Using the Southwest Companion Pass with a Southwest Credit Card

For frequent travelers looking to save money on flights, the Southwest Companion Pass is a valuable tool to consider. This pass allows you to bring a designated companion with you on unlimited flights for an entire year, for just the cost of taxes and fees. And when you combine it with a Southwest credit card, you can maximize your rewards and savings even further.

So, how does the Companion Pass work? To qualify, you need to earn 125,000 Southwest Rapid Rewards points in a calendar year. Once you reach this threshold, you can immediately bring a companion on any Southwest flight for free (excluding taxes and fees) for the remainder of the year in which you earned the pass, as well as the following year.

One of the easiest ways to earn the necessary points is by signing up for a Southwest credit card. Southwest offers a range of credit card options, each with its own sign-up bonus and ongoing benefits. By simply applying for one of these cards and meeting the minimum spending requirement, you can earn a significant number of points, which can be used towards the Companion Pass.

Once you’ve earned the Companion Pass, you can choose a designated companion to join you on your flights. This can be a family member, friend, or anyone else you frequently travel with. You have the flexibility to change your designated companion up to three times per calendar year, allowing you to bring different people on different trips.

The ability to have a companion fly with you for free can lead to incredible savings. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, having your companion’s flight covered means you can use your travel budget for other expenses. This is especially valuable for families, as it can significantly reduce the overall cost of a vacation.

Aside from the Companion Pass, having a Southwest credit card offers additional benefits. These can include priority boarding, bonus points on purchases made with Southwest and its partners, free checked bags, and access to exclusive events. Each Southwest credit card comes with its own set of perks, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your travel preferences and needs.

Maximizing the value of your Southwest credit card and Companion Pass can be done by strategically planning your spending. By using your credit card for everyday purchases and bills, you can earn points faster and qualify for the Companion Pass sooner. Additionally, taking advantage of bonus categories, such as dining, shopping, or travel, can boost your point accumulation.

To make the most of your Companion Pass, it’s also important to plan your flights wisely. Keep an eye out for Southwest’s fare sales and promotions, as they often provide opportunities to earn bonus points. By combining these promotions with the Companion Pass, you can stretch your rewards even further and save money on flights.

In conclusion, the Southwest Companion Pass, coupled with a Southwest credit card, can be a game-changer for frequent travelers seeking to save money on flights. Not only does the Companion Pass allow you to bring a companion along for free, but the credit card offers additional perks and rewards. It’s a winning combination that can lead to incredible savings and memorable travel experiences.