Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Guide: How to Upgrade Easily in 2025
Upgrading your seat on Southwest Airlines can significantly enhance your travel comfort—especially on peak travel days when early boarding is essential for securing the best seats. Whether you want priority boarding, a better seat position, Business Select perks, or simply more control during check-in, understanding the complete process can save time, money, and stress. This comprehensive guide explains everything about Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade, including policies, fees, comparisons, and smart tips to maximize your travel experience. Travelers who need immediate help can connect with live support at +1-877-593-4887.
Quick Overview: Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Options
For a rapid summary, here are the primary upgrade options Southwest offers:
Upgraded Boarding Southwest (A1–A15 boarding)
Business Select Upgrade
Southwest Upgraded Boarding at the gate
Southwest Airlines Upgrade Seat options during check-in
Same-day paid upgradeIf you need real-time availability or pricing, customer service supports you at +1-877-593-4887.
Understanding All Southwest Upgrade Options (2025 Updated)
Southwest Airlines operates a unique open-seating model—meaning no assigned seats. The earlier your boarding position, the better your chance of grabbing premium seats such as exit rows, bulkhead positions, and front-cabin seating.
1. Business Select Upgrade
Business Select fares automatically provide:
Guaranteed A1–A15 boarding
Priority boarding lane
Complimentary drink
Fully refundable fare
You may also upgrade into Business Select (when available). Confirm availability at +1-877-593-4887.
2. Southwest Airlines Upgrade Seat (Paid Upgrade at Check-In)
This secondary upgrade option allows passengers to pay for a better boarding position during online check-in or via the app.It is particularly beneficial for families and group travelers needing adjacent seats.
For pricing and eligibility, contact +1-877-593-4887.
3. Seat Upgrade Southwest Airlines (Last-Minute Gate Upgrade)
Travelers who missed online upgrades can ask at the gate for last-minute boarding upgrades.Seats for A1–A15 are sold based on availability and route demand.
If you want real-time pricing or inventory updates, call +1-877-593-4887.
4. Southwest Airlines Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15)
This popular service lets you buy the earliest boarding positions even without a Business Select fare.Benefits include:
First access to preferred seats
Early overhead bin access
Faster onboarding
Gate agents or phone support at +1-877-593-4887 can assist with availability.
5. Southwest Airlines Upgrade Boarding for Points Members
Rapid Rewards members can redeem points for:
Upgraded Boarding
Priority check-in
Same-day flight changes
If you want to check your reward balance or redeem points, the help center is available at +1-877-593-4887.
6. Southwest Boarding Upgrade via Travel Funds
Travel funds can be applied towards upgrade purchases depending on eligibility.Since policies vary based on the original ticket type, verify via +1-877-593-4887 before upgrading.
Southwest Seat Upgrade Policies (2025)
A. Eligibility
Most Wanna Get Away, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, and Business Select fares qualify.
Non-refundable tickets can upgrade but cannot always refund upgrade fees.Verify details at +1-877-593-4887.
B. Upgrade Fees
Fees depend on:
Route distance
Date and demand
Boarding spot availabilityTypical range: $30 to $80+ per segment.
C. Refund Policy
Business Select upgrades may be refundable.
Standard Upgraded Boarding is non-refundable except when Southwest cancels or involuntarily rebooks your flight.
D. Check-In Requirement
Even after upgrading, check-in is still required.Questions? Call +1-877-593-4887.
E. Companion Pass Rules
Companion Pass holders follow the boarding position of the main flyer.
F. Group Travel
Upgrades may not apply equally to all group members. You may need to purchase individually.
G. EarlyBird Check-In vs. Upgraded Boarding Southwest
EarlyBird improves your position but does not guarantee A1–A15 like Upgraded Boarding does.
Comparison Table: Southwest Seat Upgrade Options
Feature / TypeUpgraded BoardingBusiness SelectEarlyBird Check-InGate UpgradeGuaranteed A1–A15✔✔✖✔ (If available)Refundable✖✔✖✖Price Range$30-$80Higher fare$15-$25$30-$80Includes Drink✖✔✖✖Ideal ForLast-minute upgradeFull perksModerate upgradeTravelers who missed early optionsContact Help+1-877-593-4887+1-877-593-4887+1-877-593-4887+1-877-593-4887
How to Upgrade Southwest Seats (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Log in to the Southwest App
Step 2: Choose your flight
Step 3: Select “Upgrade Boarding” or “Change/Upgrade Fare”
Step 4: Pay the difference
Step 5: Re-check in and view your new boarding group
If system errors occur during payment or boarding position assignment, call +1-877-593-4887.
10 Most Helpful FAQs
1. How many upgrade options does Southwest offer?
Southwest offers several upgrade methods, including Upgraded Boarding, Business Select, gate upgrades, and point-based upgrades.
2. Is Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade refundable?
Most upgrade fees are non-refundable except for Business Select or when flight disruptions occur.
3. What is the best upgrade for exit-row seats?
Upgraded Boarding or early A1–A15 access through Business Select gives the highest chances.
4. When can I purchase Southwest Airlines Upgrade Seat?
You can purchase during booking, check-in, or at the gate depending on availability.
5. What is the difference between EarlyBird and Upgraded Boarding Southwest?
EarlyBird improves your check-in time but does not guarantee A1–A15 like Upgraded Boarding Southwest.
6. Is Southwest Boarding Upgrade available for all fares?
Most fares qualify; however, availability depends on the number of remaining A1–A15 spots.
7. Can I use Rapid Rewards points to upgrade?
Yes, Southwest allows points redemption for select upgrade options.
8. How much does an upgrade cost?
Typical fees range from $30–$80 per flight segment.
9. Can I request upgrades for all passengers in a reservation?
Upgrades must often be purchased individually for each traveler.
10. How do I get real-time upgrade availability?
Call the airline directly at +1-877-593-4887.
Guidelines for Choosing the Right Southwest Upgrade
Book Business Select if you want the best boarding and perks.
Choose Upgraded Boarding for early access when Business Select is unavailable.
Use EarlyBird Check-In for moderate improvement at a lower cost.
Upgrade at the gate if prices drop or availability opens last minute.
Call support early at +1-877-593-4887 for availability on peak travel days.
Redeem Rapid Rewards points when cash prices are high.
Check upgrade availability 24–48 hours before travel for best results.
Conclusion
Upgrading your boarding position or fare class on Southwest Airlines is one of the best ways to secure optimal seats, faster onboarding, and a more comfortable journey. Whether you're using Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade for extra convenience or taking advantage of Southwest Airlines Upgraded Boarding for priority access, the process is flexible and designed to fit all budgets. For any booking assistance, fare rules, availability checks, or last-minute upgrades, you can always reach airline support at +1-877-593-4887, available throughout your travel planning and departure.