Unlock Elite Boarding Perks With Southwest Credit Card: How The New Upgrade Works

If you’re a frequent Southwest Airlines traveler, upgrading your boarding position can make a significant difference in your airport experience. Southwest offers several ways to upgrade your boarding, including using a Southwest credit card. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of how Southwest credit card upgraded boarding works and how you can take advantage of this perk.

Understanding Southwest’s Boarding Process

Southwest Airlines uses an open seating policy, which means passengers are not assigned specific seats. Instead, they board the aircraft in groups called “boarding positions.” There are four main boarding positions:

• A Group: Southwest Rapid Rewards Elite members and A-List Preferred members.
• B Group: Southwest Rapid Rewards Elite members and A-List members.
• C Group: Southwest Rapid Rewards Members and passengers with upgraded boarding.
• D Group: All other passengers.

How Southwest Credit Card Upgraded Boarding Works

Certain Southwest credit cards offer upgraded boarding benefits. When you use these cards to purchase Southwest flights, you may be eligible for priority boarding in the C Group. This means you’ll be able to board the aircraft ahead of passengers in the D Group.

The specific upgraded boarding benefits vary depending on the credit card you have. Here’s a breakdown of the different cards and their perks:

• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card: Upgraded boarding in the C Group.
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card: Upgraded boarding in the C Group, plus two EarlyBird Check-In privileges per year.
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card: Upgraded boarding in the C Group, plus four EarlyBird Check-In privileges per year.
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card: Upgraded boarding in the C Group, plus six EarlyBird Check-In privileges per year.

Benefits of Upgraded Boarding

Upgraded boarding with a Southwest credit card offers several benefits:

• Earlier access to overhead bin space: By boarding earlier, you’ll have a better chance of finding space for your carry-on luggage in the overhead bins.
• Reduced stress: Boarding earlier can help reduce stress and anxiety, especially during busy travel times.
• More time for relaxation: By boarding early, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the amenities in the airport or on the aircraft.
• Increased chances of a better seat: While Southwest doesn’t assign specific seats, boarding earlier gives you a better chance of choosing a preferred seat location.

How to Use Your Southwest Credit Card for Upgraded Boarding

To use your Southwest credit card for upgraded boarding, simply follow these steps:

1. Purchase your Southwest flight using your eligible credit card.
2. Check in for your flight online or at the airport.
3. When prompted, select the “Upgraded Boarding” option.
4. Receive your boarding pass with your upgraded boarding position.

Additional Factors to Consider

• Companion Pass: If you have the Southwest Companion Pass, you’ll automatically receive upgraded boarding in the A Group, regardless of the credit card you use.
• EarlyBird Check-In: Some Southwest credit cards offer EarlyBird Check-In privileges. This allows you to check in for your flight 24 hours before the general public, giving you a better chance of securing an earlier boarding position.
• Other ways to upgrade boarding: In addition to using a Southwest credit card, you can also upgrade your boarding position by purchasing Business Select fares or by holding Southwest Rapid Rewards Elite status.

Maximizing Your Upgraded Boarding Benefits

Here are a few tips to help you maximize your upgraded boarding benefits:

• Use your eligible credit card for all Southwest purchases: This will help you earn more Southwest Rapid Rewards points, which can be used to purchase additional flights or other travel perks.
• Take advantage of EarlyBird Check-In: If you have a Southwest credit card that offers EarlyBird Check-In, be sure to use this privilege to secure the earliest possible boarding position.
• Consider purchasing Business Select fares: Business Select fares typically include upgraded boarding benefits, as well as other perks such as priority check-in and free checked bags.
• Earn Southwest Rapid Rewards Elite status: Southwest Rapid Rewards Elite members receive upgraded boarding in the A Group, along with other exclusive benefits.

Wrap-Up: Soaring to the Skies with Southwest Credit Card Upgraded Boarding

Upgraded boarding with a Southwest credit card is a valuable perk that can enhance your travel experience. By understanding how it works and maximizing your benefits, you can enjoy earlier access to overhead bin space, reduced stress, and a more comfortable flight. So, next time you’re booking a Southwest flight, consider using your eligible credit card to upgrade your boarding position and take your travel experience to new heights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use my Southwest credit card for upgraded boarding on all Southwest flights?
A: Yes, you can use your eligible Southwest credit card for upgraded boarding on all Southwest flights.

Q: What is the earliest I can check in for my flight to secure upgraded boarding?
A: If you have EarlyBird Check-In privileges, you can check in for your flight 24 hours before the general public.

Q: Do I need to pay an additional fee for upgraded boarding?
A: No, upgraded boarding is included as a perk of certain Southwest credit cards.

Q: Can I upgrade my boarding position using multiple Southwest credit cards?
A: No, you can only upgrade your boarding position using one eligible Southwest credit card per flight.

Q: What if I don’t have an eligible Southwest credit card?
A: You can still upgrade your boarding position by purchasing Business Select fares or by holding Southwest Rapid Rewards Elite status.