While Southwest Airlines is widely recognized for its extensive domestic network within the United States, many travelers wonder, “Does Southwest Fly Internationally?” The answer is a resounding yes! Southwest extends its wings beyond U.S. borders, offering a variety of exciting international destinations, primarily focused on delivering its signature low-cost, high-value service to popular vacation spots.
Southwest Airlines provides flights to numerous destinations in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. This means that the same benefits you appreciate on domestic Southwest flights – like two free checked bags, no change fees, open seating, and exceptional customer service – are also available when you fly internationally with them. Plus, if you’re a savvy traveler with a Southwest Companion Pass, you can even use it on these international routes, maximizing your travel value.
Thinking about an international getaway? Let’s explore where Southwest can take you and what you need to know about flying internationally with this popular airline. Here are some of the top international destinations Southwest serves, along with essential travel tips and hotel recommendations to make your planning easier.
What to Expect on Southwest Airlines International Flights
Flying internationally with Southwest Airlines retains many familiar aspects of their domestic service, ensuring a consistent experience. You’ll still encounter the airline’s unique open seating policy and the distinctive boarding process. The generous baggage allowance of two free checked bags remains a significant advantage for international travelers.
However, some key differences exist between domestic and international Southwest flights that are important to note:
- Check-in Procedures: While online check-in is available for international flights, you’ll need to visit a Southwest Airlines ticket counter or kiosk at the airport to present your passport and collect your boarding pass. It’s crucial to check in at the counter at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure time (75 minutes for departures from Aruba (AUA)) to avoid being denied boarding.
- Boarding Position: Securing your boarding position online is generally possible, but it might be more competitive on international flights. If seat selection is a priority, consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In to improve your boarding group.
- Curbside Check-in: Curbside check-in is not available for itineraries that include an international flight segment.
Travel Tip: To streamline your airport experience, especially for international travel, consider enrolling in programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. These programs expedite security and customs processes, saving you valuable time. Many travel credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express, offer statement credits to cover the application fees for these programs.
1. Aruba
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
Image: The luxurious pool area of the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, a Marriott property accessible via Southwest Airlines flights to Aruba.
Airport: Queen Beatrix International Airport, Aruba (AUA)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: U.S. Departure gates, changes daily
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: No
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Orlando (MCO)
Why Visit Aruba?
Aruba, nestled just off the coast of Venezuela, is a sought-after Caribbean destination. As part of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao), Aruba benefits from being outside the hurricane belt, making it a reliable year-round travel option.
Where to Stay in Aruba
Aruba offers a wide array of hotels and resorts. For a memorable stay, consider the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points (starting from 44,000 points per night). For ultimate luxury, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is available from 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. Marriott Bonvoy offers a fifth night free on award bookings, extending your points value. Hilton loyalists can explore the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, with standard rooms from 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
2. The Bahamas
pig swimming in The Bahamas
Image: A playful pig swimming in the turquoise waters of The Bahamas, a unique experience accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Lynden Pindling International Airport, Bahamas (NAS)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: U.S. Terminal, Gates C41-C45
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: No
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL)
Why Visit The Bahamas?
For a quick beach escape from many U.S. cities, The Bahamas is ideal. This island nation comprises over 700 islands and cays, located just 50 miles from Florida’s coast.
Where to Stay in The Bahamas
In Nassau, The Coral at Atlantis is a popular choice and part of the Marriott family, bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points starting around 44,000 points per night. Another excellent option is the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, a Category 5 Hyatt property, available from 17,000 to 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night, offering extensive amenities for families and couples alike.
3. Belize
beach in Belize
Image: A serene beach scene in Belize, highlighting the pristine coastlines and water activities available to Southwest Airlines passengers.
Airport: Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, Belize City (BZE)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Terminal 1, Gate 2
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: No
Nonstop Flights From: Denver (DEN), Houston (HOU)
Why Visit Belize?
Belize, a Central American gem, offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, from ancient Mayan ruins to world-class snorkeling and diving. English is the official language, making it easy for U.S. travelers to navigate.
Where to Stay in Belize
For a convenient stay near the airport on Ambergris Caye, consider the Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton, bookable from 52,000 Hilton Honors points per night. For a luxury beachfront experience, Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection, the first Marriott in Belize, starts from around 47,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
4. Cayman Islands
Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa in Grand Cayman
Image: The modern architecture and beachfront location of the Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa in Grand Cayman, accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Owen Roberts International Airport, Grand Cayman Islands (GCM)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Main Terminal, Gate 8
Priority Lane: No
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL)
Why Visit Grand Cayman?
Grand Cayman, part of the Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory, is famous for Stingray City, a shallow sandbar where visitors interact with friendly stingrays.
Where to Stay in Grand Cayman
For luxury in Grand Cayman, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is available from 82,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. Alternatively, the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa can be booked from 70,000 IHG One Rewards points per night, offering a stylish beachfront retreat.
5. Liberia, Costa Rica
Main pool at Andaz Costa Rica
Image: The inviting main pool at the Andaz Costa Rica Resort, nestled in lush greenery and accessible via Southwest Airlines flights to Liberia.
Airport: Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, Liberia (LIR)
Recommended Arrival Time: 2 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Main Terminal, gates change daily
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: No
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Denver (DEN), Houston (HOU)
Why Visit Liberia, Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is a rising star in tourism, known for its jungles, rainforests, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife. A leader in eco-tourism, Costa Rica is ideal for nature lovers.
Where to Stay in Liberia, Costa Rica
The Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, a Hyatt property, is a 30-minute drive from Liberia Airport and offers a boutique jungle resort experience from 17,000 to 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
6. San José, Costa Rica
Costa Rica Marriott
Image: The elegant facade of the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, an urban oasis in San José, accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport, San José (SJO)
Recommended Arrival Time: 2 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Main Terminal, gates change daily
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: No
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Denver (DEN), Houston (HOU)
Note: Restrictions apply to checked baggage on flights to San José.
Why Visit San José, Costa Rica?
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a central hub and a great starting point for exploring the country. Despite being a city, it offers cultural attractions and serves as a gateway to Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
Where to Stay in San José, Costa Rica
The Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, located near the San José airport, is a convenient and comfortable option, starting at 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
7. Cuba
Street in Cuba
Image: A vibrant street scene in Cuba, showcasing the unique culture and architecture accessible via Southwest Airlines flights to Havana.
Airport: José Martí International Airport, Havana (HAV)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Terminal 2
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: No
Nonstop Flights From: Ft. Lauderdale (FLL), Tampa (TPA)
Note: Restrictions apply to checked baggage on flights to Cuba.
Why Visit Cuba?
Travel to Cuba has become more accessible in recent years, though specific travel categories are required for U.S. citizens, including family visits, educational activities, and support for the Cuban people. Purely tourist travel remains restricted.
Where to Stay in Cuba
Chain hotels bookable with points are limited in Cuba. Consider boutique hotels found through online travel agencies like Kayak or Tripadvisor, or explore options through the Chase Travel portal or AmexTravel.com.
8. Dominican Republic
Pool View at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Image: A stunning pool view at the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, an all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Punta Cana International Airport, Punta Cana (PUJ)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: International Terminal, gates change daily
Priority & Express Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Chicago (MDW), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL), St. Louis (STL)
Why Visit Punta Cana, Dominican Republic?
Punta Cana is famed for its beautiful white-sand beaches and clear waters, offering a wide selection of resorts, from family-friendly to adults-only.
Where to Stay in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana boasts numerous hotels bookable with points. For all-inclusive experiences, Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana (adults-only) and Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana (family-friendly) are excellent choices, starting from 21,000 to 29,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
9. Jamaica
Beach at Doctors Cave in Montego Bay Jamaica
Image: Doctors Cave Beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica, a picturesque destination reachable via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay (MBJ)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Main Terminal, gates change daily
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Chicago (MDW), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (HOU), Orlando (MCO), St. Louis (STL)
Why Visit Jamaica?
Jamaica is a popular Caribbean destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, ideal for families and couples.
Where to Stay in Jamaica
For an all-inclusive Jamaican resort, the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers a large beach, waterpark, and golf course, bookable from 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Boutique hotels are also plentiful for a more unique experience.
10. Los Cabos, Mexico
Cabo Arch
Image: The iconic Cabo Arch in Los Cabos, Mexico, a must-see landmark accessible with Southwest Airlines flights.
Airport: San Jose del Cabo International Airport, Los Cabos (SJD)
Recommended Arrival Time: 2 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Terminal 2, gates change daily
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Austin (AUS), Baltimore (BWI), Chicago (MDW), Denver (DEN), Houston (HOU), Oakland (OAK), Orange County (SNA), Phoenix (PHX), Sacramento (SMF), San Diego (SAN)
Why Visit Los Cabos?
Los Cabos, at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, is famous for marine life, including whales and dolphins, and the iconic El Arco de Cabo San Lucas rock arch.
Where to Stay in Los Cabos, Mexico
Los Cabos offers numerous hotels bookable with points. The JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa starts at 53,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. Hyatt options range from the Hyatt Place Los Cabos (5,000 points per night) to the luxurious The Cape, a Thompson Hotel (25,000 points per night).
11. Cancún, Mexico
Cancun beach
Image: The beautiful beach and pool area at the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa, a luxurious option accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Cancún International Airport, Cancún (CUN)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Terminal 4, gates change daily
Priority & Express Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Austin (AUS), Baltimore (BWI), Chicago (MDW), Chicago (ORD), Columbus (CMH), Denver (DEN), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (HOU), Indianapolis (IND), Kansas City (MCI), Milwaukee (MKE), Nashville (BNA), New Orleans (MSY), Phoenix (PHX), Pittsburgh (PIT), San Antonio (SAT), St. Louis (STL)
Why Visit Cancún?
Cancún, while known for its lively nightlife, also offers family-friendly resorts and is a convenient destination for a quick getaway with numerous hotel options near the airport.
Where to Stay in Cancún, Mexico
The JW Marriott Cancún Resort & Spa offers a luxurious beachfront experience starting at 43,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. The InterContinental Presidente Cancún Resort is another excellent option bookable with IHG One Rewards points. Boutique hotels are also available for a more personalized stay.
12. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
Image: The beachfront view at The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta, a relaxing destination accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, Puerto Vallarta (PVR)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Terminal B, gates change daily
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Austin (AUS), Denver (DEN), Houston (HOU), Orange County (SNA), Phoenix (PHX)
Why Visit Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta, with its beautiful beaches and charming old town, offers a climate similar to Hawaii, making it a pleasant year-round destination.
Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Marriott Bonvoy provides numerous hotel choices in Puerto Vallarta, including The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta and Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center, both starting at 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. For a high-end option, W Punta De Mita is available from 52,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
13. Cozumel, Mexico
Beach at the Westin Cozumel
Image: The tranquil beach at The Westin Cozumel, a perfect spot for relaxation accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Cozumel International Airport, Cozumel (CZM)
Recommended Arrival Time: 90 minutes before departure
Terminal & Gate: Terminal 1, Gates 1-6
Priority & Express Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Austin (AUS), Denver (DEN), Houston (HOU)
Why Visit Cozumel?
Cozumel, an island off the Yucatan Peninsula, is a prime scuba diving location with beautiful beaches, water sports, and a tropical climate.
Where to Stay in Cozumel, Mexico
The Cozumel Hotel & Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, is a budget-friendly option bookable with Wyndham Rewards points (15,000 points per night). The Westin Cozumel is another choice, ranging from 32,000 to 42,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
14. Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos
Image: A pristine beach in Turks and Caicos, known for its exceptional beaches and accessible via Southwest Airlines.
Airport: Providenciales International Airport, Turks and Caicos (PLS)
Recommended Arrival Time: 3 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Main Terminal, Gates 1-9
Priority Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL)
Why Visit Turks and Caicos?
Turks and Caicos, a British Overseas Territory, boasts 350 sunny days a year and some of the world’s best beaches, along with the third-largest barrier reef, making it a diver’s paradise.
Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos
Luxury options in Turks and Caicos include Point Grace Resort and Spa (Small Luxury Hotels of the World) and The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, starting around 112,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Bonus: Puerto Rico
Main pool at Hyatt Regency Puerto Rico
Image: The expansive main pool at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico, a top destination accessible via Southwest Airlines.
While technically not international, Puerto Rico is a Caribbean destination accessible by Southwest Airlines without needing a U.S. passport for U.S. residents.
Airport: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan (SJU)
Recommended Arrival Time: 2 hours before departure
Terminal & Gate: Concourse D, Gates 7 & 8; Concourse C, Gates B 3, 5, 7
Priority & Express Lane: Yes
Self-Tagging: Yes
Nonstop Flights From: Baltimore (BWI), Chicago (MDW), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (HOU), Nashville (BNA), Orlando (MCO), St. Louis (STL), Tampa (TPA)
Why Visit Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, offers a blend of Caribbean culture and American convenience. Despite past hurricane damage, tourism is vibrant and welcoming.
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico
Consider boutique hotels or Airbnbs for local experiences. For points hotels, the Caribe Hilton starts at 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night, and The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort from 82,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. Budget-friendly options include the Courtyard San Juan Miramar (22,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) and the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico (Category 4 Hyatt property, excellent for using free night certificates).
Final Thoughts
Southwest Airlines offers a fantastic option for international travel to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. You can enjoy the same great Southwest benefits you’re accustomed to, making these destinations even more appealing.
When planning your next vacation, remember that Southwest Airlines can take you beyond U.S. borders to sun-soaked beaches and culturally rich locales, all while providing exceptional value and service. Consider Southwest for your next international adventure!
