What To Know
- If you primarily fly Delta and value checked bags, priority boarding, and elite status perks, then the Delta credit card may be a better choice for you.
- Some travelers prefer the consistency and perks of a single airline, while others value the flexibility and affordability of a budget carrier.
- Southwest credit cards offer a companion pass after spending $125,000 on the card within a year, while Delta credit cards do not offer a companion pass.
When it comes to frequent flyer credit cards, Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines offer two of the most popular options. But which one is better for you? The answer depends on your individual travel habits and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the Delta and Southwest credit cards head-to-head, examining their perks, benefits, and potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
Perks and Benefits
Delta Credit Card
- Free checked bags: Delta cardholders get up to two free checked bags per passenger on all Delta-operated flights.
- Priority boarding: Enjoy Zone 1 or 2 boarding status, giving you early access to the plane.
- Miles earning: Earn 1 mile per dollar spent on Delta purchases and 2 miles per dollar spent on dining and everyday purchases.
- Elite status perks: Reach elite status faster with bonus miles for qualifying purchases and access to exclusive perks like dedicated check-in lines and lounge access.
Southwest Credit Card
- Free companion pass: Earn a companion pass after spending $125,000 on the card within a year. This allows you to bring a companion on any Southwest flight for free.
- No blackout dates or seat restrictions: Fly on any Southwest flight, anytime, with no blackout dates or seat restrictions.
- Flexible points earning: Earn Rapid Rewards points on all Southwest purchases, as well as on everyday spending with partner merchants.
- Priority boarding: Get early boarding with Group A boarding status.
Fees and Charges
Delta Credit Card
- Annual fee: $95-$550, depending on the card tier.
- Foreign transaction fee: 2.7%
- Balance transfer fee: 3%
Southwest Credit Card
- Annual fee: $99-$199, depending on the card tier.
- Foreign transaction fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: 5%
Which Card is Right for You?
If you primarily fly Delta and value checked bags, priority boarding, and elite status perks, then the Delta credit card may be a better choice for you. However, if you prefer Southwest’s flexibility, free companion pass, and no blackout dates, then the Southwest credit card might be a more suitable option.
Additional Considerations
Card Tier Options
Both Delta and Southwest offer multiple tiers of credit cards, each with varying perks and fees. Consider your travel habits and budget when choosing the right tier for you.
Travel Insurance
Delta and Southwest credit cards provide varying levels of travel insurance, including trip cancellation, baggage delay, and rental car damage coverage. Compare the coverage offered by each card to ensure it meets your travel needs.
Sign-Up Bonuses
Both Delta and Southwest offer sign-up bonuses for new cardholders. These bonuses can range from free flights to bonus miles, so be sure to compare them before applying for a card.
Customer Service
Customer service is an important factor to consider when choosing a credit card. Read reviews and compare the experiences of other customers to ensure you’re comfortable with the level of support provided by each issuer.
Other Factors to Consider
- Preferred destinations: If you have specific destinations you fly to frequently, consider which airline offers more convenient routes and flight times.
- Travel frequency: If you travel often, the annual fee and perks of a higher-tier card may be worth the investment.
- Personal preferences: Some travelers prefer the consistency and perks of a single airline, while others value the flexibility and affordability of a budget carrier.
Recommendations: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the best credit card for you depends on your individual travel needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, you can make an informed decision and choose the card that will provide the most value and benefits for your travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which credit card offers more free checked bags?
A: Delta credit cards offer up to two free checked bags per passenger, while Southwest credit cards do not include free checked bags.
Q: Which card has no blackout dates or seat restrictions?
A: Southwest credit cards offer no blackout dates or seat restrictions, while Delta credit cards may have blackout dates and seat restrictions on certain routes.
Q: Which card offers a companion pass?
A: Southwest credit cards offer a companion pass after spending $125,000 on the card within a year, while Delta credit cards do not offer a companion pass.
