There’s nothing that prepares you for that call—the one that changes everything. Maybe it came in the middle of the night. Or maybe it was a quiet message that shattered your world. When you lose someone, you’re suddenly navigating shock, grief, and logistics all at once. You’re not thinking clearly. But you know one thing: you have to get there.
If you’re considering bereavement travel Southwest Airlines, you’re likely looking for a fast, affordable, and compassionate way to reach your loved ones. But what does Southwest actually offer during moments like this? Can you count on them to ease your burden—or will you be stuck navigating complex fare rules on top of heartbreak?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about bereavement travel Southwest Airlines—the facts, the options, the workarounds—and how to make the smartest decision possible during an already overwhelming time.
Table of Contents
Does Southwest Airlines Offer Bereavement Fares?
Let’s get right to the heart of it.
No, Southwest Airlines does not currently offer bereavement fares.
Unlike some other major U.S. airlines (like Delta or Air Canada), Southwest discontinued this fare category in favor of their flexible change and cancellation policies. While that might sound disappointing at first, there’s more beneath the surface.
Why Airlines Stopped Offering Bereavement Discounts
Years ago, airlines provided reduced pricing for travelers dealing with a death in the family. But over time, these fares were:
- Often not the cheapest options available
- Burdened with strict documentation requirements
- Limited to certain relations (e.g., parents, siblings, children)
- Sometimes only applicable to full-fare, high-cost tickets
Airlines like Southwest realized they could better serve customers through a more transparent and flexible system—one that applied to everyone, no matter the reason for their travel.
Understanding Southwest’s Flexibility Policies
Though Southwest Airlines doesn’t offer a bereavement-specific fare, it does provide something just as valuable: a generous, customer-friendly change policy.
No Change or Cancellation Fees
When you book a ticket with Southwest, you’ll never pay a fee to:
- Change your flight (up to 10 minutes before departure)
- Cancel your trip and receive travel credit
- Move your travel date due to new circumstances
This alone makes Southwest a solid choice for emergencies.
Which Southwest Fare Should You Choose?
Not all fares are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
| Fare Type | Refundable? | Change Fee | Same-Day Standby | Best for Emergency Travel? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wanna Get Away | No | $0 | Yes (limited) | Least flexible |
| Wanna Get Away Plus | No (credit) | $0 | Yes (more options) | Decent option |
| Anytime | Yes | $0 | Yes | Great flexibility |
| Business Select | Yes | $0 | Yes + early boarding | Ideal (if cost allows) |
Quick Tips:
- If time is more important than money, go with Business Select or Anytime.
- If you’re watching your budget, Wanna Get Away Plus allows limited same-day changes but doesn’t refund in cash—just credits.
- All fares include two free checked bags, which eases travel stress further.
How to Book Last-Minute Bereavement Travel Southwest Airlines
Even without a special fare, you can still make your trip smoother.
1. Book Directly on Southwest.com
Avoid third-party booking sites. Southwest’s official site gives you:
- Access to Low Fare Calendars
- Easy rebooking or cancellation
- Direct customer service support
2. Use Rapid Rewards Points
If you have Southwest points, this is the time to use them. Booking with points allows even more flexibility, including:
- Full refunds of unused points
- Free cancellation, no fees
3. Call Southwest Directly
In extreme cases, a phone rep may help you:
- Find better routing
- Secure a seat on full flights
- Offer compassion-based assistance (unofficial but possible)
Phone Number: 1-800-I-FLY-SWA
4. Try the Low Fare Calendar
Sometimes, leaving just a few hours earlier or later can save you hundreds. This tool helps you:
- View prices by day
- Spot cheaper alternate routes
- Book more strategically
Alternatives to Southwest Airlines for Bereavement Travel
You’re not limited to Southwest. Other airlines still maintain official bereavement fare policies, though they’re often hidden or not as generous as they sound.
Other Airlines That Offer Bereavement Fares:
| Airline | Bereavement Fare? | Required Documents | Discount Estimate | Booking Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | Yes | Death certificate, funeral | Varies (5–10%) | Flexible |
| Air Canada | Yes | Proof of death/relation | Up to 7% | 7 days pre/post |
| WestJet | Yes | Proof of event | Variable | Within 10 days |
| Lufthansa | Yes (international) | Valid documents | Limited | 14 days |
Keep in Mind:
- These discounts aren’t always cheaper than booking early with Southwest.
- You’ll likely spend time on the phone and submit documents.
- Most bereavement fares are only available via customer service—not online.
How to Save on Emergency Travel Without a Bereavement Discount
Sometimes a traditional discount isn’t even your best bet. These proven tips can save you more:
Use Search Tools to Compare Quickly
- Google Flights for fast calendar price views
- Skyscanner or Hopper for real-time fare alerts
Consider Nearby Airports
Flying into a city one hour away could save you hundreds, especially on short notice.
Use Travel Packages (Flight + Hotel)
Some online deals bundle accommodations, which can help if you’re traveling with family.
Use Hidden City Ticketing (Advanced)
Tools like Skiplagged help uncover cheaper fares by booking connecting flights you don’t intend to complete. Be cautious—airlines frown on this practice and it can come with risks.
Important Documentation to Prepare
Even though Southwest won’t ask for documents, other airlines or emergency-related organizations might.
Have these ready:
- Death Certificate or obituary (scan/photo is fine)
- Proof of Relationship (birth certificate, marriage license, etc.)
- Funeral Home Contact Info (name, address, phone number)
Tip: Keep digital copies on your phone for easy access at the airport.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grief fog is real. Here’s what to watch out for when booking bereavement travel:
- Waiting too long to book, hoping for a last-minute price drop
- Choosing non-refundable fares in a rush
- Booking through third-party sites that complicate cancellations
- Forgetting to review bag policies or layover times
Conclusion:
You didn’t ask for this moment. But you can still navigate it with grace and control.
While Southwest Airlines doesn’t offer official bereavement fares, their no-fee flexibility, generous baggage allowance, and reputation for customer service make them a worthy option for last-minute travel in moments of grief. You can avoid red tape, save money, and focus on what truly matters: being with your people.
FAQ : about Bereavement Travel Southwest Airlines
Does Southwest Airlines offer bereavement fares?
No. Southwest does not provide discounted bereavement rates, but their flexible policies often serve the same purpose—minus the paperwork.
Can I cancel or change a Southwest flight due to a death in the family?
Yes. You can cancel or change any Southwest flight without a fee. You’ll either get travel credit or a full refund depending on the fare type.
What’s the best fare for emergency travel on Southwest?
Choose Anytime or Business Select for full refundability and same-day flexibility.
Is it better to call Southwest or book online?
Start online for speed, then call if your situation is unique or you need a specific route.
Does Southwest fly internationally for funerals abroad?
They have limited international routes (Mexico, Central America, Caribbean). For overseas emergencies, use Delta, Lufthansa, or Air Canada.
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