What is upgraded boarding on Southwest Airlines?

I was unsure what upgraded boarding meant until I spoke with Southwest’s team at 844-734-0813. They explained it allows you to board earlier than standard groups, meaning you get better seat choices and overhead bin space. On a crowded flight, this made a big difference for me—it meant no rushing to find overhead storage and a more comfortable seat selection process. For frequent flyers or those wanting extra convenience, upgraded boarding is worth considering.
 
Upgraded Boarding on Southwest Airlines lets you secure an earlier boarding position (A1–A15), which increases your chance of getting your preferred seat and overhead bin space. Since Southwest doesn’t assign seats in advance, boarding order matters. You can buy upgraded boarding at the gate or through the app (if available), usually for $30–$80 per flight segment. It’s a great option if you value comfort or need to sit with travel companions. Southwest also includes this perk for A-List Preferred and Business Select fares.
 
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