Traveling by air is a convenient way to get to your destination quickly, but flight prices can often be a source of frustration for many travelers. However, Southwest Airlines has a reputation for offering competitive prices and booking a Southwest flight ticket at the best possible price.
1. Plan in Advance But Not Too Far Ahead
While it’s often advised to book flights as early as possible, Southwest’s pricing model works a bit differently. The airline offers a unique fare structure, with prices that fluctuate based on demand and availability. Generally, the best time to book a Southwest flight is between 3 to 6 weeks before your planned departure. Booking too far in advance can sometimes result in higher prices, as Southwest’s early ticket releases can be more expensive.
2. Use Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar
One of Southwest Airlines’ most valuable tools for finding cheap tickets is its Low Fare Calendar. This calendar shows the lowest fares available on various dates for both one-way and round-trip flights. You can search for specific routes and view fare prices over the course of several weeks. By using this tool, you can compare prices and choose the dates when tickets are cheapest. It’s an excellent resource if you’re flexible with your travel dates.
To access the Low Fare Calendar, simply go to the Southwest Airlines website, enter your departure and arrival cities, and select the “Low Fare Calendar” option. You’ll get a month view showing the best prices available for each date.
3. Set Fare Alerts
Sometimes, Southwest flights can dip in price unexpectedly. To stay on top of these fluctuations, you can set up fare alerts through third-party travel websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak. These platforms allow you to track changes in prices for a specific route, and you’ll get notified when prices drop. Setting alerts will ensure you don’t miss out on a deal without constantly checking.
Alternatively, you can use Southwest’s “Ding!” feature. This is a free program that sends you real-time notifications about limited-time fare sales, helping you take advantage of discounts that may not appear on the regular flight booking page.
4. Know When to Fly
As a general rule, try to avoid flying on holidays or during peak travel seasons, such as the summer months, spring break, and around Thanksgiving or Christmas. Flights during these periods tend to be much more expensive due to high demand.
If possible, fly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays, as these days are typically the least expensive. Airfare tends to rise during the weekends, so flying mid-week gives you a better chance of securing a lower fare. Also, early morning or late-night flights are usually cheaper because fewer travelers opt for these less convenient time slots.
5. Take Advantage of Southwest’s “Wanna Get Away” Fares
The Wanna Get Away fare is the most affordable option, but it comes with some restrictions. These tickets are non-refundable, and changes to the itinerary can incur a fee, but if you’re flexible with your travel plans, these fares can save you a significant amount of money.
To find Wanna Get Away fares, simply enter your route and dates on the Southwest Airlines website and look for the lowest price options. If you’re booking well in advance, the Wanna Get Away tickets are often significantly cheaper than other fare categories.
6. Book One-Way Tickets
Southwest doesn’t have the typical round-trip pricing structure that many other airlines use. You can often save money by booking two one-way tickets instead of a round-trip ticket. This allows you to take advantage of the best fares on each individual leg of the journey, which can result in a cheaper total ticket price.
Additionally, Southwest doesn’t charge change fees, so if you decide to adjust your plans, you won’t have to pay hefty fees for switching your flight. You’ll only need to pay the difference in fare if the new ticket is more expensive.
7. Join the Rapid Rewards Program
Southwest’s Rapid Rewards frequent flyer program is a great way to save on future flights. By earning points for every flight you take, you can eventually use those points for free or discounted flights. You’ll also receive exclusive offers, including access to special promotions, discounted fares, and more.
One of the best ways to maximize your savings is by using a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card. These cards offer bonus points for purchases, and you can redeem points for flight tickets, hotel stays, and more. If you travel with Southwest frequently, this is an easy way to rack up points and enjoy discounted flights over time.
8. Look for Southwest Sales and Promotions
Southwest often runs flash sales and promotions that can significantly reduce the cost of flights. These sales typically last for a limited time and offer discounts on select routes. To stay informed about these promotions, follow Southwest on social media, sign up for their email newsletters, or check their website regularly for special offers.
Keep an eye out for their Cyber Monday and Black Friday sales, which can provide significant discounts on both domestic and international flights.
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