How do you get the best seat on Southwest?

Free strategy: Check in at exactly T-24:00 — set a phone alarm
Paid upgrade: Early Bird Check-In $15–25 per person per way for auto Group A/B
Best seats: Exit rows 16–17 (35–38 in), rows 1–5 for fast exit
Avoid: Last 5 rows — lavatory noise, last to deplane

Question

Accepted Answer

Southwest uses open seating — your boarding position determines your seat. The best free strategy: check in at exactly the 24-hour mark (set a phone alarm) for the earliest free position. Exit rows 16–17 (35–38 in) go to the first Group A boarders. Early Bird Check-In ($15–25) secures automatic Group A/B placement.

Best Seats on Southwest's Boeing 737

Strategy Summary