12 Free Things on Southwest Airlines:
Southwest Airlines is known for its customer-friendly policies and no-frills approach to air travel. One of the most appealing aspects of flying with Southwest Airlines is the number of complimentary amenities and services available to passengers. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler with Southwest Airlines, this guide will help you take full advantage of all the airline’s complimentary perks.
1. Free Baggage Allowance in Southwest Airlines
1.1 Two Free Checked Bags:
- No Hidden Fees: Unlike many airlines that charge for checked baggage, Southwest Airlines allows passengers to check two bags for free. This policy is a standout feature that saves travelers money, especially on longer trips where more luggage is needed.
- Size and Weight Limits: Each checked bag must adhere to the length (62 linear inches) and weight (50 pounds) restrictions. Southwest’s policy is straightforward, but checking the dimensions and weight is important to avoid extra fees.
1.2 One Free Carry-On and Personal Item:
- Generous Carry-On Policy: In addition to the two checked bags, Southwest Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a purse, backpack, or laptop bag) for free. This policy ensures that passengers have ample space for all their essentials without incurring extra charges.
- Size Restrictions: The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item should fit under the seat in front of you.
2. Free Southwest Airlines Flight Entertainment

Photo: Steladi
2.1 Movies and TV Shows in Southwest Airlines:
- Stream for Free: Southwest Airlines offers a wide selection of movies and TV shows that passengers can stream for free on their devices. This service is available on most flights, ensuring you stay entertained.
- No App Required: Accessing in-flight entertainment is simple—connect to the Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi network, and you can stream directly from your browser without downloading an app beforehand.
2.2 Live TV:
- Real-Time Entertainment: Southwest provides free access to live TV on many of its flights, allowing passengers to watch their favorite shows, sports events, and news channels in real time.
- Channel Selection: The airline offers a variety of popular channels, including ESPN, CNN, and HGTV, giving passengers a range of options to suit different interests.
2.3 Music and Podcasts:
- Diverse Selection: If you prefer to listen to music or catch up on podcasts, Southwest Airlines has you covered with various free audio options. Passengers can enjoy curated playlists, popular albums, and an array of podcasts across different genres.
3. Free Wi-Fi Messaging on Southwest Airlines
3.1 Stay Connected with Free Messaging:
- Texting for Free: Southwest Airlines allows passengers to send messages for free using iMessage, WhatsApp, and Viber. This feature lets you stay in touch with family and friends without paying for full internet access.
- Simple Connection: To use the free messaging service, connect to the Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi and select the “Free Messaging” option. No additional apps or purchases are necessary.
4. Free Snacks and Beverages
4.1 Complimentary Snacks:
- Tasty Treats: Southwest Airlines offers a variety of free snacks on its flights, including pretzels, crackers, and cookies. While the selection may vary depending on the flight’s length and time of day, passengers can always expect a tasty treat.
- Special Diets: Southwest Airlines also offers gluten-free and nut-free snack options upon request for those with dietary restrictions.
- Variety of Drinks: Passengers can enjoy a range of complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, including soft drinks, juice, coffee, and tea. These are served throughout the flight to keep you refreshed and hydrated.
- Special Requests: Southwest Airlines flight attendants are generally accommodating if you have specific beverage preferences, offering options like lemon for your tea or extra ice for your soda.
4.3 Complimentary Alcoholic Drinks on Special Occasions:
- Celebratory Sips: On special occasions such as holidays or Southwest Airline’s anniversary, the airline may offer free alcoholic drinks to passengers. These include beer, wine, and spirits, providing an added touch of festivity to your flight.
5. Free Changes and Cancellations in Southwest Airlines
5.1 No Change Fees:
- Flexibility in Travel Plans: Southwest Airlines stands out by not charging change fees if you need to modify your flight. Whether your plans have shifted or you found a better travel date, you can change your booking without incurring additional costs.
- Price Differences: While the change fee is waived, passengers must pay any difference in fare if the new flight is expensive. Conversely, if the new flight is cheap, Southwest Airlines offers travel credits for the difference.
5.2 Free Cancellations and Refunds:
- Full Refunds on Cancellations: If you need to cancel your flight, Southwest Airlines offers the option to receive a full refund (if the ticket is refundable) or travel funds for future use. This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility, allowing you to adjust your travel plans without losing money.
- 24-Hour Cancellation Policy: Southwest Airlines also follows the standard 24-hour cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel your booking within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund, regardless of the fare type.
6. Free Early Check-In and Family Boarding
6.1 EarlyBird Check-In
- Priority Boarding: Although EarlyBird Check-In comes with a fee, it’s worth mentioning because it enhances your travel experience by giving you a better boarding position. You’ll likely get your preferred seat and space in the overhead bin.
6.2 Free Family Boarding:
- Boarding with Young Children: Southwest Airlines offers free family boarding to families with children aged six or younger. This service allows passengers to board the plane between Group A and Group B, giving them more time to settle before the general boarding process begins.
- Additional Family Perks: Southwest is known for being family-friendly, and flight attendants go out of their way to make families have a smooth and enjoyable flight.
7. Free Companion Pass: Rapid Rewards Points
7.1 Earn a Companion Pass:
- How It Works: Southwest’s Companion Pass is one of the most generous loyalty perks in the airline industry. If you earn enough Rapid Rewards points or complete a certain number of flights in a calendar year, you can designate one person to fly with you for free (plus taxes and fees) every time you purchase or redeem points for a flight.
- Validity: The Companion Pass is valid for the remainder of the year it was earned and the following year, offering significant value for frequent travelers.
7.2 Maximizing the Companion Pass:
- Travel Together for Less: Whether traveling with a spouse, friend, or family member, the Companion Pass allows you to bring them along on your adventures without paying for their ticket. It can result in substantial savings over multiple trips.
8. Free Access to Southwest Airlines Customer-Friendly Policies
8.1 No Overbooking:
- Fly with Confidence: Southwest has a no-overbooking policy, meaning you’ll unlikely be bumped from a flight due to Overbooking. It reduces travel stress.
- Transparent Policies: Southwest Air is transparent about its policies and works hard to maintain customer trust. It provides transparent information about its procedures and what passengers can expect.
8.2 Lost and Found Assistance:
- Efficient Lost Item Recovery: If you leave something on Southwest, they offer a free lost and found service. Report the lost item through their online form, and Southwest’s team will work to reunite you with your belongings.
- Quick Resolution: Southwest is known for handling lost items efficiently. It resolves cases quickly and allows passengers to return their belongings with minimal hassle.
9. Free Extras to Military People in Southwest Airlines
9.1: Military Discounts and Free Bags:
- Special Discounts: Southwest offers special military fares and discounts for active-duty military personnel and their dependents. These fares are affordable and come with added benefits.
- Extra Free Baggage: Military personnel traveling on orders can check more than two bags for free, and the weight limit for these bags is also higher, providing additional convenience for Southwest Airlines.
9.2 Priority Boarding for Military Members:
- Boarding Benefits: Active-duty military personnel are eligible for free priority boarding, ensuring ample time to settle in and store their gear before the general boarding process begins.
10. Free Extras for Rapid Rewards Members
10.1 Earning Points on Every Flight:
- Rapid Rewards Program: Southwest Airline’s Rapid Rewards program allows you to earn points on every flight, which can be redeemed for free flights, upgrades, and more. Enrollment is free; points never expire if you earn activity within 24 months.
- Bonus Offers: Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards members receive special promotions and bonuses, which allow you to earn points faster and enjoy more rewards.
10.2 Free A-List Status Perks:
- A-List and A-List Preferred: Frequent flyers can earn A-List or A-List Preferred status, which comes with free perks such as priority boarding, free same-day standby, and bonus flight points. These perks enhance your travel experience and provide added convenience.
Conclusion
Flying with Southwest Airlines offers numerous free perks and services that enhance the travel experience. From generous baggage policies and in-flight entertainment to flexible booking options and unique rewards for frequent flyers, Southwest Airlines ensures that passengers receive exceptional value at no extra cost. By taking full advantage of these complimentary offerings, you can enjoy a more comfortable, stress-free journey when you fly with Southwest Airlines.