When Is the Best Time to Book Southwest Flights in 2026?

Southwest opens its flight schedules approximately 6–8 months ahead, allowing you to plan and book well in advance.

For most domestic routes, booking 3–6 weeks before departure strikes the optimal balance between availability and low fares

Tuesdays around 3 PM EST are prime for Southwest fare sales, with discounts running through Thursday, making midweek bookings most rewarding.

Yes, you can use it to select the lowest rates across your chosen month with more flexibility. 

Absolutely. Southwest’s no-change-fee policy lets you change to the same flight at a lower fare if prices drop, ensuring you always secure the best deal.