Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade—Travel in Comfort and Style
- Carey Cronin
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Unless you have traveled on Southwest Airlines, you do not know how things are a bit different there. There are no pre-selected seats; the boarding order determines your seat. It may sound confusing or frustrating, particularly when you are in a family during the vacation, quite obliged to stay inside the aisle seat, or you want to keep out of the middle seat at any cost.
That’s where a Southwest Airlines seat upgrade can possibly change your situation. It allows you to board first and, more importantly, pick a seat to sit in that isn't near the bathroom. Whether your trip is for business or pleasure, a bit more comfort always comes in handy.
What Does “Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade” Mean?
For years, Southwest had open seating—no seat assignments, just boarding groups A, B, or C and numbers. But now the term Southwest Airlines seat upgrade refers mostly to moving into the premium boarding positions (A1–A15) or getting extra-legroom seats.
These upgrades let you board earlier, choose a better seat, and reduce stress-because you know you’ll avoid the middle seat or last row.
Types of Upgrades: Boarding and Comfort
Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15)
If you’ve ever checked in and ended up in Group C, only to watch all the good seats go, you know why this matters. Upgraded Boarding moves you into A1–A15—so you're first in line. You can get this online (starting 24 hours before departure), in the app, or at the gate-if those spots are still available.
The Southwest seat upgrade cost for this is typically $30–$80 per flight segment, depending on route demand and length. That means each flight segment (say Dallas to Phoenix, then Phoenix to LA) needs its own upgrade purchase.
EarlyBird Check‑In
This automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, often giving you an earlier boarding position than regular check-in—but it is not guaranteed for a group. It costs $15–$25 per person, per way.
Business Select Fare
If you choose Business Select when booking, it includes an A1–A15 boarding position, plus freebies like a premium drink and more Rapid Rewards points.
How To Buy a Southwest Seat Upgrade: Step by Step
Upgraded Boarding (A‑Group)
At 24 hours before departure, check in online or via app.
Look for the button that says “Upgrade boarding to A1–A15.”
Pay with a Southwest Priority or Performance Business credit card—or use your existing credits.
If app/website isn’t available, go to the gate or ticket counter and ask if A‑group spots remain.
Pay per segment confirm location A1–A15 on your boarding pass.
EarlyBird Check‑In
Add EarlyBird when booking or later in "My Trips."
It takes effect 36 hours before departure, automatically checking you in.
Non-refundable, unless Southwest cancels the flight.
Business Select
Pick that fare at booking to get instant A1–A15 and other perks.
Usually more expensive, but includes upgrade and extras in one bundle.
Real-Life Travel Scenarios
Scenario 1: Family Trip with Kids
You’ve ever tried checking in together and watch everyone spread out? With Upgraded Boarding, we all board early, pick three seats together near the front, and don't stress about being split up.
Scenario 2: A Busy Business Trip
You hate waiting for overhead bin space and want to get off quickly at destination? Business Select or buying Upgraded Boarding gets you in A1–A15—fast exit, space for carry‑on, easy legroom.
Scenario 3: Forgot to Check In Early
We’ve all done it—sleep through the 24‑hour alert and end up with a B or C group. Instead of stressing, I bought Upgraded Boarding at the gate; paid about $40, got A6, and ended up with a great exit-row seat.
Tips for Smarter Use Without Extra Cost
Set an alarm for 24 hours before your flight to check in early.
Fly midweek or off‑peak times for fewer passengers.
Pack light, so even if you board later, you don’t need overhead bin space.
Yet if you value comfort or ease, a seat upgrade is often worth the price.
Related Content:
FAQs
How much does upgraded boarding cost on Southwest?
Upgraded boarding typically costs $30–$80 per segment, depending on the route and how many A‑group spots remain.
Is EarlyBird or upgraded boarding refundable?
EarlyBird is non-refundable (even if plans change), unless Southwest cancels your flight.
Upgraded boarding costs are usually refunded only if Southwest cancels your flight.
Can credit cards give free upgrades?
Yes! Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority and Performance Business Cards give four upgraded boarding credits per cardmember year. You must pay using that card—and credits are used automatically after purchase.
Final Thoughts
Just like the blog you referenced, I aimed to show friendly, traveler-focused info that helps you feel confident. Southwest's seating system may feel frustrating, but once you understand your upgrade options, it's easy to make travel comfortable and more enjoyable.
Whether you choose EarlyBird, Upgraded Boarding, or Business Select, each step helps reduce the stress of boarding and gives you more control over your experience.
If you’ve ever felt stuck at the back of the plane or lost your carry‑on space, these options can change your whole travel vibe. You deserve to fly with comfort and ease.
Fly Better with Tours N Travel Pro: Book with Confidence
When you want to upgrade your seat with Southwest Airlines, you need not plan everything by yourself. The process of having a stress-free and comfortable trip should be taken to the next level at Tours N Travel Pro.
Contact us at any time by calling our helpful customer care staff at. We will assist you in making your Southwest Airlines seat upgrade booking and will also tell you what upgrades are available as well as when is the best time to buy them at the cheapest prices.
And this is even better, just to tell you, Tours N Travel Pro provides up to 40 percent discounts on any travel services to be booked via us, like Southwest upgrades!
Besides, we place your safety as our main concern. To manage a safe, stress-free journey, we take it one step further. (Safely and reliably, more so than anyone else.)
Smart traveling, less spending, and nothing to worry about—this is everything available in a company like Tours N Travel Pro.
Hurry to book +1-866-679-5070 and spoil your next trip with comfort and confidence!
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