Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving over 69 million passengers in 2020. The airport's Southwest terminal, also known as Concourse C, is a major hub for Southwest Airlines, offering numerous flights to destinations across the country. If you're planning to travel through the Southwest terminal at Denver International Airport, here are 15+ travel tips to help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Pre-Flight Preparation
Before arriving at the airport, it’s essential to prepare for your flight. Check-in online and print or download your boarding pass to avoid waiting in line at the airport. You can also use the Southwest Airlines mobile app to check-in and access your boarding pass. Additionally, make sure to check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. If you have any special requests, such as a seat upgrade or extra baggage, be sure to contact Southwest Airlines customer service in advance.
Arrival and Parking
When arriving at the airport, you’ll have several parking options to choose from. The East and West Garages offer convenient parking with easy access to the terminal. You can also use the economy parking lots, which offer more affordable rates but may require a shuttle ride to the terminal. If you’re being dropped off, the drop-off lane is located outside the terminal, and you can use the curbside check-in service to check your bags and print your boarding pass.
| Parking Option | Rate |
|---|---|
| East and West Garages | $5 per hour, $25 per day |
| Economy Parking Lots | $3 per hour, $16 per day |
Security and Check-in
Once you’ve parked and arrived at the terminal, you’ll need to go through security and check-in for your flight. The TSA security checkpoint is located on the north side of the terminal, and you can use the Pre-Check service to expedite the process. If you haven’t already checked-in online, you can use the self-service kiosks to print your boarding pass and check your bags. Be sure to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to allow time for security and check-in.
Baggage and Fees
Southwest Airlines has a no change fee policy, but you may still be subject to baggage fees. The first two checked bags are free, but additional bags cost $75 each. You can also use the Southwest Airlines baggage calculator to estimate your baggage fees. If you have any special items, such as a bike or surfboard, be sure to check with Southwest Airlines for their policy and fees.
- First two checked bags: free
- Additional bags: $75 each
- Overweight bags: $75 each
- Oversized bags: $75 each
Airport Amenities and Services
The Southwest terminal at Denver International Airport offers a range of amenities and services to make your travel experience more enjoyable. You can use the free Wi-Fi to stay connected, or visit one of the many restaurants and cafes for a meal or snack. The terminal also features a spa and wellness center, where you can relax and rejuvenate before your flight.
Dining and Shopping
The Southwest terminal offers a variety of dining and shopping options, including fast food chains, sit-down restaurants, and specialty stores. You can also use the airport’s dining and shopping app to order food and have it delivered to your gate. Be sure to check the airport’s website for a full list of dining and shopping options.
- Fast food chains: McDonald's, Subway, etc.
- Sit-down restaurants: The Denver ChopHouse, Root Down, etc.
- Specialty stores: Colorado-themed gifts, outdoor gear, etc.
Flight Status and Boarding
Once you’ve checked-in and gone through security, you can use the flight status board to check the status of your flight. You can also use the Southwest Airlines app to receive flight updates and notifications. Be sure to arrive at the gate at least 30 minutes before boarding to secure your seat and stow your carry-on bags.
Boarding Groups
Southwest Airlines uses a boarding group system, where passengers are assigned a group based on their check-in time and loyalty status. The boarding groups are as follows:
| Boarding Group | Description |
|---|---|
| A1-A60 | Priority boarding, including Business Select and Rapid Rewards members |
| B1-B60 | General boarding, including most passengers |
| C1-C60 | Later boarding, including passengers who checked-in late or have a lower loyalty status |
What is the best way to get to the Southwest terminal at Denver International Airport?
+The best way to get to the Southwest terminal at Denver International Airport is to use the airport’s shuttle service or ride-hailing apps such as Uber or Lyft. You can also use the RTD bus system or drive and park at the airport.
How early should I arrive at the airport for my Southwest flight?
+It’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight to allow time for security, check-in, and boarding. You can also use the Southwest Airlines app to check-in and access your boarding pass, and to receive flight updates and notifications.
Can I bring my pet on my Southwest flight?
+Yes, Southwest Airlines allows small pets in the cabin, but you must check with the airline in advance to confirm their pet policy and fees. You can also use the Southwest Airlines pet policy page to learn more about their pet travel requirements and restrictions.
