When flying with Southwest Airlines, travelers have several fare options to choose from, each catering to different needs and preferences. Among these, Business Select stands out as a premium option designed to offer added benefits and convenience for those seeking a more streamlined and comfortable travel experience. But what exactly is Business Select on Southwest, and what makes it different from other fare types? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Business Select, including its features, benefits, and whether it’s worth the extra cost.
Understanding Business Select on Southwest
Business Select is Southwest Airlines’ highest fare category, offering passengers a range of perks and privileges that go beyond the standard fare options. Unlike traditional business class offerings on other airlines, Southwest’s Business Select is not a separate cabin or seating class; instead, it provides enhanced services and priority treatment within the same aircraft seating.
This fare type is ideal for business travelers, frequent flyers, or anyone who values convenience and efficiency during their journey. Business Select is available on all Southwest flights, making it a flexible option for both short domestic hops and longer flights.
Key Features of Business Select
When you book a Business Select ticket on Southwest, you gain access to several exclusive benefits that are designed to enhance your travel experience. Here are the key features that set Business Select apart from other fare types:
- Priority Boarding: One of the most significant advantages of Business Select is priority boarding. With Business Select, you are guaranteed to be among the first to board the plane, typically in the coveted A1-A15 boarding group. This early boarding ensures you have first pick of seats, making it easier to secure a window or aisle seat, as well as overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage.
- Fly By® Priority Security Lane: Business Select passengers also gain access to the Fly By® Priority Security Lane at select airports. This feature allows you to breeze through security lines faster, saving valuable time, especially during peak travel hours.
- Guaranteed EarlyBird Check-In: While EarlyBird Check-In is an optional paid upgrade for most Southwest passengers, Business Select tickets include it automatically. This feature means you’ll be checked in automatically 36 hours before your flight, improving your chances of getting a good boarding position.
- Complimentary Premium Drink: As a Business Select passenger, you are entitled to one complimentary premium drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) per flight. This perk adds a touch of luxury to your flight and can be enjoyed at any point during your journey.
- Higher Rapid Rewards Points Earning: When you book Business Select, you’ll earn more Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent compared to other fare types. Specifically, you’ll earn 12 points per dollar, making it easier to accumulate points for future flights.
- Refundable Fare: Business Select fares are fully refundable, offering flexibility if your travel plans change. You can cancel your flight and receive a full refund to your original payment method or convert the fare into travel funds for future use.
- Priority Check-In and Security: In addition to priority boarding, Business Select passengers enjoy expedited check-in and security screening at select airports, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall travel experience.
Business Select vs. Other Fare Types
To understand the full value of Business Select, it’s essential to compare it with Southwest’s other fare types: Wanna Get Away and Anytime.
Wanna Get Away
Wanna Get Away is Southwest’s most budget-friendly fare option. It offers no-frills travel at a lower cost but comes with fewer perks compared to Business Select. With Wanna Get Away, you still get two free checked bags and no change fees, but you miss out on priority boarding, higher points earning, and refundable fares.
Anytime
Anytime fares are a middle ground between Wanna Get Away and Business Select. This fare type offers more flexibility, such as refundable tickets and higher points earning (10 points per dollar), but it still lacks the premium perks of Business Select, such as guaranteed A1-A15 boarding and a complimentary premium drink.
Is Business Select Worth It?
Whether Business Select is worth the extra cost depends on your individual travel needs and priorities. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if Business Select is the right choice for you:
1. Priority Boarding and Seat Selection
If securing the best seat on the plane is a priority for you, Business Select may be worth the investment. The guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position ensures you’ll have first access to seats, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred spot. This can be particularly valuable on full flights or if you have specific seating preferences, such as needing extra legroom or proximity to the front of the plane.
2. Time-Saving Convenience
For business travelers or those on tight schedules, the time-saving benefits of Business Select can be a game-changer. The Fly By® Priority Security Lane, priority boarding, and expedited check-in help you move through the airport more efficiently, reducing stress and ensuring a smoother travel experience.
3. Earning More Rapid Rewards Points
If you’re a frequent flyer with Southwest, the higher points earning rate with Business Select can significantly boost your Rapid Rewards balance. The extra points can be redeemed for future flights, making it easier to earn free travel. This benefit can make Business Select a more cost-effective option in the long run, especially if you frequently book flights with Southwest.
4. Refundable Fares
The flexibility of fully refundable fares is another major advantage of Business Select. If your travel plans are uncertain or subject to change, having the ability to cancel and receive a full refund (or travel funds) provides peace of mind. This flexibility can save you money and hassle compared to non-refundable fare types.
5. Complimentary Premium Drink
While the complimentary drink may seem like a small perk, it adds a touch of luxury to your flight. Whether you enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or a premium non-alcoholic beverage, it’s a nice bonus that enhances the overall travel experience.
6. Business Travel Needs
For business travelers, the added convenience, flexibility, and priority treatment make Business Select a strong contender. If you’re flying for work and need to arrive at your destination as smoothly and efficiently as possible, the benefits of Business Select can justify the higher fare.
How to Book Business Select on Southwest
Booking Business Select on Southwest is straightforward. When searching for flights on the Southwest website or app, you’ll see the available fare options for each flight. Business Select fares are typically listed at the top, followed by Anytime and Wanna Get Away. Simply select the Business Select option during the booking process, and you’ll automatically receive all the associated benefits.
It’s worth noting that Business Select fares are generally more expensive than other fare types, so it’s essential to weigh the cost against the benefits based on your travel needs.
Conclusion
The Business Select fare on Southwest Airlines offers a range of premium perks designed to enhance the travel experience for business travelers and those who value convenience and efficiency. From priority boarding and security to higher points earning and refundable fares, Business Select provides a host of benefits that can make your journey more enjoyable and stress-free.
Whether Business Select is worth it depends on your individual preferences, travel frequency, and budget. For those who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and time-saving features, Business Select is an excellent choice. However, if you’re more focused on cost savings and don’t need the extra perks, Southwest’s Wanna Get Away or Anytime fares may be a better fit.
Ultimately, Business Select offers a premium travel experience within Southwest’s unique fare structure, making it a valuable option for travelers seeking a balance between convenience and comfort.
