Southwest Airlines has extended its flight schedule through November 1, 2025, offering travelers the opportunity to book flights for summer and fall travel. This extension provides a chance to secure lower prices for peak travel dates. “Booking flights quickly when Southwest extends its schedule can save you serious money,” said Katie Genter from The Points Guy.
The airline’s flexible change and cancellation policy allows passengers to cancel flights without penalty if plans change. If a flight is canceled at least ten minutes before departure, those who booked Wanna Get Away or Wanna Get Away Plus fares will receive Travel Funds. Those with Anytime or Business Select fares can request a refund or accept Travel Funds. Points redeemed for flights are returned to the account used for booking.
Travelers are encouraged to book as soon as the window opens, especially during peak times, due to minimal risk associated with Southwest’s policies. “If you want a full refund to your original payment method, redeem Southwest points for your flights,” advised Kyle Olsen from The Points Guy.
The Companion Pass remains a valuable reward, allowing a friend or family member to fly free of charge (excluding taxes and fees). To add a companion later, there must be available seats on the desired flight.
For those seeking additional savings, using Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be beneficial. These points can be transferred at a 1:1 ratio to Southwest if you hold an eligible card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.
Travelers are also advised to have alternative dates in mind and use Southwest’s low-fare calendar for potential savings. Booking on less expensive days like Tuesdays or Wednesdays may result in cheaper fares compared to Fridays and Sundays.
Example fares include Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Cancun International Airport (CUN) starting at over 7,000 Rapid Rewards points plus taxes and fees in April; San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport (OAK) to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) starting at 15,101 points plus taxes in September; and LaGuardia International Airport (LGA) to Miami International Airport (MIA) starting at 4,261 points plus taxes in May.
Southwest allows two checked bags per passenger without charge on all flights. The next schedule extension is planned for March 20, 2025, covering flights through January 5, 2026.
