Southwest Discounts

[BigRedDad]

I am getting a little hesitant about discounts on Southwest. Due to school, we have to go over Spring Break or Summer. Since the Spring Break starts 7 days after Easter, we figured it better to go then. I was able to get our return flight on 04/04 for $86 one-way. However, SW now has blackout dates from March 13 - April 15 for discounts. I am looking at $120-$140 each way right now. I expect a DING fare at some point, but the blackout for sales on those dates has me concerned.

Anyone have any thoughts?

[AirlineGuy07]

Check airlines like Air Tran or Jetblue. You can fly down on one airline and take another back.

[btharvey]

When I fly SWA either urgently or during peak periods, I rarely get the same rate in both directions. If you can take the $86 one way and $120+ back, you've still saved some money. And so far, I've never been restricted to having to pay the same higher rate in both directions. I'd be curious if you are.

[BigRedDad]

Right now, I have already purchased the $86 return flights. There has been no discount on the flights to MCO. They are still sitting at $140 for the time I need to fly. The only other option I have is AirTran. They are $96 right now, but the time is extremely inconvenient.

I will keep watching the fares. I am 84 days out and have a bit of time to go. DING fares just came out through 02/29. Maybe a few more weeks for the 03/29 DING fares to be out.

[Nurse Kim]

I'm holding out for a Ding fare for our
March 9-16 trip as well. If I see others are going to high as I wait I will book and then rebook if rates drop.