Southwest Airlines Review: Amenities, Baggage Fees, Seats, Customer Service, and More

Southwest Airlines is one of the Big Four airlines in the U.S. Its combination of low fares and friendly service has made it a longtime traveler favorite.

If you’re flying Southwest, you might want answers to questions such as: What types of fares does Southwest Airlines offer? How does Southwest’s boarding process work? What is the Southwest Companion Pass? Do I have to pay for bags on Southwest?

This guide breaks down all of these questions and more, so you know what to expect.

Basic Info

Airline: Southwest Airlines

Alliance: None

Category: Low-cost airline

Frequent flyer program: Rapid Rewards

Tagline: “Low fares. Nothing to hide.”

Vision statement: The vision of Southwest Airlines is to be the world’s most loved, most efficient, and most profitable airline. Southwest Airlines’ purpose is to connect people to what’s important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel.

Fleet: About 810 aircraft

Main hub: Dallas Love Field (DAL)

Daily departures: More than 4,000

Destinations: 122 (U.S., Puerto Rico, Mexico, Central America, and the Bahamas)

Ticketing

Southwest Airlines is technically considered a low-cost airline, but it does things a little differently than some of its other low-cost competitors.

Southwest still offers a cheap basic fare. However, unlike other low-cost carriers that don’t even include a carry-on for free, Southwest offers some great perks. They offer 4 fares with varying inclusions:

• Basic
• Choice
• Choice Preferred
• Choice Extra

What’s the difference?

Basic: Formerly known as the Wanna Get Away fare, Southwest’s Basic fare is the most restrictive, with no changes or same-day standby allowed. Basic fares earn just 2 points per $1 spent. If you want to fly standby, this cannot be done with Basic fares; instead, you must book (or upgrade to) a higher-class fare.

Choice: This fare has many more perks than the Basic fare. It earns 6 points per $1, compared to the 2 points per $1 earned with Basic fares. Additionally, if you cancel a Choice fare and receive a flight credit, you can transfer that credit to another Rapid Rewards member. In addition, Choice fares are eligible for same-day confirmed changes and same-day standby.

Hot Tip: While it isn’t a true refund, same-day confirmed changes and standby are still pretty big perks that can come in handy when your travel plans change.

Choice Preferred: The Choice Preferred fare is very similar to the Choice fare, but it is refundable and kicks up the Rapid Rewards fare earnings to 10x. This fare also includes preferred boarding. For flights departing on or before January 26, 2026, you get EarlyBird Check-In, and for flights after that, you board with groups 3 to 5.

Choice Extra: The Choice Extra fare is Southwest’s most premium fare, offering all the perks of the previous fares, as well as additional benefits. This fare includes 2 free checked bags (a feature no longer included with lesser fares), an extra-legroom seat, priority boarding (in groups 1 or 2), a premium (alcoholic) beverage, free inflight Wi-Fi, and 14x fare earnings.

Hot Tip: Find out more information about the different forms of payment you can use for Southwest Airlines in our guide to Southwest Gift Cards, Flight Credits, and LUV Vouchers.

Earning Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Points

There are several ways to earn Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards points. One of the quickest ways to earn Rapid Rewards points is through credit card welcome offers, but there are many other ways to earn them.

Earning Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Points With Southwest Credit Cards

Southwest offers 5 credit cards issued by Chase. There are 3 personal Southwest credit cards:

NEW OFFER

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card makes it easy to earn unlimited points and qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass.

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus Credit Card

This card makes it easy to earn unlimited points and qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass.

Welcome Offer

Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

85,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,105

Annual Fee

$99

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you spend a lot of time in the air, it’s important to get a great deal on your plane tickets.

Southwest Airlines can help you get those deals.

One way to save is by using the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus Credit Card. This card helps you earn points for all your spending, and earning more reward points is always a good thing for a busy traveler!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
• 2x points per $1 on the first $5,000 in combined spend at gas stations and grocery stores each anniversary year
• 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshares (through December 31, 2025)

Cons

• $99 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 3,000 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 2 points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines^® purchases
• Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at gas stations and grocery stores on the first $5,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year
• Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation can check their first bag at no additional cost.
• Select a Standard seat within 48 hours prior to departure, when available.
• Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

NEW OFFER

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Premier Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Premier Credit Card

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!

Welcome Offer

Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

85,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,105

Annual Fee

$149

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Another week, another flight. Flying weekly can get tiring, but you know that every flight gets you closer to taking some great vacations with your significant other or your favorite travel buddy.

To save money on the flights, you like to use Southwest Airlines.

So why not get the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Premier Credit Card to help you earn extra Rapid Rewards points?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
• 2x points on the first $8,000 in combined spend at grocery stores and restaurants each anniversary year
• 2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners (through December 31, 2025)

Cons

• $149 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 6,000 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 3 points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines^® purchases, including flights, inflight, and Southwest gift cards.
• Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at grocery stores and restaurants on the first $8,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year.
• First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
• Select a Standard or Preferred seat within 48 hours prior to departure, when available.*
• Cardmembers and up to 8 passengers in the same reservation will board with Group 5 giving them earlier access to overhead bins.*
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

NEW OFFER

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

85,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,105

Annual Fee

$229

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card is the most premium personal Southwest card offering from Chase. When you peel back the curtain, it is easy to see why.

Not only does the card offer multiple bonus categories to help you earn more Southwest Rapid Rewards points, but it is also loaded with benefits that are sure to offer quite a bit of value to Southwest flyers.

Here is a full overview of the card to help you decide if it is a good fit for your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points on Southwest Airlines eligible purchases
• 2x points at gas stations and restaurants, with no annual cap
• 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshare purchases (through December 31, 2025)

Cons

• $229 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable points

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 7,500 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 4 points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines^® purchases, including flights, inflight, and Southwest gift cards.
• Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at gas stations and restaurants
• First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
• Select a Preferred seat at booking, at no additional charge, when available.*
• Cardmembers and up to 8 passengers in the same reservation will board with Group 5 giving them earlier access to overhead bins.*
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Chase and Southwest also have 2 business cards that earn Rapid Rewards points.

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Premier Business Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Business owners who fly Southwest often can earn extra points for all of their spending and add employee cards at no additional cost.

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Premier Business Credit Card

Business owners who fly Southwest often can earn extra points for all of their spending and add employee cards at no additional cost.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

60,000

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$780

Annual Fee

$149

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Southwest® Rapid Rewards^® Premier Business Credit Card is designed for business owners who regularly fly with Southwest and want a card that helps them earn more points while providing benefits such as 25% back on inflight purchases and EarlyBird Check-In certificates.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
• 2x points per $1 on the first $8,000 in combined spend at gas stations and restaurants each anniversary year
• 2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and rental car partners (through December 31, 2025)
  

Cons

• $149 annual fee
• Doesn’t earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• 6,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• Earn 3X points on Southwest Airlines^® purchases.
• Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at gas stations and restaurants on the first $8,000 in combined purchases per year
• First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
• Select a Standard or Preferred seat within 48 hours prior to departure, when available.*
• Cardmembers and up to 8 passengers in the same reservation will board with Group 5 giving them earlier access to overhead bins.*
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Performance Business Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Southwest frequent flyers will love the upgraded boarding positions, inflight Wi-Fi credits through 2025, and bonus points on each cardmember anniversary.

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Performance Business Credit Card

Southwest frequent flyers will love the upgraded boarding positions, inflight Wi-Fi credits through 2025, and bonus points on each cardmember anniversary.

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

80,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,040

Annual Fee

$299

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Performance Business Credit Card is a phenomenal option for business owners who are Southwest frequent flyers. It helps you earn more points on all of your business expenses, offers upgraded boarding certificates and Wi-Fi credits through December 31, 2025, and helps you reach higher levels of Southwest elite status.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases
• 2x points per $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, with no annual cap
• 2x points per $1 spent on all hotel purchases

Cons

• $299 annual fee
• Doesn’t earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 9,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• Earn 4X pts on Southwest^® purchases.
• Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at gas stations and restaurants
• Earn 2X points on hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
• Cardmembers and up to 8 passengers in the same reservation will board with Group 5 giving them earlier access to overhead bins.*
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Check out our list of the best cards for Southwest Airlines flyers for more information about which Southwest credit card might be right for you.

Hot Tip:

Southwest also offers the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Debit Card, which earns Rapid Rewards points for everyday spending without needing a credit card.

Other Credit Cards That Earn Rapid Rewards Points

Besides the 5 credit cards above that earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points directly, there are other credit cards that you might want to consider. Because Southwest Airlines is a Chase transfer partner, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred directly to your Southwest Airlines account. You can think of any card that earns Ultimate Rewards as also earning Rapid Rewards points.

Chase Ultimate Rewards can also be transferred to many other airline partners, giving you a lot of options for using your points.

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49% - 27.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel worldwide

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
• Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
• 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Our favorite is the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, which earns Chase Ultimate Rewards and offers several bonus earning opportunities, including 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel^SM, 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases.

Hot Tip:

Many credit cards earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points (both business and personal cards). Check out our list of the best Chase credit cards to find one that’s right for you.

Other Ways To Earn Southwest Rapid Rewards Points

There are several other ways to earn Southwest points without flying that you might want to consider if you’re looking to bolster your Rapid Rewards balance. Here are a few of the most common:

• Transferring Marriott Bonvoy points: 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points become 25,000 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
• Eating out through Rapid Rewards Dining
• Using the Rapid Rewards shopping portal
• Renting your car through Southwest and its partners
• Booking a Southwest Vacations package
• Buying Southwest Rapid Rewards points directly

Hot Tip: Have a stack of Rapid Rewards points lying around but no travel on the horizon? There are plenty of ways to use those points that don’t involve flying. They’re not the most lucrative of options, but they’re better than nothing!

Southwest Companion Pass

If you and the same friend, partner, spouse, or child fly Southwest a lot, the Companion Pass can slice your costs in half.

The Companion Pass is a Southwest Airlines benefit that allows a customer to choose 1 person to fly with them, basically for free (taxes and fees apply), every time they purchase a ticket or redeem points for a flight. While it’s most useful if you always fly with the same person, you can change your companion up to 3 times per calendar year.

Earning the Companion Pass can be achieved in 2 ways:

• Fly 100 qualifying one-way flights
• Earn 135,000 qualifying points

The great thing about the companion pass is that it’s valid not only for the remainder of the year in which you earn it, but for the following full calendar year as well.

If you’re able to get your pass in January, you can benefit for almost 24 months. For example, if you earn the Southwest Companion Pass in January 2026, you get Companion Pass benefits through December 2027.

The required 135,000 points must be eligible points. For example, points transferred from other programs or accounts (e.g., Chase Ultimate Rewards) do not count toward earning a Companion Pass.

You can earn eligible points by

• Making purchases with a credit card like the Southwest Plus card or Southwest Premier card
• Shopping through the Southwest Rapid Rewards Shopping Portal
• Using the Southwest Dining Rewards program
• Paying bills with Southwest’s home and energy partners

As per Southwest’s Rapid Rewards terms and conditions, the following types of points do not qualify:

“Purchased points, points transferred between Members, points converted from hotel and car loyalty programs, and e-Rewards, Valued Opinions, and Diners Club, points earned from Rapid Rewards program enrollment, tier bonus points, flight bonus points, and Partner bonus points (excluding bonus points earned on the Rapid Rewards Credit Cards from Chase) do not qualify as Companion Pass qualifying points.”

Bottom Line: If you travel frequently domestically and Southwest is your airline of choice, you should consider earning the Companion Pass. It can be used on international flights too, including quite a few international locations that may surprise you.

Southwest Airlines Elite Status

In addition to the Companion Pass (which Southwest considers somewhat of an elite status), Southwest Airlines has 2 published levels of elite status: A-List and A-List Preferred.

Southwest A-List status is earned after flying 20 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier-qualifying points in a calendar year. With A-List status, you get a 25% point bonus on earnings, 1 free checked bag, priority boarding on flights, and same-day confirmed changes with no difference in base fare.

Southwest A-List Preferred status is earned after flying 40 qualifying one-way flights or earning 70,000 tier-qualifying points in a calendar year. You get all the benefits of A-List status, along with 2 free checked bags (instead of 1), a 100% point bonus on earnings, and complimentary Wi-Fi on Southwest flights.

Hot Tip:

For more information about the requirements and benefits of A-List and A-List Preferred status, read our Complete Guide to the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Loyalty Program

Southwest Baggage and Other Fees

Southwest was previously well-known for offering 2 free checked bags with every ticket, but it now charges for checked bags on most tickets. Because of this change, you’ll want to be aware of Southwest baggage fees before you book your ticket.

Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees

Even with a Basic ticket, travelers get a free personal item and carry-on bag. Most travelers pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. Any subsequent checked bags cost $150 each.

The following travelers continue to get free checked bags when flying Southwest:

• A-List members: 1 free checked bag
• A-List Preferred members: 2 free checked bags
• Choice Extra fares: 2 free checked bags
• Rapid Rewards credit cardholders: 1 free checked bag for up to 8 companions on the same reservation
• Military traveling on active duty: Unlimited free checked bags (up to 20 per flight)
• Hawaii residents traveling between islands: 2 free checked bags

Southwest has size and weight limits:

• Personal Item: 16.5 inches x 8 inches x 13.5 inches, weight undisclosed
• Carry-on: 10 inches x 16 inches x 24 inches, weight undisclosed
• Checked bag: maximum linear dimensions 62 inches, maximum weight 50 pounds

Hot Tip:

When talking about baggage allowances, many airlines refer to “maximum linear dimensions” or something similar. This is merely the number you get when you add the length, width, and depth of a piece of luggage. For example, if you have a suitcase that’s 26 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 16 inches deep, then its linear dimensions are 62 inches, or right at the maximum for many airlines.

Overweight Checked Bag: $100 to $200

Oversize Checked Bag: $200 (waived for sporting equipment)

Sporting equipment is subject to standard baggage fees. However, the $200 oversize baggage fee is waived on sporting equipment from 63 inches to 115 inches. The following items are classified as sporting equipment by Southwest:

• Archery equipment
• Baseball or softball equipment
• Boogie board or kneeboard
• Bowling bag
• Bicycles
  • Hard-sided bicycle box falling within 62 inches/50 pound limits
• Fishing rod and tackle box 
  • Limited to 91 inches in length, 3 inches in diameter
  • Counts as 1 item even if packed separately
• Golf bag
  • Hard-sided golf bag
  • Excess size charges waived; excess weight charges may apply
• Hockey or lacrosse sticks 
  • Up to 2 bags are allowed to count as 1 item, even if packed separately
• Kiteboard
• Knives, dress sabers, swords
  • Checked bags only
• Parachutes
  • Carry-on or checked bag
  • May not be worn in flight
• Scuba equipment
  • Air tanks must be empty
• Skateboard
  • Carry-on or checked
• Snow ski equipment
  • Up to 2 bags (1 set of equipment) are allowed to count as 1 item, even if packed separately
  • Excess size charges waived; excess weight charges may apply
• Water ski equipment
  • Excess size charges waived; excess weight charges may apply

Other Fees and Add-Ons

Southwest does not charge any change or cancellation fees, but there are a few other fees that you’ll want to be aware of:

Change fee: $0 (difference in fare applies)

Cancellation fee: $0

Hot Tip: Southwest allows passengers to change or cancel their flights up to 10 minutes prior to departure.

Phone reservation fee: $0

EarlyBird Check-In: $15 to $99 (per one-way flight), depending on the length of the flight and the popularity of early-bird check-in on the route in question. It gives you an automatic check-in before the traditional self-check-in period, allowing for an earlier boarding position.

Upgraded boarding: $30 to $149 per customer, per segment

Unaccompanied minor: $100 within the U.S. mainland, $35 between Hawaiian Islands (ages 5 to 11)

Pet fee (carry-on): $125 within the U.S. mainland, $35 within Hawaii. For more information, please check out Southwest’s pet policy.

How To Avoid Paying Excess Southwest Fees and Expenses

Although Southwest no longer offers free checked bags to all travelers, some individuals still qualify for this benefit. Checked bag fees are waived for A-List and A-List Preferred members, co-branded credit cardholders, those who book Choice Extra fares, and active-duty military members.

By using the right Capital One credit card, you can also redeem miles for recent travel purchases. Venture cards are good options:

LIMITED-TIME OFFER

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening - equal to $1,000 in travel.

100,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,800

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent (740-840)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening - equal to $1,000 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$95

APR

Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Limited elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Welcome Offer

Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel.

20,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

Purchases: 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months; variable 18.74% - 28.74% thereafter

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Ability to use transfer partners

Cons

• Weak earn rate at 1.25x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
• No luxury travel or elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 18.74% – 28.74% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months; variable 18.74% - 28.74% thereafter
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Southwest Boarding Process (Flights Before January 27, 2026)

Southwest Airlines has historically approached boarding in a unique way. The airline will begin assigning seats for flights on or after January 27, 2026. For flights before that date, follow the steps below to board your Southwest flight and select your seat.

For flights on or before January 26, 2026, Southwest doesn’t assign seats. Seat choice is up to each customer and is based on the boarding position you receive at check-in, as well as the remaining seats available when you board the plane. You can sit in any available seat once you board the plane.

How Are Southwest Airlines Boarding Numbers Assigned? 

Southwest assigns a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a boarding position (1 to 60).

The available boarding positions are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, depending on how early you check in. Since general check-in doesn’t open until 24 hours before boarding, it’s in your best interest to check in as close as possible to that 24-hour opening. Additionally, customers who have purchased a Choice Preferred fare receive automatic check-in 36 hours before the scheduled departure and EarlyBird Check-In (subject to availability).

Bottom Line: The earlier you check in to your flight, the happier you’ll be with your boarding position. 

That said, positions A1 to A15 (the first to board, excluding preboarding passengers) are reserved for customers who have purchased a Choice Extra fare. This does not mean A16 is always the 16th person to board, as there may not be 15 people on the flight who have purchased a Choice Extra fare.

If all Choice Extra fares have not been sold, other passengers may have the option to upgrade their position to the A1 to A15 section for an additional fee per segment, depending on the itinerary. This can be done with a gate attendant before the boarding process begins.

The best positions, following A1 to A15, are usually assigned to A-List Preferred and A-List Members, as well as passengers who have purchased Early Bird Check-In. These distinctions do not guarantee an A boarding position, but they do ensure that you will receive the earliest position available.

Family boarding is available and applies to families traveling with children 6 years or younger. Family boarding takes place just before B Group boarding.

Boarding With Southwest Airlines at the Gate

Boarding a Southwest flight is similar to other airlines in that boarding groups are called by a gate attendant.

When the group on your boarding pass is called, you stand by the respective numbered columns at the gate.

Passengers may peer over your shoulder at your boarding number to ensure you’re in the correct place or ask for your number so they can confirm whether they are in front of or behind you.

Once on board, you may see seat savers, who place an item on a seat next to them to save it for someone they’re traveling with. Those seats are available to any passenger, though you might have a grumpy neighbor if you take one.

Traveling in Mixed Boarding Groups

If you’re in separate boarding positions, you can board separately, or the person with the better boarding position can board with a traveling companion in a later boarding position. For example, if your friend or family member is in Group A and you’re in Group B, it doesn’t mean you get to board in Group A with them. If you want to board together, you should both board with your position in Group B.

Southwest Boarding Process (Flights on or After January 27, 2026)

For flights scheduled on or after January 27, 2026, the Southwest boarding process is much more straightforward and will likely be more familiar to you if you’ve flown with other airlines.

Instead of the open seating policy, every ticket purchased has an assigned seat. When your seat is chosen, the type of seat you get, and whether you can select your seat, will depend on the type of fare that you purchase:

• Basic: A Standard seat will be assigned to you at check-in.
• Choice: Choose a Standard seat at the time of booking.
• Choice Preferred: Choose a Preferred seat at the time of booking.
• Choice Extra: Choose an Extra Legroom seat.

Southwest defines Standard seats as those with standard legroom in the back of the aircraft. Preferred seats have standard legroom and are near the front of the cabin, ahead of the exit rows. Extra Legroom seats have more legroom and are at the very front of the cabin and in the exit rows.

Rather than having A, B, and C boarding groups, for flights after January 27, 2026, Southwest will have the more traditional numbered boarding groups. Again, where you board will depend on the fare class of the ticket you purchased.

• Basic: Last to board
• Choice: General boarding group
• Choice Preferred: Boarding groups 3 to 5
• Choice Extra: Boarding groups 1 or 2

Southwest Seat Specs and Inflight Amenities

If Southwest offers such low fares, can the flight even be comfortable? The answer is yes, most definitely.

Seat Specs

In terms of seat specs and overall comfort, Southwest does well. They operate exclusively with Boeing 737 aircraft, a narrow-body jet with a single aisle. Seats differ slightly depending on the plane.

Even so, Southwest seats have an average pitch length of 31 to 33 inches, a slight recline on most seats, and a full tray table. They pretty much rank right at the top of the low-cost economy seat list and above average when it comes to industry-wide economy pitch measurements.

Newer models feature slimmer seats with smaller armrests, providing customers with a wider seat width of 17.8 inches, which is among the largest in economy seating of any carrier.

For flights departing on or before January 26, 2026, seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you board early or you’re lucky, you can sit at the bulkhead or in an exit row with a bit of extra legroom. For flights after that date, you’ll need to purchase a higher fare class to sit in the extra legroom or exit row seats.

Inflight Amenities

Southwest is a low-cost airline that provides low fares but still includes some great inflight perks.

• Refreshments: Southwest Airlines provides a selection of complimentary juices, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water. They also pass a small snack, usually pretzels or peanuts of some sort.
• Beverages: Southwest offers complimentary water, juice, and soda. They also have beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks for sale. The price for these alcoholic beverages is around $9.
• Entertainment: Passengers may use their personal devices (in flight-safe mode) for the following:
  • Inflight entertainment portal: Free flight tracker, arrival and connecting gate info, games, and access to southwest.com
  • Live TV: $0
  • Wi-Fi: $8 per day, per device
  • Movies: $0
  • Messaging: iMessage and WhatsApp messaging are free if you are a Rapid Rewards member

Hot Tip:

Southwest offers 1 complimentary alcoholic beverage to passengers flying on select holidays. This includes Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Southwest’s birthday (June 18), and Halloween.

For more information, check out our guide to Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi and inflight entertainment.

Final Thoughts

Southwest is one of the strongest low-cost carriers. You may experience some delays and have a small chance of dealing with mishandled baggage, but overall, Southwest is at the top of the low-cost carrier game. They consistently outrank most regional and international legacy carriers.

If you’re looking for an airline that provides cheap fares, top customer service, perks like a couple of free checked bags, inflight refreshments, and a comfortable ride, Southwest is the one for you.