Friends,

Southwest’s new fare structure has caused a bit of confusion—four fare types, changing names, and mixed reactions. But here’s one clear takeaway I’ve found: if you hold A-List or A-List Preferred status, Basic is suddenly a very compelling option.

Let’s rewind. With the retirement of “Wanna Get Away” fares and the introduction of Basic on May 28th, Southwest finally dipped a toe into the basic economy pool. For most travelers, this lowest-tier fare means no flight changes, no advance seat assignments, and boarding at the very back. But Southwest’s version is a touch less restrictive—and Rapid Rewards tier members don’t even play by those rules.

First and notably, thanks to elite benefits, even on basic fares A-List and A-List Preferred flyers still receive:

• Priority check-in and boarding

• Free checked luggage (one or two)

• Free same-day standby

• Bonus points (25% or 100%)

Up to eight companions on the same reservation get the same perks, too. So you maintain most benefits (to my understanding, free confirmed same-day flight changes are the main exception) while paying the lowest fare—which is, by all measures, a deal.

The points downside is literal: with Basic, you’re only earning two Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent, which was introduced with no warning a few months ago. But for many A-List travelers who already earn at a strong clip thanks to credit cards, etc. this is a minor tradeoff. Book the cheapest fare, keep your perks, and move on.

The other big restriction is that Basic flight credits are only valid for six months from the date of booking and are non-transferable. That’s a far cry from the former “Wanna Get Away” flight credit product—but still far more tenable than the no-refunds/changes/no-credit policies on Basic fares from other carriers.

Just to be clear: Basic fares do have restrictions. You won’t get a refund or transferable credit if you cancel, and you can't fly standby unless you're A-List or higher. That’s why I’d suggest booking Basic fares as one-ways rather than round trips—so you’re not stuck needing to change one leg but having to cancel both. They also make the most sense for closer-in bookings where, if something changes, you’re more likely to be able to use the credit within the six-month window.

And if you are worried about locking into a non-changeable fare, a good middle ground might be sticking with regular “Wanna Get Away Plus” for a bit of flexibility—and still lower cost than Anytime or Business Select.

Southwest hasn’t made Basic a good deal for everyone. But they’ve quietly made it a no-brainer for elites who know how to navigate the system.

Would I book a Basic fare on United, Delta, or even American? Almost never. Those feel semi-punishing: depending on the carrier, you get no advance seat selection, no carry-on, no flexibility, and limited elite perks (no lounge access on Delta, for example). But Southwest’s new-ish Basic fare is… different.

Different enough that I’ve already booked over ten of them for August.

Fly well.

NEWS

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DEALS

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