Soaring Without Senior Discounts: Scoring Deals on Southwest Airlines Flights
For many seniors, Southwest Airlines was once a haven for affordable travel. Their senior fares offered a welcome discount, making it easier to explore new destinations or visit loved ones. However, Southwest discontinued these fares a few years back. But fear not, savvy seniors! This doesn’t mean you have to abandon your travel dreams. With a little planning and these insider tips, you can still score great deals on Southwest Airlines flights.
Why No Senior Discounts?
Airlines like Southwest base fares on supply and demand. Senior fares were typically offered during off-peak times, but with the rise of budget airlines and increased competition, airlines have found other ways to fill those seats. While there might be occasional targeted promotions, senior discounts are generally a thing of the past.
Embrace Flexibility: The Key to Saving
The good news is Southwest is known for its generally competitive fares, especially when compared to traditional airlines. But to snag the best deals, flexibility is key. Here’s how:
- Be an Early Bird: Generally, the earlier you book, the cheaper the fare. Southwest releases their flight schedules roughly 11 months in advance. If you have a flexible travel window, consider booking as soon as the flights are released for your desired travel dates.
- Weekday Warriors: Weekend travel often comes at a premium. Consider flying on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, which tend to be the cheapest days to fly.
- Off-Peak Adventures: Think beyond peak travel seasons. Consider shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or even winter travel to popular destinations that might offer lower fares during those times.
- Embrace the Unknown: Southwest offers its “Wanna Get Away” fare, which doesn’t allow you to choose your seat in advance. However, if you’re comfortable with a more spontaneous travel experience, these fares can be significantly cheaper, especially if you book early.
Become a Southwest Airlines Insider
Staying in the know can be a game-changer. Here are some ways to become a Southwest Airlines flight deal pro:
- Join the Rapid Rewards Club: While there are no specific senior discounts within Rapid Rewards, membership offers several benefits. You can earn points on flights, which can be redeemed for future travel. Additionally, members are sometimes offered exclusive discounts and promotions. Signing up is free and can be done on Southwest’s website.
- Subscribe to Email Alerts: Southwest sends out emails with updates on sales, promotions, and limited-time offers. By subscribing, you’ll be notified about these deals as soon as they’re available, allowing you to snag the best fares before they disappear.
- Utilize the Low Fare Calendar: This fantastic tool on Southwest’s website allows you to see the lowest fares available for each day of the month for your chosen route. This is a fantastic way to find the cheapest travel dates for your trip.
Master the Art of the Last-Minute Deal (if you’re feeling adventurous):
While not always reliable, Southwest occasionally offers last-minute deals. If your schedule is flexible and you’re a bit of an adventurer, you can try checking the website a day or two before your desired travel date. Sometimes, airlines will release unsold seats at a discounted price to fill the flight.
Consider Alternative Airports:
If you have some flexibility with your departure or arrival airports, consider flying into smaller airports that might be serviced by Southwest. These airports often have lower landing fees, which can translate to cheaper fares for you.
Combine Strategies for Maximum Savings
The beauty of these tips is that they can be combined for even greater savings. For example, sign up for Rapid Rewards, subscribe to email alerts, and then use the Low Fare Calendar to find the cheapest travel dates during the off-season. If you find a great deal and are flexible with your seat selection, consider booking a “Wanna Get Away” fare.
Remember, a Little Planning Goes a Long Way:
While there are no longer specific senior discounts on Southwest Airlines, with a little planning and flexibility, you can still find great deals on flights. By becoming a Southwest Airlines insider and utilizing the strategies outlined above, you can continue to explore the world without breaking the bank. So, dust off your luggage, grab your calendar, and get ready to embark on your next Southwest adventure!
Quick FAQ’s
Unfortunately, Southwest Airlines discontinued their senior fares several years ago.
Airlines base fares on supply and demand. Senior fares were typically offered during off-peak times. With the rise of budget airlines and increased competition, Southwest has found other ways to fill those seats. (https://www.travelandleisure.com/airlines-airports/southwest/southwest-airlines-cancels-senior-discount-fares)
While there are no specific senior discounts, there are several strategies you can use to find great deals on Southwest Airlines flights. These include booking early, being flexible with travel dates, considering off-peak travel times, and taking advantage of programs like Rapid Rewards.
Some airlines may offer occasional senior fares or discounts. It’s always a good idea to check with the airline directly or search for promotions online before booking your flight OR you can check our discount and deals category. However, senior discounts are becoming less common across the airline industry.
