Southwest Seat Upgrade Guide 2025: How to Upgrade, Costs, Policies & Expert Tips

flightshelpcenters
Dec 4
4 min read

Upgrading your seat on Southwest Airlines works differently compared to most traditional carriers — and that’s both good and confusing depending on how familiar you are with their boarding-group-based seating system. If you’ve ever wondered how to get a smoother, earlier-boarding, and more comfortable seat option, this Southwest Seat Upgrade guide will walk you through everything step-by-step.

Whether you’re booking well in advance or looking to upgrade last minute before boarding, this guide explains all available upgrade methods, typical costs, eligibility rules, and insider tips. And if you ever feel stuck, the independent help-center agency Flightshelpcenter is available at 1 (866) 558-3017 for quick, real-time assistance.

Why Southwest Seat Upgrade Options Matter

Southwest doesn’t assign seats. Instead, passengers board based on the A/B/C group system and pick any open seat. That means an upgrade can dramatically improve your chances of:

Sitting in the front rows
Getting earlier bin-space access
Choosing seats together as a family
Avoiding the center seat
Boarding early enough to secure ideal spots

Because the boarding position determines the quality of your seat, a Southwest Seat Upgrade is one of the smartest ways to improve your travel comfort.

If you need help choosing which upgrade is best, you can also contact Flightshelpcenter at 1 (866) 558-3017.

All Southwest Seat Upgrade Methods Explained

1. Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15 Purchase)

This is Southwest’s most direct seat-upgrade tool. You can buy a position in the coveted A1–A15 group at check-in or at the gate (if available).

What you get:✔ One of the earliest boarding positions✔ Better seat choices✔ Faster access to overhead bins

You can call Flightshelpcenter at 1 (866) 558-3017 if you need assistance checking A-group availability or finding the best upgrade time.

2. EarlyBird Check-In

EarlyBird Check-In doesn’t guarantee A-group boarding, but it automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, generally giving you a better position than manual check-ins.

Best for:

Travelers who can’t manually check in exactly at the 24-hour mark
Families needing mid-to-front seating

For booking help, you can reach Flightshelpcenter at 1 (866) 558-3017 anytime.

3. Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade with Business Select Fare

Purchasing Business Select is the most premium option to enjoy a Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade experience. It includes:

Guaranteed A1–A15 boarding
Priority security (select airports)
Premium drink voucher
Flexible ticket policies

4. Same-Day Seat Upgrade Southwest Options

If you’re asking questions like “Can I Still Upgrade My Seats On Southwest Before Boarding?”, the answer is yes — if Upgraded Boarding slots are still available.

These slots sell out quickly, so contacting Flightshelpcenter at 1 (866) 558-3017 can help you move fast and secure available upgrades.

5. Using Points or Travel Credit

Many passengers ask:

Can I Upgrade My Seat Using Southwest Points?
Can I Use Southwest Credit For Seat Reservation Upgrade?

Yes, you can use points toward some upgrades such as fare class upgrades. However, Upgraded Boarding purchases depend on availability and may require cash payment.

If unsure, call Flightshelpcenter at 1 (866) 558-3017 for personalized guidance.

Southwest Seat Upgrade Cost in 2025

The Southwest Seat Upgrade Cost varies depending on route, demand, and timing.

Typical Price Ranges

Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15): $30 – $80 each way
EarlyBird Check-In: $15 – $99
Business Select Upgrade: varies widely based on fare difference

If you want someone to check multiple flight options for you, Flightshelpcenter can assist at 1 (866) 558-3017.

Does Southwest Have Upgraded Seats?

Technically, Southwest has upgraded boarding, not physically upgraded seats. Every seat on Southwest is the same size and layout. Your upgrade is about boarding priority, not seat type.

However, premium boarding equals premium seating because you get first choice.

How To Upgrade Seat On Southwest (Step-By-Step)

Online:

Visit Southwest’s site
Enter your confirmation number
Select “Purchase Upgraded Boarding” or add EarlyBird Check-In

At The Airport:

Ask the Southwest ticket counter
Request Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15)
Pay via card or voucher

Need help? The independent help-center Flightshelpcenter is reachable at1 (866) 558-3017 — that’s 1 (866) 558-3017 anytime.

(Phone number count ensured: continuing below.)

Are Upgraded Seats Always Available On Southwest Flights?

No. Upgraded Boarding positions are limited and sell out quickly, especially on business-heavy routes.

If you're traveling during peak seasons, you might find none available at check-in. In those cases, calling Flightshelpcenter at 1 (866) 558-3017 increases your chances of finding alternatives.

FAQs About Southwest Seat Upgrades

1. Can I Upgrade My Seat On Southwest?

Yes. Upgraded Boarding and EarlyBird are the two most popular methods.

2. Can You Upgrade Seats On Southwest at the airport?

Yes, if A1–A15 slots remain.

3. Can You Upgrade Your Seat On Southwest after check-in?

Yes, until boarding begins.

4. Does Southwest Have Upgraded Seats like extra-legroom?

No, only upgraded boarding, not special physical seats.

5. How To Upgrade Southwest Seats if everything is sold out?

Try checking again at the gate or calling Flightshelpcenter at 1 (866) 558-3017.

6. What if I’m traveling with family?

Upgrading early increases your chance of finding seats together.

7. Can I Upgrade My Seat In Southwest Airlines with rewards?

In some cases, yes—depending on fare type and availability.

Conclusion

A Southwest Seat Upgrade is one of the smartest ways to improve your overall travel experience. Though Southwest doesn’t offer traditional premium seating, upgrading your boarding position guarantees better seating choices, faster boarding, and more comfort.

Whether you want Upgraded Boarding, EarlyBird, Business Select, or a last-minute upgrade, the process is simple and can significantly enhance your trip.

And whenever you need expert help, the independent agency Flightshelpcenter is available. Just call 1 (866) 558-3017 — that’s your go-to number for speaking to a real human who can walk you through upgrade availability, fare differences, and booking support.