What Is Upgraded Boarding on Southwest Airlines?
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(831-298-4213) – Ever wished you could grab an early boarding spot on Southwest without paying full Business Select prices? That’s exactly what Upgraded Boarding offers. It’s one of those little-known hacks that can make a big difference in your flying experience—especially if overhead bin space and seat choice matter to you.
Let’s break down what it is, how much it costs, and whether it’s actually worth it.
Upgraded Boarding is a paid add-on that lets you secure one of the coveted A1–A15 boarding positions. Normally, those spots are reserved for Business Select passengers, but with Upgraded Boarding, you can buy your way in.
Here’s why that matters: Southwest doesn’t assign seats. Boarding order = seat choice. An A1–A15 pass practically guarantees you the best pick—window, aisle, exit row, or front bulkhead. It also means first dibs on overhead bin space, which can save you from gate-checking your bag on full flights.
Visual idea: A boarding group graphic showing A1–A15 vs. later groups.
Typically, Upgraded Boarding runs between $30 and $80 per flight segment, depending on route and demand.
Pro tip: Some Southwest credit cards (like the Rapid Rewards® Priority Card) offer up to four free Upgraded Boardings per year. If you fly often, that perk alone can pay for the card.
You can purchase Upgraded Boarding in a few ways:
Ask at the counter or kiosk before boarding. Availability is limited (only 15 slots max), so it’s first come, first served.
Real traveler story: “I grabbed A4 for $40 on a sold-out Vegas flight—worth every penny when I slid into the bulkhead seat.”
Log into your Southwest account, go to ‘Manage Trips’, and select ‘Add Upgraded Boarding.’ If spots are open, you can buy them right there.
Here’s where travelers get confused—so let’s compare:
Think of it this way: EarlyBird is insurance. Upgraded Boarding is a VIP fast pass.
Pros:
Cons:
(Data-backed angle: Frequent flyer reports suggest Upgraded Boarding offers the best ROI on crowded routes where overhead bin space runs out quickly.)
Not sure if it’s worth it for your specific route? Call (831-298-4213) and we’ll help compare your options.
Southwest’s Upgraded Boarding doesn’t give you new seats or luxury perks. What it does give you is peace of mind: first choice of seats, overhead space, and smoother boarding.
If you’re flying a packed route, carrying a big bag, or just hate the boarding lottery, it’s a smart splurge.
Let’s break down what it is, how much it costs, and whether it’s actually worth it.
What Is Upgraded Boarding on Southwest Airlines?
Upgraded Boarding is a paid add-on that lets you secure one of the coveted A1–A15 boarding positions. Normally, those spots are reserved for Business Select passengers, but with Upgraded Boarding, you can buy your way in.
Here’s why that matters: Southwest doesn’t assign seats. Boarding order = seat choice. An A1–A15 pass practically guarantees you the best pick—window, aisle, exit row, or front bulkhead. It also means first dibs on overhead bin space, which can save you from gate-checking your bag on full flights.
Visual idea: A boarding group graphic showing A1–A15 vs. later groups.How Much Does Upgraded Boarding Cost?
Typically, Upgraded Boarding runs between $30 and $80 per flight segment, depending on route and demand.
- Short hops like Dallas–Houston may be closer to $30.
- Busy routes like Las Vegas–Orlando often trend toward $50–$80.
Pro tip: Some Southwest credit cards (like the Rapid Rewards® Priority Card) offer up to four free Upgraded Boardings per year. If you fly often, that perk alone can pay for the card.How to Buy Upgraded Boarding
You can purchase Upgraded Boarding in a few ways:
At the Gate
Ask at the counter or kiosk before boarding. Availability is limited (only 15 slots max), so it’s first come, first served.
Real traveler story: “I grabbed A4 for $40 on a sold-out Vegas flight—worth every penny when I slid into the bulkhead seat.”Online or In the App
Log into your Southwest account, go to ‘Manage Trips’, and select ‘Add Upgraded Boarding.’ If spots are open, you can buy them right there.
Upgraded Boarding vs. EarlyBird Check-In
Here’s where travelers get confused—so let’s compare:
- EarlyBird Check-In ($15–$25): Automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure. Gets you a better spot than last-minute check-in, but no guarantee of A1–A15.
- Upgraded Boarding ($30–$80): Guaranteed A1–A15, but only if available when you buy.
- Business Select (fare upgrade): Includes A1–A15, refundable ticket, extra Rapid Rewards points, and a free premium drink.
Think of it this way: EarlyBird is insurance. Upgraded Boarding is a VIP fast pass.Is Upgraded Boarding Worth It?
Pros:- Guaranteed early seat choice.
- First access to overhead bin space.
- Less boarding stress.
Cons:- No extra legroom or seat upgrades—the seat itself is the same.
- Can get expensive on multiple segments.
- Not always available (limited to 15 per flight).
(Data-backed angle: Frequent flyer reports suggest Upgraded Boarding offers the best ROI on crowded routes where overhead bin space runs out quickly.)
Tips for Maximizing Upgraded Boarding
- Book busy flights? It’s almost always worth it.
- Traveling light? If you don’t need bin space, you may skip it.
- Use credit card perks: Some cards cover the cost a few times per year.
- Best for families: Guarantees sitting together without stressing check-in.
Not sure if it’s worth it for your specific route? Call (831-298-4213) and we’ll help compare your options.Final Thoughts — Should You Upgrade?
Southwest’s Upgraded Boarding doesn’t give you new seats or luxury perks. What it does give you is peace of mind: first choice of seats, overhead space, and smoother boarding.
If you’re flying a packed route, carrying a big bag, or just hate the boarding lottery, it’s a smart splurge.
Ready to Fly Smarter?
Call (831-298-4213) to compare upgrade options.
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