Southwest In-Flight WiFi Will Now Cost More for Many Passengers

If you're flying on a connecting flight with Southwest, you'll now pay more for wifi.

Many travelers like to fly with Southwest Airlines because the brand charges minimal extra fees. But fliers who use in-flight wifi should be aware of a recent internet pricing change. The company used to offer passengers an all-day wifi pass for $8, but fliers will no longer be able to purchase all-day wifi access. Here's how this change could impact your wallet.

Southwest has many generous policies

Southwest is a favorite airline among many travelers. It doesn't charge flight change or cancellation fees as long as customers cancel their flight at least 10 minutes before departure. Another thing to love is that each Southwest passenger can bring two checked bags for free, regardless of ticket type. Finally, Southwest flight credits never expire -- which gives travelers more flexibility.

Many other U.S. airlines aren't as generous with their policies -- so Southwest has continued to win over travelers. But if you're a big fan of Southwest and like to use the brand's in-flight wifi to stay connected, you should know that pricing changes have been implemented.

All-day Southwest wifi passes are no more

Until recently, Southwest fliers could pay $8 for all-day wifi access. That meant if you had a flight with a layover, you could use wifi on both flights after paying the initial $8 fee. But that's no longer the case. The brand recently updated its website to note that in-flight internet is available for $8 per device, from takeoff to landing.

You must now pay $8 for wifi access for each leg of your journey, so if you have a connecting flight and want to remain connected, you'll now pay $16 instead of $8. This change could make your next trip more expensive if you're not traveling on a non-stop flight.

How to save on Southwest wifi fees

This change may be disappointing to some. If you're a Southwest loyalist, you may wonder how to save money on in-flight wifi costs. You can get free internet access by earning A-List Preferred status through the Southwest's Rapid Rewards loyalty program. If you're a frequent flier, this may be an option. You can achieve A-List Preferred status by taking 50 one-way qualifying flights or earning 70,000 tier qualifying points per calendar year.

Another way to save money is to become a Southwest credit cardholder. Many of the best Southwest credit cards offer 25% back on in-flight purchases -- including wifi charges. With the right credit card, you could earn 25% back as a statement credit when you use your credit card to pay for wifi. Airline credit cards also offer other valuable perks and enable fliers to earn rewards when they spend money with their credit cards.

Other airlines now offer free wifi

As airlines continue to fight for customer loyalty, some brands are looking for ways to improve the flight experience and add more perks. Delta Air Lines now offers free in-flight wifi on most domestic flights. The brand plans to expand its offerings on international and regional aircraft by the end of 2024. JetBlue also offers free wifi on all of its flights.

It'll be interesting to see if other airlines begin to offer free in-flight internet. In today's expensive world, most consumers don't like to feel like they're being nickeled and dimed with extra fees. Some fliers may gravitate towards airlines that offer more value for the money. No matter who you fly with, don't ignore the opportunity to earn rewards on your travel spending. Learn more by reviewing our list of the best travel rewards credit cards.