How to Upgrade Your Boarding Position on Southwest Airlines

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How to Upgrade Your Boarding Position on Southwest Airlines

 

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Tired of ending up in Southwest’s dreaded Group C, wedged in a middle seat at the back of the plane? You’re not alone. Because Southwest doesn’t assign seats, your boarding position = your seat choice. The better your position, the better your chance at snagging an aisle, window, or exit row—and overhead bin space for your bag.


The good news? There are several ways to upgrade your boarding position. Some cost money, some are free with planning, and all can make your trip more comfortable.

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Why Boarding Position Matters on Southwest​

Here’s how it works:

• Group A (A1–A60): First pick of seats, most overhead space.
• Group B (B1–B60): Still okay, but prime seats start disappearing.
• Group C (C1–C60): Often left with middle seats and limited bin space.

Real-world story: One traveler checked in late, landed in C45, and wound up in the last row—middle seat—with their carry-on gate-checked.


Visual idea: Simple A/B/C group diagram.

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How to Upgrade Your Boarding Position on Southwest​

1. Check In Exactly 24 Hours Before​

The cheapest method is free: check in the moment online check-in opens (24 hours before departure). Even a 2-minute delay can bump you from Group A to Group B.
Pro tip: set an alarm on your phone.

2. EarlyBird Check-In​

For $15–$25 each way, Southwest checks you in automatically 36 hours before your flight. You don’t need to worry about logging in.

• Good for families or casual flyers who don’t want the stress.
• Studies from airfare blogs suggest EarlyBird usually lands you in A20–B30 range.

3. Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15)​

Want guaranteed early boarding? Pay $30–$80 per flight segment for Upgraded Boarding. This gives you a spot in A1–A15, the same boarding position as Business Select passengers.


Traveler anecdote: “I paid $40 at the gate, got A5, and scored the exit row aisle. Totally worth it.”

4. Business Select Fares​

The premium option:

• Includes A1–A15 boarding automatically.
• Refundable tickets.
• Earns 12 Rapid Rewards points per $1 spent.
• Includes a complimentary premium drink.

Best for business travelers or anyone who needs maximum flexibility.

5. Credit Card Perks​

Some Southwest Rapid Rewards® credit cards include free Upgraded Boarding passes each year. For frequent flyers, this perk can save hundreds annually.

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Hacks to Improve Boarding Position Without Paying Extra​

• Set multiple reminders for 24-hour check-in.
• Travel off-peak (midweek flights = less competition for Group A).
• Book early when new schedules are released; fare and upgrade options are wider.
• Pack light so you can breeze through security and line up earlier.

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Is Paying to Upgrade Worth It?​

Pros:

• First choice of seats (aisle, window, exit row).
• Guaranteed overhead bin space.
• Much less boarding stress.

Cons:

• Seat size is the same—no extra legroom except exit/bulkhead.
• Costs add up on multi-leg trips.
• Availability is limited (only 15 A1–A15 slots per flight).

Visual suggestion: Pros/Cons box.

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Final Thoughts — Best Strategy for Your Next Flight​

Southwest may not offer first class, but your boarding position is the next best thing. Whether you set an alarm for free check-in, buy EarlyBird, splurge on Upgraded Boarding, or spring for Business Select, you’ll have more control over your seat—and your comfort.


Still not sure which upgrade makes the most sense for your trip? Call (831-298-4213) for help comparing fares and upgrade options before you book.

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Ready to Board Smarter?​

• Call (831-298-4213) for real-time advice on Southwest fares and upgrades.
• Contact (831-298-4213) for personal booking help and seat strategies.