What is the Southwest Wanna Get Away Plus Fare

Southwest Airlines recently introduced the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare, marking the carrier’s first fare update in 15 years. In this article, we’ll dive into the key features of this new fare type, compare it to the original Wanna Get Away Fare, and help you decide whether it’s a good option for your travel needs.

What is Southwest Wanna Get Away Plus Fare?

Wanna Get Away Plus Fare is a new fare type introduced by Southwest Airlines, designed to bridge the gap between the budget-friendly “Wanna Get Away” Fare and the more premium “Anytime” Fare. It provides a middle ground for passengers seeking additional perks without breaking the bank.

Key Features of Wanna Get Away Plus Fare

The Wanna Get Away Plus Fare comes with several noteworthy benefits:

1. Transferable flight credits: If you need to cancel your flight, you can now transfer the unused credit to another Rapid Rewards member, offering more flexibility in case your travel plans change.
2. Same-day confirmed changes and same-day standby: This fare allows passengers to make same-day confirmed changes or fly standby on an earlier flight, providing more options for last-minute adjustments.
3. Higher earning rate: Passengers booking this fare will earn Rapid Rewards points at a higher rate, helping them accumulate rewards faster for future travel.

Wanna Get Away Vs Wanna Get Away Plus

Comparing the original Wanna Get Away Fare and the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare, there are distinct differences that cater to various traveller preferences. The original Wanna Get Away Fare focuses on affordability, appealing to budget-conscious travellers who are content with minimal perks. On the other hand, Wanna Get Away Plus Fare caters to those who are willing to pay a bit more for added convenience and rewards.

When considering flexibility, Wanna Get Away Plus Fare outshines the original fare by offering transferable flight credits and same-day change options. This is particularly useful for travellers whose plans may change or who might want to catch an earlier flight. Moreover, Wanna Get Away Plus Fare allows passengers to earn Rapid Rewards points at a faster pace, making it a better choice for frequent flyers who wish to maximize their rewards.

Limitations of Wanna Get Away Plus Fare

While the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare offers several benefits, it also comes with some restrictions that passengers should be aware of before making their booking:

1. Non-refundable: Similar to the original Wanna Get Away Fare, the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare is non-refundable. However, if your plans change, you can apply the funds to a future Southwest flight, and with the Plus Fare, these credits are transferable.
2. Limited Availability: Wanna Get Away Plus Fares, like the original Wanna Get Away Fares, are subject to availability and may not be offered on every flight. These fares tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak travel times, so it’s essential to book early to secure the best prices and availability.
3. EarlyBird Check-In is not included: While the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare offers additional flexibility and rewards, it does not include automatic EarlyBird Check-In. Passengers who want to ensure priority boarding can purchase EarlyBird Check-In separately.
4. No complimentary priority lanes: Wanna Get Away Plus Fare does not provide complimentary access to priority or express lanes at the airport, unlike the Anytime and Business Select fares. If access to these lanes is essential to you, you might consider upgrading to one of these higher-fare options.
5. Same-day changes and standby fees: Although Wanna Get Away Plus Fare allows passengers to make same-day confirmed changes or fly standby, this comes with additional fees. The fees for same-day changes and standby can vary, so it’s essential to check the current rates before making any changes to your itinerary.

Changes to Other Fare Types

In addition to introducing the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare, Southwest has also made changes to their Anytime and Business Select fares. Both fare types now allow credits to be transferred to other Rapid Rewards members, and Anytime fares offer access to priority and express lanes, as well as automatic EarlyBird check-in.

Is Wanna Get Away Plus Worth It?

After analyzing the various features and restrictions of the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare, we believe that it is a good option for travellers seeking added flexibility and benefits at a relatively low cost. Here are four compelling reasons why the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare is worth considering:

1. Transferable flight credits: One of the most significant advantages of the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare is the ability to transfer flight credits to other Rapid Rewards members. This feature adds a layer of flexibility for travellers who may need to cancel or change their plans, allowing them to share their unused credits with friends or family members instead of letting them go to waste.
2. Higher Rapid Rewards earning rate: Wanna Get Away Plus Fare passengers earn 8 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on the fare, compared to 6 points per dollar with the original Wanna Get Away Fare. For frequent Southwest flyers, this increased earning rate can help accumulate points faster, potentially leading to award flights or other valuable redemptions.
3. Same-day changes and standby: The Wanna Get Away Plus Fare allows passengers to make same-day confirmed changes or fly standby for an additional fee. This feature provides added flexibility for those with uncertain plans or last-minute changes, making it easier to adjust their travel itinerary without purchasing a more expensive fare.
4. Reasonable pricing: While the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare is slightly more expensive than the original Wanna Get Away Fare, it still offers a relatively affordable option compared to Southwest’s Anytime and Business Select fares. The additional benefits and flexibility provided by Plus Fare can outweigh the small price difference for many travellers.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Wanna Get Away Plus Fare is an excellent option for those seeking a balance between cost savings and added flexibility. The additional benefits, such as transferable flight credits, higher rewards earning rates, and same-day change options, make this fare a worthwhile investment for many Southwest Airlines passengers.