As a college student going to school out of state, there are many instances when I need or want to travel home. Driving is doable, but at 6+ hours each way it does not make for the best option. So, that leaves flying. And while there is an abundance of airlines to choose, I have found that Southwest is always the best choice (no, I am not getting endorsed to write this). Below are a few reasons why you should always fly Southwest

1. Fares are (almost) always the most inexpensive

There will always be some that may be a few dollars cheaper, but not enough to make the experience worth it. Compared to other major airlines, Southwest, at least for major airports, from my personal experiences, has been cheaper.

2. Two checked bags for free

This may be my personal favorite feature of Southwest. While other airlines charge you to check each bag you want to travel, there are some airlines that even charge you for a carry-on (I’m looking at you, Spirit)

3. Choose your own Seats

To people who have never flown Southwest before, this fact may be daunting. Why would you not want to choose your seat beforehand? And while this is a valid question, I personally enjoy being able to choose my seat once I board. This allows for more flexible travel plans, like running into friends who happen to be on your same flight and being able to sit next to them!

4. The pilots and flight attendants are usually funny

Granted, once I’m sitting in my seat I usually have my headphones in, but when I don’t, I almost always catch the flight attendants or the pilots making humorous jokes over the speakers. They are also, from my experience, friendly and helpful! There’s nothing like a good Cleveland joke.

5. Free drink and snacks

It’s kind of sad that this point even has to be a thing…you would think it to be basic human decency to supply passengers with a measly bag of pretzels and some apple juice on their flight, but some airlines have started to charge passengers for snacks and drinks (again, I’m looking at you, Spirit).

So, there you have it! Five reasons why Southwest is the best airline to fly, at least from my college student perspective.