Book air early, or wait for deal? (risks?)

[design_mom]

I've looked all over the Southwest site and I can't find a definitive answer to my question... So I hoped someone here would know.

I heard that the flights for my trip are going to be opening up this week. If I book early at the lowest available price, I'm guessing that's going to be a non-refundable fare.

If they later run a D!NG or internet special for my dates, is there anything I can do with my early-booking tickets? (According to the Southwest website, only refundable fares qualify for a refund... But do they offer credit toward future travel for non-refundable tickets...or are you just stuck with them?)

I'm trying to decide whether I should book early or wait/hope for a great deal!

 

[Darcy03231]

If its a fare you can live with I would book early. I booked my August flights in February within an hour of Southwest opening its schedule at $69/each way. I still haven't gotten a DING for my flights and the flights haven't gone below $99/each way yet and have spent most of the time at $158/each way.

 

[Laurabearz]

I booked the day SWA opened up for Oct... got $1398 for the 5 of us to MCO, nonrefundable fare..... Just rebooked and saved $450 which is credit towards my next flight. I dont mind the credit! LOVE the savings!

 

[design_mom]

Thanks for the responses. I'm bumping...hoping for more opinions!