As the holiday season approaches, travel enthusiasts are on the lookout for the best deals to escape to paradise. This year, Southwest Airlines has rolled out an enticing offer that could make your Hawaiian dreams a reality. With a generous 40% discount on flights to Hawaii, travelers can book their tickets for travel through much of 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about this limited-time offer, including how to maximize your savings and make the most of your trip.
The Deal Breakdown
Southwest Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares, and this latest promotion is no exception. By using the promo code “HAWAII40,” you can enjoy significant savings on select flights between the continental U.S. and Hawaii. Here are the key details:
- Travel Dates: December 3, 2024, to May 22, 2025
- Booking Deadline: Thursday at 11:59 p.m. PST
- Blackout Dates: Be mindful of certain blackout periods, including:
- February 13-16, 2025
- February 21-23, 2025
- March 14 through April 27, 2025
- March 17 through April 19, 2025
This offer is valid for select routes, excluding John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Santa Ana, California. To book, simply visit the Southwest Airlines website and enter the promo code during checkout.
Sample Fares and Booking Tips
While Southwest does not always specify its sale routes, you can easily find available flights by searching for your desired destination or checking the Low Fare Calendar on their website. For instance, a recent test search revealed that a round-trip ticket from Chicago’s Midway International Airport (MDW) to Kahului Airport (OGG) in early May could be booked for just $425.
When booking, look for a green banner at the top of the search results, indicating that the promo code has been successfully applied. If you’re using the Low Fare Calendar, sale fares will be displayed with the original price crossed out, making it easy to spot the best deals.
What’s Included in the Sale?
This sale applies to both cash and points bookings, making it a versatile option for travelers. The discounted fares include Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus tickets, which come with several perks:
- Baggage Allowance: Two free checked bags, one free carry-on, and one personal item.
- In-Flight Amenities: Free inflight entertainment and messaging.
- Flexibility: You can change or cancel flights up to 10 minutes before departure. However, if you cancel a Wanna Get Away trip, you will receive a flight credit instead of a cash refund.
Maximizing Your Savings
To make the most of this deal, consider using a credit card that offers bonus points on airfare purchases. Here are some top options:
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card: Earn 2 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card: Earn 3 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases.
- American Express® Gold Card: Earn 3 points per dollar spent on airfare booked directly with the airline or through Amex Travel.
- The Platinum Card® from American Express: Earn 5 points per dollar spent on airfare booked directly with the airline or through Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year).
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Earn 3 points per dollar spent on airfare.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Earn 2 points per dollar spent on travel.
By using one of these cards, you can accumulate points that can be redeemed for future travel, further enhancing your travel experience.
Final Thoughts
This Southwest Airlines sale is a fantastic opportunity for travelers looking to explore the beautiful islands of Hawaii without breaking the bank. With a 40% discount on flights, the chance to book travel through May 2025, and the flexibility of changing or canceling flights, it’s an offer that shouldn’t be missed.
As you plan your Hawaiian getaway, remember to take advantage of the various credit card rewards available to maximize your savings. Whether you’re dreaming of lounging on the beaches of Maui, hiking the lush trails of Kauai, or experiencing the vibrant culture of Oahu, this deal can help you get there for less.
So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to embrace the Aloha spirit. With Southwest Airlines’ latest promotion, your Hawaiian adventure is just a flight away. Don’t forget to book by Thursday to secure your discounted fare and start counting down the days until you’re sipping a Mai Tai on the beach!
By keeping your travel plans flexible and utilizing the right credit card, you can turn this limited-time offer into a memorable vacation. Happy travels!
