What To Know
- The Companion Pass is the key to bringing a companion along on your flights for free, and it’s easier to earn than you might think.
- To renew it, you need to earn another 125,000 Rapid Rewards points or spend $12,000 on a Southwest Airlines credit card in a calendar year.
- It can take as little as several months to earn the Companion Pass through credit card spending or a year or more through point accumulation.
Are you ready to elevate your travel experience and unlock the ultimate perk with Southwest Airlines? The Companion Pass is the key to bringing a companion along on your flights for free, and it’s easier to earn than you might think. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step roadmap to earning the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass.
Understanding the Companion Pass
The Companion Pass allows you to designate one person as your travel companion. This companion can fly with you on all Southwest flights for free, as long as you’re in the same reservation and have enough points to cover their taxes and fees.
Qualifying Methods
There are two primary ways to earn the Companion Pass:
1. Rapid Rewards Points Accumulation
Earn 125,000 Rapid Rewards points in a calendar year. These points can be earned through flights, credit card spending, and other partner activities.
2. Southwest Credit Card Spending
Spend $12,000 or more in net purchases on a Southwest Airlines credit card in a calendar year.
Maximizing Point Earning
To accelerate your point accumulation, consider the following strategies:
Flight Frequency
Fly as often as possible on Southwest Airlines. Each flight segment earns Rapid Rewards points.
Credit Card Rewards
Use a Southwest Airlines credit card for all your purchases. You’ll earn points on every dollar spent.
Partner Activities
Join Southwest’s Rapid Rewards Dining and Shopping programs to earn points on dining and shopping.
Credit Card Options
Southwest Airlines offers several credit cards that can help you earn the Companion Pass:
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
- 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- 1.5x points on Southwest flights and Rapid Rewards purchases
- 2x points on dining and local transit
- $99 annual fee
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months
- 2x points on Southwest flights and Rapid Rewards purchases
- 3x points on dining, local transit, hotels, and car rentals
- $149 annual fee
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
- 80,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months
- 3x points on Southwest flights and Rapid Rewards purchases
- 2x points on dining, local transit, hotels, car rentals, and office supplies
- $199 annual fee
Using the Companion Pass
Once you’ve earned the Companion Pass, you can add your companion to your reservation by logging into your Southwest account. Your companion will need to create their own Rapid Rewards account if they don’t already have one.
Renewing the Companion Pass
The Companion Pass is valid for 12 months from the date it’s earned. To renew it, you need to earn another 125,000 Rapid Rewards points or spend $12,000 on a Southwest Airlines credit card in a calendar year.
Key Points: Elevate Your Travel with the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass
Earning the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass is a game-changer for frequent travelers. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can unlock this incredible perk and enjoy the benefits of free companion flights. So, start planning your adventures and get ready to elevate your travel experience with the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to earn the Companion Pass?
A: It can take as little as several months to earn the Companion Pass through credit card spending or a year or more through point accumulation.
Q: Can I earn the Companion Pass with multiple people?
A: No, each Companion Pass is tied to a specific account holder.
Q: What are the taxes and fees for companion flights?
A: Taxes and fees for companion flights vary depending on the destination and time of year. Typically, they range from $5.60 to $11.20 per one-way flight.
Q: Can I use the Companion Pass on award flights?
A: No, the Companion Pass cannot be used on award flights.
Q: Can I use the Companion Pass for international flights?
A: Yes, the Companion Pass can be used on international flights operated by Southwest Airlines.
