Planning to fly in a group and wondering how to make a reservation with Southwest Airlines? Whether it is a corporate meeting, a family reunion, or just a huge circle of friends. Organizing a booking for multiple people can be a challenging task. However, with Southwest Airlines Group Travel, passengers can simplify the process and enjoy various benefits. Moreover, in this guide, we will cover everything. From eligibility, benefits, to steps to book a flight. So, stay with us and continue to read further.
What is Southwest Airlines Group Travel?
Southwest group travel is a service offered to individuals of 10 or more people traveling together on the same itinerary. Instead of reserving each ticket, this service allows one to organize one reservation for the entire group. This program is ideal for: School field trips, Wedding parties, Religious or church groups, sports teams, and family travels.
Southwest Airlines Group Travel Policy and Guidelines:
Before confirming a booking, understand important policies. Such as group flight change, cancellation, seating, refund, and eligibility. However, Southwest Airlines Group Travel Policy terms are as follows:
- Name Changes: Rectifications in the name are allowed without fees up to 72 hours before departure.
- Flight modification: No-fee but fare differences may apply.
- Refund: The $50 deposit is non-refundable, but if the group reduces in size, some credit or refund will be given.
- Seating: Southwest does not assign the seats. However, early check-in options are available for an additional charge.
What Information Do You Need to Provide for Group Booking?
When making a reservation, passengers will need to submit the details to receive a Southwest group fare quote and to finalize the booking. However, the details include:
- Total number of passengers (minimum 10)
- Destination airports
- Preferred travel dates
- Departure and return times
- Contact details of the group coordinator
- Any special requests (wheelchair assistance, etc.)
How to Book a Group Flight With Southwest Airlines?
Making a group reservation is different than booking regular flights. So, if you are traveling with multiple people and want to make a Southwest group reservation, done. Then, follow the simple steps mentioned below:
- Go to the Southwest website.
- Find the flight booking section.
- Choose group travel as a type of booking.
- Now fill out the “Southwest group travel request form”.
- After that, get the group quote.
- Choose the flight option that suits you and your budget best.
- Now pay a deposit.
- After that, submit the remaining details, including the passenger names.
- At last, make the final payment (21 days before departure).
- Once everything is done, get the confirmation in your email.
How to Contact the Southwest Airlines Group Travel Team?
For assistance with the booking process, the Southwest Group travel service team is ready to help. Here is how to contact them: Phone: 1-800-433-5368 (Monday to Friday, 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM). Moreover, go to the “Group Travel” section for “Special Travel Needs.”
When Can You Submit the Travelers Name on Southwest?
One of the major advantages of group travel with Southwest is that you don’t need traveler names at the time of booking. Instead, names can be added or changed up to 72 hours before departure. However, double-check spelling and ID match, as boarding requires valid government-issued identification.
How Can I Manage the Southwest Group Travel Online?
Yes, once the reservation is confirmed, receive a Southwest Airlines Group Travel Reference Number. Use it to manage the booking. Enter the reservation code in the Manage My Trip section. After that, access the booking and make the changes accordingly.
Can You Reserve a Seat For a Group Member on Southwest?
No, Southwest Airlines does not offer assigned seating, even for group reservations. They do offer open seating. That means the boarding position determines the Southwest seat selection. Moreover, group members can sit together only if they board at around the same time. Therefore, to sit together, do an early check-in, and increase the chances of sitting next to your buddy.
How Does Group Check-in Work on Southwest Airlines?
The Group check-in is different in the southwest. Because the airline has a open seating policy. So, Group travelers can check in individually online 24 hours before the flight. Moreover, to improve boarding position, purchase EarlyBird Southwest Airlines Check-In, which automatically checks you in before departure.
Benefits of Southwest Airlines Group Travel:
Southwest Airlines offers various perks when you opt for group travel bookings. Here are some standout benefits:
- No Booking Charges: No additional fees for group reservations. That makes a budget travel option.
- Flexible Payment Option: You don’t need to pay for the entire group. Instead, pay a small deposit per person and complete the payment closer to the travel date.
- Name flexibility: Reserve a seat without providing full names immediately. Names and details can be submitted later.
- Dedicated support:Southwest provides group travel agents to assist you with booking, changes, or special requirements.
- Free checked Bags:Each group traveler enjoys the same generous baggage policy. Moreover, 2 free checked bags per person.
How Can I Earn Rapid Reward Points on Group Travel?
Group travels are not eligible for the individual rapid reward points. However, Southwest Airlines offers some exceptions. While Southwest does not allow individual passengers to earn points for flights booked under the group travel program. But, each group member who books individually can earn points. However, they lose group booking perks like flexible payments and coordinated support.
Southwest Group Book Vs Individual Booking: Which is Better?
Here is a quick comparison to help decide what type of reservation is better and offers more perks. To find the difference, refer to the table below.
| Features | Southwest Group Booking | Southwest Individual Booking |
| Price Lock | Yes | No |
| Name Flexibility | Yes (up to 72 hours) | No |
| Pay later option | Yes | No |
| Rapid Reward points | No | Yes |
| Online booking | No | Yes |
| Dedicated group support | Yes | No |
Bottom-line
In conclusion, Southwest Airlines Group Travel is helpful for making travel planning for large parties at affordable fares. Moreover, with flexible booking, support, and no hidden charges, it is best to take a group trip. Just plan, know the policies, and keep the members informed about everything throughout the process. So, if you’re asking, “How do I make a group reservation with Southwest Airlines?” Now you know the complete process. In addition, if there is still any doubt, don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-800-433-5368 & and get all the queries resolved in no time.