Delta Companion Certificate: How to Use It for Maximum Value

Key Takeaways:

The Delta Companion Certificate allows eligible cardholders to book a second domestic ticket for free or just for taxes and fees, making it a valuable travel perk.
It can only be used for flights within the contiguous U.S., with restrictions on fare classes and booking availability.
To maximize savings, book early, avoid peak travel times, and consider using the certificate on more expensive routes.

If you’re a Delta SkyMiles credit card holder, you’ve likely heard of the Delta Companion Certificate.

This valuable perk allows you to bring along a companion on a flight without paying for a second ticket.

However, as with all good things, there’s some fine print.

This article will break down everything you need to know about how to use your Delta Companion Certificate, including rules, restrictions, and strategies for getting the most out of it.

What is a Delta Companion Certificate?

The Delta Companion Certificate is a benefit offered to holders of certain Delta SkyMiles credit cards, such as the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.

It’s essentially a buy-one-get-one-free (or nearly free) ticket for eligible domestic flights within the contiguous United States.

The certificate can be used for round-trip flights in economy or first class, depending on the card you hold.

The idea is simple: you pay for your ticket, and your companion’s ticket is either free or costs just the taxes and fees (which are typically around $75).

Delta Companion Certificate Rules

Understanding the rules of the Delta Companion Certificate is crucial to ensuring that you can use it effectively. Here’s a breakdown:

Eligible Cards
Only specific Delta SkyMiles credit cards offer this benefit. The Delta Platinum Companion Certificate is available with the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, while a first-class or economy version comes with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.
Domestic Use Only
The certificate can only be used for flights within the 48 contiguous United States. That means flights to Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories are not eligible.
Eligible Fare Classes
The certificate can only be used on certain fare classes, typically those that are not the cheapest Basic Economy fares. This usually means Main Cabin or higher.
Annual Benefit
The certificate is issued annually on your card anniversary, and it must be used within one year from the date of issue
Booking Restrictions
Both tickets must be booked at the same time, on the same itinerary, and the trip must be completed before the certificate’s expiration date.
Non-Transferable
The certificate is non-transferable, meaning it can only be used by the cardholder and a companion. It cannot be gifted or sold to someone else.
Limited Availability
Seats for companion certificates are limited and may not be available on all flights, especially during peak travel times.

How Does the Delta Companion Certificate Work?

The process for using your Delta Companion Certificate is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Here’s how it works:

Log In
First, log in to your Delta account on Delta.com. The certificate should automatically be linked to your SkyMiles account.
Search for Flights
When searching for flights, make sure you’re logged in to your account. The option to use your companion certificate will appear at checkout if your flight is eligible.
Apply the Certificate
Once you’ve selected your flights, you’ll have the option to apply your companion certificate. You’ll see the fare for the first passenger and the taxes and fees for the companion.
Pay and Confirm
After applying the certificate, pay for the tickets. You’ll only be charged for your ticket and the taxes and fees for your companion.
Prepare to Travel
Your tickets will be confirmed, and you’re ready to go! Just make sure both passengers show up for the flight.

Best Credit Cards For Delta

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
Annual Fee: annual_fees
Companion Certificate: Economy Class certificate for Main Cabin fare within the contiguous U.S.
Main Perks: Earn 3x miles on Delta purchases, 3x miles on hotels, 2x miles at restaurants
Earning Potential: 3x miles on Delta, 2x miles on restaurants, U.S. supermarkets & hotels
Additional Benefits: Free first checked bag, Main Cabin 1 priority boarding, $100 Delta flight credit after $10,000 spend, no foreign transaction fees, upgrade priority
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Annual Fee: annual_fees
Companion Certificate: Economy Class certificate for Main Cabin fare within the contiguous U.S.
Main Perks: Earn 3x miles on Delta purchases, 3x miles on hotels, 2x miles at restaurants
Earning Potential: 3x miles on Delta, 2x miles on restaurants, U.S. supermarkets & hotels
Additional Benefits: Free first checked bag, Main Cabin 1 priority boarding, $100 Delta flight credit after $10,000 spend, no foreign transaction fees, upgrade priority
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Annual Fee: annual_fees
Companion Certificate: Economy Class certificate for Main Cabin fare within the contiguous U.S.
Main Perks: Earn 3x miles on Delta purchases, 3x miles on hotels, 2x miles at restaurants
Earning Potential: 3x miles on Delta, 2x miles on restaurants, U.S. supermarkets & hotels
Additional Benefits: Free first checked bag, Main Cabin 1 priority boarding, $100 Delta flight credit after $10,000 spend, no foreign transaction fees, upgrade priority
Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card
Annual Fee: annual_fees
Companion Certificate: Not available with this card. For those seeking a companion certificate, consider the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum or Reserve Business Cards.
Main Perks: bonus_miles_full
Earning Potential: 2x Miles: Earn 2 miles per dollar on Delta purchases, U.S. shipping, U.S. advertising in select media, and dining at restaurants; 1x Mile: Earn 1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
Additional Benefits: No Foreign Transaction Fees: Travel internationally without worrying about additional fees.
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
Annual Fee: annual_fees
Companion Certificate: Economy Class certificate for Main Cabin fare within the contiguous U.S.
Main Perks: Earn 3x miles on Delta purchases, 3x miles on hotels, 2x miles at restaurants
Earning Potential: 3x miles on Delta, 2x miles on restaurants, U.S. supermarkets & hotels
Additional Benefits: Free first checked bag, Main Cabin 1 priority boarding, $100 Delta flight credit after $10,000 spend, no foreign transaction fees, upgrade priority

This table provides a snapshot of each card’s features, focusing on the Delta Companion Certificate, earning potential, and other valuable perks.

How to Use the Delta Companion Certificate

Using your Delta Companion Certificate strategically can save you a significant amount of money. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of it:

Book Early
Since availability is limited, booking as early as possible is essential. Popular routes and times tend to fill up fast.
Avoid Peak Travel Times
Try to avoid using your certificate during peak travel times like holidays and summer vacation.
Not only will it be harder to find eligible flights, but the savings will also be less significant.
Consider Upgrading
If you hold the Delta Reserve card, you can use your certificate for first-class tickets.
This can be a fantastic deal, as first-class tickets often cost several hundred dollars more than economy.
Use It for Expensive Routes
The more expensive the route, the more value you’ll get from your companion certificate.
For instance, using the certificate on a flight that would typically cost $500 can save you more than using it on a flight that costs $100.
Don’t Forget About It
It’s easy to forget about the certificate if you don’t fly frequently.
Set a reminder a few months before it expires to ensure you don’t lose out on this valuable benefit.

Delta Companion Certificate Hawaii: Why It Doesn’t Work

One common question is whether you can use the Delta Companion Certificate for flights to Hawaii. Unfortunately, the answer is no. The certificate is only valid for flights within the 48 contiguous United States, so Hawaii, Alaska, and international destinations are excluded.

If you’re looking to save on flights to Hawaii, consider using your SkyMiles or looking for sales instead. It’s disappointing, but those palm trees will have to wait!

How to Redeem Delta Companion Certificate

Redeeming your Delta Companion Certificate is a simple process. Here’s a quick recap:

Log in to your Delta account.
Search for flights within the contiguous U.S.
Apply the certificate at checkout.
Pay the fare for one passenger and the taxes for the second.
Enjoy your trip!

Can You Transfer a Delta Companion Certificate?

The Delta Companion Certificate is non-transferable. It can only be used by the cardholder and a companion on the same booking.

If you’re not planning to use your certificate, you’re out of luck. However, if you have a trusted friend or family member, you could always book a flight for yourself and bring them along!

Humorous Tip: A Companion in Crime

Imagine trying to use your companion certificate for a quick getaway, only to realize the destination isn’t covered. “So, about that surprise trip to Hawaii I promised…” It’s always good to double-check the details, or you might find yourself on a last-minute road trip instead!

Bottom Line

The Delta Companion Certificate is a fantastic perk if used wisely. It’s perfect for a domestic getaway, offering significant savings and a great way to explore new places with a friend or loved one.

Just remember to book early, avoid peak times, and keep an eye on the fine print.

And while the allure of a free trip to Hawaii might be strong, just remember that Delta has its limits—literally.

But even within those limits, the Delta Companion Certificate can offer incredible value, helping you make the most of your travel budget.

So next time you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to bring along