What is Early Bird Check in Southwest

This is one of the most common confusions that Southwest travellers have: whether to go for upgraded boarding or early bird to get better seats and boarding priority on Southwest. You are on the right page to dissolve every confusion concerning the same! 

Herin on can get required information regarding what is early bird check in Southwest, upgraded boarding, difference between normal check in and early bird check-in, & other important info.  

What is Southwest Early Bird Check-In

This is a particular Southwest facility that allows you to check in automatically for flights before the usual 24-hour mark. As for the advantages, if you book early bird check-in, you will get better boarding positions than others and also will get prior access to overhead bin space to store your luggage.    

How Much is Early Bird Check in Southwest

However, this depends upon availability, and you have to pay a nominal fare of $15 for a one-way flight. 

Is Early Bird Check-in Purchase Refundable?

SWA Early bird check-in purchases are nonrefundable. So, if you cancel the flight, you will have to forfeit the previously purchased early bird check-in for that specific flight. However, in case the cancellation has happened from the airline's side, Wanna Get Away & Wanna Get Away Plus fares will receive refunds for the flights. 

What is Southwest Airlines Upgraded Boarding

The title itself makes it clear that you will receive priority boarding when you opt for it. In this case, you have to pay an amount starting from $30 per segment, per customer basis, to avail of this option. To obtain fares, kindly consult customer service during the upgrade process. It is possible to get upgraded boarding for flights scheduled within 24 hours.

In terms of the benefits, you are one of the first ones to board the aircraft. Secondly, you will be receiving seats at the front of the plane (from A1 - A15). Also, you receive the first access to overhead bins. 

Is The Upgrade Boarding Purchase Refundable?

No, it's not. Upgraded boarding purchases on Southwest are nonrefundable. If you have bought the same, you will be forfeiting the same for that particular flight if you make a cancellation. 

Southwest Upgraded Boarding vs Early Bird

Enhanced boarding and priority check-in are the two methods available to ensure your boarding at Southwest Airlines. On SWA upgraded boarding, you will get a guaranteed A1 to A15 position, so you will board the flights much earlier than others.

Southwest Airlines early check-in allows you to check in automatically but may not guarantee an A boarding position but, indeed, early boarding access. Many argue that Upgraded boarding is better than an early bird but also costs more. So, you can choose whichever suits your preference. 

How Does Early Bird Check In Work?

The process of making the early bird check-in is straightforward. The steps are laid down below. 

1. Visit the Southwest Airlines official website. 
2.  Login to your account by using your ID & password. 
3. Enter your confirmation number & last name to access the booking. 
4. Click on the option of "Early Bird Check-In."
5. Make the necessary payment to avail the same. 
6. Once the process is complete, download the boarding pass for the trip. On the day of the flight, you can enjoy early boarding and prior overhead access. 

How To Purchase Upgraded Boarding?

Since you have time until 30 minutes before departure, you can opt for the same from the website, app, or via an airline representative at the airport. 

1. Visit the Southwest Airlines official website (ask a Customer Service Agent for the same at the airport).
2. Click on the Check-in. 
3. Enter the confirmation number & last name. 
4. Find the upgraded boarding option below the flight itinerary. 
5. Make the payment to avail the desired upgrade.  

Can You Get Southwest Upgrade Boarding After Check-in?

Yes, after check-in, you have the option to purchase upgrade boarding (payable by card) from 24 hours till 30 minutes before the flight departure time. 

Conclusion

You are now aware of all the nitty-gritty involving making early bird check-in and upgraded boarding on Southwest Airlines. You also know the difference between the two and which one to prefer on your next Southwest flight to get preferred boarding and seats.