the aisle clears.
6.2 Baggage Claim
Head to baggage claim to retrieve your checked bags. Check the monitors for your flight's carousel number.
6.3 Rapid Rewards - Earning and Redeeming Points
If you haven't already, consider joining Southwest's Rapid Rewards program. It's free to join and offers excellent benefits.
Earning Points:
Flying: Earn points based on the fare type you purchase (e.g., Basic earns 2 points per dollar, Business Select earns 14 points per dollar).
Credit Cards: Southwest partners with Chase for co-branded credit cards that earn significant Rapid Rewards points on everyday purchases.
Partners: Earn points with hotel and rental car partners, through the Southwest hotel portal, and by shopping/dining with various partners.
Redeeming Points: You can redeem your Rapid Rewards points for flights, gift cards, merchandise, hotel stays, and rental cars. Southwest is known for having no blackout dates when redeeming points for flights, making it very flexible.
Companion Pass: This is a highly sought-after perk! Once earned, a Companion Pass allows you to bring a designated companion with you on any Southwest flight (paid or redeemed with points) for just the cost of taxes and fees, for the remainder of the calendar year in which you earned it, plus the entire following calendar year. It's a fantastic way to double your travel value.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to book a flight on Southwest Airlines?
You can book flights online at Southwest.com or through the Southwest mobile app. Simply enter your origin, destination, and travel dates to view available flights and fares.
How to check-in online for a Southwest flight?
Online check-in opens 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. Go to Southwest.com or use the app, select "Check In," and enter your confirmation number and name. Checking in as close to the 24-hour mark as possible helps secure a better boarding position.
How to understand Southwest Airlines' open seating policy?
Southwest does not assign seats. Instead, you're assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+) based on when you check in. When your group is called, you line up accordingly and choose any available seat once you board.
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
How to get a good seat on Southwest Airlines?
To get a better seat (window or aisle), aim for an earlier boarding position. The best ways to achieve this are by checking in exactly 24 hours before departure, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, buying a Business Select fare, or holding A-List/A-List Preferred elite status.
How to change my Southwest flight without a fee?
Southwest Airlines has a no change fee policy for most fare types (excluding Basic). You can change your flight online or via the app up to 10 minutes before departure. You will only pay the difference in fare if the new flight is more expensive.
How to earn points with Southwest Rapid Rewards?
You can earn Rapid Rewards points by flying with Southwest (points earned vary by fare type), using Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards, and through various partners for hotels, car rentals, shopping, and dining.
How to add checked baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest allows two checked bags per passenger for free, provided each bag is within the 50 lbs weight limit and 62 linear inches size limit. Simply bring your bags to the ticket counter or curbside check-in at the airport.
How to travel with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs in the cabin on domestic flights for an additional fee. Space is limited, so you must call Southwest customer service to add your pet to your reservation in advance. Pet carriers must fit under the seat in front of you.
How to request special assistance for travel on Southwest Airlines?
If you need special assistance (e.g., wheelchair services, assistance boarding, or help for unaccompanied minors), it's recommended to contact Southwest Airlines' customer service line directly to arrange accommodations in advance.
How to use Southwest's in-flight entertainment?
Southwest offers free in-flight entertainment. You'll need to bring your own personal device (smartphone, tablet, laptop) and access it through the Southwest app or your web browser once you are airborne. No Wi-Fi purchase is required for entertainment access.
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