Master Guide: How to Find Cheap Flights on Southwest
Are you ready to learn how to find the best, budget-friendly flights on Southwest Airlines? In this comprehensive guide, I will share savvy tips and strategies that will help you score the cheapest fares, maximize your savings, and turn your dream destinations into a reality.
Key Takeaways:
- Utilize the Southwest Low Fare Calendar to search for the cheapest fares month by month.
- Be flexible with your travel dates and times to potentially save hundreds of dollars.
- Earn the Southwest Companion Pass for significant flight discounts and promotions.
- Monitor prices and rebook when there are price drops to secure the best deals.
- Take advantage of holiday deals to enjoy additional perks and cost savings.
Utilize the Southwest Low Fare Calendar
One of the first steps to finding cheap flights on Southwest is to utilize the Southwest Low Fare Calendar. This powerful tool allows you to search for the cheapest fares month by month, giving you a clear view of the dates with the lowest prices. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, the Southwest Low Fare Calendar can help you identify the most cost-effective options.
By using this calendar, you can easily compare fares and choose the dates that fit your budget. The intuitive interface allows you to navigate through different months and explore the available flight options. You can also filter your search by departure and arrival airports, ensuring that you find the best deals for your desired destinations.
| Benefits of utilizing the Southwest Low Fare Calendar: |
|---|
| Find the cheapest fares month by month |
| Plan your travel dates based on the lowest prices |
| Compare fares for different departure and arrival airports |
| Maximize your savings on Southwest flights |
How to use the Southwest Low Fare Calendar:
- Visit the Southwest Airlines website and navigate to the “Low Fare Calendar” page.
- Select your departure and arrival airports.
- Choose the month you want to travel and browse through the available dates.
- Identify the dates with the lowest fares and select your preferred travel dates.
- Book your flights and enjoy the savings!
By utilizing the Southwest Low Fare Calendar, you can take advantage of the best deals and find cheap flights that fit your budget. Keep in mind that prices are subject to change, so it’s important to book your flights as soon as you find a favorable fare. With this powerful tool at your disposal, planning your next Southwest adventure has never been easier or more affordable.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Times
Flexibility is key when it comes to finding budget-friendly flights on Southwest. By adjusting your travel dates and times, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars on your airfare. Consider departing and returning on weekdays instead of weekends, as flights tend to be cheaper during weekdays. Additionally, being open to early morning or late-night flights can often lead to significant savings. These less popular travel times usually have lower demand, resulting in lower fares.
One way to determine the best dates and times for affordable flights is by using the Southwest low fare calendar. This handy tool allows you to search for the cheapest fares month by month. By utilizing the calendar, you can easily identify the dates with the lowest fares and plan your travel accordingly. Whether you’re planning a vacation or a weekend getaway, the low fare calendar can be your go-to resource for finding the most wallet-friendly flights on Southwest.
Stay open to alternate airports
When searching for budget-friendly flights on Southwest, don’t limit yourself to just one airport. Consider exploring alternate airports near your origin or destination. Sometimes, flying in or out of these alternate airports can lead to significant cost savings. Compare prices between different airport options and you might find cheaper flights that align with your travel plans. Keep in mind that while alternate airports may require additional travel time, the potential savings can make it worth the extra effort.
| Airport | Distance from Destination | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Airport | 10 miles | $0 |
| Alternate Airport 1 | 30 miles | $50 |
| Alternate Airport 2 | 50 miles | $100 |
As shown in the table above, flying into an alternate airport that is slightly farther away from your destination can potentially result in significant savings. It’s worth considering this option when searching for cheap flights on Southwest.
Earn the Southwest Companion Pass
Want to save even more on your Southwest flights? Consider earning the Southwest Companion Pass. This incredible pass allows you to bring a designated companion with you for free on every flight, which can significantly reduce your overall travel costs. Here’s how you can earn this valuable pass:
- Sign up for the Southwest Rapid Rewards program: The Companion Pass is only available to Rapid Rewards members, so make sure to enroll in the program if you haven’t already.
- Earn 125,000 qualifying points: To qualify for the Companion Pass, you need to earn 125,000 qualifying points in a calendar year. You can earn points through Southwest flights, Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards, and partner purchases.
- Maximize your points earnings: Look for opportunities to earn extra points, such as booking flights during promotions or utilizing Southwest’s partner offers. The more points you earn, the closer you’ll be to achieving the Companion Pass.
Once you’ve earned the Companion Pass, you can choose a companion to fly with you for free on any Southwest flight for the remainder of the year you earned it, as well as the entire following year. It’s a fantastic way to save money and explore new destinations with a loved one or a friend. Start planning your adventures and take full advantage of this amazing perk from Southwest Airlines.
| Benefits of the Southwest Companion Pass |
|---|
| Free flights for your designated companion on every Southwest flight |
| No limit on the number of times you can use the pass |
| Ability to change your designated companion up to three times per calendar year |
| Companion Pass eligibility starts from the time you earn 125,000 qualifying points until the end of the following year |
| Can be used on both cash and reward flights |
Monitor Prices and Rebook
Keep a close eye on Southwest flight prices and be ready to rebook when prices decrease to make the most of your travel budget. Southwest Airlines regularly offers sales and discounts on their fares, so it pays to monitor prices and take advantage of any price drops. By consistently checking for updates and rebooking when prices are lower, you can secure the best deals and save money on your Southwest flights.
One effective strategy is to sign up for fare alerts. By subscribing to Southwest’s price drop alerts, you will receive notifications whenever there are significant changes in flight prices. This allows you to stay informed and take prompt action to book your flights at the best possible rates.
In addition to monitoring prices, it’s also essential to be flexible with your travel dates. As mentioned earlier, adjusting your departure and return dates can have a substantial impact on the cost of your Southwest flights. If you have the flexibility to travel during off-peak times or weekdays, you’re more likely to find cheaper fares.
Note: The table below shows Southwest flight prices for different travel dates in the month of November. Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on various factors.
| Date | Departure | Return | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 1 | Chicago (ORD) | Los Angeles (LAX) | $189 |
| November 8 | Chicago (ORD) | Los Angeles (LAX) | $149 |
| November 15 | Chicago (ORD) | Los Angeles (LAX) | $209 |
| November 22 | Chicago (ORD) | Los Angeles (LAX) | $129 |
By monitoring prices, staying flexible with your travel dates, and taking advantage of Southwest’s price drop alerts, you can find cheap flights on Southwest Airlines and make your travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank.
Take Advantage of Holiday Deals
Celebrate holidays while saving money by taking advantage of Southwest’s holiday deals. Southwest Airlines offers special promotions and perks during certain holidays, making it an opportune time to book your flights. Not only will you enjoy the festivities of the holiday season, but you will also benefit from cost-saving benefits that come with it.
During holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, Southwest often offers exclusive discounts and incentives for travelers. These can include discounted fares, bonus Rapid Rewards points, or even complimentary drinks on board. By planning your trips around these holidays, you can make the most of these deals and enjoy additional savings on your Southwest flights.
Keep an eye out for Southwest’s holiday sales and promotions by signing up for their newsletter or following their social media channels. They frequently announce these deals ahead of time, allowing you to plan your travel accordingly and secure the best prices.
Travel Tips for Holiday Deals:
- Check Southwest’s website for holiday promotions and discounts.
- Subscribe to Southwest’s newsletter or follow them on social media for updates on holiday sales.
- Book your flights in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
- Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying during weekdays or non-peak hours for potential savings.
- Take advantage of Southwest’s low fare calendar to find the cheapest fares around the holidays.
By utilizing these tips and taking advantage of Southwest’s holiday deals, you can make your holiday travel more affordable and enjoyable. Start planning your next vacation with Southwest Airlines and experience the joy of savings while celebrating special occasions.
| Holiday | Perks |
|---|---|
| Thanksgiving | Discounted fares and bonus Rapid Rewards points |
| Christmas | Complimentary drinks on board and exclusive holiday promotions |
| New Year’s | Special discounts on flights and additional perks for Rapid Rewards members |
Book in Advance
Secure the best deals by booking your Southwest flights well in advance. By planning ahead and securing your tickets early, you can increase your chances of finding affordable flights and avoid last-minute price hikes. Southwest Airlines often offers lower fares for those who book in advance, allowing you to save money and have peace of mind knowing that your travel plans are set.
When booking in advance, it’s important to be aware of any restrictions or cancellation policies that may apply. Make sure to read the terms and conditions before finalizing your booking to ensure you understand the rules and regulations associated with your fare. By taking the time to research and plan ahead, you can enjoy the benefits of securing the best deals on Southwest flights.
To help you understand the importance of booking in advance, let’s take a look at the following table that highlights the average price difference between booking early and booking closer to the departure date:
| Booking Timeline | Average Price |
|---|---|
| 6 months prior to departure | $200 |
| 3 months prior to departure | $300 |
| 1 month prior to departure | $400 |
As you can see from the table, booking your Southwest flights 6 months in advance can save you an average of $200 compared to booking just 1 month prior to departure. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure the lowest fares and maximize your savings.
Sign Up for Fare Alerts
Stay informed about the latest fare drops and promotions by signing up for Southwest’s fare alerts. By subscribing to these alerts, you will receive real-time updates on discounted fares, allowing you to take advantage of the best deals as soon as they become available.
Southwest’s fare alerts provide a convenient way to monitor prices and plan your travel accordingly. Once you sign up, you will receive notifications via email or text message whenever there is a price drop or a limited-time promotion. This ensures that you never miss out on the opportunity to book a cheap flight on Southwest Airlines.
| Benefits of Signing Up for Southwest’s Fare Alerts |
|---|
| • Instant notifications of fare drops |
| • Exclusive access to limited-time promotions |
| • Ability to secure the best deals before they sell out |
Signing up for fare alerts is quick and easy. Simply visit Southwest’s official website and navigate to their fare alerts section. Provide your email address or phone number, and you’ll be added to their mailing list. You can also manage your subscription preferences to receive alerts for specific destinations or travel dates.
Utilize Southwest’s Rapid Rewards Program
Maximize your savings and unlock exclusive promotions with Southwest’s Rapid Rewards Program. Joining this loyalty program allows you to earn points every time you fly with Southwest or make purchases with their partners. These points can then be redeemed for future flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more. Enroll in the program for free and start earning rewards today!
One of the key benefits of the Rapid Rewards Program is the ability to earn A-List or A-List Preferred status. These elite tiers come with perks such as priority boarding, access to exclusive boarding lanes, free same-day standby, and more. By achieving A-List status, you can enjoy a more seamless and luxurious travel experience.
Furthermore, Southwest frequently offers promotions and bonus point opportunities exclusively for Rapid Rewards members. Keep an eye on your email inbox, as well as the Southwest website and social media channels, to stay informed about these special offers. By taking advantage of these promotions, you can earn even more points and accelerate your journey towards free flights and other rewards.
Top Benefits of Southwest’s Rapid Rewards Program:
- Earn points on flights and everyday purchases
- Redeem points for flights, hotels, and more
- Achieve A-List or A-List Preferred status for enhanced travel perks
- Access to exclusive promotions and bonus point opportunities
- Free enrollment and no blackout dates
Table: Rapid Rewards Tiers and Benefits
| Tier | Qualification Requirements | Main Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Rewards Member | N/A | – Earn points on flights and purchases – Redeem points for flights and more |
| A-List | 25 one-way flights or 35,000 tier qualifying points | – Priority boarding – 25% earning bonus – Free same-day standby |
| A-List Preferred | 50 one-way flights or 70,000 tier qualifying points | – Priority boarding – 100% earning bonus – Free same-day standby – Complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi |
By utilizing Southwest’s Rapid Rewards Program, you can make the most of your travel budget and enjoy a range of exclusive benefits. Start earning points and working towards free flights today!
Consider Alternate Airports
Don’t overlook the option of flying in or out of alternate airports to find the best deals on Southwest flights. Sometimes, choosing a nearby airport can lead to significant cost savings and even more convenient travel options. By exploring different airports in your area and comparing prices, you may just find a cheaper option that aligns perfectly with your travel plans.
When considering alternate airports, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. While a different airport may require a bit more travel time or a short drive, the potential savings can make it well worth it. Plus, you might discover that the alternate airport offers a more relaxed atmosphere, shorter lines, or even better amenities.
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a table comparing a few alternate airports to popular Southwest destinations:
| Destination | Main Airport | Alternate Airport | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas | McCarran International Airport | North Las Vegas Airport | 8 miles |
| Orlando | Orlando International Airport | Sanford International Airport | 30 miles |
| Chicago | O’Hare International Airport | Midway International Airport | 13 miles |
As you can see, considering alternate airports can offer you more options and potential savings. Just remember to factor in any additional travel costs, such as transportation to and from the airport, when evaluating the total cost of your trip. So, the next time you’re searching for cheap flights on Southwest Airlines, don’t forget to explore the possibilities of alternate airports!
Pack Light or Opt for Priority Boarding
Save time and potentially gain perks by packing light or opting for priority boarding on Southwest flights. Southwest Airlines offers a generous baggage policy, allowing passengers to check bags for free. However, by packing light and utilizing carry-on bags, you can streamline your travel experience and potentially gain access to priority boarding.
By packing light, you can avoid the hassle of checking in and waiting for your bags at the destination. Instead, you can simply carry your belongings on board and disembark without any delays. Not only does this save you time, but it also provides peace of mind knowing that your belongings are with you at all times.
In addition to the time-saving benefits, packing light can also potentially earn you perks such as priority boarding. Southwest Airlines allows passengers with only a carry-on bag to board the plane earlier, ensuring ample bin space and a more comfortable travel experience. This can be especially beneficial if you prefer a specific seat or want to secure overhead storage for your belongings.
| Benefits of Packing Light or Opting for Priority Boarding on Southwest |
|---|
| Save time by avoiding baggage check-in and waiting at the destination |
| Peace of mind knowing your belongings are with you |
| Potential perk of priority boarding, ensuring ample bin space and a more comfortable travel experience |
Summary
Packing light or opting for priority boarding on Southwest flights can save you time and potentially provide additional perks. By avoiding the need to check bags and waiting at the destination, you can enjoy a more efficient travel experience. Additionally, priority boarding allows you to secure overhead bin space and choose a desired seat. Consider these options to enhance your Southwest journey and make the most of your trip.
Consider Bundling Flights and Accommodation
Explore the option of bundling your Southwest flights with accommodation for extra savings. Many travel websites offer package deals that combine flights and hotels, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to plan your trip. By booking a package deal, you can enjoy discounted rates on both your flights and accommodation, allowing you to stretch your travel budget even further.
Not only does bundling flights and accommodation save you money, but it also offers added convenience. With a package deal, you can streamline your travel planning by booking everything in one place. This eliminates the need to search for separate flights and hotels, saving you time and effort. Plus, when you bundle, you may have access to exclusive perks such as complimentary breakfast or airport transfers, enhancing your overall travel experience.
To find the best package deals, consider using reputable travel websites that specialize in flight and hotel combinations. Compare prices, read reviews, and look for any additional benefits or discounts that may be included in the package. Keep in mind that bundling may not always be the cheapest option, so it’s important to do your research and compare prices with booking flights and accommodations separately.
| Benefits of Bundling Flights and Accommodation: |
|---|
| 1. Cost savings on both flights and accommodation |
| 2. Convenience and time-saving |
| 3. Access to exclusive perks and benefits |
| 4. Streamlined travel planning |
By considering bundling flights and accommodation, you can maximize your savings and enjoy a hassle-free travel experience. Take advantage of the convenience and cost benefits that come with package deals, and embark on your next Southwest Airlines adventure with peace of mind, knowing you’ve secured the best value for your money.
Conclusion
With these tips and strategies, you are now equipped to find cheap flights on Southwest and make your travel dreams a reality.
First and foremost, make use of the Southwest low fare calendar. This powerful tool allows you to search for the cheapest fares month by month, helping you identify the dates with the best deals.
Being flexible with your travel dates and times is also key. By adjusting your departure and return dates, as well as considering early morning or late-night flights, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars on your Southwest flights.
Another fantastic way to save money is by earning the Southwest Companion Pass. This pass allows you to bring a designated companion with you for free on every Southwest flight, providing significant savings.
Don’t forget to monitor prices and rebook when necessary. Southwest Airlines regularly offers sales and discounts on their fares, so by staying vigilant and ready to rebook, you can take advantage of these opportunities and secure the best deals.
Lastly, consider planning your trips around holidays to enjoy additional perks such as free drinks on board. By taking advantage of these holiday deals, you can save money while experiencing the joys of the festive season.
With these tips in mind, you can now embark on your journey of finding cheap flights on Southwest Airlines. Happy travels!
FAQ
How can I find cheap flights on Southwest Airlines?
To find cheap flights on Southwest Airlines, it is important to use the Southwest Low Fare Calendar. This tool allows you to search month by month and find the dates with the cheapest fares.
Should I be flexible with my travel dates and times?
Yes, being flexible with your travel dates and times can save you hundreds of dollars. Adjusting your departure and return dates, as well as considering early morning or late-night flights, can significantly impact the price of your Southwest flights.
What is the Southwest Companion Pass?
The Southwest Companion Pass allows you to bring a designated companion with you for free on every Southwest flight. Earning this pass can help you save money on flights and reduce your overall travel costs.
How can I monitor prices and rebook when prices decrease?
Southwest Airlines regularly offers sales on fares. By monitoring prices and being ready to rebook when prices drop, you can take advantage of these savings opportunities and secure the best deals.
Are there any benefits to flying on certain holidays?
Yes, flying on certain holidays may entitle you to free drinks on board. By planning your trips around holidays, you can enjoy not only the festivities but also the cost-saving benefits that come with them.
