How to Upgrade to Business Select on Southwest Airlines

Thinking about upgrading to Business Select on Southwest but not sure how it works? You’re not alone. Unlike traditional airlines that sell first or business class with bigger seats, Southwest keeps things simple: one cabin for all. But their Business Select fare gives you extra perks that can make travel smoother.


So, how do you actually upgrade, and is it worth the money? Let’s break it down.




What Is Business Select on Southwest?​


Business Select isn’t a different cabin—it’s a premium fare category that comes with extra benefits while keeping the same seat size as economy.


Here’s what you get with Business Select:


  • A1–A15 priority boarding (first pick of seats).
  • Fully refundable and flexible tickets.
  • 12 Rapid Rewards points per $1 spent (fastest way to earn free flights).
  • One complimentary premium drink.

Traveler story: A consultant flying Dallas–Houston weekly says Business Select is worth it just for guaranteed early boarding and refundable tickets.


💡 Visual idea: Quick graphic listing Business Select perks.




How to Upgrade to Business Select on Southwest​


There are three main ways to upgrade your Southwest experience:


Option 1 – Book Business Select From the Start​


  • When booking on Southwest.com or the app, select the Business Select fare.
  • Easiest way to guarantee you get all perks.

Option 2 – Upgrade at the Airport​


  • You can upgrade your existing ticket at the ticket counter or gate, depending on availability.
  • Cost: usually $30–$80 per flight segment.
  • Example: A traveler at Denver upgraded last-minute for $50 and scored boarding pass A5 on a nearly full flight.

Option 3 – Buy Upgraded Boarding Add-On​


  • If you don’t need all Business Select perks, you can purchase Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15) at the gate.
  • Same boarding priority, but doesn’t include the refundable ticket, bonus points, or free drink.

💡 Visual idea: Flowchart → “Book online” vs. “Upgrade at airport” vs. “Upgraded Boarding.”




Is Upgrading to Business Select Worth It?​


Here’s the real talk:


✅ Pros:


  • First boarding group = better seat choice.
  • Earn Rapid Rewards faster.
  • Full refund flexibility.
  • A premium drink to kick off the trip.

❌ Cons:


  • Same seats as everyone else (no extra legroom).
  • Cost adds up, especially on multi-leg trips.
  • No meals, lounges, or luxury touches.

💡 Visual idea: Pros/Cons box for scannability.




Tips for Maximizing Your Upgrade​


  • Check availability at the gate. Sometimes last-minute upgrades open up cheap.
  • Use Business Select strategically. Save it for peak travel days, long flights, or when boarding early really matters.
  • Leverage Rapid Rewards credit cards. Bonus points can offset the extra cost of upgrading.
  • Example: A frequent flyer only upgrades on Friday flights to avoid “Group C” middle seats.



Final Thoughts — How to Upgrade to Business Select on Southwest​


Southwest doesn’t offer traditional business class, but Business Select is its version of a premium experience. You can upgrade when booking online, at the airport, or by purchasing Upgraded Boarding if you only care about getting on first.


It’s not about luxury—it’s about convenience, flexibility, and earning rewards faster.


📞 Call (831-298-4213) today to explore upgrade options and decide if Business Select is the smart move for your next Southwest flight.
 
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