Is this wise? Airfare.

[cdepauli]

We are travelling from PA to Orlando or Tampa June 15-22. Originally, we planned to fly out of Harrisburg on Frontier and/or Allegiant but the times for the lower cost flights are terrible, so I've been looking at Southwest from BWI to either TPA or MCO.

Right now I can buy tickets one way for $94 to TPA at bad times. I am fairly confident that airfare for good times and to MCO will come down some, but I am also anxious that it won't since I can't actually predict the future.

I haven't traveled in a while (since summer 2011) so haven't been keeping up with airfare trends.

So here is my question. Is it a good idea to buy tickets now from Southewest at bad times and then change my itinerary when/if the price comes down? I know the rule of thumb is to buy about 7-8 weeks out if you don't book right when the itineraries are put out for the best price, but like I said, I have not been tracking airfare for quite some time.

Thanks for any input!!

[dudspizza]

I personally grab those fares if you can live with the flight times. Then watch like a hawk and make itinerary changes if the opportunity arises.....

Duds

[DebbieB]

Originally Posted by cdepauli

We are travelling from PA to Orlando or Tampa June 15-22. Originally, we planned to fly out of Harrisburg on Frontier and/or Allegiant but the times for the lower cost flights are terrible, so I've been looking at Southwest from BWI to either TPA or MCO.

Right now I can buy tickets one way for $94 to TPA at bad times. I am fairly confident that airfare for good times and to MCO will come down some, but I am also anxious that it won't since I can't actually predict the future.

I haven't traveled in a while (since summer 2011) so haven't been keeping up with airfare trends.

So here is my question. Is it a good idea to buy tickets now from Southewest at bad times and then change my itinerary when/if the price comes down? I know the rule of thumb is to buy about 7-8 weeks out if you don't book right when the itineraries are put out for the best price, but like I said, I have not been tracking airfare for quite some time.

Thanks for any input!!

Originally Posted by dudspizza

I personally grab those fares if you can live with the flight times. Then watch like a hawk and make itinerary changes if the opportunity arises.....

Duds

I agree, $94 is a great fare these days. That's the beauty of SW, you can make changes without a charge. Don't forget to take into consideration transportation from TPA.

[cdepauli]

We always rent a car and have flown into TPA before. I, weirdly, enjoy the drive but do prefer not to have to do it, especially since we have a 2 year old now.

[lost*in*cyberspace]

Originally Posted by DebbieB

I agree, $94 is a great fare these days. That's the beauty of SW, you can make changes without a charge. Don't forget to take into consideration transportation from TPA.

Yes, but you will pay the difference in price if your new flight is more expensive.

[Shelly F - Ohio]

I would book the SWA flights and watch the flight prices. My flight from MCO to ClE went down $76 the day before I left so I rebooked and got the credit.

The travel from TPA is EASY. it takes 1 hour and 20 minutes and its a straight shot. Just allow extra time in case you are traveling during rush hour.

I love TPA it is such a calmer airport. Security takes about 5 minutes to get through!!!