How do I change my name on Southwest Airlines?

Travel plans sometimes change—whether it’s due to a schedule conflict, extra baggage, or a customer detail update. Fortunately, Southwest Airlines makes managing your reservation simple through their easy-to-use portal. Learn how to access key features, avoid common pitfalls, and get the most out of your travel experience.

🔐 What You Can Do with Southwest Airlines Manage Booking

With just your confirmation code and last name, the Southwest Airlines Manage Booking portal lets you:

• Change or cancel flights at no cost (before 10 minutes to departure)
• Check in and access mobile boarding passes online or via the app
• Add EarlyBird Check-In or business select upgrades
• Select seats during online check-in, or upgrade to a better boarding position
• Add checked baggage or special services like pets or wheelchairs 
• Update personal details like name, phone, or email (name changes require contacting support) 

All tasks can be completed online or through the Southwest app—no need to call unless you encounter an unusual issue.

🕒 When You Can Change or Cancel

Southwest is well-known for its flexible, no-fee change and cancellation policy. As long as you’re within 10 minutes of departure, you can cancel or change your flight without penalty. Any airfare difference may apply, with your original fare converted into travel funds if there’s no direct refund 

If Southwest changes your flight schedule, the system typically offers you alternative flights or credits—online or via customer service .

📱 Use the Mobile App for Convenience

Managing your trip through the Southwest mobile app offers perks:

• Instant access to My Trips, boarding passes, and notifications

   

• Ability to edit your reservation—seat selection, check-in, baggage, and special requests—on the go

   

• Lighting-fast changes during high-demand periods like holiday travel

   

If you encounter technical issues, some users suggest reinstalling the app or switching to a browser for immediate access .

🛡️ Tips to Use Manage Booking Smoothly

1. Book or modify early to ensure fare availability and reduce risk of last-minute issues.

    

2. Save your confirmation code and name—they are keys to accessing your reservation.

    

3. Check your fare type. With Southwest, most fare classes allow free changes and no change fees .

    

4. Use travel funds wisely—they never expire and can be reused for future bookings.

    

5. Split group bookings if only part of your party needs to change. This handy feature works within the portal and app

    

6. Upgrade to EarlyBird or business select seats before departure to gain boarding priority.

    

📝 Final Thoughts

The Southwest Airlines Manage Booking portal makes it easy to take control of your trip—whether it’s switching flights, adding services, or updating personal details. Thanks to the airline’s flexible policies, you can often make changes without paying a fee, even close to departure.

Remember: a little preparation—saving your confirmation details, understanding your fare type, and using the app or site early—can save you money and stress.

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