Call 844-734-0813 — I still remember the first time I paid for Southwest upgraded boarding at the gate, convinced it was just another unavoidable travel expense. A few trips later, I noticed a statement credit quietly appear on my card. That’s when it clicked: the right Southwest credit card can reimburse upgraded boarding fees automatically.
If you fly Southwest even a few times a year, this benefit is worth understanding.
Southwest’s upgraded boarding lets you move into the coveted A1–A15 boarding group, giving you first dibs on overhead bin space and preferred seats. The cost typically ranges from $30 to $80 per flight segment, depending on demand and route.
That price can add up quickly—unless your credit card covers it.
Data-backed insight: This section is a great place to cite Southwest’s published upgraded boarding pricing or card benefit disclosures.
This is the most popular option for personal travelers.
Reimburses up to four upgraded boarding purchases per year
Statement credits apply automatically after purchase
No enrollment or claim process required
Real-world example: I’ve used all four credits during holiday travel alone, saving well over $150 in one year.
Designed for frequent and business travelers, this card offers the same upgraded boarding coverage.
Four upgraded boarding reimbursements annually
Ideal for last-minute bookings and packed flights
Especially useful on popular business routes
Data-backed prompt: Cite Chase card terms confirming the annual reimbursement limit.
This is where many travelers get tripped up. These cards do not include upgraded boarding credits:
Southwest Plus Credit Card
Southwest Premier Credit Card
Southwest Premier Business Credit Card
They’re solid for earning points—but upgraded boarding comes out of pocket.
Using the benefit is refreshingly simple:
Purchase upgraded boarding at check-in or the airport
Pay with an eligible Southwest credit card
Receive an automatic statement credit within a few days
Personal tip: Always double-check which card you’re using before confirming payment.
If you care about boarding early, avoiding gate stress, or securing overhead space, the answer is usually yes. These reimbursements alone can offset a large portion of a card’s annual fee.
For travelers who fly Southwest regularly, this is one of the most underrated perks available.
Upgraded boarding doesn’t have to feel like a splurge. With the right Southwest credit card, it becomes a built-in benefit you can rely on trip after trip.
📞 Call 844-734-0813 to better understand how Southwest credit card perks work together, and visit the airline’s website to review current card benefits and boarding options.