Pricing when SW opens new dates

[katallo]

Since SW is ready to open another set of travel dates, I wanted a few opinions. Are great deals available on opening day? I remember there were really good rates a few years ago, but lately I’m not sure. At times, I’ve seen a few sales which were better than opening day pricing. I guess we can book if things are reasonable and always take a credit. Just wanted a few opinions. Thanks

 

[CarolMN]

It depends on your dates. In my experience, if you are traveling during school breaks or Holidays, you usually get the best price as soon as the window opens. If you are traveling at a time that isn't "special", you can afford to wait for a sale.

I usually have a price in mind when looking for airfare and when I see it, I grab it. Occasionally, I am able to rebook and get a credit, but not always.

I've found that the credits aren't always so easy to use unless you book each person in your party separately because SW only allows you to enter 4 ways to pay per booking. So for example, if you are booking a party of 4 together, only 3 people can use a credit since you need the last spot for a credit card.

 

[Jestocost]

Since SW is ready to open another set of travel dates, I wanted a few opinions. Are great deals available on opening day? I remember there were really good rates a few years ago, but lately I’m not sure. At times, I’ve seen a few sales which were better than opening day pricing. I guess we can book if things are reasonable and always take a credit. Just wanted a few opinions. Thanks

Agree with CarolMN that it depends on your dates and where you are flying from. I wouldn't hold out much hope for "great deals," but if you are flying during a busy time opening day fares are likely to be the best deal you will get.

 

[marthachick]

Check them today. I got an email about their latest deals. Saved over $250.

 

[Jestocost]

Check them today. I got an email about their latest deals. Saved over $250.

If the OP is waiting for the dates SWA will open next Monday; checking today would do no good.

 

[kerplop]

I find that if we're booking for a weekend departure/arrival, the rates at release are best. But we have the luxury often of booking mid-week and the sales are really great deals for us most the time!

 

[marthachick]

If the OP is waiting for the dates SWA will open next Monday; checking today would do no good.

Oops! Sorry. I was excited and wanted to share my deal. Sorry OP! Hope you find 'cheap' airfare soon!

 

[Figment&Piglet]

I agree with PPs. If its for a school break week or holiday week etc then book as soon as they come out because in my experience the prices don't go any lower, only higher. For a "regular" week you could probably wait.

 

[utkscvol1]

Now I'm a little nervous a couple days ago sw was 49 per way per person and we didn't book because we were waiting to see if our friends were gonna fly. Today they are 124. Wonder if they will drop again for the first of February

 

[imabeimabe]

Now I'm a little nervous a couple days ago sw was 49 per way per person and we didn't book because we were waiting to see if our friends were gonna fly. Today they are 124. Wonder if they will drop again for the first of February

It's doubtful they will drop to $49 again. From what I have observed those deals only happen every 4 to 6 months. The sale usually last 3 days and you won't see fares that low for another 4 to 6 months. They also aren't good for immediate travel. When you are only a month or so out fares typically stay high. At least that's what I've experienced.

 

[beanner]

Looking for flights on SW from 4/12-4/19... Not many still available.
Does SW release more flights as the current options fill?

Not sure if I should book now or wait. Help, please......