How to Use Southwest Low Fare Calendar: A Step-by-Step Experts Guide

Finding affordable flights can feel overwhelming, but Southwest Airlines’ Low Fare Calendar simplifies the process. This tool helps travelers like you discover the cheapest days to fly, making it easier to plan trips on a budget. In this guide, we’ll explain how to use the Southwest Low Fare Calendar, share tips to maximize savings, and show how platforms like gofarefinder can help you score even better deals. Let’s get started!

What Is the Southwest Low Fare Calendar?

The Southwest Low Fare Calendar is a free online tool that displays the lowest available fares for your chosen route across an entire month. Instead of checking dates one by one, you’ll see a color-coded grid where darker shades represent cheaper prices. This visual approach saves time and helps flexible travelers book when fares are lowest.

Step 1: Access the Southwest Low Fare Calendar

1. Go to the Southwest Airlines website (www.southwest.com).
2. Click “Flights” at the top of the page and select “Low Fare Calendar” from the dropdown menu.
3. Enter your departure city, destination, and travel month.
4. Choose whether you’re booking a one-way or round-trip flight.

Pro Tip: If your dates are flexible, leave the “Return Date” field blank to compare prices for different trip lengths.

Step 2: Understand the Color-Coded Grid

Once you search, you’ll see a monthly calendar with prices for each date:

• Darkest Green: Lowest fares (often 30–50% off standard rates).
• Light Green: Mid-range prices.
• White/Gray: Higher fares or unavailable dates.

Click any date to see flight times and exact prices.

Example: If flying from Chicago to Orlando in June, the calendar might show June 12th and 19th as the cheapest days.

Step 3: Select Your Travel Dates

1. Click your preferred departure date on the calendar.
2. For round-trip trips, choose your return date (look for another dark green day).
3. Review the fare rules:
   • Southwest’s fares are non-refundable but can be changed or canceled for future flight credit.
   • Prices include two free checked bags (a major perk!).

Warning: Cheap fares sell out fast! Book as soon as you find a good deal.

Step 4: Book Your Flight

After selecting dates:

1. Pick a flight time (morning, afternoon, or evening).
2. Enter passenger details carefully—name changes may require fees later.
3. Add extras like EarlyBird Check-In® or upgraded boarding (optional).
4. Pay securely and save your confirmation email.

Did You Know? Southwest doesn’t charge change fees, so you can adjust your dates later if plans shift.

Tips to Save Big with the Southwest Low Fare Calendar

1. Be Flexible: Midweek flights (Tuesdays, Wednesdays) are often cheaper than weekends.
2. Book Early: Fares rise as seats fill up. Aim to book 6–8 weeks in advance.
3. Use Nearby Airports: For example, check prices for both Los Angeles (LAX) and Burbank (BUR).
4. Set Fare Alerts: Tools like gofarefinder track Southwest prices and notify you of drops.
5. Travel Off-Season: Avoid holidays and school breaks for the best rates.

How Gofarefinder Complements the Southwest Low Fare Calendar

While Southwest’s calendar is great for finding low fares, gofarefinder can help you:

• Compare Southwest prices with other airlines.
• Set price alerts for your route.
• Discover hidden deals on hotels and rental cars.

For example, if Southwest’s calendar shows 

150foryourtrip,∗∗gofarefinder∗∗mightfinda

150foryourtrip,∗∗gofarefinder∗∗mightfinda130 fare on a different airline or bundle flights + hotels for extra savings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Return Dates: A cheap departure flight won’t save money if the return is expensive.
2. Forgetting Taxes/Fees: Southwest includes these in upfront pricing, but double-check!
3. Waiting Too Long: Low fares disappear fast—don’t overthink!
4. Skipping Southwest’s Free Bags: Factor in baggage fees when comparing other airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use the Low Fare Calendar for international flights?
Yes! Southwest flies to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. The calendar works for these routes too.

Q2: Are Southwest fares really the cheapest?
Often, yes—but always compare with tools like gofarefinder to confirm.

Q3: What if I need to cancel?
Southwest lets you cancel for full flight credit, which never expires.

Q4: Why don’t some dates have prices?
The flight might be sold out, or Southwest hasn’t released fares for that far in advance.

Q5: Can I book for a group?
Yes, but cheap fares have limited seats. Book early or split groups across flights.

Why Trust Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar?

Southwest is known for transparency—no hidden fees, free changes, and bags included. Their Low Fare Calendar reflects real-time prices, so you’re seeing the same deals as frequent flyers. Combined with third-party tools like gofarefinder, you’re equipped to make smart, budget-friendly choices.

Final Thoughts

The Southwest Low Fare Calendar is a game-changer for travelers who want to save without sacrificing quality. By following the steps above, staying flexible, and using resources like gofarefinder, you can unlock unbeatable deals and enjoy stress-free trips.