Ever had your travel plans shift and wondered how to change your Southwest flight? The good news: unlike many airlines, Southwest makes the process simple and affordable. With
no change fees, you can easily swap flights online, in the app, or at the airport without the usual stress.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to changing your flight and saving money while you do it.
What Makes Southwest’s Flight Change Policy Different?
Southwest is one of the few major U.S. airlines with a
no-change-fee policy. That means:
- You’ll only pay the difference if your new flight is more expensive.
- If the new fare is cheaper, you’ll get a travel credit or points back.
- You can rebook as many times as you need.
Data check: Legacy carriers often charge $75–$200 for flight changes, while Southwest passengers avoid these extra fees entirely.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Flight on Southwest
Online via Southwest.com
- Log in with your confirmation number.
- Go to “My Trips.”
- Select your flight and click “Change Flight.”
- Choose your new date/time and confirm.
- Print or save your updated boarding pass.

Best for travelers who prefer a desktop view.
Via the Southwest Mobile App
- Open the app and tap the “Trips” tab.
- Select your booking → Tap “Change.”
- Pick a new flight, confirm, and you’re done.
- Boarding pass updates automatically in the app.
Traveler story: One frequent flyer rebooked her flight during a layover in under two minutes, saving $60 thanks to a fare drop.
At the Airport or Over the Phone
- Visit a self-service kiosk, ticket counter, or gate agent.
- Call Southwest customer service if you prefer phone support.
- Note: phone lines can be busy during storms or peak travel days.

Quick reminder:
Call (831-298-4213) if you need personalized help with your booking.
What Happens If Your New Flight Costs More—or Less?
- If New Flight Costs More: You’ll pay the difference at checkout.
- If New Flight Costs Less:
- Cash fares → you’ll get a travel credit for the difference.
- Points bookings → points are instantly refunded to your account.
Example: A traveler booked Chicago–Orlando for $210, rebooked after a fare sale at $169, and received a $41 travel credit to use later.
Tips to Save Money When Changing Flights
- Monitor fares after booking. Southwest often runs flash sales, usually starting Tuesdays.
- Rebook when fares drop. Because there are no fees, you only stand to save.
- Book with points. Easier refunds and flexibility if your plans shift.
- Double-check EarlyBird Check-In. It doesn’t transfer automatically, but you can repurchase or get a refund if you cancel.
Traveler tip: One family rebooked their trip twice during a promotion and saved 9,000 points—enough for a free one-way ticket later.
Final Thoughts — How to Change Your Southwest Flight
Southwest takes the headache out of travel changes. Whether online, through the mobile app, or at the airport, their
no-change-fee policy makes it easy to adjust your plans without losing money.
Just remember:
- If the new flight costs more, you’ll pay the difference.
- If it costs less, you’ll get credits or points back.
With a little fare-watching, you can even save money by rebooking when prices drop.
Call (831-298-4213) today if you need help changing a Southwest flight or finding the best new fare for your trip.