Best Day to Book Flights on Southwest: 5 Unique Facts
Southwest Airlines is one of the most popular low-cost carriers in the United States, offering affordable fares and excellent customer service. If you’re planning to book a flight with Southwest, you may wonder when is the best day to do so. In this article, we will explore the best day to book flights on Southwest, along with five unique facts about the airline. Additionally, we will answer some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
Best Day to Book Flights on Southwest:
While there is no definitive answer, many experts suggest that booking your Southwest flights on a Tuesday is your best bet. This is because Southwest often releases its weekly sales on Tuesdays, offering discounted fares for a limited time. By booking on the same day, you have a higher chance of snagging these discounted tickets before they sell out.
Now, let’s dive into five unique facts about Southwest Airlines:
1. Bags fly free: One of the most distinctive features of Southwest is its “bags fly free” policy. Unlike most other airlines, Southwest allows passengers to check in two bags without any additional charges. This is a significant advantage for travelers who prefer to bring more items or want to avoid costly baggage fees.
2. No assigned seating: Southwest operates on an open-seating policy, meaning there are no assigned seats on their flights. Instead, passengers are given a boarding group and a number, and they can choose any available seat once they board the plane. While this may lead to a bit of a scramble during boarding, it also allows for more flexibility and the chance to sit with your travel companions.
3. Rapid Rewards loyalty program: Southwest offers a comprehensive loyalty program called Rapid Rewards. Passengers can earn points for every flight they take, which can be redeemed for future flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and more. This program provides excellent value for frequent Southwest flyers and allows them to save money on their travels.
4. Extensive domestic network: Southwest has a vast domestic network, serving over 100 destinations across the United States. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway in Florida or a ski trip in Colorado, chances are Southwest will have a flight to your desired destination. Their extensive coverage makes them a convenient choice for domestic travel.
5. Excellent customer service: Southwest is renowned for its exceptional customer service. The airline consistently ranks highly in customer satisfaction surveys, thanks to its friendly and helpful staff. Whether you have a question about your flight or need assistance during your journey, you can count on Southwest to provide excellent service with a smile.
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about booking flights on Southwest:
1. Can I book Southwest flights on other travel websites?
Yes, you can book Southwest flights on various online travel agencies such as Expedia, Orbitz, and Kayak. However, it’s worth noting that Southwest’s lowest fares may not always be available through these third-party websites.
2. Can I change or cancel my Southwest flight?
Yes, Southwest allows you to change or cancel your flight without any change fees. However, you may need to pay a fare difference if the new flight is more expensive. If you cancel your flight, you will receive the full value of your ticket as a Southwest credit that can be used for future travel.
3. Does Southwest offer international flights?
Yes, Southwest recently expanded its services to include international destinations such as Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. However, their international routes are still more limited compared to their extensive domestic network.
4. Are Southwest’s fares always the lowest?
While Southwest generally offers competitive fares, they may not always be the absolute lowest. It’s essential to compare prices across different airlines and consider factors such as baggage fees and loyalty programs to determine the best deal for your specific needs.
5. Can I bring a pet on Southwest flights?
Yes, Southwest allows small, vaccinated pets to travel in the cabin for a fee. However, there are specific guidelines and restrictions in place, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with their pet policy before booking.
6. Is Wi-Fi available on Southwest flights?
Yes, Southwest offers in-flight Wi-Fi on most of its flights. However, it’s important to note that there may be a fee associated with using the Wi-Fi service.
7. How early should I arrive at the airport for my Southwest flight?
Southwest recommends arriving at least 60 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights. However, during peak travel times or if you have checked baggage, it’s advisable to arrive even earlier.
8. Does Southwest offer a premium cabin or first-class seating?
No, Southwest does not offer a premium cabin or first-class seating. However, they do offer Business Select, which provides additional perks such as priority boarding and extra Rapid Rewards points.
9. Can I bring my own food and drinks on Southwest flights?
Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages on Southwest flights. However, alcoholic beverages can only be consumed if purchased onboard.
10. Does Southwest offer group discounts?
Yes, Southwest offers group travel options for parties of ten or more passengers. These group bookings may come with additional benefits such as flexible payment options and dedicated customer support.
11. Can I earn frequent flyer miles with other airlines when flying with Southwest?
As of now, Southwest does not have any official partnerships with other airlines for mileage earning. However, you can still earn Rapid Rewards points when flying with Southwest, which can be used for future travel.
12. Are there any age restrictions for unaccompanied minors on Southwest flights?
Yes, Southwest has specific guidelines and fees for unaccompanied minors aged five to eleven. It’s advisable to contact Southwest directly for more information on their unaccompanied minor policy.
13. Can I book a Southwest flight with a lap infant?
Yes, you can book a Southwest flight with a lap infant. However, lap infants are required to have a boarding verification document, which can be obtained at the ticket counter.
In conclusion, while there isn’t a foolproof formula for finding the absolute best day to book flights on Southwest, Tuesday is often recommended due to the airline’s weekly sales. Additionally, Southwest’s unique features, such as their “bags fly free” policy and excellent customer service, make them a popular choice among travelers. By understanding these facts and addressing common questions, you can make informed decisions and have a pleasant experience when booking and flying with Southwest Airlines.
