When Southwest Airlines celebrates its birthday, it doesn’t just cut cake — it cuts ticket prices. The Southwest Birthday Sale has become a much-anticipated annual event for travelers who love snagging affordable flights without the usual hidden fees. Whether you’re a seasoned flyer or someone just dipping their toes into budget travel, this sale is worth marking on your calendar.
In this guide, we’ll cover what the Southwest Birthday Sale is, how it works, and how you can maximize the deals. Plus, we’ll answer some common FAQs to make sure you’re fully prepared to take advantage of this annual bargain bonanza.
What Is the Southwest Birthday Sale?
Southwest Airlines launched in 1971, and every June, they celebrate their “birthday” by rolling out massive airfare discounts. These sales typically last only a few days, and they offer deeply discounted fares for travel within the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.
It’s not unusual to find one-way fares as low as $49 during this event, making it one of the airline industry’s most generous promotions. The idea is simple: say “thank you” to loyal customers with deals that make summer and fall travel more affordable.
When Does the Southwest Birthday Sale Happen?
The sale generally pops up in mid-June, coinciding with Southwest’s anniversary. The window for booking is short — often just three to four days — so it’s important to be ready as soon as the sale launches.
Southwest typically announces the sale through:
- Email newsletters
- Social media platforms (Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram)
- Their official website
Because the deals are first-come, first-served, some of the cheapest fares can disappear within hours.
What Kind of Deals Can You Expect?
While sale prices vary year to year, past Southwest Birthday Sales have featured:
- $49 one-way fares for short-haul flights
- $99 one-way fares for medium-haul domestic routes
- Discounts on select international destinations
- Flexible travel dates spanning late summer to early winter
One big perk: Southwest’s already generous policies — like two free checked bags and no change fees — still apply to these sale fares.
Tips for Scoring the Best Fares
- Plan Ahead – Know your preferred routes before the sale begins so you can search quickly.
- Be Flexible with Dates – Flying midweek or during off-peak hours often yields the best prices.
- Book Immediately – These sales are extremely popular, so waiting even a few hours could mean losing out.
- Set Fare Alerts – Use tools like Google Flights or Southwest’s own fare calendar to monitor prices.
- Check Alternate Airports – Nearby airports might have even cheaper sale fares.
Why Travelers Love the Southwest Birthday Sale
- Budget-friendly pricing – Perfect for families, students, or anyone on a tight budget.
- Customer-friendly policies – Free checked bags, no change fees, and open seating keep costs low and travel flexible.
- Wider travel window – Unlike flash sales tied to last-minute travel, you can often book months in advance.
FAQs About the Southwest Birthday Sale
Q1: When exactly is the Southwest Birthday Sale?
While dates vary slightly each year, it usually happens in mid-June. Keep an eye out around the airline’s anniversary week.
Q2: How long does the sale last?
Typically 3–4 days. Once the clock runs out, fares return to regular pricing.
Q3: Are there blackout dates?
Yes, certain peak travel periods (like major holidays) are excluded. Always read the fine print before booking.
Q4: Can I use Rapid Rewards points during the sale?
Absolutely. You can redeem points for sale fares, often making them even more of a steal.
Q5: Are the cheapest tickets refundable?
Southwest doesn’t have traditional change or cancellation fees. If you cancel, you can receive travel credit or a refund depending on the fare type.
Q6: Do sale fares include baggage?
Yes. Southwest’s policy of two free checked bags applies to all fares, even sale prices.
Q7: Can I change my flight after booking during the sale?
Yes. You can change your flight without paying a penalty, though you’ll need to pay the difference if your new fare is higher.
Q8: Is the Southwest Birthday Sale available for international flights?
Sometimes. Select routes to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean may be included.
Q9: How can I find out about the sale early?
Sign up for Southwest’s email alerts, follow them on social media, and check their website in early June.
Q10: What happens if the price drops again after I book?
Southwest allows you to rebook at the lower fare and receive the difference as travel credit.
Final Thoughts
The Southwest Birthday Sale is more than just a marketing event — it’s a yearly opportunity to travel for less while enjoying Southwest’s famously friendly service. By staying alert, acting quickly, and being flexible with your travel plans, you can score deals that make summer vacations, family visits, or quick weekend getaways much more affordable.
If you missed this year’s sale, don’t worry — Southwest runs other promotions throughout the year. But the birthday celebration? That’s when the biggest buzz (and best prices) usually hit.