Southwest Airlines is known for its customer-friendly policies and competitive prices, making it a popular choice for travelers. But with a little strategy, you can make your Southwest experience even more affordable. Here are the top 10 tips to help you score the best deals on Southwest Airlines.
1. Book Early for the Best Prices
Southwest Airlines often offers its lowest fares when flights are first released. Booking your ticket as early as possible can help you snag these low prices before they increase as the departure date approaches.
2. Set Fare Alerts
Stay ahead of the game by setting up fare alerts. Websites like Google Flights and Southwest’s own fare alert system can notify you when prices drop, allowing you to book at the most opportune moment.
3. Take Advantage of the Southwest Companion Pass
One of the best perks of flying Southwest is the Companion Pass. Earn enough Rapid Rewards points, and you can bring a companion for free (minus taxes and fees) on any flight you book. This can significantly cut down travel costs, especially for frequent flyers.
4. Use Rapid Rewards Points Wisely
If you’ve accumulated Rapid Rewards points, use them strategically. Keep an eye out for special promotions where points can be stretched further, such as during fare sales or off-peak travel periods.
5. Watch for the Twice-a-Year Sales
Southwest Airlines hosts major fare sales twice a year, usually in June and October. These sales can offer incredible deals, sometimes as low as $49 one-way. Mark your calendar and act fast when these sales are announced.
6. Check for Deals on Tuesdays
Historically, airlines, including Southwest, tend to release their weekly sales on Tuesdays. This is a great day to search for flights as other airlines also adjust their prices to stay competitive, often leading to lower fares across the board.
7. Book One-Way Flights
Rather than booking a round-trip ticket, consider booking two separate one-way flights. This approach allows you to mix and match fares and take advantage of the lowest prices available on each leg of your journey.
8. Use the Low Fare Calendar
Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar is a powerful tool for finding the cheapest days to fly. It displays the lowest available fares for each day in a month, making it easy to plan your trip around the best deals.
9. Sign Up for Southwest’s Email Updates
Stay in the loop by signing up for Southwest Airlines’ email updates. You’ll receive notifications about flash sales, special offers, and promotional codes directly in your inbox, ensuring you never miss out on a deal.
10. Leverage Credit Card Rewards
Consider signing up for a Southwest Airlines credit card. These cards often come with generous sign-up bonuses that can translate into free flights. Additionally, using the card for everyday purchases can help you accumulate Rapid Rewards points faster.
Final Thoughts
Scoring the best deals on Southwest Airlines doesn’t have to be complicated. By staying informed and using the tips above, you can enjoy affordable travel without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Happy flying!
