Southwest Companion Ticket: The Complete Guide to Free Flights
The Southwest Companion Pass is the most valuable loyalty program benefit in the domestic airline industry. It allows one designated companion to fly with you for free (plus taxes) on any Southwest flight — for up to two years.
What Is the Southwest Companion Pass?
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free (have companion) |
| Duration | Rest of year earned + full following year |
| Flights | Unlimited |
| Taxes | $5.60 per flight (domestic) |
| Companion | One designated person (can be changed 3x/year) |
How to Earn the Companion Pass
Method 1: Credit Cards (Fastest)
Earn 125,000 Rapid Rewards points in a calendar year through credit card welcome bonuses and spending:
| Card | Bonus Points | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority | 50,000 | $149 |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier | 60,000 | $99 |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business | 80,000 | $199 |
Strategy: Apply for 2 cards to accumulate 110,000–140,000 bonus points.
Method 2: Paid Flights
Fly 100 one-way qualifying flights in a calendar year. Unrealistic for most travelers.
Method 3: Combination
Earn through a mix of credit card bonuses, flights, and partner spending.
Companion Pass Value
| Usage Scenario | Flights/Year | Companion Pass Value |
|---|---|---|
| Weekend trips | 4 round trips | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Monthly travel | 12 round trips | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Frequent commuter | 24+ round trips | $6,000–$12,000+ |
Best Credit Card Strategy
| Step | Card | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority | 50,000 |
| 2 | Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business | 80,000 |
| Total | 130,000 |
Earn 5,000 more points through spending or partner programs to reach 125,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Southwest Companion Pass worth?
For a couple taking 4 round trips per year, the Companion Pass is worth $1,000–$2,000 annually.
Can I change my companion?
Yes, up to 3 times per year. You can also pay for additional changes.
Does the Companion Pass work for international flights?
Yes. The Companion Pass works on Southwest flights to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Can I earn the Companion Pass entirely through credit cards?
Yes. Credit card welcome bonuses and spending are the fastest path to earning the Companion Pass.