Why Southwest’s Wanna Get Away Plus Fare Stands Out

by Sky Skylar | April 11, 2025 | 0 Comments

1. The New Fare at a Glance

1. The New Fare at a Glance

Southwest Airlines introduced the Wanna Get Away Plus fare a few years ago, positioning it snugly between the entry-level Wanna Get Away and the more premium Anytime. From my perspective, it’s a natural fit for travelers who want an upgrade from the bare necessities without jumping headfirst into pricier fare tiers. I’ve watched countless flyers gravitate toward this middle ground in search of that sweet spot—better flexibility, more Rapid Rewards points, and freedom from some of the headaches that often come with lower-frills tickets.

What truly sets this fare apart is the combination of confirmed same-day changes and transferable flight credits. Whether you’re flying for work or visiting family on short notice, having a bit of wiggle room can be a game-changer. The ability to confirm a same-day change often spares travelers from paying extra fees, which, according to industry data from last year, can stack up quickly across multiple trips. By bundling these perks together, Southwest manages to keep the fare accessible while still providing key advantages typically reserved for higher-tier tickets.

On top of that, travelers get to enjoy two free checked bags for bookings made before May 28, 2025, which has historically been one of Southwest’s most beloved policies. This perk, combined with the fare’s moderate price point, helps strike a balance between budget consciousness and comfort. While some carriers are moving toward more restrictive baggage rules, Southwest has endeared itself to travelers by maintaining an easier, more forgiving experience—at least for the time being.

2. Earn More Rapid Rewards

2. Earn More Rapid Rewards

The Rapid Rewards program has always been central to Southwest’s identity. One of the reasons Wanna Get Away Plus gained traction so quickly is its elevated point-earning structure. From my own observations, many frequent flyers look for the best ways to accumulate points without paying for top-tier fares every time they travel. At 8X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent, this fare outpaces the original Wanna Get Away while remaining more affordable than Anytime and Business Select.

Reward-earning potential can significantly influence a traveler’s choice of airline and fare class. According to a 2024 loyalty study, 67% of travelers consider robust earning rates a primary motivator for sticking with a specific airline. As someone who has followed countless stories of travelers maximizing their points, I see Wanna Get Away Plus as a strategic pick for building up rewards without overextending your budget. Every extra point earned has the possibility of compounding when combined with promotional offers, credit card bonuses, or Southwest’s occasional fare sales.

Another hidden gem lies in how these Rapid Rewards points can be redeemed. Travelers often pair the fare’s higher earning potential with strategic redemptions, snagging flights at optimal times or when Southwest runs limited-time offers. This is especially handy if you’re eyeing a specific route during peak travel season. By leveraging the slightly elevated earn rate, even casual travelers could find themselves with enough points to take an additional trip each year—without spending extra on the airline’s priciest fares.

3. Transferable Flight Credits

3. Transferable Flight Credits

One of the most talked-about features of Wanna Get Away Plus is the option to transfer flight credits. If I had to pick a perk that consistently lights up travel forums, it’s this ability to move credits between Rapid Rewards accounts. It’s a straightforward process that saves individuals the frustration of having unused funds locked in someone else’s name. All it takes is a single transfer, and a friend or family member can use the entire balance toward their own trip.

I’ve seen travelers use this feature to help out relatives in need of a last-minute flight, or simply to share a promotional fare when they couldn’t personally use the credit. One real-world example: a friend of mine canceled a flight for work reasons and then transferred the credit to her sister, who was planning a weekend getaway. That move came in clutch, especially when airline prices were spiking everywhere else.

It’s worth noting that the transfer is an all-or-nothing process. There’s no splitting the credit between multiple accounts and no reversing the decision once it’s done. However, many travelers find that a minor limitation in exchange for the convenience and cost savings. This perk underscores the fare’s ethos: It gives travelers more freedom to manage their funds and adapt to changing plans.

4. Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

4. Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

As of this year (2025), major changes are on the horizon for Southwest, particularly for flights booked on or after May 28. Based on internal airline bulletins and broader industry chatter, many travelers are preparing for a shift in how Southwest handles baggage, fare structures, and even seating. In my experience reading countless previews, the biggest departure from the airline’s longstanding policies is the move away from two free checked bags for most fare types, although elite status holders, Business Select customers, and certain Rapid Rewards credit cardholders will still enjoy this perk.

Southwest’s upcoming Basic fare—set to replace the original Wanna Get Away—will drop to a 2X point-earning rate and introduce dynamic award pricing. If you’re the kind of traveler who depends on higher earning and more transparent redemption rates, this shift could influence your flight planning. According to a recent study by an aviation research group, airlines adopting dynamic award pricing can see a short-term bump in loyalty program revenue, but it often requires travelers to be more vigilant about tracking point values and redemption windows.

Then there’s the move to assigned seating, scheduled to launch in 2026. Early glimpses suggest that Southwest is trying to preserve some of its unique open-seating tradition while adding tiered seat options, including extra legroom. How exactly this will pan out remains to be seen, but you can bet travelers who have grown accustomed to the old system will keep a close eye on the transition. I’ve noticed that many flyers regard Southwest’s rear open seats as one of the airline’s quirky charms, so the shift may spark spirited debates among loyalists.

5. Which Fare Suits You Best?

5. Which Fare Suits You Best?

When deciding if Wanna Get Away Plus is right for you, consider how you typically travel. Are you someone who thrives on flexibility, or do you mostly stick to fixed schedules? From what I’ve observed, families and business travelers who value changeability and higher rewards tend to embrace this fare wholeheartedly. It’s a big step up from Basic (and the old Wanna Get Away) without committing to the full cost of Anytime or Business Select.

If you’re focused purely on price, the upcoming Basic fare might still pique your interest, but you’ll sacrifice a lot of benefits starting this year. Meanwhile, frequent flyers who can’t live without fully refundable tickets or want maximum Rapid Rewards might be better off opting for Anytime or Business Select. Ultimately, I think Wanna Get Away Plus hits a sweet spot: it gives you enough perks to simplify future trips without demanding the highest fare premium.

In particular, if you share flight credits frequently—say, with a spouse or close friend—then Wanna Get Away Plus is almost a no-brainer. Even if you’re not planning any drastic itinerary changes, having that option in your back pocket can be invaluable. For those who track their points religiously and want a nudge in the right direction, the 8X earn rate is a noticeable improvement. You’ll see the difference in your Rapid Rewards balance sooner than you might expect, especially if you incorporate credit card bonuses or loyalty promotions throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

Southwest’s Wanna Get Away Plus fare stands as a strategic choice in a shifting airline landscape. It marries many of the conveniences that frequent flyers seek—like same-day changes and flight credit transfers—with a relatively affordable price point. Over time, as the airline transitions its baggage and seating policies, traveling on Southwest might look very different, but Wanna Get Away Plus remains poised to offer a balance of flexibility and value.

Looking ahead, the elevated Rapid Rewards earning and practical perks give it staying power in a competitive marketplace. Although nothing can be guaranteed in an era of constant airline updates, my impression is that Wanna Get Away Plus aligns with travelers who want a bit more freedom in their plans without going all in on premium fares.

Sky Skylar’s Take

I’ve immersed myself in mountains of flight reviews and booking data, and it’s clear that Southwest isn’t just testing the waters with Wanna Get Away Plus. They’ve planted a flag in the midpoint between bare-bones fares and top-tier luxury. From reading countless traveler testimonials, I can tell many appreciate this no-frills-yet-slightly-enhanced approach.

Overall, I see Wanna Get Away Plus as a logical extension of Southwest’s brand style—friendly, forgiving, and ripe for those of us who prefer a little wiggle room on our flight plans. Even as new policies roll out this year, it stands to remain a favored option among savvy flyers.

Stay with us at BoardingArea for more.

Also on BoardingArea
Altitude Yes
Japan Airlines Economy from New York to Tokyo on the A350 (JL3)
Read about my routine flight on the JAL A350 to Tokyo with great food, comfortable sleep, and poor Wi-Fi. The post Japan Airlines Economy from New York to Tokyo on the A350 (JL3) first appeared on Altitude Yes.
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
Flight Attendants Told to Ditch Their ‘Red Eye’ Essential as Celsius Energy Drinks Could Trigger Positive Alcohol Test
Flight attendants across the United States are being urged to stop drinking Celsius energy drinks after it was revealed that cans of the popular beverage may have been filled with High Noon vodka seltzer by mistake. Celsius has fast become the go-to caffeinated beverage for flight attendants trying to survive...
Points With a Crew
19 Tech and Travel Deals at Amazon This Weekend
Some decent Amazon weekend deals on travel and tech gear going on this weekend, including headphones, luggage, locks, packing cubes and supplies, travel books and ...
One Mile at a Time
Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card Review: Platinum The Easy Way
Both American Express and Chase issue co-branded Marriott credit cards. In this post, I want to take a closer look at theMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, which is the most premium credit card in the portfolio. This card is quite compelling, and the easiest way to earn Platinum Elite...
Your Mileage May Vary
Southwest Said Power Ports Were Coming. Assigned Seats Came First.
Southwest Airlines used to stand out from the pack. No change fees. Two free checked bags. Open seating. A quirky sense of humor. But lately? The airline is starting to…
a group of people sitting on a step
BoardingArea
Celebrate Friendship Day 2025 With Companion Passes & Group Trips
I've always felt that friendship is an adventure in itself—no matter where we go or whom we travel with, those meaningful bonds seem to blossom when we step outside our comfort zones. Friendship Day 2025, officially landing on August 3 in the United States (and July 30 for those of...
View from the Wing
How To Use New Southwest 100,000 Point Card Bonus To Fly With A Companion Nearly Free Through 2027
Right now is your best opportunity to get a Southwest Companion Pass good for nearly two full years, based on how this benefit works today. It's arguably the best value in travel. Continue reading How To Use New Southwest 100,000 Point Card Bonus To Fly With A Companion Nearly...
The Bulkhead Seat
JetBlue Cut Dunkin’ Promo Short Due to Aircraft Maintenance
In May, I wrote about a promo that JetBlue was offering to celebrate its… The post JetBlue Cut Dunkin’ Promo Short Due to Aircraft Maintenance appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.
One Mile at a Time
Airplane Toilet Misunderstanding Leads To Air Traffic Control Emergency
This has to be one of the most hilarious cases of miscommunication that I’ve seen between pilots and air traffic controllers, as flagged by PYOK.
Live and Let’s Fly
Our Six-Star Experience On The Scenic Cruises’ Eclipse I
We sailed Scenic Cruises’ Eclipse I from Bermuda to Miami and it was every bit the six-star experience it promises to deliver.  If you are considering booking travel LiveAndLetsFly.com appreciates your support. If you haven’t followed us on Facebook or Instagram, add us today. The Itinerary And Inclusions This particular trip was a seven-day journey...
One Mile at a Time
How To Transfer, Combine, & Share Citi ThankYou Points
Citi ThankYou is a popular transferable points currency. There are several excellent cards earning Citi ThankYou points, so these rewards are pretty easy to accrue, and there are great uses of them.
View from the Wing
“We Have No Toilets!” Pilot’s Urgent Plea Misheard As “No Pilots,” Triggers Airport Emergency
Probably the best observation here is “For the first time in my life, I see a purpose for the word ‘lavatory.'” Continue reading “We Have No Toilets!” Pilot’s Urgent Plea Misheard As “No Pilots,” Triggers Airport Emergency...
The Gate with Brian Cohen
Ice Table. Sunday Morning Photograph.
The month is August. Much of the northern hemisphere is ensconced in the heat of summer. Perhaps this photograph of a table coated in ice will help cool things off — temporarily, at least. The photograph was taken after... The post Ice Table. Sunday Morning Photograph. appeared first on The Gate.
Eye of the Flyer
Inside New JFK Terminal, Flight Attendant Sues Delta, Delta Pilot Charged With Child Sex Crimes, Delta Sued Over Lost iPad, NCL Massive New Waterpark and more Cruise and Travel News
Here are this week’s travel and cruise headlines and news from around the web and interweb: JFK airport’s $9.5 billion international terminal is taking shape. See what’s inside Flight Attendant Sues Delta Over Toronto Crash Woman faces charges in Delta pilot’s child sex crime case Delta Air Lines sued over...
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
Pilots’ Request for a Toilet Break Turns Into Emergency Alert After Hilarious Misunderstanding With Air Traffic Control
The pilots of a TAP Air Portugal flight from Lisbon to Nice in the Côte d’Azur got themselves into a very confusing conversation with air traffic control after they tried to ask for an expedited approach for landing when all of the toilets onboard stopped working. The request from the...
View from the Wing
“Southwest Is Hoeing Me” Airline Loses Woman’s $5,000 Bag, Dumps It At Strange Apartment, Shrugs And Tells Her To Call Police
"Southwest is hoeing me." A Southwest Airlines passenger says that's what an employee told her, after the airline lost her bag, then when it was found it was delivered to the wrong address, and the airline and courier service simply pointed fingers at each other - forcing the woman...
BoardingArea
Frequent Flyer’s Lollapalooza 2025 Guide: Positioning Flights & Points Hotels
Positioning Flights Made Simple For frequent flyers determined to make a splash at Lollapalooza 2025, positioning flights can be a game-changer. Chicago boasts two major airports—O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW)—offering a variety of mileage redemption opportunities. It's wise to check alliance partners for last-minute award availability or open-jaw tickets that let...
Live and Let’s Fly
Is It Ok To Book Business For Parents But Economy For Kids?
There’s a debate raging in our home about whether or not it’s ok to book ourselves (parents) in business class, but children in coach with an adult family member.  Are Different Cabins Problematic? For the first time, we are having a debate in our house about whether it’s ok to...
One Mile at a Time
Best Cards For Earning Citi ThankYou Points: Maximize Your Rewards
If you’re looking to earn travel rewards for your credit card spending, I always recommend doing what you can to earn transferable points currencies. That’s because these programs give you the flexibility to transfer points to many partners, so you’re not invested in any single airline or hotel loyalty program.
Wingtips
WingTips Wallet Watch: Best UK Credit Card Offers – August 2025 Edition
Welcome to July’s Points Parade New month, new bonuses, new reasons to let your wallet earn its keep.… The post WingTips Wallet Watch: Best UK Credit Card Offers – August 2025 Edition appeared first on Wingtips.
Wild About Travel
Surviving the Gunfire: How Tragedy Changed My Bangkok Life
Today’s post contains images and descriptions about extreme violence. Reader caution is advised Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, home to around 14 million people is known for its canals, food, parties, temples, culture, and massage. I know the city well. I have spent five years here over the last 12...
Live from a Lounge
Giveaway: An Air India Business Class Ticket
Here is your opportunity to win a business class ticket to travel in India. Participate in this giveaway to win. The post Giveaway: An Air India Business Class Ticket appeared first on Live From A Lounge.
ATX Jetsetter
Weekly Recap: August 2, 2025
Catch up on the latest aviation and travel related news for the week ending August 2, 2025 in the ATX Jetsetter weekly recap. The post Weekly Recap: August 2, 2025 appeared first on ATX Jetsetter.
Frequent Miler
Last Chance Deals: 20% Citi Shop Day, Wyndham points sale, 4x on Giftcards.com purchases & more
Welcome to our weekly list of what’s ending this week as well as a collection of some other deals that are due to end soon. Several decent deals are set to end this week. The Citi shopping portal is offering 20% cashback as a statement credit on Tuesday and Wednesday for...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Categories

Our Bloggers