Southwest Airlines A Guide To Freebies Perks And Savings

Southwest Airlines, known for its unique approach to air travel, distinguishes itself by offering a range of complimentary services that enhance the passenger experience and provide significant value. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various free amenities and perks available on Southwest flights, drawing on available information to help U.S. consumers, deal seekers, and frequent travelers make the most of what the airline has to offer.

Free Alcoholic Drinks on Select Holidays

A standout feature of flying with Southwest is the provision of complimentary alcoholic beverages on select holidays. According to available sources, all passengers of legal drinking age can enjoy one free alcoholic drink aboard a Southwest flight on the following occasions:

• Valentine's Day (February 14)
• St. Patrick's Day (March 17)
• Southwest's Birthday (June 18)
• Halloween (October 31)

The airline's drink menu on these days includes a variety of spirits, wines, and beers, as well as canned cocktails. Passengers traveling to Hawaii can also choose from Hawaiian specialties, such as Kona Brewing Big Wave Golden Ale and Kula Toasted Coconut Rum, adding a regional touch to the complimentary offerings.

For travelers seeking a free drink on other days, the only option mentioned is booking a Business Select seat. This fare class includes a coupon for one free premium drink in-flight, along with other benefits like priority boarding and Fly By check-in.

Two Free Checked Bags: A Significant Value

One of the most well-known and valuable perks of flying Southwest is the allowance of two free checked bags per passenger. In an era where most airlines charge substantial fees for checked luggage, this policy is a major advantage, especially for families, travelers on longer trips, or those with bulky items.

The benefit of free checked bags is twofold: it translates to significant financial savings, often offsetting the cost of a flight, and it provides increased convenience by allowing passengers to avoid carrying heavy suitcases through the airport and dealing with the constraints of carry-on luggage. With two free checked bags, travelers can pack more freely without the worry of incurring additional fees, which can be a major stress reliever.

Complimentary Snacks and Non-Alcoholic Beverages

While Southwest does not offer full meals on its flights, it does provide a selection of complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to all passengers. This includes a variety of snacks like pretzels and peanuts, along with choices of non-alcoholic drinks such as water, juice, and soda.

The availability of these refreshments at no extra charge is a welcome addition for passengers, particularly on longer flights. While the selection of paid snacks and beverages is also available for purchase using cash or credit card for those seeking more variety, the free options ensure that no passenger is left without a basic refreshment.

Free In-Flight Entertainment: Movies, TV, and Messaging

Southwest offers a comprehensive suite of free in-flight entertainment options, allowing passengers to stay connected and amused during their journey. Passengers can enjoy free live TV, movies, and messaging on their personal devices, which is a significant advantage over airlines that charge for similar services or offer limited options.

To access this free entertainment, passengers need to connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network on their devices. Once connected, they can use their web browser to access the entertainment portal, which offers a wide selection of channels and movies to choose from. If a passenger is not automatically redirected to the portal, they can manually enter the address "SouthwestWiFi.com" in their browser.

The Southwest Companion Pass: An Enticing Perk

The Southwest Companion Pass is a highly sought-after benefit that allows a designated companion to fly for almost free on every flight a member takes for up to two years. This pass is considered one of the best perks in U.S. domestic travel and can result in significant savings for frequent travelers.

The Companion Pass is a loyalty benefit, not a standard freebie, and requires a substantial amount of flying or points accrual to earn. It is earned through a combination of flights and points earned from the Southwest Rapid Rewards program, including those accrued through credit card spending and partner activities. While complicated to achieve, the potential savings it offers make it a worthwhile pursuit for those who travel frequently with a companion.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines' commitment to providing free amenities sets it apart in the competitive airline industry. From complimentary alcoholic drinks on select holidays and the allowance of two free checked bags per passenger to free snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and a robust in-flight entertainment system, the airline consistently delivers value to its customers. While some perks, like the Companion Pass, require dedication to the airline's loyalty program, the core freebies are readily available to all passengers, significantly enhancing the overall travel experience. By understanding and utilizing these free amenities, travelers can make the most of their Southwest flights, saving money and enjoying a more comfortable journey.

Sources

1. Southwest Gives Out Free Drinks on 4 Holidays
2. 7 Things that are Totally Free on Southwest Airlines
3. What Do You Get for Free with Southwest?