Southwest Airlines is the largest low-cost carrier in the U.S., operating a point-to-point network from bases including Dallas Love Field (DAL), Chicago Midway (MDW), Denver (DEN), Las Vegas (LAS), Phoenix (PHX), and Baltimore (BWI) to over 100 destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean. Known for two free checked bags, no change fees, and open seating, Southwest offers a uniquely flexible travel experience. FaresMatch compares Southwest fares with all available carriers to help you find the best total value on your trip.
Trending Southwest Airlines fares
One-way starting prices on popular Southwest routes. Search above for live availability.
Las VegasMidweek dealLAX → LASLos Angeles – Las Vegas- Flight time
- 1h 15m nonstop
- Airlines
- Southwest
$49
OrlandoWinter escapeBWI → MCOBaltimore – Orlando- Flight time
- 2h 15m nonstop
- Airlines
- Southwest
$59
DenverShoulder seasonPHX → DENPhoenix – Denver- Flight time
- 1h 45m nonstop
- Airlines
- Southwest
$49
CancunBook earlyHOU → CUNHouston – Cancun- Flight time
- 2h 30m nonstop
- Airlines
- Southwest
$129
ChicagoFall travelDAL → MDWDallas – Chicago- Flight time
- 2h nonstop
- Airlines
- Southwest
$69
NashvilleSpring travelBNA → AUSNashville – Austin- Flight time
- 2h nonstop
- Airlines
- Southwest
$59
Southwest Airlines bases
International leisure
DAL Dallas Love Field
Southwest's original home base — high-frequency service across the U.S. from the heart of Texas.
MDW/BWI Chicago Midway & Baltimore
Major East Coast and Midwest bases with strong Florida and Caribbean connectivity.
DEN/LAS/PHX Denver, Las Vegas & Phoenix
Mountain West and Southwest bases connecting leisure destinations across the western U.S.
→ Mexico/Caribbean International leisure
Southwest serves Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Jamaica, Aruba, and other Mexico and Caribbean destinations.
Tips for booking Southwest flights
Southwest includes two free checked bags (50 lbs each) on every fare — a major savings vs. legacy carriers that charge $35+ per bag. Factor this in when comparing Southwest's base fare against other airlines.
Southwest doesn't charge change or cancellation fees. Cancelled tickets receive a 12-month travel credit (or refund for refundable fares). This makes booking early essentially risk-free.
Southwest uses open seating — boarding order determines seat choice. EarlyBird Check-In (purchased at booking) improves your boarding position and seat selection without buying Business Select.
Frequently asked questions
Does Southwest Airlines charge for checked bags?
Southwest includes two free checked bags (up to 50 lbs each) on every fare type. This is one of Southwest's biggest advantages over competitors — especially for families and longer trips.
Does Southwest assign seats?
No — Southwest uses open seating. Passengers board in groups (A, B, C) based on check-in time. EarlyBird Check-In or Business Select fare improves your boarding position for better seat choice.
What is Rapid Rewards?
Rapid Rewards is Southwest's free loyalty program. Points never expire on active accounts and can be redeemed for any available seat with no blackout dates. The Companion Pass lets a designated companion fly for free (paying taxes only).
Book your Southwest Airlines flight today
A FaresMatch advisor will compare Southwest fares with all available options — factoring in free bags and no change fees for the best total value.