Saving Money on Southwest Flights: Tips for Senior Travelers
Southwest Airlines is well known for affordable fares, but did you know they also offer senior discounts, travel perks and money saving tips for travelers 62 and older? Read below on how older voyagers can make the most of Southwest’s customer friendly policies and budget flight options as you explore the country.
Booking Senior Fares with Southwest
While Southwest doesn’t have an official “senior fare” like some competitor airlines, they provide other ways for mature travelers to save on flights beyond typical web promotions open to all.
Specifically, Southwest passengers 65+ can sign up for a free Senior Card that entitles you to discounts that often beat competitors’ senior rates. Perks include:
- Access to exclusive senior fares not shown to general public
- Getaways starting at $39 one-way
- Easier access to refundable flight options
- Last minute travel deals
Sign up is free by calling Southwest airlines senior discount directly and only takes moments to access special rates for older explorers. Join Rapid Rewards too while you’re at it since Southwest points don’t expire to cash-in later on dream trips.
More Ways for Seniors to Save with Southwest
In addition to senior exclusive deals, Southwest also lets all travelers 62+ qualify for discounts by simply verifying your age when booking online. Check both general and senior rates for your dates and routes to score the best prices on flights within the continental U.S., Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.
Other ways for older travelers to keep trip costs low with Southwest include:
- Book off-peak days and times like Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays
- Fly between shorter city pairs to avoid longer routes
- Purchase one-way flights vs. roundtrips
- Check rates on Southwest-owned AirTran which may differ
- Use points from Southwest’s Rapid Reward credit cards
Southwest Perks & Policies to Assist Mature Travelers
Beyond affordable pricing, Southwest goes the extra mile with thoughtful amenities, accessibility options and flexible policies to support aging voyagers.
Expect extras like pre-boarding privileges, hand assistance retrieving bags and helping with connections for stress and hassle-free journeys every step and flight. The airline’s route network focused on North America is also ideal for simpler senior travel closer to home.
If plans change unexpectedly, Southwest offers one of the most lenient rebooking and cancellation policies free of change fees making modifications for health or other needs smooth. Travel funds from cancelled tickets can also be held indefinitely for future flights unlike many other domestic airlines.
Tips for Southwest airlines book a flight as a Senior Aim to reserve at least 21 days pre-travel when most discounted fares get released. Be flexible with airports used within metro areas and departing flight times to save more. Consider connecting flights versus nonstop if huge price differences exist.
And remember to always check both general online fares and Senior Card deals to score the best rate for you on desired dates and destinations as an older traveler. That way you can spend time planning fun instead of worrying about costs.
By leveraging exclusive senior discounts, thoughtful policies and budget airline prices, voyagers 62+ can take flight on Southwest Airlines conveniently and affordably while feeling supported every step of newer adventures ahead.
