Southwest Airlines is one of the few major U.S. carriers that still offers free seat selection in a practical way, but it comes with a twist. Instead of assigned seats, Southwest uses a boarding group system that determines where you sit. If you want the best seats without paying extra, you need to understand how boarding works, how to improve your boarding position, and what policies apply when your plans change. If you need help navigating a booking or making changes, call +1-855-869-7071 for fast support and real-time guidance.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most current Southwest policies for 2026, compare them to other airlines, and show how you can save money during promotional periods like President’s Day Flight Deals 2026.
What Is Southwest Airlines Free Seat Selection?
Southwest Airlines doesn’t assign seats like many other airlines. Instead, passengers are assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a boarding position (1–60). When boarding begins, passengers line up in order and choose any open seat.
This system is often seen as “free seat selection,” but it’s not the same as choosing a specific seat ahead of time. You can only guarantee a preferred seat by improving your boarding position.
How to Choose a Seat for Free on Southwest
How to choose a seat for free on Southwest
To choose a seat for free on Southwest, you must maximize your boarding position. Here are the most effective ways:
Step-by-step:
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Check-in exactly 24 hours before departure.
This is the most common way to secure a strong boarding position. -
Upgrade to EarlyBird Check-In (optional).
EarlyBird automatically checks you in before the 24-hour mark. You still don’t get a specific seat, but you improve your boarding group. -
Use Southwest’s “Business Select” fare when needed.
Business Select guarantees A1–A15 boarding. It costs more but can be worth it for peak travel. -
Fly during off-peak times.
Early morning or late evening flights often have fewer passengers, making it easier to get good seats even with a later boarding group.
Southwest Boarding Strategy: How It Works in 2026
Southwest Airlines boarding strategy
Southwest uses three boarding groups:
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A boarding group: Priority boarding
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B boarding group: Mid-level
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C boarding group: Standard boarding
Your boarding position depends on your fare type, check-in time, and any upgrades you purchased.
Key updates for 2026:
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Southwest continues to allow free seat selection via boarding order.
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EarlyBird Check-In prices may vary based on route and demand.
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Southwest now provides clearer updates for same-day flight changes and standby rules.
Avoid Southwest Seat Fees Without Paying Extra
Avoid Southwest seat fees
Southwest doesn’t charge seat selection fees, but you can still pay more if you buy a fare that improves boarding position. To avoid any extra costs:
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Use the free 24-hour check-in window.
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Avoid Business Select unless necessary.
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Skip EarlyBird if you don’t need guaranteed A boarding.
Example scenario:
You have a family of four. You can save money by checking in at 24 hours and selecting seats together in the middle rows, rather than paying for Business Select.
President’s Day Flight Deals 2026
President’s Day travel deals 2026
President’s Day Flight Deals 2026 often include fare drops and promotional codes on Southwest and other airlines. If you’re booking during this period:
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Look for Southwest fare sales and price drops.
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Compare the total cost, including any early boarding upgrades.
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Use flexible cancellation policies to avoid risk.
Tip: Southwest’s cancellation policy is one of the best in the industry because it offers credit for future travel instead of strict refund rules.
Southwest vs. Competitors: Why Southwest Is Different
Best free seat selection Southwest vs. other airlines
Southwest’s biggest advantage is the boarding group system, which gives you free seat selection without paying extra. Here’s how it compares:
Southwest vs. Major Airlines (Comparison):
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Southwest
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Free seat selection via boarding order
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No assigned seating
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Free flight changes (as travel credit)
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Bags fly free (2 checked bags)
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Delta
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Assigned seating
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Seat fees for premium seats
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Paid change fees on some fares
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More expensive baggage fees
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American Airlines
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Assigned seating
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Paid seat selection
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Higher change fees on basic economy
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Bags often cost extra
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United
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Assigned seating
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Paid seat selection
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High change fees for low fares
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Extra baggage costs
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Why Southwest is better for free seat selection:
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No seat fees
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Easier upgrades to A boarding
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More flexible change policy
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get the Best Seat on Southwest
Southwest free boarding and seating tips
Here’s the most effective strategy to get a better seat on Southwest without paying extra:
Step 1: Book the right fare
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If you need guaranteed early boarding, Business Select is best.
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If you’re flexible, choose Wanna Get Away fares.
Step 2: Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight
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Set an alarm for 24 hours before departure.
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Check in immediately to improve your boarding position.
Step 3: Consider EarlyBird Check-In
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EarlyBird can be worth it for busy routes or peak travel.
Step 4: Board early
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Arrive at the gate early to ensure you’re ready when boarding begins.
Step 5: Choose seats quickly
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If you’re traveling with others, board together.
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Choose seats near the back if you’re in C group (often the easiest to find together).
If you need help with booking or seat strategy, call +1-855-869-7071 for personalized guidance.
How Southwest Handles Flight Changes, Cancellations, and Refunds
How Southwest handles flight changes and cancellations
Southwest is known for its flexible policies. Here’s what you need to know:
Flight changes:
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You can change flights for free.
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If the new fare is higher, you pay the difference.
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If the new fare is lower, you get a travel credit.
Cancellations:
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You can cancel and receive a travel credit.
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No cancellation fees for most fares.
Refunds:
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Refunds apply only to refundable fares.
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Nonrefundable fares receive travel credit.
If you need help with a last-minute cancellation or rebooking, call the helpline number for fast support.
How to Avoid Paying for Seat Selection on Southwest
How to avoid paying for seat selection on Southwest
Since Southwest doesn’t charge seat fees, your real goal is to avoid paying for boarding upgrades. Here’s how:
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Check in at 24 hours
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Use EarlyBird only when necessary
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Choose flights with lighter passenger loads
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Avoid peak travel times
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Use Business Select only when it’s worth the cost
Real-World Scenario: Saving Money During President’s Day Deals
President’s Day flight deals 2026 and saving strategies
Scenario: You’re planning a family trip during President’s Day weekend.
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Book early to secure better fares.
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Use Southwest’s free change policy to keep flexibility.
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Avoid paying for Business Select unless you need A boarding.
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If fares drop later, change your flight without losing money.
If you want help spotting the best President’s Day deals and booking strategically, call customer support.
Tips for Last-Minute Bookings and Same-Day Changes
Southwest Airlines boarding strategy for last-minute bookings
Last-minute booking tips:
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Southwest often has last-minute seats at reasonable prices.
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Use flexible policies to adjust plans.
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Avoid peak travel times to get better boarding positions.
Same-day changes:
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Southwest allows same-day changes for a fee on some fares.
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It’s usually cheaper than paying change fees on other airlines.
If you need urgent assistance for same-day changes, call +1-855-869-7071.
How to Handle Name Changes on Southwest
Name change policy for Southwest Airlines
Southwest generally does not allow name changes unless there is a correction or minor typo. If you need to update a name:
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Check the airline’s official policy.
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Contact Southwest support.
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Consider canceling and rebooking if the change isn’t allowed.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make With Southwest Seating
Common mistakes when using Southwest free seat selection
Avoid these mistakes to get the best seats:
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Not checking in exactly at 24 hours
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Assuming seat selection is the same as assigned seating
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Buying Business Select unnecessarily
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Arriving late to the gate
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Not boarding early enough for group C
FAQs
How do I get the best seat on Southwest without paying?
You can get better seats by checking in at 24 hours, using EarlyBird only when needed, and choosing flights with lighter passenger loads. Business Select guarantees A boarding but costs more.
Does Southwest let you choose seats for free?
Southwest doesn’t assign seats, but you can choose any available seat during boarding, making it “free seat selection.” Your boarding position determines options. For help with boarding strategy or booking, call +1-855-869-7071.
What is the 10 minute rule for Southwest?
The “10 minute rule” refers to arriving at the gate at least 10 minutes before boarding starts. If you’re late, you may miss your boarding position and end up with fewer seat options, especially on full flights.
How does the Southwest new seating policy work?
Southwest’s seating remains open, based on boarding order. Passengers receive boarding group (A/B/C) and position (1–60). You select seats as you board. The “new policy” focuses on clearer boarding updates and improved check-in visibility for passengers.
Does checking in early get you a better seat on Southwest?
Yes, checking in exactly 24 hours before departure improves your boarding position, which increases your chances of selecting better seats. EarlyBird Check-In can also help, but it costs extra and is only worth it on busy routes.
Read More: JetBlue Free Seat Selection Policy Explained for 2026
Conclusion: Best Practices for Free Seat Selection
Southwest Airlines offers one of the most traveler-friendly seating systems available. While you don’t get assigned seats, you can still enjoy free seat selection by using the boarding system strategically. With flexible change policies and no seat fees, Southwest is often the best option for travelers who want value and convenience.
If you need help with your booking, changes, or finding the best fares during President’s Day Flight Deals 2026, call +1-855-869-7071 for fast assistance. We are an independent travel assistance agency, not officially affiliated with any airline, but here to help you with your travel queries and support you every step of the way.