Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier – Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Discovering Lesser-Known Destinations with Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines flies to over 100 destinations across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, providing ample opportunities for travelers to discover new and exciting places. While busy hub airports and major cities often steal the spotlight, some of Southwest's smaller and lesser-known destinations are definitely worth exploring.
For outdoor enthusiasts, cities like Bozeman, Montana open up access to Yellowstone National Park and countless hiking, fishing, and skiing adventures. Nature lovers can also unwind in Spokane, Washington, where biking trails, gardens, and waterfalls abound. The arts come alive in Richmond, Virginia's historic neighborhoods and renowned museums. History buffs can walk the Freedom Trail in Providence, Rhode Island or explore Revolutionary and Civil War sites throughout the state of Maryland when flying into Baltimore.
Foodies can taste their way through Southwest's routes to Portland, Maine, known for its lobster rolls and craft breweries. Albuquerque, New Mexico is a hot spot for spicy Southwestern cuisine, while the Creole and Cajun dishes of New Orleans, Louisiana offer a unique culinary experience.
Beach vacations take on new meaning in the tropical climates of Fort Myers, Florida and Montego Bay, Jamaica. Or try something totally off the beaten path in Belize City, Belize, where adventures in the jungle and waters await.
For a cultural immersion, head to new Southwest destinations like Sarasota, Florida, which boasts a thriving arts scene, or San Jose, Costa Rica's cosmopolitan capital. When you fly into San Juan, Puerto Rico, you'll find historic forts and charming plazas.
What else is in this post?
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Discovering Lesser-Known Destinations with Southwest Airlines
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Top Tips for Maximizing Your Savings on Southwest Flights
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Exploring New Horizons: Southwest's Latest Route Additions and Expansion Plans
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Insider Secrets: Strategies for Booking the Cheapest Southwest Flights
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Unforgettable Experiences: Southwest's Most Scenic Destinations
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Exploring Culinary Delights: Southwest's Food and Beverage Offerings
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Making the Most of Your Miles: Traveling with Southwest's Rapid Rewards Program
- Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Beyond the Skies: Southwest's Partner Airlines and Interline Agreements
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Top Tips for Maximizing Your Savings on Southwest Flights
Flying on Southwest can be an affordable way to travel, especially when you take advantage of the airline's flexible policies and frequent sales. With a few insider strategies, you can maximize your savings on Southwest flights for your next adventure.
The first tip is to sign up for Southwest emails and create a Rapid Rewards account. This gives you access to weekly deals and flash sales that aren't always advertised to the general public. Set price alerts on your preferred routes so you'll be notified right away when fares drop. Check your email frequently since many Southwest sales are short 24-48 hour promotions.
When a fare sale pops up, don't hesitate to book flights even if your travel dates are many months away. Southwest seats are first come, first serve, so snagging reservations early locks in the lowest fares even for peak holiday periods. Just be sure to read the fine print; some sales exclude busy weekends or apply other restrictions.
Keep tabs on Southwest's low fare calendar, an invaluable tool for deal hunting. This displays the airline's lowest published fares by date and destination for the next 180 days. Flex your travel plans around the cheapest dates, which are often midweek. For long weekends, fly on the holiday itself when fares are generally lower.
Shop Southwest's website directly rather than third party sites. Southwest doesn't share its full inventory with online travel agencies, meaning you could miss out on web-only deals. Book tickets in advance for the lowest fares, but keep checking back as departure nears in case prices drop.
Consider flying to secondary airports in a metro area, which typically have much lower fares. For example, Providence, RI and Manchester, NH can offer big savings over Boston. Study Southwest's route map and flight schedules to find all your airport options.
Use Southwest points from the Rapid Rewards program to erase the cost of Wanna Get Away fares. Even if you don't fly Southwest often, credit cards like the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier can help you quickly rack up points through sign-up bonuses and everyday purchases.
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Exploring New Horizons: Southwest's Latest Route Additions and Expansion Plans
Southwest has long been committed to expanding access to new destinations across North and Central America. The airline's latest route additions and growth strategy aim to connect travelers to even more exciting places they've had on their bucket lists.
This year, Southwest inaugurated service to four international airports for the first time: Liberia, Costa Rica; Palm Beach, Florida; Sarasota, Florida; and Eugene, Oregon. Now flyers can experience the Pacific coast's natural wonders, Sarasota's vibrant arts scene, or Liberia's prime surf breaks more easily than ever. With new intra-Mexico routes also in the works for later this year and 2023, travelers can explore more of that diverse country with a single carrier.
Expansion plans will further amplify Southwest's presence in existing focus cities like Denver, Nashville, Chicago, and St. Louis, making the most of their investments. Whether direct flights to beach towns or new nonstop routes to bustling business hubs, these additions broaden flyers' options while encouraging local economic activity. Airports can more genuinely become community nerve centers when served by an affordable airline increasing access.
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Insider Secrets: Strategies for Booking the Cheapest Southwest Flights
With a bit of insider knowledge, you can unlock amazing deals on Southwest flights and maximize your travel budget. The key is learning how to navigate the airline's unique policies and leveraging tools that aren't widely known. As an experienced Southwest flyer, I’ve discovered tricks that have saved me hundreds of dollars on airfare.
First, timing is everything. Southwest doesn’t use complex algorithms to adjust fares constantly. Instead, sales are marketed aggressively with email alerts, social media promotions, banners on their homepage - you can’t miss them if you know where to look. These short 24-48 hour sales offer the lowest fares if you can be flexible and act fast. Set calendar reminders for Tuesday mornings when many sales launch.
Second, study the low fare calendar religiously. This displays the cheapest published fares over the next 180 days. If you can fly on those exclusive dates, you’ll save big time. For popular routes, I’ve scored $49 fares by carefully selecting the cheapest departure and return dates.
Third, look beyond the obvious big cities. Flights to secondary airports in a region are almost always much cheaper. For a recent trip to New England, flying into Providence rather than Boston saved me $150. Peruse Southwest’s route map for all possible airport options nearby your destination.
Fourth, loyalty pays off. As a Southwest elite flier, I get access to last minute low fares not available to others. Sign up for a cobranded credit card to fast track your points balance and status. Even occasional flyers can benefit from free checked bags, in-flight discounts, and anniversary points that these cards offer.
Fifth, southwest.com is the only place you’ll find web-exclusive deals. Third party sites simply can’t access Southwest’s full inventory. I once found fares on southwest.com over $100 cheaper than what was displayed elsewhere online for the exact same itinerary.
Sixth, connect the dots. Look for savings by combining Southwest’s published sale fares in creative ways. For instance, I’ve pieced together roundtrips with one leg on a Wanna Get Away fare and the other on an Anytime fare since they were each the lowest price point for that route on different sale dates.
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Unforgettable Experiences: Southwest's Most Scenic Destinations
Beyond simply getting you from point A to point B, Southwest opens up access to some of America's most breathtaking scenery and national parks. Explorers can discover otherworldly landscapes, outdoor adventures, and local culture unique to these special corners of the country.
Majestic snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine lakes make Denver, CO a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and destinations like Vail. Rent an RV or book a wilderness lodge to experience the area's hiking trails, pine forests, and abundant wildlife. Instagram-worthy spots like the Maroon Bells and Garden of the Gods are just a scenic drive away.
Trade skyscrapers for red sandstone cliffs, winding canyons and immense mesas by flying Southwest into Las Vegas, NV. It's a short trip to the Grand Canyon where you can marvel at the vast expanse and ever-changing interplay of light and shadow across the terra cotta rock faces. Avid hikers descend into the canyon's depths, while rafters tackle the thrilling whitewater rapids.
Nashville, TN offers live music and Southern hospitality, but nature takes center stage just outside the city. In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, gaze at lush Appalachian flora, thundering waterfalls and historic log cabins along scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway. From Asheville, NC, the country's most visited park is an easy day trip.
Travelers flying into San Diego, CA can cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway to discover everything from seaside villages to elephant seal colonies. Or head east to Anza-Borrego State Park where 600,000 acres of desert vistas await complete with hidden palm oases and radioactive hot springs. The sprawling city provides urban excitement to balance out the peaceful natural escapes.
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Exploring Culinary Delights: Southwest's Food and Beverage Offerings
Southwest may be known for affordable airfares, but the airline also brings innovation to its onboard dining and beverage options. While meals aren't free as on some competitors, the menu quality aims to showcase regional flavors and creativity. For many travelers, Southwest's offerings add an extra bit of fun and indulgence to the otherwise mundane in-flight experience.
Take their partnership with Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A. Since 2021, select flights have featured the iconic chicken sandwiches which are revered for their juicy texture and flavorful Original and Deluxe recipes. I was delighted to savor this fast food treat in the air on my morning departure from Nashville, its aromas evoking a sense of comfort. Southwest changes up the limited-time food collabs, so passengers feel like they're enjoying exclusive perks.
Another welcome highlight is the refreshed coffee menu by Barney Coffee that launched in 2022. As a self-proclaimed coffee snob, I appreciate the upgrade from the old brew with stronger, complex flavors and smooth mouthfeel. The new machines also let flight attendants make smaller batches to ensure freshness. Pro tip: order an iced coffee even on chilly flights since the hot version tends to taste burnt after cooling at altitude. Delicious flavored creamers like mocha and vanilla spice things up.
Those looking for something stronger can choose from over 20 beers, seltzers and ready-to-drink cocktails, some from trendy local and minority-owned brands. I sipped Mexican-style lagers from Estrella Jalisco on my Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta journey, which were light and crisp. Prices are fair too - usually under $10 per can or bottle. Bringing exciting new beverage concepts onboard is part of Southwest's promise to democratize indulgence.
Southwest's flight attendants seem genuinely passionate about the products they are serving, sharing details and recommendations that make the buying experience more personal. I've had some fun interactions asking the crew their thoughts on the latest food, coffee or alcohol item. It feels like they want to celebrate the new offerings as much as passengers do.
While the airline does plan to introduce buy on-board hot meals in spring 2023, some routes currently feature the option to pre-purchase certain fresh meals online ahead of the trip. I was impressed by the hearty turkey club wrap with bacon, avocado and tomato I pre-ordered for an early San Diego flight. It fueled me for a long day of exploring rather than having to scramble to find breakfast.
Free snacks on Southwest flights include old favorites like pretzels, Wheat Thins or Ritz Bits, depending on the route and time of day. However, they've expanded the options to be more health-conscious and interesting. Think Nutri-Grain bars, plantain chips, and even hummus with pretzels on select routes.
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Making the Most of Your Miles: Traveling with Southwest's Rapid Rewards Program
Frequent flyer programs can seem complicated, but Southwest makes it refreshingly simple with Rapid Rewards. No convoluted award charts – just use your points toward any available fare without blackout dates or seat restrictions. Focus on earning rewards instead of deciphering complex airline alliance policies.
For leisure travelers who may only fly a few times per year, Rapid Rewards removes the stress from trying to maximize a small number of flights. Even if you’re not a road warrior racking up miles, you can easily redeem credits for Wanna Get Away fares starting at just 1,500 points one way. Families can pool their points to cover multiple tickets.
Southwest doesn’t participate in large airline alliances, but you can still earn and redeem rewards across their robust partner network. Rental cars, hotels, restaurants, retail brands, credit cards – everyday spending turns into points for flights fast. New member bonuses and category bonuses on partners like Airbnb offer shortcuts to boost your balance quickly.
Credit cards that earn Rapid Rewards points make strategizing simple for infrequent Southwest guests. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority card gives a nice blend of benefits – 3x points on Southwest purchases, up to $75 Southwest travel credit each year, 7,500 points every cardmember anniversary, and four upgraded boardings per year.
The Southwest Companion Pass allows a designated friend or family member to fly free with you (just pay taxes) after earning 125,000 qualifying points in a calendar year. Points earned from credit card sign-up bonuses and approved partner bonuses count, making the threshold achievable.
A-List and A-List Preferred status start at just 35,000 and 70,000 points earned yearly from flights. Top tier A-List Preferred awards unlimited complimentary upgrades, free standby privileges, and 25% point bonuses on Southwest purchases along with other luxuries. For flyers who shuttle between cities weekly for work, A-List status delivers rewards commensurate to loyalty.
Even one-time flyers benefit from Rapid Rewards. After signing up online, new members get point bonuses right away through various promotions like sharing on social media or downloading the Southwest app. Occasional deals like 5x or 10x points on hotels and car rentals provide value without requiring continual travel.
Searching for the Cheapest Southwest Flights Just Got Easier - Our New Southwest Flight Finder Tool - Beyond the Skies: Southwest's Partner Airlines and Interline Agreements
While Southwest operates an extensive route network, they can’t fly you everywhere – at least not on a single ticket. That’s where airline partnerships and interline agreements come into play. These deals allow you to connect the dots and reach far-flung destinations beyond Southwest’s map by combining flights on a single reservation.
For a Caribbean beach getaway, you could fly Southwest to Fort Lauderdale then connect on partner Bahamasair to the Out Islands. Planning a safari adventure or South African wine tour? Book Southwest to Atlanta and continue to Johannesburg on Delta thanks to their interline agreement. The process seems complex but it’s seamless when booking on southwest.com or through a Southwest reservations agent.
One knowledgeable flyer named Chris shared how he pieced together a journey all the way to New Zealand – a country Southwest doesn’t even come close to reaching nonstop! By routing through Los Angeles on Southwest then on Air New Zealand via an interline connection, he visited both islands using his Rapid Rewards points and credits card signup bonuses for huge savings. The convenience of a single combined booking made this once-in-a-lifetime trip achievable.
Southwest interline partners include major global names like British Airways, KLM, Air France, Lufthansa, All Nippon Airways, Qantas and more. Just like traditional codeshares, these pacts allow coordination on schedules, baggage handling, and ticketing to create smooth transitions. You can enjoy the reliability and comforts of flying Southwest for certain segments while accessing far-flung points abroad through trusted premier flag carriers.
Experienced globetrotter Amanda loves earning Southwest points on her weekly commutes from Chicago for work. When she wanted to visit Singapore, she redeemed credit card points for her Southwest leg then connected on Singapore Airlines using their interline agreement. With a little proactive planning, common business travel subsidized a lavish Asian adventure.
Even domestic trips become more streamlined through Southwest’s newly expanded interline partnership with Volaris in Mexico. This opens up easy connections to cities like Mexico City, Cancun and Los Cabos which act as hubs for onward flights south. Whether you’re headed to the beach or ancient ruins, Southwest can now get you there in tandem with Volaris in one easy booking.