Southwest - Book one way or roundtrip?

[katallo]

I've noticed many members book one way tickets on SW rather than roundtrip. Does this help when hoping to get lower fares through DING? I've only booked roundtrip tickets, so I want some advice on the best way to do this. Does booking one way flights ever cause problems with clearing security? Thanks!

 

[DVC Grammy]

The reason I book one-way only is: if a Ding fare is offered that only covers one of my dates or flights, I can take advantage of it, without having to cancel the entire RT ticket and risk losing my other flight if it's not offered, or is available only at a higher price than I originally paid. I have never had a problem with airport security.
Hope I've helped.

 

[mareed]

Yes, I also book one-way for the reasons already mentioned, and have never had a problem with any extra security (see all my trips/flights in sig). I also try to remember to book my family with 1-2 people on each reservation. This way, if only 1-2 tickets are available at a lower price, I can rebook (in case the lower fare is not available for all 4).

 

[ro80]

I booked separately each way for my DD when we go in March for the reason of waiting for a lower fare or a Ding. I also booked a REFUNDABLE fare to cover my but just in case! Sometimes the Dings are only for specific days and not every day of the week too.

 

[iluvflorida8]

I fly 2x a month on Southwest, and have always booked 1 way tx ONLY. I have never been stopped by security.

 

[katallo]

Thanks everyone! I think I'm accustomed to booking RT, but this makes more sense. I suppose you book one leg of the flight and then proceed with the return trip. Thanks again.

 

[Donald - my hero]

I only had the opition of booking one way trip since my return date was not included in the posted dates. I got a GREAT rate and then within 6 hours the price dropped giving me a $140 credit in my account.

Then once the return flights popped up, geeze they were expensive. I refused to pay the price and played the waiting game. FINALLY last week they released the cheap rates again & I was able to apply the credit I had. So happy I had waited and booked 1 way at a time!

 

[Lewisc]

Booking a one way ticket, a few days before your flight paid with cash or even a debit card might increase the chance of extra security screening.

Most of us who book one way tickets months in advance, pay with credit cards and who list our rapid reward number don't get subjected to extra security.

The biggest problem with SSS (extra security) isn't the extra few minutes it takes but rather the fact that SSS makes us ineligible to get an advance BP. Not really a problem with most airlines but it can be significant with SW.