Flying Internationally with Southwest: Everything You Need to Know

Southwest Airlines has expanded their routes to include several exciting international destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. Here’s everything you need to know BEFORE you book!

 

Flying Internationally with Southwest Airlines

 

Southwest International Destinations

Southwest Airlines travels to 14 destinations outside the United States, as well as Puerto Rico.

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Cabo, Mexico
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Cancun, Mexico
• Havana, Cuba
• Grand Cayman
• Aruba
• Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
• Nassau, Bahamas
• Belize
• San Jose, Costa Rica
• Liberia, Costa Rica
• Turks & Caicos

Out of this list, I’ve traveled to Aruba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Havana, Turks & Caicos, Costa Rica, Cabo and Puerto Vallarta. If you’ve been following our blog, then you already know how much I adore Aruba and I’m always up for a trip back there. I mean, where else can you feed pink flamingos on the beach?

I’m heading to Belize this month, so stayed tuned for tips on visiting this destination! In reality, you really can’t go wrong with a trip to any of these 14 spots, which is what makes Southwest’s international destination list so fun!

 

Why Fly with Internationally with Southwest Airlines?

 

No Change Fees

Sometimes plans change, and Southwest is there to accommodate that. If you need to switch up your flights, Southwest makes it super easy to do, with you only paying the ticket difference on top of your original fare.

 

No Hidden Fees

Having flown with Southwest, I can vouch that they have never sprung any last-minute fees on me, including bag fees. That’s right, flying with Southwest means that you get your first and second checked bags free – something that’s pretty much unheard of in today’s flying industry.

 

A Great Rewards Program

If you’re a frequent flyer, then you know signing up for every airline’s rewards program is a must. Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program means no point expiration, no blackout dates, and no seat limit. Time to start saving up for some free flights!

 

How to Prepare for International Travel with Southwest Airlines

 

Consider Vacation Packages

When you travel, do you like to book all of the elements separately or do you love when you can reserve your flights, hotel, and car rental all in one fell swoop? With Southwest Airlines, you can book as you please and book vacation packages that suit your needs.

 

Have Your Required Documents Ready

No matter where you’re headed internationally you’ll require a passport, but do you know what other documentation you’ll need? Depending on what destination you choose, you may need proof of vaccinations and, depending on where you’re from, additional Visas. Make sure you have all your necessary documentation ready to go by using Southwest’s easy international travel tool.

 

Know the Pet Regulations

Due to country-specific regulations, pets are not allowed in the cabin during international flights (except for assistance animals). If you plan to bring along a furry friend, be sure to know the requirements and guidelines of the country you’re traveling to.

 

Check the Low Fare Calendar

If your travel dates are flexible and you want to make sure you get the best possible fare, check out Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar. Using the tool, you can see which dates (and whole months) are the cheapest to fly, ensuring you get a great deal.