How to Track Southwest Flight Prices
Southwest Airlines is one of the largest low-cost carriers in the world, known for its affordable fares and excellent customer service. If you’re planning a trip and want to find the best deals on Southwest flights, tracking the prices is essential. In this article, we will guide you through the process of tracking Southwest flight prices and provide answers to some common questions.
1. Use the Southwest Airlines website:
The first step to tracking Southwest flight prices is to visit their official website. Enter your travel details, including the departure and arrival cities, dates, and the number of passengers. Southwest will display the available flights and fares.
2. Sign up for fare alerts:
To stay updated on the fluctuating flight prices, sign up for fare alerts. Southwest offers this feature, and you will receive notifications via email whenever the fares change for your chosen route.
3. Follow Southwest on social media:
Stay connected with Southwest Airlines by following them on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. They often announce flash sales, limited-time promotions, and special deals on these platforms.
4. Check third-party websites:
Several travel websites and apps allow you to compare flight prices across different airlines, including Southwest. Examples include Kayak, Skyscanner, and Google Flights. These platforms provide a comprehensive overview of the fares available, allowing you to make an informed decision.
5. Set up price alerts on third-party websites:
Many third-party websites also offer price alert features. You can set up alerts for specific routes, and they will notify you when the fares drop or rise significantly.
6. Consider using flight tracking apps:
Flight tracking apps like Hopper and Airfarewatchdog are specifically designed to help you find the best flight deals. These apps analyze historical data and predict future price trends, allowing you to make better decisions when booking your Southwest flights.
7. Be flexible with your travel dates:
If your schedule allows, be flexible with your travel dates. Often, flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons can result in lower fares. By adjusting your travel dates, you may be able to save a significant amount on your Southwest flight.
8. Book in advance:
Generally, booking your Southwest flight in advance can help you secure lower fares. Start tracking the prices early and book your tickets as soon as you find a deal that fits your budget.
9. Consider alternative airports:
If you have multiple airports within a reasonable distance, consider checking the fares at each one. Sometimes, flying from or to a nearby airport can result in significantly lower prices.
10. Monitor price fluctuations:
Flight prices can change frequently, so it’s important to monitor the fluctuations. Set aside some time each day to check the fares and compare them to previous days’ prices. This will give you a good idea of the price trends for your desired route.
11. Clear your cookies or use incognito mode:
Some airlines, including Southwest, may track your browsing history and increase the prices if they see repeated searches. To avoid this, clear your cookies or use the incognito mode in your web browser.
12. Consider Southwest’s refund policy:
Southwest Airlines has a unique refund policy called “Wanna Get Away.” If you find a lower fare after booking, you can rebook at the lower price and receive a refund in the form of a travel credit. Keep this in mind while tracking the prices and take advantage of this policy if you come across a better deal.
13. Be patient and persistent:
Tracking flight prices requires patience and persistence. Prices can fluctuate throughout the day, so it’s important to keep checking and be ready to book when you find a good deal. Don’t get discouraged if the prices initially seem high; with perseverance, you’re likely to find a more affordable fare.
Common Questions and Answers:
Q1. How far in advance should I start tracking Southwest flight prices?
A1. It’s recommended to start tracking Southwest flight prices as early as possible, as fares can change frequently. Aim to start monitoring at least three to four months before your desired travel date.
Q2. Are Southwest flight prices cheaper on certain days?
A2. There is no specific day of the week when Southwest flight prices are always cheaper. However, flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons may generally result in lower fares.
Q3. Can I track flight prices for multiple destinations simultaneously?
A3. Yes, you can track flight prices for multiple destinations simultaneously. Use third-party websites or apps that offer this feature to compare fares across different routes.
Q4. How accurate are flight tracking apps in predicting price trends?
A4. While flight tracking apps use historical data and complex algorithms to predict price trends, they are not always 100% accurate. However, they can provide valuable insights and help you make more informed decisions.
Q5. How often do Southwest flight prices change?
A5. Southwest flight prices can change multiple times a day, depending on various factors such as demand, availability, and promotions.
Q6. Can I get a refund if I find a lower fare after booking a Southwest flight?
A6. Yes, Southwest Airlines offers a refund in the form of a travel credit if you find a lower fare after booking. This policy is called “Wanna Get Away.”
Q7. Should I book my Southwest flight as soon as I see a good deal?
A7. It’s generally recommended to book your Southwest flight as soon as you find a good deal that fits your budget. Prices can change quickly, and waiting too long may result in higher fares.
Q8. Is it necessary to create an account on the Southwest Airlines website to track flight prices?
A8. No, creating an account is not necessary to track flight prices on the Southwest Airlines website. However, signing up for fare alerts can be beneficial.
Q9. Can I track Southwest flight prices for future travel?
A9. Yes, you can track Southwest flight prices for future travel. Enter your desired travel dates and set up fare alerts to receive notifications when the fares change.
Q10. Are there any additional fees when booking Southwest flights through third-party websites?
A10. Some third-party websites may charge additional fees for booking Southwest flights. Always review the terms and conditions before finalizing your booking to avoid any surprises.
Q11. Can I track Southwest flight prices without an internet connection?
A11. No, tracking Southwest flight prices requires an internet connection as it involves visiting websites or using apps that provide real-time flight information.
Q12. Can I track Southwest flight prices for international destinations?
A12. Yes, you can track Southwest flight prices for international destinations. Southwest operates flights to several destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.
Q13. What if I don’t find a good deal on Southwest flights?
A13. If you don’t find a good deal on Southwest flights, consider exploring other airlines or adjusting your travel dates. Comparing prices and remaining flexible can help you find the best option for your trip.