- Categories:
- Fun
- Tags:
- ActivitiesAmerican
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every June 18
- Holiday emoji:
- ✈️
National Wanna Get Away Day takes flight every June 18, inspiring everyone to plan their next adventure. This day, rooted in Southwest Airlines’ legacy, celebrates the joy of travel and reconnecting with loved ones. Book that trip, explore a new city, or simply dream of your next escape.
Want to sponsor National Wanna Get Away Day? Learn how
Expected National Wanna Get Away Day Deals
As National Wanna Get Away Day approaches, expect travel providers to roll out enticing promotions. While we await official 2027 announcements, history shows airlines like Southwest Airlines often offer bonus Rapid Rewards points or discounted fares. Look for package deals from sites like Expedia and Booking.com, and hotel chains such as Marriott and Hilton may feature special rates. Baggage brands like Samsonite and Away might also run sales on travel gear. Regional airlines and smaller travel agencies often join in with local deals. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as June 18 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Wanna Get Away Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #WannaGetAwayDay. Share your dream destination photos or past travel memories.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #WannaGetAwayDay. Create short videos showcasing travel hacks, packing tips, or funny travel mishaps.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #WannaGetAwayDay. Ask your community where they want to ‘get away’ to next.
National Wanna Get Away Day Hero
Herb Kelleher
History of National Wanna Get Away Day
Southwest Airlines’ humble beginnings started in 1967. Air Southwest Co. was founded by Lamar Muse, Rollin King, and Herbert Kelleher. It initially flew travelers within the state of Texas. On March 29, 1971, the company changed its name to Southwest Airlines, with its headquarters established in Dallas. It started its commercial passenger service between two routes: between Dallas Love Field and San Antonio and between Dallas Love Field and Houston International Airport.
On November 4, 1971, the company began expanding its travel routes by servicing passengers between Houston Hobby and San Antonio. By January 25, 1979, Southwest Airlines had added its first out-of-state route, between Houston and New Orleans. Their expansion continued in 1980 as they added routes to Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Albuquerque. They consistently developed and grew as a reputable airline of multi-state routes, expanding to Denver, Little Rock, St. Louis, Chicago, Cleveland, and others throughout the 1980s.
After their successful expansion in the 1980s, Southwest Airlines began focusing on customer experience and elevated travel branding in the 1990s. They coined the catchphrase “Wanna Get Away?” in 1996, which instantly became a recognizable expression associated with the company.
On its 50th anniversary in 2021, Southwest Airlines took it a step further by registering National Wanna Get Away Day as a national holiday to celebrate its milestones. The company aims to give back to its loyal customers who helped them thrive throughout the years. The perks of this holiday include the chance to win Rapid Rewards bonus points, Southwest gift cards, and companion passes.
National Wanna Get Away Day timeline
Lamar Muse, Rollin King, and Herb Kelleher start the Air Southwest Co. servicing travelers within the state of Texas.
The company changes its name to Southwest Airlines.
Southwest Airlines adds New Orleans to its route.
Southwest Airlines registers National Wanna Get Away Day as a national holiday.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Wanna Get Away Day
Local travel agencies can host ‘Wanna Get Away’ planning sessions, offering special discounts on package deals or consultation services. Restaurants and bars might create themed menus inspired by popular travel destinations. Retailers selling luggage, travel accessories, or even books about travel can run promotions to encourage customers to prepare for their next adventure. Hotels and resorts could offer flash sales for future bookings, enticing guests to plan their escapes.
National Wanna Get Away Day FAQs
When is National Wanna Get Away Day?
In 2027, National Wanna Get Away Day will be observed on Friday, June 18. This end-of-week timing makes it an ideal opportunity to kick off a weekend getaway or finalize those long-awaited travel plans.
How many Americans plan to travel this year?
Travel trends for 2027 indicate that roughly 70-80% of Americans intend to take at least one leisure trip. This consistent desire to explore new places underscores the significance of days like National Wanna Get Away Day.
What is the economic impact of travel and tourism?
Globally, travel and tourism’s economic impact is projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by 2027, with forecasts suggesting it could contribute over $10 trillion to the world’s GDP. This vital sector fuels job creation, infrastructure development, and local economies.
Why was National Wanna Get Away Day created?
The holiday celebrates Southwest’s enduring legacy of making air travel accessible and enjoyable. It aims to inspire individuals to embrace the spirit of adventure, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
National Wanna Get Away Day Activities
Visit your loved ones across the country
Seize the opportunity to reconnect with your loved ones across the country this National Wanna Get Away Day. Visit the hometown where you grew up or spend a weekend with your family in your childhood home. It’s a great way to personally catch up with the people you love.
Book your dream destination
National Wanna Get Away Day is the perfect holiday to finally go to your dream destination. Whether you want to explore an unknown paradise by yourself or simply get away from the chaos of the city with your friends, the timing of taking a retreat couldn’t be any better.
Travel with your partner
One of the perks of National Wanna Get Away Day is getting a companion pass. Upgrade your travel plans into a trip for two with your loved one and spend time exploring scenic spots from all over the country.
5 Fascinating Facts About Southwest Airlines
Exemplary customer service
More than 60,000 people worked to deliver an exemplary customer experience back in 2019.
4,000 flights a day
In contrast to its humble beginnings 50 years ago, Southwest Airlines now operates 4,000 flights daily.
The first to offer gate-to-gate connectivity
In 2013, Southwest Airlines became the first carrier to offer gate-to-gate connectivity to customers on their Wi-Fi-enabled fleet of aircraft.
They offer a lot of pretzels
In 2019, Southwest carried approximately 90 million bags of pretzels.
Recognized by “Forbes”
Southwest was recognized by “Forbes” as the ‘Best Employer’ in 2019.
Why We Love National Wanna Get Away Day
We love to travel
Traveling is the best form of escape. In the most dire of times, nothing is better than packing your bags, booking a flight, and air-traveling to your favorite destinations. Seeing new places, trying new food, and meeting new friends are some of the greatest joys in life.
For the perks and benefits
Who doesn’t love perks and benefits? National Wanna Get Away Day elevates the ordinary travel experience into a special and meaningful one. Freebies are always the proverbial cherry on top of the cake.
We love to reconnect with loved ones
Life is too short to be away from your loved ones. National Wanna Get Away Day is the perfect excuse to personally visit your family, friends, and relatives wherever they are.
Social Media Tips for National Wanna Get Away Day
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