Is Southwest Group Travel Cheaper?

Southwest Airlines is known for offering low fares and a simplified fare structure, which makes it a popular choice for group travel. However, whether or not Southwest is actually cheaper for group travel depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the group, the destinations, dates of travel, and the specific fare options chosen. You can refer to this page by HolidayGlobes to get insightful information on how to book a group on Southwest Airlines along with other relevant details.

How Do I Book in with a Group on Southwest?

One of the key benefits of choosing Southwest group reservations is the airline's low fares. Southwest does not charge change or cancellation fees, which makes it easy for groups to adjust their travel plans without incurring additional costs. Additionally, Southwest offers a fare structure that is based on the number of seats available on a flight, rather than the number of seats sold. This means that as a flight becomes fuller, the fares tend to increase, making it more expensive to book a group of seats together.

Another benefit of Southwest group reservations is the airline's "Bags Fly Free" policy, which allows passengers to check up to two bags for free. This can be significant savings for groups traveling together, as baggage fees can add up quickly. Additionally, Southwest offers a "Business Select" fare option that includes perks such as priority boarding and a free drink. This can be a good option for groups traveling on business.

To book a group on Southwest, you can call their group reservations line at 1-888-433-5368. The representative will assist you in booking your group, which must consist of 10 or more passengers. The representative will also help you with any special requests, such as seating assignments. Another option is to use the Southwest Group Travel Request Form on their website, where you can submit your information and a representative will contact you to assist with your booking.

How Do I Check in with a Group on Southwest?

For Southwest group check in, you can choose from a couple of options:

• Online Check-in: Each member of the group can check in individually online, using the confirmation number and the first and last name on the reservation. This can be done up to 24 hours before the flight.
• Group Check-in: The group organizer can check in the entire group at the airport by providing the confirmation number and the last name on the reservation for each member of the group. This can be done at the airport ticket counter or at a self-service kiosk. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.

Southwest also offers a feature called "Traveler Management" which allows group organizers to manage the check-in process and assign seats for each member of the group. It is important to note that Southwest does not assign seats, so the group members will have to choose their seats during the check-in process.

What are the Rules for Family Boarding on Southwest?

Southwest Airlines has a Family Boarding policy that allows families with children six years of age or younger to board the aircraft before other passengers. Family Boarding is available on all Southwest flights, and it allows families to board during the "A" group boarding process.

To participate in Family Boarding, families must have at least one child six years of age or younger and the child must be traveling with the family. Families with children six years of age or younger will be called to board after all passengers in the "A" group have boarded and before the "B" group is called.

It's important to note that Family Boarding is not a guarantee of seating together, as Southwest does not assign seats. However, families with children six years of age or younger will have the opportunity to board the aircraft first and select seats together.

In addition to Family Boarding, Southwest offers a "Family Pooling" feature which allows families to pool their Rapid Rewards points together to book flights for everyone in the family.

Final thoughts on Southwest Group Travels

One potential downside of Southwest group travel is the airline's route network. Southwest primarily serves domestic destinations within the United States, with a limited number of flights to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. This means that groups traveling internationally will likely have to consider other airlines. Additionally, Southwest does not have a formal program for group travel, which means that groups will need to book their seats individually and may not be able to take advantage of any group discounts.

In conclusion, Southwest Airlines can be a great option for group travel, particularly for domestic travel within the United States. The airline's low fares, "Bags Fly Free" policy, and "Business Select" fare options can make it an attractive choice for groups. However, groups traveling internationally or looking for a more formal group travel program may want to consider other airlines. It's always a good idea to check various airlines and compare the prices, routes, and policies before making a decision. You can reach out to HolidayGlobes for getting all your doubts cleared.

FAQs of Southwest Group Bookings