If you have to book last minute Southwest is generally the same price as if you booked well in advance, with a couple exceptions. The first two bags that are less than 50lb are included in the price. I like that because the overheads aren't full when the airplane is only half boarded. My favorite lately is the guy that puts his bag in the overhead allllll the way at the front of the plane when his seat is in the back so that when we stop he can book it for the front
On the trips I've priced Southwest is still usually the cheapest option... or maybe more expensive by a negligible amount considering that flying on Southwest is low drama, the employees are generally happy and willing to help, and I get a little bag of peanuts, or sometimes peanuts
and crackers, pretzels or cookies, and a drink or sometimes two... and don't forget the rewards points!
No, I don't own Southwest stock.