Southwest Hacks: How to Find the Cheapest Flights & Save Big
Flying Southwest can be a fantastic way to save money, but navigating their unique system can be tricky. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to unlock the lowest fares, maximize your points, and optimize your travel experience.
1. Master the Southwest Low Fare Calendar
Flexibility is your friend. The Southwest Airlines Low Fare Calendar is your secret weapon for finding the cheapest flight dates.
- Play with your travel dates: Experiment with different departure and return dates within your desired travel window. You might be surprised at the price differences.
- Consider shoulder seasons: Flying during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can often result in lower fares compared to peak summer months.
- Explore off-season travel: If you're flexible, consider traveling during the off-season for the most significant savings.
2. Leverage the Power of Southwest Rapid Rewards
- Sign up for free: This is a no-brainer. The free Rapid Rewards program is your gateway to earning points on every flight, plus bonuses for dining, shopping, and more.
- Earn points on every purchase: Maximize your points earnings by using your Rapid Rewards credit card for everyday purchases.
- Reach A-List Status: Fly 20 qualifying flights or earn 35,000 points in a calendar year to unlock A-List status. Enjoy priority boarding, bonus points, and other exclusive perks.
- Chase the Companion Pass: Earn 100 flights or 135,000 points in a calendar year to unlock the coveted Companion Pass, allowing a companion to fly with you for free (only taxes and fees apply).
3. Embrace the Southwest Way
- Free Checked Bags: Southwest stands out with its generous baggage policy. Enjoy two free checked bags per passenger, a significant advantage over most airlines.
- Flexibility is Key: Change or cancel your flight up to 10 minutes before departure without incurring change fees.
- Carry-on Confidence: Bring both a personal item and a carry-on bag without extra charges.
4. Timing is Everything
- Tuesday Specials: Subscribe to Southwest's email list to receive exclusive Tuesday deals that often disappear by Thursday.
- Price Adjustments: Keep an eye on your flight prices after booking. If the fare drops, Southwest will refund the difference.
5. Optimize Your Travel Experience
- EarlyBird Check-In: For $15, secure an earlier boarding position, increasing your chances of overhead bin space.
- Family Boarding: Enjoy priority boarding for families with children 6 and under.
- In-Flight Entertainment: Enjoy free movies, TV shows, and live channels on the Southwest app.
- Pack Smart: Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money and stay comfortable during the flight.
- Request Extra Seats (If Needed): Southwest's Customer of Size policy ensures comfortable travel for all passengers.
6. Earning & Redeeming Points Strategically
- Southwest Rapid Rewards Dining: Earn 3 points per dollar spent at participating restaurants.
- Explore Bonus Opportunities: Take advantage of limited-time promotions and partner offers to maximize your points earnings.
- Points Don't Expire (Generally): Your points are valuable assets. Use them strategically to book free flights or upgrade your travel experience.
7. Beyond the Basics
- Southwest Gift Cards: Save up to 10% on Southwest travel by purchasing discounted gift cards at retailers like Sam's Club.
- Follow Southwest on Social Media: Stay updated on the latest sales and promotions through their social media channels.
By implementing these strategies, you can unlock significant savings on your Southwest flights and enjoy a more comfortable and rewarding travel experience.
8. Navigating Southwest's Seating Policy Changes
Starting in 2025, Southwest Airlines will be implementing a new assigned seating policy, marking a significant shift for the airline. This change will affect how passengers board and choose their seats, and it may also impact ticket prices.
- Assigned Seating: Passengers will no longer be able to board in order of check-in and choose their seats on a first-come, first-served basis. Instead, Southwest will assign seats in advance, similar to other airlines.
- Premium Seating Options: Southwest will introduce premium seating options with extra legroom, likely at a higher price point.
- Potential Impact on Fares: The new seating policy may lead to an increase in Wanna Get Away fares, Southwest's lowest fare class.
While the exact details of the new seating policy and pricing are still being finalized, Southwest is expected to announce more information in the coming months.
Key Takeaways:
- Passengers should be prepared for a change in the boarding process starting in 2025.
- Premium seating options will be available at an additional cost.
- The new policy may result in higher fares for some passengers.
9. Tips for a Smooth Southwest Flight Experience
- Check-in 24 Hours in Advance: To maximize your chances of getting a good seat, check in exactly 24 hours before your flight. This allows you to secure your preferred seating within your assigned boarding group.
- Utilize EarlyBird Check-In: For a small fee, EarlyBird Check-In guarantees you will be checked in 36 hours before your flight, giving you a significant advantage in the boarding process.
- Understand Boarding Groups: Familiarize yourself with Southwest's boarding groups. The higher the group (A, B, C), the earlier you will board the plane.
- Pack Light: Southwest's generous baggage allowance makes it easy to travel light. Packing light can save you time and hassle at the airport.
- Download the Southwest App: The Southwest app is an essential tool for managing your flights. Use it to check in, view your boarding pass, track your flight status, and access in-flight entertainment.
- Be Patient and Polite: Remember that flying can sometimes be unpredictable. Be patient and polite with airline staff and fellow passengers.
10. Southwest's Commitment to Customer Service
Southwest Airlines prides itself on its customer service and strives to provide a positive travel experience for all passengers.
- Dedicated Customer Service Line: Southwest offers a dedicated customer service line for assistance with bookings, flight changes, and any other travel-related inquiries.
- Online Support: You can also find answers to many common questions on the Southwest Airlines website and through their online chat support.
- Social Media Engagement: Southwest is active on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, where they respond to customer inquiries and provide updates.
11. Staying Informed About Southwest Airlines
To stay up-to-date on the latest news, sales, and promotions from Southwest Airlines:
- Subscribe to the Southwest Airlines Email List: Receive exclusive deals, special offers, and travel inspiration directly to your inbox.
- Follow Southwest on Social Media: Stay connected with Southwest through their social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
- Visit the Southwest Airlines Blog: The official Southwest Airlines blog features travel tips, destination guides, and company news.
12. Southwest's Commitment to Sustainability
Southwest Airlines is committed to environmental sustainability and is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact.
- Fuel Efficiency: Southwest operates a modern fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft, which helps to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
- Recycling Programs: The airline has implemented recycling programs at airports and on board aircraft to minimize waste.
- Carbon Offsets: Southwest offers customers the option to offset the carbon emissions associated with their flights through carbon offset programs.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategies and taking advantage of Southwest's unique offerings, you can unlock significant savings on your airfare and enhance your overall travel experience. Remember to plan ahead, utilize the tools and resources available, and enjoy the friendly and efficient service that Southwest Airlines is known for.
Happy travels!
Where do the $49 Southwest flights go?
Southwest's $49 flights are promotional fares that typically apply to short domestic routes within the United States. Destinations vary based on the promotion and availability. For the latest offers, visit Southwest's Flight Deals page.
What is the hack to get cheap flights?
- Use the Low Fare Calendar: Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar shows the cheapest fares for a whole month.
- Book During Sales: Most Southwest sales launch on Tuesdays and run until Thursday, offering great deals on specific routes.
- Set Fare Alerts: Use deal-tracking websites or apps to get notified of price drops or mistake fares.
- Flexible Travel Dates: Traveling on off-peak days and times can lead to cheaper flights.
What is the cheapest day to book flights on Southwest?
The best days to book flights on Southwest are typically Tuesday and Wednesday because airlines often release their weekly sales on these days. Additionally, prices are lower for midweek travel.
What is the sneaky trick to get priority boarding on Southwest?
- Purchase EarlyBird Check-In: Automatically checks you in 36 hours before the flight, improving your boarding position.
- Upgrade at the Gate: Southwest offers paid upgrades to A1-A15 boarding positions if available.
- Earn A-List Status: Frequent flyers who qualify for A-List receive priority boarding benefits.
- Board Early with Preboarding: If eligible, such as for a medical condition, you can request preboarding at the gate.
