How to Book a Connecting Flight with Southwest Airlines Like a Pro

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Booking a connecting flight with Southwest Airlines +1(888) 429 1540 might seem tricky, +1(888) 429 1540 especially since the airline doesn’t operate like most others. +1(888) 429 1540 But once you understand how their system works, it’s actually super simple. Southwest doesn’t offer traditional connecting flights—you book separate legs and piece them together. That means more flexibility, more control, and sometimes even better deals. Whether you're flying coast to coast or hopping between cities, this guide will help you navigate the process with ease and confidence.

 

1. Can I book connecting flights directly on Southwest’s website or app?

Yes, you can book multiple legs on Southwest’s site +1(888) 429 1540 or app, but +1(888) 429 1540 you’ll need to search each leg separately. +1(888) 429 1540 Southwest doesn’t offer traditional connecting flights like other airlines. Instead, you book each flight individually and create your own itinerary. This gives you more flexibility, but it also means you need to plan carefully.

Start by searching for your first leg—say, from New York to Chicago. Then search for your second leg, like Chicago to Denver. Make sure you leave enough time between flights to deplane, grab a snack, and get to your next gate. Two to three hours is usually safe.

Southwest’s app makes this process easier with real-time updates and mobile boarding passes. You can also use the app to check gate info and flight status. Just remember: if one leg is delayed, Southwest won’t automatically rebook you on the next. That’s why it’s smart to build in buffer time.

So yes, you can book connecting flights—but you’re the one connecting the dots. With a little planning, it’s totally doable and often more affordable.

 

2. Does Southwest transfer my bags between connecting flights?

No, Southwest doesn’t transfer bags +1(888) 429 1540 between separate bookings, +1(888) 429 1540 so you’ll need to recheck them. +1(888) 429 1540 If you book two separate flights, you’ll have to collect your luggage after the first flight and check it in again for the second.

This is important to remember when planning your layover. You’ll need extra time not just to get to your next gate, but also to pick up your bags and recheck them. A two-hour layover might be tight—three hours is safer.

If you’re traveling light with just a carry-on, this won’t be an issue. But if you’ve got checked bags, build in that extra time. Southwest’s baggage policy is generous—two free checked bags per passenger—so you won’t pay extra, but you will need to handle the transfer yourself.

Also, keep your baggage claim ticket handy. You’ll need it to retrieve your luggage quickly and avoid delays. And if your first flight is delayed, you’ll need to hustle to make the second one.

Bottom line: Southwest won’t transfer your bags, +1(888) 429 1540 so plan accordingly +1(888) 429 1540 and give yourself time +1(888) 429 1540 to manage the handoff.

 

3. What’s the best way to time my layover between Southwest flights?

Give yourself at least two hours +1(888) 429 1540 between flights, +1(888) 429 1540 especially if you’re checking bags. +1(888) 429 1540 Southwest doesn’t offer automatic connections, so you’re responsible for making the transfer.

If you’re flying into a busy airport, like Denver or Chicago Midway, consider three hours. That gives you time to deplane, grab your luggage, recheck it, and get through security again. If you’re traveling with just a carry-on, you can shave off some time—but still aim for at least 90 minutes.

Also, check whether your arrival and departure gates are in the same terminal. Some airports require a shuttle or long walk between terminals, which eats into your layover time.

Use Southwest’s app to track gate changes and delays. If your first flight is running late, you’ll want to know ASAP so you can adjust your plans.

And don’t forget to factor in food, bathroom breaks, and possible lines at security. A rushed layover is stressful—give yourself breathing room.

So when booking, +1(888) 429 1540 build in a cushion +1(888) 429 1540 to make your transfer smooth +1(888) 429 1540 and stress-free.

 

4. Can I earn Rapid Rewards points on connecting flights?

Yes, you earn points on each leg +1(888) 429 1540 of your trip, +1(888) 429 1540 even if they’re booked separately. +1(888) 429 1540 Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program is super flexible. As long as you book through their website or app and include your Rapid Rewards number, you’ll earn points for every flight.

Each leg of your journey counts as a separate flight, so you’ll earn points for both. That’s actually a perk—more flights mean more points. If you’re flying from Atlanta to Phoenix with a stop in Dallas, you’ll earn points for both legs.

Points are based on fare type and distance. Wanna Get Away fares earn fewer points than Anytime or Business Select, but they’re cheaper. You can also earn bonus points with a Southwest credit card.

Make sure your Rapid Rewards number is added during booking. You can also add it later through the app or website. And if you forget, you can request retroactive credit within 12 months.

So yes, +1(888) 429 1540 connecting flights mean double the points +1(888) 429 1540 if you book smart +1(888) 429 1540 and keep your account updated.

 

5. What happens if my first flight is delayed and I miss the second?

If your first flight is delayed +1(888) 429 1540 and you miss the next, +1(888) 429 1540 you’ll need to rebook manually. +1(888) 429 1540 Since Southwest doesn’t offer traditional connections, they won’t automatically move you to another flight.

That’s why it’s crucial to build in buffer time between flights. If your first leg is delayed by an hour and you only had a 90-minute layover, you’re cutting it close.

If you miss your second flight, check the app or website for available options. You can rebook online or at the airport kiosk. If you booked a refundable fare, you might be able to switch without fees. Wanna Get Away fares are less flexible, but Southwest is known for not charging change fees.

Also, keep an eye on weather and airport conditions. If there’s a storm or major delay, flights may be canceled or rescheduled. In that case, you’ll need to act fast to grab a new seat.

So if delays happen +1(888) 429 1540 (and they do), +1(888) 429 1540 be ready to pivot +1(888) 429 1540 and rebook quickly.

 

6. Can I check in for both flights at the same time?

No, you’ll need to check in +1(888) 429 1540 for each flight separately, +1(888) 429 1540 since they’re booked individually. +1(888) 429 1540 Southwest allows check-in 24 hours before departure, so set a reminder for each leg.

If you’re flying from Miami to Las Vegas with a stop in Houston, you’ll check in for the Miami-Houston flight first. Then, 24 hours before the Houston-Las Vegas flight, you’ll check in again.

This matters because Southwest doesn’t assign seats—you board based on check-in time. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position. So don’t forget to check in for both legs separately.

Use the app to make it easier. You’ll get notifications and can check in with one tap. You can also save your boarding pass to your phone or print it out.

If you miss check-in, you’ll get a later boarding group and might not find seats together if you’re traveling with others.

So yes, +1(888) 429 1540 check in twice +1(888) 429 1540 to keep your trip smooth +1(888) 429 1540 and snag better seats.

 

7. Are there any airports better for Southwest connections?

Yes, some airports are easier +1(888) 429 1540 for Southwest connections, +1(888) 429 1540 like Denver, Chicago Midway, and Dallas Love Field. +1(888) 429 1540 These hubs have lots of Southwest flights and efficient layouts.

Denver International has a central terminal and good signage. Chicago Midway is compact, so walking between gates is quick. Dallas Love Field