Are you looking for the best deals on flights with Southwest Airlines? Look no further than the low fare calendar! In this comprehensive blog article, we will explore everything you need to know about the low fare calendar offered by Southwest. From how to access it, to tips and tricks for finding the best fares, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and discover how you can save big on your next Southwest flight!
What is the Low Fare Calendar?
The low fare calendar is a powerful tool provided by Southwest Airlines that allows you to search for the lowest fares available within a specific date range. Instead of manually searching for flights on different days, the low fare calendar presents you with a visual representation of the fares for an entire month. This makes it easier to identify the cheapest days to fly and plan your travel accordingly.
How Does it Work?
When you access the low fare calendar, you will see a grid layout with each day of the month displayed. The fares for each day are color-coded to indicate the level of affordability. Green indicates the lowest fares available, while yellow and red represent slightly higher fares. By selecting a specific date on the calendar, you can view the exact fare for that day. Keep in mind that the fares displayed on the low fare calendar are one-way prices and may vary based on availability.
Why Should You Use the Low Fare Calendar?
The low fare calendar is a valuable tool for budget-conscious travelers. It allows you to have a clear overview of the fares for an entire month, making it easier to find the best deals. By using the low fare calendar, you can save both time and money by quickly identifying the most affordable travel dates. Whether you're planning a vacation or a business trip, the low fare calendar can help you make informed decisions and maximize your travel budget.
Accessing the Low Fare Calendar
To access the low fare calendar, simply visit the Southwest Airlines website and select the "Low Fare Calendar" option from the "Flight" menu. You will then be prompted to enter your departure city, destination, and the month you wish to travel. Once you've entered this information, the low fare calendar will display the fares for each day of the selected month.
Using the Search Filters
The low fare calendar also offers advanced search filters to further refine your results. You can specify the number of passengers, choose to include connecting flights, and even filter based on specific times of the day. These filters can be helpful if you have specific travel preferences or if you're looking for flights that align with your schedule.
Mobile App and Email Notifications
If you prefer to access the low fare calendar on the go, Southwest Airlines also has a mobile app that allows you to search for flights and access the low fare calendar directly from your smartphone or tablet. Additionally, you can sign up for email notifications to receive alerts about special deals, fare reductions, and promotions. This way, you can stay updated on any changes in fares and book your flights at the right time.
Understanding the Fare Colors
When using the low fare calendar, it's important to understand the different colors that represent the fares. Green indicates the lowest fares available, while yellow and red represent slightly higher fares. The color-coding system helps you quickly identify the most affordable days to fly. By selecting a specific date on the calendar, you can view the exact fare for that day. Keep in mind that the fares displayed on the low fare calendar are one-way prices and may vary based on availability.
Interpreting the Fare Color Variations
While green represents the lowest fares, it's essential to understand that the availability of these fares is limited. As more seats are booked, the fares may increase and move into the yellow or red range. Therefore, it's recommended to book your flights as soon as you find a desirable fare to secure the best price. Remember that the fares displayed on the low fare calendar are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to book your flight as soon as you're ready.
Utilizing the "Click 'N Save" Feature
If you're not ready to book your flight immediately, you can utilize Southwest Airlines' "Click 'N Save" feature. This feature allows you to sign up for email notifications when the fares for your desired itinerary drop. By setting up fare alerts, you can stay informed about any fare reductions and book your flight at the right time, maximizing your chances of securing a low fare.
Finding the Best Deals
Now that you know how to access the low fare calendar, let's discuss some tips and tricks for finding the best deals. By following these strategies, you can increase your chances of snagging the lowest fares and saving big on your Southwest flights.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Flexibility is key when it comes to finding the best deals on Southwest Airlines. The low fare calendar allows you to easily compare fares for different days within a month, so take advantage of this feature. If your travel itinerary allows, consider adjusting your departure and return dates by a few days to see if there are significant savings to be made. Sometimes, a slight change in travel dates can result in substantial reductions in fares.
Consider Off-Peak Travel
Another way to find the best deals on Southwest flights is to consider traveling during off-peak times. Weekdays and early morning flights tend to have lower demand, which can translate to lower fares. By being open to flying at less popular times, you can increase your chances of finding discounted tickets. Keep in mind that off-peak travel may also offer additional benefits such as shorter lines at security checkpoints and less crowded airports.
Take Advantage of Seasonal Sales
Southwest Airlines frequently offers seasonal sales and promotions, especially during holidays and special events. These sales can provide additional savings on top of the already discounted fares available on the low fare calendar. To stay informed about any ongoing sales or promotions, consider following Southwest Airlines on social media and subscribing to their newsletter. By staying up-to-date with their latest offers, you can take advantage of the best deals when they become available.
Book in Advance
While last-minute deals can sometimes be found, it's generally recommended to book your Southwest flights in advance to secure the best fares. As the departure date approaches, the availability of the lowest fares may decrease, and prices may increase. By booking early, you can ensure that you have a wide range of affordable options to choose from. The low fare calendar is an excellent tool for planning ahead and making informed decisions about when to book your flights.
Setting Fare Alerts
If you have a specific destination and travel dates in mind, but the fares on the low fare calendar are still too high, you can set up fare alerts. Southwest Airlines offers a feature called "Click 'N Save" where you can sign up to receive email notifications when the fares for your desired itinerary drop. This way, you can stay updated on any fare reductions and book your flight at the right time.
How to Set Up Fare Alerts
To set up fare alerts, visit the Southwest Airlines website and navigate to the "Click 'N Save" section. Enter your email address and select your preferred departure city and destination. You can also specify the maximum fare you're willing to pay. Once you've entered this information, Southwest Airlines will send you email notifications when fares matching your criteria become available. By receiving timely alerts, you can take advantage of any fare reductions and secure the best deals.
Benefits of Fare Alerts
Setting up fare alerts can be particularly beneficial for travelers with fixed travel dates or specific destinations in mind. Instead of constantly checking the low fare calendar, you can rely on email notifications to keep you informed of any changes in fares. Fare alerts save you time and effort by delivering the latest updates directly to your inbox. This way, you can plan your trip confidently, knowing that you'll be notified when the fares drop to your desired price range.
Booking with Points
Southwest Airlines has a fantastic loyalty program called Rapid Rewards, which allows you to earn and redeem points for flights. If you're a frequent Southwest traveler or have accumulated a significant number of points, it's worth considering booking your flights using points instead of cash. The low fare calendar also displays the points required for each day, making it easy to compare the cash and points fares and decide which option is more cost-effective.
How to Book with Points
To book a flight using points, log in to your Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards account and navigate to the flight booking page. Enter your departure and destination cities, select your desired travel dates, and click on the "Points" tab. The low fare calendar will update to display the points required for each day. You can then choose the dates that offer the best value in terms of points and complete your booking using your Rapid Rewards points.
Maximizing the Value of Points
Whenbooking with points, it's essential to maximize the value of your Rapid Rewards points. One way to do this is by taking advantage of Southwest Airlines' frequent promotions and bonus point offers. Keep an eye out for opportunities to earn additional points through activities such as booking hotels, renting cars, or shopping with Southwest Airlines partners. By strategically accumulating points and redeeming them during promotions, you can get even more value out of your points and potentially book flights at a significantly reduced cost.
Additionally, consider combining points and cash to pay for your flight. Southwest Airlines offers a feature called "Points + Cash," which allows you to use a combination of points and cash to cover the cost of your ticket. This flexibility can be advantageous when you don't have enough points to cover the full fare but still want to save on your flight.
Another way to maximize the value of your Rapid Rewards points is by booking flights during off-peak periods. Southwest Airlines has a dynamic pricing system for points, meaning that the number of points required for a flight can vary based on demand and availability. By choosing to travel during less busy times, you may find that the number of points required for your desired flight is lower, allowing you to stretch your points further and potentially book multiple trips with the same amount of points.
Taking Advantage of Sales and Promotions
Southwest Airlines frequently offers sales and promotions that can further reduce the fares displayed on the low fare calendar. These sales can range from flash sales with limited-time offers to seasonal promotions and holiday deals. By keeping an eye out for these special offers, you can potentially save even more on your Southwest flights.
Following Southwest Airlines on Social Media
One of the best ways to stay informed about sales and promotions is by following Southwest Airlines on social media. Southwest Airlines actively promotes their sales and deals on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. By following their accounts, you'll be among the first to know about any upcoming sales, allowing you to take advantage of the best deals before they sell out.
Subscribing to the Newsletter
Another great way to stay updated on sales and promotions is by subscribing to the Southwest Airlines newsletter. By providing your email address and opting into their newsletter, you'll receive regular updates about the latest deals, promotions, and news from Southwest Airlines. This ensures that you won't miss out on any opportunities to save on your next flight.
Checking for Promotional Codes
Before finalizing your booking, it's always worth checking for any promotional codes that may be available. Southwest Airlines occasionally releases promotional codes that can provide additional discounts on your fares. These codes can be found on various coupon websites or by searching for "Southwest Airlines promo codes." Just make sure to read the terms and conditions of the promotional code to ensure it's applicable to your desired flight and travel dates.
Checking for Multiple Departure Airports
If you live in an area with multiple airports, it's worth checking the fares from each one. The low fare calendar allows you to easily switch between departure airports, giving you the opportunity to find even lower fares. Don't limit yourself to just one airport – explore all your options and choose the most affordable one.
Benefits of Multiple Departure Airports
Checking multiple departure airports can provide several benefits. Firstly, different airports may have different airlines operating flights to your desired destination, which can result in varying fare prices. Additionally, airports located in different regions or areas may have different levels of demand, which can impact fare prices as well. By comparing fares from multiple departure airports, you can potentially find significant savings and choose the most cost-effective option for your trip.
Consider Additional Costs
When comparing fares from multiple departure airports, it's important to consider any additional costs that may be associated with each airport. For example, one airport may have cheaper flights, but it could be located further away from your home, resulting in higher transportation costs. Additionally, parking fees or additional travel time should also be taken into account. By weighing the overall costs, including both the flight fare and any additional expenses, you can make an informed decision and choose the most economical departure airport.
Exploring Nearby Destinations
If you have a specific destination in mind but the fares are too high, consider exploring nearby cities or airports. Sometimes flying into a nearby airport and taking a short drive or train ride to your desired destination can result in significant savings. The low fare calendar can help you identify alternative airports and compare the fares, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Benefits of Exploring Nearby Destinations
Exploring nearby destinations can open up a world of possibilities for finding affordable flights. By expanding your search to include nearby cities or airports, you may discover hidden gems with lower fares. Additionally, exploring nearby destinations can also add a sense of adventure to your trip, allowing you to experience new places and cultures along the way. Be open to exploring alternative options, and you may be pleasantly surprised by the savings and unique experiences that await you.
Consider Transportation Options
When flying into a nearby airport, it's important to consider transportation options to your final destination. Research the availability of rental cars, public transportation, or shuttle services that can take you from the airport to your desired location. Compare the costs and convenience of each option to ensure that the overall savings from the lower flight fare are not offset by expensive transportation expenses. By planning ahead and considering transportation options, you can make the most of your travel budget and enjoy a hassle-free journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we will answer some commonly asked questions about the low fare calendar and Southwest Airlines. From how far in advance you should book to whether the fares include checked baggage, we'll address all your queries to ensure a smooth booking experience.
How Far in Advance Should I Book?
The ideal time to book your Southwest flight depends on various factors, including the destination, time of year, and demand. As a general rule of thumb, it's recommended to book your flight as early as possible to secure the lowest fares. For popular travel periods such as holidays or peak vacation seasons, it's advisable to book several months in advance to ensure availability and snag the best deals. However, keep in mind that Southwest Airlines often releases sales and promotions throughout the year, so it's worth checking the low fare calendar regularly even if your travel dates are further in the future.
Do the Fares Include Checked Baggage?
Southwest Airlines has a generous baggage policy that allows each passenger to bring two checked bags free of charge. The fares displayed on the low fare calendar do not include any additional fees or charges, including checked baggage fees. However, Southwest Airlines' free checked baggage policy applies to all fare classes, so you can enjoy the benefit of free checked bags regardless of the fare you choose. It's important to review Southwest Airlines' baggage policy for specific details and restrictions.
Can I Make Changes to my Booking?
Southwest Airlines has a flexible change policy that allows you to modify your booking without incurring hefty change fees. Unlike many other airlines, Southwest Airlines does not charge change fees for flight modifications. However, if there is a difference in fare between your original and new flight, you may be required to pay the fare difference. The ability to make changes without expensive fees adds an extra layer of convenience and flexibility when booking with Southwest Airlines.
Can I Get a Refund if the Fare Drops?
Southwest Airlines offers a unique benefit called the "Southwest Travel Funds." If the fare for your flight drops after you've booked, you can request a refund in the form of travel funds. These travel funds can be used towards future Southwest Airlines bookings within one year from the original purchase date. The ability to receive a refund in the form of travel funds provides an added level of protection and ensures that you won't miss out on savings if the fare for your flight decreases.
Are there any Blackout Dates?
Southwest Airlines does not have blackout dates that restrict the use of rewards or the low fare calendar for booking flights. You can use your Rapid Rewards points or search for low fares on the low fare calendar throughout the year, including holidays and peak travel periods. However, it's important to note that the availability of rewards seats or the lowest fares may vary based on demand and availability. It's advisable to book your flights as early as possible to secure your desired travel dates.
Can I Use the Low Fare Calendar for International Flights?
Yes, the low fare calendar can be used to search for both domestic and international flights with Southwest Airlines. Whether you're planning a trip within the United States or exploring international destinations, the low fare calendar can help you find the best deals. Simply enter your departure city, destination, and desired travel month to view the fares for the entire month. Keep in mind that the low fare calendar only displays Southwest Airlines flights, so if you're looking for flights with partner airlines or other carriers, you may need to visit their respective websites.
With these tips and tricks, you're now equipped with the knowledge to make the most of the low fare calendar offered bySouthwest Airlines. By accessing the low fare calendar, being flexible with your travel dates, setting fare alerts, and exploring nearby airports or destinations, you can increase your chances of finding the best deals and saving on your flights. Don't forget to take advantage of sales, promotions, and the Rapid Rewards loyalty program to further maximize your savings.
Remember, when using the low fare calendar, it's important to book your flights as soon as you find a desirable fare. Fares can change quickly, and the availability of the lowest fares is limited. By acting promptly, you can secure the best price and avoid missing out on great deals.
Whether you're planning a vacation, a business trip, or a spontaneous getaway, the low fare calendar is an invaluable tool for finding affordable flights with Southwest Airlines. With its user-friendly interface, clear fare visualization, and advanced search filters, the low fare calendar simplifies the process of finding the best deals and allows you to make well-informed travel decisions.
So, start exploring the low fare calendar today and unlock a world of affordable travel opportunities with Southwest Airlines. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical paradise, embarking on a cross-country adventure, or visiting loved ones, the low fare calendar will help you save money and make your travel dreams a reality. Happy searching and happy travels!
