Southwest Upgrade to Business Select: Smart Notes for Stress-Free Flying

Southwest Upgrade to Business Select is not about luxury seats or a separate cabin—it’s about boarding first, staying flexible, and earning more rewards. Below are easy-to-understand notes that explain everything clearly.

What Is Business Select on Southwest?

Business Select is Southwest Airlines’ highest fare option. Southwest does not offer traditional Business Class. All seats are the same, but Business Select passengers get priority boarding and extra perks.

Biggest Advantage: Priority Boarding

Southwest uses open seating, meaning seats are first-come, first-served.
With Business Select, you get a guaranteed A1–A15 boarding position, allowing you to:

• Sit near the front

• Choose window or aisle seats

• Access exit-row seats early

This is the main reason travelers upgrade.

How Can You Upgrade to Business Select?

You can upgrade in two ways:

• At booking by choosing Business Select fare

• After booking by paying the fare difference (if seats are available)

Upgrade prices vary based on route, demand, and time of purchase.

Cost of Upgrading to Business Select

There is no fixed upgrade price. Typical ranges are:

• Short flights: $30–$60

• Medium routes: $80–$150

• Long or busy routes: $150–$200+

Prices often increase closer to departure.

What Benefits Come with Business Select?

When you upgrade to Business Select, you get:

• Priority boarding (A1–A15)

• Fully refundable ticket

• Free same-day flight changes

• Extra Rapid Rewards points

• One complimentary premium drink on eligible flights

Business Select vs Anytime Fare

Both fares are refundable, but Business Select includes:

• Earlier boarding

• More reward points

• Free drink

Anytime fare does not include these extras.

Can You Upgrade Using Rapid Rewards Points?

Southwest usually does not allow direct upgrades using points.
Instead, you must cancel your ticket and rebook it as Business Select using points (if available).

Is Business Select Worth It?

Business Select is worth it if:

• You want guaranteed early boarding

• You value flexibility

• You travel frequently

• You dislike check-in stress

It may not be worth it if:

• You want the lowest fare

• Boarding position doesn’t matter to you

Business Select vs EarlyBird Check-In

• EarlyBird: Cheaper, but no guaranteed top boarding position

• Business Select: Guaranteed A1–A15 plus extra perks

Key Takeaway

Southwest Upgrade to Business Select is ideal for travelers who want control, flexibility, and peace of mind—not luxury seating. If boarding early matters, it’s a smart upgrade.