Southwest Airlines is offering a rare opportunity to earn a coveted Companion Pass through its co-branded Chase credit cards, but the window to apply closes soon. Until March 19 at 9 a.m. EDT, select Southwest Rapid Rewards cards are offering substantial bonus points and the Companion Pass, valid through February 28, 2027.
Understanding the Companion Pass
The Southwest Companion Pass allows you to bring a designated travel partner on nearly any Southwest flight for just the cost of taxes and fees. Normally, earning this pass requires either 100 qualifying one-way flights or 135,000 qualifying Rapid Rewards points in a calendar year – a significant commitment. These credit card promotions provide a much faster track, requiring only a few thousand dollars in spending to qualify.
Available Credit Card Offers
Here’s a breakdown of the current offers:
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card: Earn a Companion Pass plus 40,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 within three months.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card: Earn a Companion Pass plus 30,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within three months.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card: Earn a Companion Pass plus 20,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 within three months.
Why This Matters
The Companion Pass is valuable because it effectively allows two people to fly for the price of one (excluding taxes and fees). For frequent travelers, especially those planning trips with a companion, the savings can be substantial. One user reported saving approximately $2,000 in a single year by utilizing the pass.
Southwest’s Companion Pass is particularly advantageous for domestic travel within their network. However, with the addition of international partners like Condor Airlines and Turkish Airlines, opportunities for international travel are growing.
Action Required
If you anticipate traveling with a companion in the coming months, now is the time to act. The sooner you meet the minimum spending requirement, the sooner you can begin using your Companion Pass. This promotion expires at 9 a.m. EDT on March 19, and similar offers may not return for some time.
These cards also offer additional perks such as free checked bags and priority boarding, making them appealing even beyond the Companion Pass benefit. If your travel plans align with Southwest’s routes, this is a high-value opportunity worth considering.
