Can You Get Free Upgraded Boarding with Southwest Credit Cards?

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Can You Get Free Upgraded Boarding with Southwest Credit Cards?

 

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Hate boarding last and ending up in the middle seat? If you’re a frequent Southwest flyer, you’ve probably wondered if the airline’s credit cards can help. The answer: yes—some Southwest credit cards give you free upgraded boarding passes every year.


Here’s how it works, which cards qualify, and how to use this perk to save money and secure a better seat.

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What Is Upgraded Boarding on Southwest?​

Southwest has an open seating policy—no assigned seats. Instead, boarding groups (A, B, and C) plus numbers determine when you line up.

• Upgraded Boarding moves you into the A1–A15 spots at the front of the line.
• Normally costs $30–$80 per flight segment.
• Benefit: You’re almost guaranteed your pick of aisle, window, or exit row seats.

Traveler story: One flyer heading to Las Vegas snagged A5 with Upgraded Boarding—avoiding the middle seats on a completely sold-out flight.

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Do Southwest Credit Cards Offer Free Upgraded Boarding?​

Yes—but not all of them. Only the premium-level cards include this perk.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card​

• Comes with 4 free Upgraded Boardings per year (when available).
• Works by charging the upgrade to your card → you’re automatically reimbursed as a statement credit.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card​

• Also includes 4 free Upgraded Boardings annually.
• Designed with frequent business travelers in mind.

Visual idea: Comparison table showing Priority vs. Performance Business card perks.

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How to Use Free Upgraded Boarding from Your Credit Card​

Using this perk is straightforward:

1. On travel day, visit the gate or ticket counter.
2. Ask to purchase an Upgraded Boarding pass (if A1–A15 is still available).
3. Pay with your eligible Southwest card.
4. The cost is reimbursed automatically as a statement credit.

Traveler tip: One holiday flyer used the perk for her family and scored early boarding on a jam-packed flight—saving $200 in upgrade fees.

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Is the Free Upgraded Boarding Perk Worth It?​

Here’s the real value breakdown:


Pros

• Saves up to $120–$320 annually depending on use.
• Perfect for tall travelers who want exit row seats.
• Helps families sit together more easily.

Cons

• Limited to 4 uses per year.
• Not guaranteed—if A1–A15 is sold out, you’ll miss out.
• Only comes with cards that charge an annual fee.

Visual idea: Pros/Cons box for quick scannability.

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Alternatives If You Don’t Have a Southwest Credit Card​

If you don’t want to pay for a premium Southwest card, here are other ways to get a better boarding position:

• EarlyBird Check-In ($15–$25): Auto check-in 36 hours before departure.
• Manual Check-In (Free): Log in exactly 24 hours before your flight.
• Buy Upgraded Boarding at the Gate ($30–$80): Available if spots are left.

Traveler story: A budget-conscious flyer saves her free upgrades for long-haul flights and just uses EarlyBird for shorter hops.

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Final Thoughts — Can You Get Free Upgraded Boarding with Southwest Credit Cards?​

Yes! With the Southwest Priority Credit Card or the Performance Business Card, you get 4 free Upgraded Boarding passes each year. That’s real money saved—and less stress when it comes to getting the seat you want.


If you travel Southwest often, it’s a perk worth using wisely—save it for peak travel days, long flights, or when you’re flying with family.


Call (831-298-4213) today to explore Southwest card options and learn how to take full advantage of free upgraded boarding.