Can You Change a Southwest Airlines Flight?

Wondering if you can change a Southwest Airlines flight after booking? The answer is yes—and it’s one of the reasons Southwest is so popular with travelers. Unlike many airlines that slap you with hefty change fees, Southwest makes it simple and flexible to adjust your travel plans.


Here’s everything you need to know about Southwest’s flight change policy, step-by-step instructions, and tips to save money when rebooking.




Can You Change a Southwest Airlines Flight?​


Yes. Southwest lets you change your flight without paying extra fees. Instead:


  • If your new flight costs more, you’ll just pay the fare difference.
  • If your new flight costs less, you’ll receive a travel credit (for cash fares) or get points refunded (for award bookings).

💡 Did you know? Traditional airlines may charge $75–$200 in change fees. With Southwest, you avoid all of that.




How to Change a Southwest Flight Step by Step​


Online Through Southwest.com​


  1. Go to Southwest.com and log in.
  2. Click on “My Trips.”
  3. Select your booking and click “Change Flight.”
  4. Pick your new date and time, review the price, and confirm.
  5. Print or save your updated boarding pass.

👉 Best for travelers who prefer a full desktop experience.




Using the Southwest Mobile App​


  • Open the app and tap “Trips.”
  • Select your flight, then hit “Change.”
  • Choose your new option and confirm.
  • Your mobile boarding pass updates instantly.

Traveler story: A passenger flying from Denver rebooked during a layover in less than 3 minutes when they spotted a fare drop—saving $60.




At the Airport or Over the Phone​


  • You can change your flight at self-service kiosks, ticket counters, or with a gate agent.
  • Calling customer service is also an option, though wait times may be longer during busy periods.

📞 Quick reminder: Call (831-298-4213) if you’d like help adjusting your booking with less hassle.




What Happens with Price Differences?​


If the New Flight Costs More​


  • You’ll pay the fare difference at checkout.

If the New Flight Costs Less​


  • Cash fares: The difference comes back as a travel credit.
  • Points bookings: Points are automatically refunded to your Rapid Rewards account.

💡 Example: A traveler booked Chicago–Orlando for $220, rebooked during a fare sale for $179, and received a $41 credit for future use.




Tips for Saving Money When Changing a Flight​


  • Monitor fares after booking. Southwest often runs sales starting Tuesdays.
  • Rebook when prices drop. Since there are no change fees, you only save money.
  • Book with points for maximum flexibility. Refunds are instant if plans shift.
  • Check EarlyBird Check-In. It doesn’t transfer automatically, but is refundable if your flight is canceled.

Traveler anecdote: One family rebooked their summer trip twice during a promotion and saved nearly $150 in credits—enough to cover part of their holiday flights.




Final Thoughts — Can You Change a Southwest Airlines Flight?​


Yes—you can change your Southwest flight with no change fees, which sets it apart from many competitors. You can make changes online, in the app, or at the airport, and depending on the fare difference, you may even come out ahead with credits or points refunded.


The best part? With a little fare-watching, you might save money by rebooking when prices drop.


📞 Call (831-298-4213) today for quick assistance changing your Southwest flight and making sure you lock in the best possible fare.
 
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