Finding affordable air travel is a top priority for many, and Southwest Airlines offers a powerful tool to help you achieve just that: the Southwest Low Fare Calendar. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to use the low airfare calendar effectively, combined with expert booking strategies to maximize your savings on southwest airlines low fare calendar.
Understanding the Southwest Low Fare Calendar
- Head to Southwest.com: Start by visiting the Southwest Airlines website.
- Find the Low Fare Calendar: Look for a link or tab that says "Low Fare Calendar," "Deals," or something similar. It's usually found in the main navigation menu. This is your southwest low fare calendar.
- Enter Your Trip Details: Select your departure and arrival cities, and the month you'd like to travel. You can also choose between one-way or round trip.
- Browse the Calendar: The flight calendar southwest will display the lowest fares for each day of the chosen month. Days with the lowest fares are often highlighted (like in green, as we mentioned!). This sw air low fare calendar or swa low fare calendar is a great way to visualize the cheapest days.
- Be Flexible: This is where the magic happens! Experiment with different travel dates. Even shifting your trip by a day or two can sometimes unlock significantly lower fares on the low fare calendar for southwest.
- Click and Compare: Click on the dates that look promising to see the specific flight details and prices. You can then compare different flight times and options.
- Book Your Flight: Once you've found the perfect deal, go ahead and book your flight!
Best Booking Strategies for Southwest's Low Fare Calendar
- The Sweet Spot: Booking Time Frame: Southwest typically allows bookings within 90-180 days in advance. While it can vary, many experts, including a 2021 NerdWallet study, suggest that aiming for around 180 days out is often the optimal time to snag the best flight ticket prices. This gives you a good balance between having enough options and catching fares before they climb.
- Monitor and Adjust: Don't just book and forget! A smart traveler regularly checks back on the fares of flights they've already booked. If the price drops, Southwest's flexible policies allow you to change your reservation to the cheaper option and receive the difference as a refund or credit. This is a fantastic way to ensure you're always getting the best possible deal, even after booking.
- Seasonal Sales Savvy: Keep an eye out for Southwest's seasonal sales! They often have some of their best deals during spring, winter, and fall. Combining these sales with the sw low fare calendar can lead to some serious savings. Sign up for Southwest's email alerts to be the first to know about these promotions.
- Be Flexible with Dates (Still!): We mentioned this before, but it's worth repeating. Flexibility is your superpower when it comes to finding cheap flights. Even within the 180-day window, prices can fluctuate day to day. Use the calendar to your advantage and play around with your travel dates to see where the lowest fares pop up. Knowing what day is southwest cheapest can be helpful, but flexibility across several days is even better.
- Consider Connecting Flights: Sometimes, flights with layovers can be significantly cheaper than direct flights. If you're willing to sacrifice a little time, you might save a good chunk of change. The southwest Low Fare Calendar will show you these options too.
- Check Nearby Airports: If you have multiple airports within driving distance, check the fares for each of them. Sometimes flying into a smaller airport can save you money, even when you factor in the cost of ground transportation.
Sales and Special Deals: Snagging the Best Southwest Fares
- Tuesday is the Magic Day (Usually): While not always guaranteed, many travelers and industry experts point to Tuesdays as the prime day for airlines, including Southwest, to announce sales. This means setting aside some time on Tuesdays to check the Southwest website and other travel resources can significantly increase your chances of finding a great deal. Southwest frequently launches sales that start on Tuesdays and run through Thursdays, so act fast!
- One-Way Deals: Your Ticket to Savings: Keep an eye out for special one-way fare promotions. During select sales, Southwest sometimes offers short-haul routes at exceptionally low prices, starting around $39 or $49 one-way. These deals are often limited-time offers, so it's essential to act quickly when you see them. These can be excellent opportunities for quick getaways or connecting flight southwest.
Booking and Restrictions: What You Need to Know
While the Low Fare Calendar is a powerful tool, it's important to be aware of some booking restrictions and conditions:- Availability: The Low Fare Calendar only shows fares for flights that are currently available for booking. If a date shows "Unavailable," it means flights aren't available for that specific date yet. This could be because Southwest hasn't released their flight schedule for those dates, or the flights might be sold out.
- Booking Window: Southwest has a specific booking window. They typically accept reservations within a certain timeframe (often around 90-180 days) in advance. You can usually find a note on the Southwest website indicating the date through which they're currently accepting reservations. If your trip is outside this window, you'll need to check back later.
- Calendar Window: The Low Fare Calendar itself usually limits date selection to a month-long window for both departure and return dates. So, if you're planning a trip more than a month out, you might need to check the calendar in segments.
- Price Guarantee: The prices displayed on the Low Fare Calendar are not guaranteed until you actually book the flight. Fares can change rapidly, so if you see a good deal, it's best to book it as soon as possible.
- Group Bookings: You generally can't use the Southwest Low Fare Calendar to book flight tickets for groups of ten or more people. For group bookings, you'll usually need to contact Southwest directly.
- Changes and Cancellations: Southwest is known for its flexible change and cancellation policies. However, it's crucial to understand the specific policies that apply to your booking, especially if you rebook at a lower fare. While there are generally no change fees, there might be fare differences, and how taxes/fees are handled can vary. It's always a good idea to review the terms and conditions of your ticket. While you can often rebook at a lower fare, the process usually involves canceling your existing reservation and booking the new one, and there might be some nuances to how credits/refunds are handled.
- Baggage Policy: One of Southwest's most popular perks is its generous baggage policy. Unlike many other airlines, Southwest allows each passenger to check two bags for free. This can translate into significant savings, especially for families or travelers who tend to pack a lot. In addition to the two free checked bags, passengers are also allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a purse or laptop bag) at no extra charge.
- No Guarantee of Lowest Price: While the Low Fare Calendar helps you find low fares, it doesn't guarantee you'll find the absolute lowest price. Fares can change constantly, and there might be sales or other promotions that aren't reflected on the calendar. The "monitor and adjust" strategy we discussed earlier can help you mitigate this.
Frequent Flyer Benefits: Unlocking Rewards with Southwest
Great news! Booking flights through the Southwest Low Fare Calendar allows you to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points just as you would booking any other way on the Southwest Airlines website. 1Here's the lowdown:
- Earning Points: You can earn qualifying points with reservations bought on the Southwest Airlines website, including those booked through the Low Fare Calendar. You can also earn points with a Southwest credit card and through Southwest Rapid Rewards partners.
Restrictions: There are a few things to keep in mind:
- Cash + Points Bookings: If you use a combination of cash and points for your booking, you'll only earn points on the portion of the base fare that's paid with dollars.
- Earning Points on Award Travel: Generally, you won't earn Rapid Rewards points on flights purchased entirely with points (award travel).
- Maximize Your Rewards: Southwest Credit Cards: Using a Southwest credit card for your Low Fare Calendar bookings is a great way to double-dip on rewards. You'll earn points for the flight itself, plus bonus points for using your card.
- Chase Partnership: Southwest has a partnership with select Chase credit cards, allowing you to transfer Chase points to Southwest at a 1:1 ratio. This can be a fantastic way to boost your Rapid Rewards balance. However, it's always a good idea to do the math before you transfer to make sure it's the best value for your points.
- Rapid Rewards Partners: Don't forget about Southwest's Rapid Rewards partners! You can earn points on everyday purchases, dining, and more, which can then be used towards Southwest flights booked through the Low Fare Calendar.
- Qualifying Flights: You earn points on every Southwest flight you take. The number of points earned is usually based on the fare type and distance flown. Higher fares generally earn more points.
- Other Promotions: Southwest occasionally runs promotions that offer bonus points for specific flights or activities. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to maximize your rewards.
Benefits of Using the Low Fare Calendar
Southwest's Low Fare Calendar is more than just a schedule; it's a powerful tool that unlocks numerous benefits for savvy travelers looking to save money and maximize their travel flexibility. Let's explore how this feature can help you score the best deals.
- Pricing Visibility: Easily compare fares across different dates to identify the lowest prices at a glance. This helps you quickly spot the best deals and plan budget-friendly trips.
- Flexibility for All Flight Types: The Low Fare Calendar isn't just for simple round trips. It's flexible enough to accommodate various travel needs, showing prices for one-way, round-trip, and even multi-city itineraries. This makes it a versatile tool for any traveler, regardless of their trip complexity. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a complex international journey with multiple stops, the calendar can help you find the most affordable options.
- View Fares in Points: See the cost in both dollars and Rapid Rewards points. This dual view is incredibly helpful for frequent flyers. It allows you to assess the value of using your points for a particular flight and make informed decisions about how to maximize your rewards.
- Free Same-Day Changes: Travel with Peace of Mind: One of the often-overlooked benefits of using the Low Fare Calendar, especially when combined with Southwest's flexible policies, is the advantage of free same-day changes. If your plans change on your travel day, you can often switch to an earlier or later flight on the same route at no extra cost (provided seats are available). This flexibility can be a lifesaver for business travelers or anyone whose schedule might be subject to last-minute adjustments.
- Same-Day Standby: If the flight you want isn't available for a same-day change, you can opt for same-day standby. This allows you to be placed on a list for available seats on an earlier or later flight to the same destination. If a seat opens up, you'll be able to board.
- Fares Displayed in Points Maximize Your Rewards: The Low Fare Calendar's ability to display fares in Rapid Rewards points is a game-changer for frequent Southwest flyers. Seeing the point cost alongside the dollar cost allows you to quickly assess the value of using your points for a particular flight. This feature helps you make informed decisions about how to best utilize your points and can be particularly beneficial for those aiming to reach Companion Pass status or maximize their overall rewards.
Southwest Companion Pass: Your Ticket to Two-for-One Travel
The Southwest Companion Pass is arguably one of the best perks in travel, essentially offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal on flights! Imagine snagging those low fares on the calendar and then bringing a friend or family member along for (almost) free! Here's what you need to know:
- What it is: The Southwest Companion Pass allows you to designate one person to fly with you for (almost) free every time you purchase or redeem points for a flight. You'll just need to pay the applicable taxes and fees for their ticket (usually around $5.60 one-way).
- How to Qualify: To earn the Companion Pass, you need to meet one of the following criteria in a calendar year: Fly 100 qualifying one-way flights on Southwest. Earn 135,000 qualifying Rapid Rewards points.
- Timing is Key: A pro-tip is to aim to qualify for the Companion Pass early in the year (like January). This way, you can enjoy the benefits for nearly two full years – the remainder of the year you qualify plus the entire following calendar year!
- Designating Your Companion: Once you've earned Companion Pass status, you'll need to designate your companion through your Rapid Rewards account on the Southwest website or by phone. Keep in mind that the Companion Pass itself is tied to your designated companion, so it's not something you can change with every ticket you buy.
- Using the Companion Pass with the Low Fare Calendar: The good news is you can absolutely use your Companion Pass in conjunction with the Low Fare Calendar!
Here's how it works:
- Find Your Low Fare: Use the Low Fare Calendar to find the perfect flight and fare for yourself.
- Book Your Flight: Book your flight as you normally would through the Southwest website.
- Add Your Companion: After booking your flight, you'll then add your designated companion to the reservation. You'll see an option to use your Companion Pass.
- Pay Taxes and Fees: You'll be responsible for paying the taxes and fees for your companion's ticket.
Booking Strategies for Southwest Airlines: Scoring the Best Deals
Booking flights on Southwest Airlines can be a breeze if you employ the right strategies, including understanding and utilizing tools like the Low Fare Calendar. This guide dives into proven methods for securing the best possible fares, from planning ahead to leveraging the power of third-party tools, and of course, mastering the Southwest Low Fare Calendar. Here's a breakdown of how it works:- Where to Find It: The Southwest Low Fare Calendar is exclusively available on the Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com). You won't find Southwest fares on other travel sites like Expedia, Priceline, Kayak, Google Flights, or any other Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) or metasearch engines. This is because Southwest manages its fares directly, so you must go to the source.
- How it Works: The Low Fare Calendar functions similarly to other fare calendar tools you might have seen on other travel websites. It displays a month-by-month calendar, showing the starting price for flights on each day. This makes it easy to visually compare fares across different dates and spot the cheapest times to fly.
- Fare Classes: The Southwest Low Fare Calendar covers all available fare types, giving you a complete picture of your options. Southwest offers several fare classes, including:
- Wanna Get Away: This is typically the most restrictive and lowest-priced fare class.
- Wanna Get Away Plus: Offers some added flexibility compared to the standard Wanna Get Away fare.
- Anytime: Provides more flexibility and often includes perks like priority boarding.
- Business Select: The most expensive fare class, offering the most flexibility and premium benefits.
- Nonrefundable Fares: These fares typically offer the lowest price but come with restrictions. While the fare itself is nonrefundable in cash, it can be applied towards future travel on Southwest Airlines. Crucially, reservations must be canceled at least ten minutes prior to the scheduled departure to retain the travel credit. This credit can then be used for a new flight booking, although fare differences may apply. It's important to note that certain restrictions may apply to the use of these credits, so checking the specific terms and conditions is always recommended.
- Other Fare Types: Southwest often offers other fare options, such as "Wanna Get Away Plus," "Anytime," or "Business Select," each with increasing benefits like priority boarding, more Rapid Rewards points, and greater flexibility regarding changes and cancellations. These fares are typically more expensive than nonrefundable fares but offer increased value for travelers who prioritize these benefits. Details on these fares can be found on Southwest.com.
- Why it's Useful: The Low Fare Calendar is especially helpful because, as we mentioned, Southwest fares don't appear on other travel websites. This means you need to use the calendar to see all available Southwest flight options and prices. It's your one-stop shop for finding the best deals on Southwest flights.
Using the Low Fare Calendar: Your Key to Southwest Savings
Ready to put the Southwest Low Fare Calendar to work and find some amazing deals? Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide:- Go to Southwest.com: Start by navigating to the official Southwest Airlines website.
- Find the Calendar: Look for a link or tab that says "Low Fare Calendar," "Deals," or something similar. It's usually prominently displayed in the main navigation menu.
- Enter Your Trip Details: On the Low Fare Calendar page, enter your departure and arrival cities. Select the month you'd like to travel. Choose between one-way or round trip.
- Browse the Calendar: The calendar will display the lowest fares available for each day of your chosen month. The lowest fares are often highlighted with a color (like green), making them easy to spot.
- Be Flexible (and Explore!): This is where the real savings happen. Don't just look at your ideal dates. Experiment with different departure and return days. Even shifting your trip by a day or two can sometimes make a big difference in price.
- Filter and Select: Once you see some dates that look promising, click on a specific date to see the available flight options and prices for that day. You can often filter these results by time of day, number of stops, and other criteria to narrow down your choices.
- Save Flights for Later: If you find a fare you like but aren't quite ready to book, many versions of the calendar allow you to "save" or "bookmark" the flight for later. This is a handy way to keep track of potential deals without committing immediately. Look for a "Save Flights" button or similar option.
- Compare and Choose: Compare the different flight options and prices. Consider factors like flight times, layovers, and fare class when making your decision.
- Book Your Flight: Once you've found the perfect flight, go ahead and book it! Remember, fares can change quickly, so it's best to book sooner rather than later if you see a great deal.
Booking Tips and Strategies: Maximizing Your Travel Savings
Beyond using the Low Fare Calendar effectively, here are some additional tips and strategies to make the most of your Southwest bookings:- Transferring Points: One of the best ways to boost your Rapid Rewards balance is by transferring points from credit card rewards programs. Many credit cards partner with Southwest, allowing you to convert your credit card points into Rapid Rewards points. However, it's crucial to do the math! Compare the value of transferring points versus booking through your credit card's travel portal. Sometimes one option is a better deal than the other.
Rebooking When Prices Drop: Southwest's flexible policies make it easy to take advantage of price drops after you've booked. Here's how:
- Monitor Fares: Keep an eye on the price of your booked flight. Use the Low Fare Calendar or simply check your existing reservation on Southwest.com.
- Find a Lower Fare: If you find a lower fare for the same flight, don't hesitate!
- Rebook (Usually): In most cases, the process involves canceling your existing reservation (as long as it's at least 10 minutes before scheduled departure) and then rebooking at the lower fare. The difference in fare will typically be refunded to you as a credit or potentially back to your original payment method. Always double-check the specific terms and conditions. Enjoy Your Savings!
Maximize Rewards:
- Southwest Credit Card: A Southwest credit card can be a game-changer. You'll earn points on every purchase, and often get bonus points for specific spending categories. Plus, you can often use your card to earn progress toward Companion Pass qualification.
- Strategic Partnerships: Southwest has partnerships with various companies, including hotels (like Booking.com and RocketMiles.com), car rentals, and more. By using these partners, you can earn even more Rapid Rewards points on your travel spending.
- Chase Partnership: As mentioned before, Chase credit cards that partner with Southwest offer another avenue for earning Rapid Rewards points.
Booking Methods:
You can book Southwest flights through several channels:
- Southwest.com: The official Southwest website is the most common place to book flights. It allows you to search for flights, compare fares, select seats, and manage your bookings.
- Southwest App: The Southwest mobile app provides a convenient way to book and manage flights on your smartphone or tablet.
- Phone: You can contact Southwest's customer service via phone to book flights.
- Travel Agents: Travel agents can also book Southwest flights on your behalf.
Tips for a Smooth Booking Experience
- Be Flexible with Your Dates and Times: If your travel schedule is flexible, you may be able to find lower fares by flying on less popular days or times.
- Book in Advance: Booking your flights in advance, especially during peak travel periods, can often help you secure better fares.
- Check for Sales and Promotions: Keep an eye out for sales and promotions offered by Southwest.
- Compare Fares: Before booking, compare fares for different flights and dates to find the best deal.
- Review Your Booking Confirmation: After booking, carefully review your booking confirmation to ensure all the details are correct.
Pros and Cons of the Low Fare Calendar
The Low Fare Calendar, offered by many airlines, is a tool designed to help travelers find the best deals on flights. It presents fares across a range of dates, allowing you to visually compare prices and identify the cheapest days to fly. However, like any tool, it has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look:
Pros:
- Visual Price Comparison: The calendar format makes it incredibly easy to see price differences across multiple days or even weeks. This visual representation helps you quickly identify the lowest fares.
- Flexibility for Travel Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, the Low Fare Calendar is invaluable. It allows you to shift your trip by a day or two to take advantage of significantly lower prices.
- Budget Planning: By clearly showing the cost of flights on different days, the calendar helps you plan your trip within your budget. You can easily see which dates are affordable and which are not.
- Potential for Significant Savings: Using the Low Fare Calendar can often lead to substantial savings on airfare, freeing up money for other aspects of your trip.
Cons:
- Not Always Real-Time: The fares displayed on the calendar are not always updated in real-time. A low fare you see might be gone by the time you try to book it. This can be frustrating and lead to missed opportunities.
- Limited to Specific Airline (Usually): Low Fare Calendars are typically specific to one airline. You won't see fares from other airlines, limiting your options. (Some third-party travel sites may offer multi-airline calendars, but these aren't always comprehensive).
- Lowest Fare Doesn't Equal Best Flight: The calendar shows the lowest fare, but that might not be the best flight for you. It could be a very early morning or late night flight, or it might involve a long layover. Convenience is often sacrificed for the lowest price.
- May Not Include All Fees: Sometimes, the fares displayed on the calendar don't include all taxes and fees. Be sure to check the final price before booking to avoid surprises.
- Open Seating Policies (Like Southwest): For airlines like Southwest, which have open seating, a low fare doesn't guarantee you a good seat. You'll have to grab whatever's available when you check in.
Howdy, Partners! Wranglin' Deals with the Southwest Low Fare Calendar
Alright, let's talk Southwest, the airline that's all about friendly skies and, more importantly, friendly prices. We're gonna dive deep into their Low Fare Calendar, your secret weapon for snaggin' the best deals. This ain't just about pickin' a date; it's about playin' the game smart.
Findin' Those Sweet Spots (and What They Mean)
First off, that Low Fare Calendar? It's like a treasure map. You see those little price tags? That's your first clue. But hold your horses! Before you jump on the cheapest one, let's talk about what kind of ticket you're gettin'.
Southwest has a few different "flavors" of fares, each with its own quirks:
- Wanna Get Away: These are your budget-friendly tickets, the ones that make your wallet sing. But remember, with a lower price comes a little less wiggle room. Changes might cost ya a bit, and refunds? Mostly credit for future flights. Think of it like buyin' a sale item – great deal, but gotta stick with it.
- Wanna Get Away Plus: Now, this is where things get a bit more flexible. You get some perks like same-day changes (if there's a seat), and you earn a few more points. It's like a little upgrade for those who like to keep their options open.
- Anytime: As the name suggests, this fare gives you the most freedom. Change your flight? No problem (just pay the difference in fare). Need a refund? You got it. Plus, you'll rack up those Rapid Rewards points faster than a jackrabbit in a dust storm.
- Business Select: This is the top of the line, the VIP treatment. Think priority boarding, extra points, and a guaranteed spot in the first few rows. If you're lookin' to travel in style and comfort, this is your ticket.
Thinkin' 'bout the Little Ones (and Furry Friends Too)
Now, let's talk about travelin' with the whole family, critters included!
- Little Buckaroos: Infants (under 2) can fly on your lap, sometimes for free, sometimes for a small fee. Just remember, safety first! Car seats are always a good idea. And for the bigger kids, check for discounts – sometimes they fly for less.
- Furry Companions: Got a dog or cat that loves to travel? Southwest welcomes 'em, but there are rules. Think carriers, size limits, and fees. Best to check their website for the specifics, so your furry friend has a smooth ride.
- Group Travel: Headin' out with a big posse? Southwest can handle that! They've got special procedures for groups of 10 or more. It's best to call 'em up directly to plan your group adventure.
- Folks with Special Needs: Southwest's all about makin' travel accessible for everyone. They offer assistance with everything from wheelchairs to service animals. Just give 'em a heads-up when you book, so they can make the necessary arrangements.
Bookin' Tips and Tricks (The Cowboy Way)
Now, here are a few tips to wrangle those deals like a pro:
- Be Flexible: The more flexible you are with your travel dates, the better your chances of findin' a bargain. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekends.
- Check Often: Them fares can change faster than the weather in Texas. Keep an eye on the calendar, and when you see a good deal, grab it!
- Use Points Wisely: If you're a Rapid Rewards member, use those points to your advantage. Sometimes, it's cheaper to book with points than with cash.
- Book Early: Especially if you're travelin' during peak season. The earlier you book, the better your chances of gettin' a good price.
Conclusion: Mastering the Southwest Low Fare Calendar for Travel Savings
The Southwest Low Fare Calendar is an invaluable tool for any traveler seeking affordable flights. By understanding how to use the calendar effectively, combined with the booking strategies outlined in this guide, you can significantly increase your chances of scoring the best deals on Southwest Airlines. Remember that flexibility is key. Experiment with travel dates, consider nearby airports, and don't be afraid to rebook if you find a better price. Combine the power of the Low Fare Calendar with Southwest's flexible policies and Rapid Rewards program, and you'll be well-equipped to make your travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you ensure you're getting the best deal on a Southwest Airlines flight? A "low fare" on Southwest Airlines is a relative term. It means that the price for a particular flight is lower compared to other available fares for that same flight. It's not a fixed price, and what constitutes a "low fare" can vary significantly based on several factors, including the route, time of year, demand for the flight, day of the week, and how far in advance you book. Essentially, it's Southwest's way of offering competitive pricing within the current market. It's always a good idea to compare fares across different dates and times to ensure you're getting the best deal.
When does Southwest Airlines have fare sales? Southwest is known for its frequent fare sales, but they don't follow a strict schedule. You'll often see sales around major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's), during seasonal changes in travel patterns, and for special promotions or anniversaries. The best way to stay informed about these sales is to sign up for Southwest's email alerts, follow them on social media (Twitter and Facebook), and check their website regularly. Even outside of formal sales, prices can fluctuate, so frequent checking can pay off.
Does Southwest Airlines have a bereavement fare? Southwest Airlines does not offer a formal, designated bereavement fare. While they don't have a specific policy outlined, they are known for their generally flexible approach and competitive pricing, which sometimes makes a dedicated bereavement fare less critical. However, it is always best to contact Southwest directly to explain your situation. They may be able to offer some flexibility or guidance on finding the best available fare for your needs. When contacting them, be prepared to share your travel details and be as flexible as possible with your dates and times, as this can often lead to finding better fares.
Additional Tips and Considerations:
- Incognito Mode: Some travelers believe that searching for flights in incognito or private browsing mode can sometimes help you find better deals. This is because airlines and travel websites can track your browsing history and adjust prices based on your previous searches. While the effectiveness of this technique is debatable, it's a simple step that might be worth trying.
- Clear Your Cookies: Similar to incognito mode, clearing your browser's cookies can also help prevent airlines and travel websites from tracking your searches and potentially inflating prices.
- Set Fare Alerts: Several third-party travel websites and apps offer fare alerts that notify you when the price of a flight you're interested in changes. This can be a helpful way to stay informed about price drops without having to constantly check the Low Fare Calendar yourself.
- Consider Package Deals: Sometimes, booking a flight and hotel together as a package deal can be cheaper than booking them separately. Southwest Vacations offers package deals that include flights, hotels, and sometimes even rental cars or other activities.
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: If your travel dates are flexible, consider traveling during the off-peak season or shoulder season. You're likely to find lower fares and fewer crowds during these times.
- Be Patient: Finding the best deals on flights often requires patience and persistence. Don't get discouraged if you don't find a great deal right away. Keep checking the Low Fare Calendar and be flexible with your travel plans.
- Read the Fine Print: Before booking any flight, be sure to read the fine print carefully. Pay attention to any restrictions or fees that may apply, such as baggage fees, change fees, or cancellation fees.