Traveling can be a breeze when you tap into the benefits of the services offered by the airline you choose to fly with. Considering the requirements of modern travelers, carriers have come up with enhanced solutions to help them maximize their flying experience. The Southwest Airlines Companion Pass is one such offering that lets you bring a friend or family member along for free on its flights, whenever you book using cash or points. You need to pay only the taxes and other applicable fees for the same.
This article delves into the details of the Companion Pass, how to earn it, and golden tips on maximizing its value.
Give it a read!
How to Earn the Southwest Companion Pass?
First of all, you need to be a Southwest Rapid Rewards member.
So, as per the airline’s policy, if you take 100 eligible flights (one-way) or collect 135,000 qualifying points within a calendar year, you can earn this pass.
You can boost your Rapid Rewards points balance by booking revenue flights on Southwest, partnering with Southwest’s hotel and car rental affiliates, or using a Rapid Rewards credit card for your daily purchases.
Additionally, you can earn points by shopping online through the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal. Using such channels could pave your way to earning the Companion Pass, and you can enjoy the benefits of traveling with a companion, that too free of cost.
Did You Know?
You can earn the Companion Pass and enjoy it for the rest of the year, plus the entire following year. The airline also provides you with the flexibility to change your designated Companion up to three times per calendar year.
How to Use the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass?
A flight booking is required for your companion. However, you need to reserve your own flight before you book the same.
But the companion needs to be designated. So, visit Southwest’s official website and sign in to your Rapid Rewards account.
You will find an option – Choose Your Companion, under the Snapshot tab. So, click ”Enter Companion Info” and go as per the given steps or instructions.
Now you have to reserve your flight. So, go to the My Trips section given in your account to book it. You will be able to find your flight displayed in the Upcoming Trips section. Now click the “Add Companion” link and click “Continue”. This step will take you to the purchase screen where you can also check the information about your companion.
Click “Purchase” and then you can purchase the flight for your companion. You just need to pay the taxes and fees for this ticket, which can be as low as US$5.60 one-way.
You can also connect with the airline’s customer service team at a dedicated contact number for any queries or even if you want to get the companion flight reserved through them.
Please Note: Since a Companion’s flight isn’t considered a purchased ticket, you are not allowed to use it to make another Companion Pass reservation.
Benefits of Southwest Companion Pass
Here’s what all advantages you can enjoy with a Companion Pass.
Unlimited Free Flights
You are allowed to a friend or family member without any charge on Southwest flights for unlimited times.
Different Companions
You can change your designated companion up to three times per year. This lets you travel with different people without any extra charges.
No Blackout Dates
You can use your Companion Pass on all Southwest flights, including peak travel times like holidays and summer vacations.
No Restrictions on Booking
You can easily reserve your companion’s ticket at the same time as yours, and enjoy seamless travel planning.
Two Years Validity
Your Companion Pass remains valid for the remainder of the year you earn it plus the entire following year.
Use with Other Deals
You can use the Companion Pass with other promotional deals or discounts announced by Southwest Airlines. This helps you maximize your savings.
Tips to Maximize the Benefits of Companion Pass
Maximize Your Companion Pass Benefits with certain key tips shared below:
Make it Happen on Time
If you earn your pass early in the year, you can definitely enjoy its benefits for nearly two years.
Use Credit Cards
You can use Southwest co-branded credit cards for sign-up bonuses and earn points through daily purchases.
Check Offers
You need to stay alert and keep a check on flight, partner promotions, and other earning methods to earn points faster.
Plan during Peak Seasons
If you use your pass for high-value trips, such as holidays, family visits, or milestone vacations, you can certainly get the most out of this benefit.
Concluding Words
All in all, whether you are a business traveler or a leisure vacationer, the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass is an amazing perk that can save you thousands on flights. This is truly a game-changer for Southwest Rapid Rewards members, offering unparalleled value and flexibility. This guide familiarizes you with the ways to earn the Companion Pass, which is through points or flights. As a Rapid Rewards member, you can also leverage credit card bonuses and optimize your travel schedule to get more rewards.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, an adventure with friends, or a business trip, the Companion Pass makes flying more accessible and enjoyable. So, don’t wait anymore, start planning today and unlock the full potential of your Companion Pass. Enjoy more travel opportunities with your dear ones. Happy journeys!
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the common queries are addressed below for your quick reference!
Companion Pass is a special perk offered by Southwest Airlines to members who have signed up for its Rapid Rewards program. If you are a member, you can earn this pass by meeting the specified criterion and book a flight for your loved ones without any cost.
As a Southwest Rapid Rewards member, you can earn a Companion Pass if you take 100 flights which are one-way and qualify, as per the airline’s policy. Another way to earn the pass is to collect 135,000 qualifying points within a calendar year.
You need to designate a companion on the official website of Southwest Airlines. Then you need to make your flight booking. Once this is done, you can purchase the flight for the designated companion.
You can book flights for up to three designated companions for unlimited times in a year. The airline has not defined any blackout dates.
Yes, you can use your Companion Pass to reserve a flight scheduled for an international destination.
You can check the inclusion of Companion Pass by logging into your account on the airline’s official website. Here you can track your progress towards earning this pass, if it’s still in the process.
