Southwest Airline Rapid Rewards

Key Takeaways:

Southwest Rapid Rewards offers a user-friendly and flexible loyalty program, the absence of blackout dates makes it a standout choice
Access elite status tiers offering privileges such as priority boarding and highly sought-after Companion Pass allows a designated companion to fly almost free
Members can earn with co-branded credit cards, hotel stays, rental cars, and partnerships with various retailers gives opportunity to maximize points

Southwest Airlines, a vital part of the aviation industry, extends its commitment to passenger satisfaction through the Southwest Rapid Rewards program.

Joining is free and essential, enabling you to earn points with every Southwest flight for future travel. Notably, Southwest points boast no expiry, allowing occasional flyers to accumulate valuable rewards over time.

As the largest low-cost carrier in the U.S., Southwest covers about 100 destinations, including Hawaii, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

With straightforward point accumulation and redemption, coupled with customer-friendly policies like two free checked bags, no change fees, and the coveted Companion Pass, Southwest Rapid Rewards shines as a favored program, particularly for families.

Furthermore, Southwest has a strategic partnership with Chase, allowing travelers to amass rewards through Chase travel credit cards and subsequently transfer them to Southwest Rapid Rewards.

What is Southwest Rapid Rewards?

Southwest Rapid Rewards stands as a testament to Southwest Airlines’ dedication to customer loyalty. It is designed to reward frequent flyers, allowing members to earn points through various avenues with no blackout dates.

These points translate into many benefits ranging from free flights to exclusive perks.

As a Southwest Rapid Rewards member, you’re not just a passenger but part of a community that values and acknowledges your commitment to Southwest Airlines.

The program is structured to enrich the travel experience, offering a seamless integration of rewards into the overall journey.

The number of points you accrue during your flight hinges on factors such as your elite status level and the chosen fare type.

Explore the various Southwest elite status tiers below and the pathways to attaining them in the upcoming sections.

A standout feature is the renowned Southwest Companion Pass, a highly sought-after benefit in Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program.

It allows a designated companion to fly with the pass holder for almost free on Southwest Airlines flights, excluding taxes and fees.

How does the Southwest Rapid Rewards program work?

At its core, the Southwest Rapid Rewards program operates on a point-based system, allowing members to earn and redeem points for various travel-related benefits.

Points can be earned through Southwest flights, partner transactions, co-branded credit card usage, and more.

The program comprises two primary membership tiers, each unlocking a cascade of benefits.

The more you engage with Southwest Airlines and its partners, the higher you ascend in the Rapid Rewards hierarchy.

From bonus points to priority boarding and companion passes, the tiered structure incentivizes loyalty, ensuring that your dedication to Southwest is reciprocated with tangible advantages.

As you earn points, the redemption options are diverse and enticing.

The program caters to traveler and non-traveler needs, from booking flights to covering baggage fees and redeeming gift cards and experiences.

Members can flexibly tailor their redemptions to align with their preferences and travel patterns.

Southwest Rapid Rewards partners

Southwest Rapid Rewards extends its perks beyond the skies through an array of partners.

The Airlines operate independently without being a member of an airline alliance.

Nevertheless, the program collaborates with various entities to provide members with diversified earning and redemption opportunities – from hotels to rental cars.

Hotel partners

You can unlock exclusive stays with Southwest’s hotel partners, earning points with every booking. This lets you enjoy a seamless integration of travel and accommodation benefits.

Hotel Partners	Transfer Ratio (Hotel Points : Rapid Rewards Points
1. Best Western	5: 1,2
2. Choice Hotels	6 : 1,8
Marriott Bonvoy	3 : 1
4. World of Hyatt	5 : 2,4
5. MGM Rewards	600 Rapid Rewards points for every qualifying stay
6. Southwest Hotels	Up to 10,000 points at Rapid Rewards Plus Properties
7. Rocketmiles	10,000 Rapid Rewards points per night with every booking

Rental car partners

Hit the road with Southwest’s rental car partners, accumulating points on every journey. Whether for business or leisure, your rental car becomes a gateway to Rapid Rewards.

Rental Car Partners	Rapid Rewards Points Earned
1. Alamo	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental
2. Budget	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental
3. Avis	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental
4. Dollar	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental
5. Hertz	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental
6. National	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental
7. Payless	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental
8. Thrifty	600 Rapid Rewards points per rental

Other partners

Beyond hotels and cars, Southwest’s ecosystem of partners spans various industries, allowing members to earn points through everyday activities.

From dining to shopping, explore the following ways to enhance your Rapid Rewards balance.

Other Partners	Rapid Rewards Points Earned/Perks
1. 1-800-Flowers.com	1,000 points for each order of $29.99 or more
2. Emergency Assistance Plus	1,400 bonus points for the first year of membership and every renewal
3. Harry & David	1,000 points for each order of $29.99 or more
4. Rewards for Opinions	500 bonus points when you complete your first survey within the first three months
5. Home Chef	1,200 bonus points on each of your first five boxes and get 10% off your first Home Chef order
6. Laithwaite’s Wine	2,000 bonus points with your first wine club case and 1,000 points on each future club case
7. NRG Home	10,000 points after two months as an active NRG Home customer
8. Reliant	15,000 enrollment bonus points after signup and 500 additional points each month for the next 24 months

How to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points?

You can maximize your Southwest Rapid Rewards balance through diverse avenues. Southwest is also a transfer partner of the Chase Ultimate Rewards program.

From flying to utilizing co-branded credit cards and engaging with shopping and dining programs, explore the myriad ways to accumulate points and unlock exclusive benefits within the Rapid Rewards program.

By Flying
One can simply earn points by flying with Southwest. You accumulate points based on the fare and enjoy bonus points with elite status, putting you on a fast track to exciting rewards and perks.

Elite status levels provide bonuses: Basic Member (no bonus), A-List (25% bonus), and A-List Preferred (100% bonus). Southwest offers four fare classes, each earning points at different rates:
- Wanna Get Away: Earns 6 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent, with basic features and refundable flight credits for cancellations.
- Wanna Get Away Plus: Earns 8 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent, featuring transferable flight credits, same-day standby, and confirmed flight change benefits.
- Anytime: Earns 10 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent, offering more flexibility, cancellations refunded to the original payment method, and additional perks like priority access.
- Business Select: Earns 12 Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent, the highest fare with premium benefits like priority boarding, express security lanes, and complimentary inflight internet.
With Co-branded Credit Card
Enhance your point-earning potential with Southwest credit cards, such as Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card, Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card, and Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card.

Enjoy accelerated points on Southwest purchases, exclusive sign-up bonuses, and tier-qualifying points, bringing you close to coveted benefits like the Companion Pass.

Southwest collaborates with Chase to provide five co-branded credit cards, including three for consumers and two for businesses.

So, if you accumulate Chase Ultimate Rewards through a card_name, you can convert these points into Rapid Rewards seamlessly at a one-to-one rate.

It’s important to note that a minimum transfer of 1,000 points is required for the conversion.
Through Transfer Partners
Southwest presents an array of non-airline partnerships, offering diverse opportunities to earn points beyond flying.

Leverage alliances with hotels and other loyalty programs, earning Southwest Rapid Rewards points seamlessly.
- Hotels: Accumulate Rapid Rewards points at select hotel chains, including Best Westerns, World of Hyatt, and Marriott Bonvoy, typically earning 1 point per $1 spent, with potential variations based on your accommodation.
- Car Rentals: Enjoy varying earning rates at car rental companies like Hertz and Avis; for instance, Alamo currently offers 600 Rapid Rewards points for a rental.
- Shopping and Dining: Engage with over 800 retailers through the Southwest Rapid Rewards Shopping portal, earning points on your purchases.
Additionally, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Dining program allows you to earn up to 3 points per $1 spent at participating restaurants, with bonus points for submitting reviews.

Gas at Marathon Stations: Rapid Rewards members earn 1 point for every gallon of Marathon fuel purchased, with additional points for select in-store purchases and achievements through the MakeItCount program.

Sign up in advance, designating Rapid Rewards as your earning partner.
Southwest’s Shopping Portal
Boost your Southwest points balance by earning additional miles through the Rapid Rewards shopping portal.

What’s even more enticing is that the Rapid Rewards garnered from this portal count toward the coveted Companion Pass.

Getting started is a breeze! Simply log in with your Rapid Rewards credentials, explore your desired merchants, and click on the Shop Now button.

You’ll seamlessly be directed to the chosen retailer’s site, allowing you to shop while racking up valuable points.
Southwest’s Dining Program
Savor delightful meals and accumulate points simultaneously through Southwest’s Dining Program.

Just sign up and explore the list of eligible restaurants in your area. To streamline the process, link a credit card to your dining account.

When dining at a participating restaurant, ensure you use the connected card to enjoy the dining rewards bonus – and it doesn’t necessarily have to be a Southwest credit card; most credit cards will do the trick.

How to use Southwest Rapid Rewards points?

Unlock the full potential of your Southwest Rapid Rewards points with a range of redemption options. Dive into the versatility of Rapid Rewards for a journey filled with value and perks.

Rapid Rewards members have the flexibility to redeem points seamlessly for Southwest flights, baggage fees, exciting experiences, and more.

For Flying on Southwest Flights
You can redeem your points for flights on Southwest Airlines, enjoying flexibility in booking and no blackout dates.

Southwest Airlines provides a diverse network of over a hundred destinations, including domestic and a few international locations.

Utilize your Rapid Rewards points most effectively by applying them to Southwest Wanna Get Away flights – the most economical fare class offered by the airline.

You can also book international flights to various destinations in Central America and the Caribbean.

Not relying on an award chart, Southwest determines redemption rates based on the cash price of tickets, allowing flexibility in using Rapid Rewards points.

Southwest often offers competitive rates compared to other loyalty programs.
Baggage Fees or Change Fees
Baggage fees and change fees can often add unnecessary expenses to air travel, but Southwest Airlines stands out as an exception to these common practices.

When flying with Southwest, you benefit from the convenience of having your first two checked bags at no additional cost, a notable departure from the standard fees imposed by most other airlines.

Moreover, Southwest offers remarkable flexibility in its change policy, allowing passengers to modify their flights free of charge up to a mere 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

This lenient approach provides travelers with a level of convenience and cost savings that sets Southwest apart in the airline industry.
Gift Cards or Merchandise
In addition to booking flights, you have the option to exchange your Southwest points for gift cards from popular retailers such as Apple, Target, Best Buy, or Lowe’s.

Alternatively, you can choose to redeem your rewards for a variety of merchandise offered through Southwest.

This flexibility allows you to use your points in a way that best suits your preferences and needs, providing a range of options beyond just travel-related benefits.
Experiences and Events
You can also use them to book various experiences, such as spa packages and outdoor adventure tours.

Southwest credit card members enjoy additional perks, including the ability to use points for exclusive events through Rapid Rewards Access Events.

This opens up a world of possibilities beyond traditional travel, allowing you to indulge in unique and memorable experiences using your accumulated points.

Pros and Cons of Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest’s frequent flyer program, Rapid Rewards, has gained widespread popularity for its user-friendly features.

With every seat offered as a reward seat and Southwest’s policy of no change or cancellation fees, the program’s simplicity has garnered the loyalty of frequent flyers.

While Southwest Rapid Rewards offers a treasure trove of benefits, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons for an informed loyalty journey.

Pros

Companion Pass: Members can achieve unparalleled travel savings with the coveted Southwest Companion Pass.
Flexible Redemption: Enjoy the valuable flexibility to redeem points for flights, upgrades, and more.
Tiered Membership: You can unlock progressively enticing benefits and bonuses through membership tiers.
No Blackout Dates: Easily navigate your travel calendar without the constraints of blackout dates.

Cons

Limited Global Reach: Southwest's route network primarily focuses on domestic travel.
Less Luxury Perks: Compared to premium carriers, luxury perks might be relatively limited.

Best Credit cards that earn Rapid Rewards points

You can effortlessly boost your Rapid Rewards journey with credit cards strategically designed for Southwest enthusiasts. These co-branded Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards offer accelerated points accumulation and exclusive perks.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is a top choice for frequent Southwest travelers.

With benefits like no foreign transaction fees, an annual $75 Southwest travel credit, and 7,500-anniversary points, it offers excellent value.

Cardholders earn 3x on Southwest purchases and 2X points on hotels & rental cars and local transit, making it easy to accumulate Rapid Rewards points for future flights.

The card also provides four upgraded boardings per year, allowing for a more comfortable travel experience.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is a fantastic option for earning Southwest Rapid Rewards points.

Offering 3X points on Southwest purchases and a generous anniversary bonus of 6,000 points, it caters to avid Southwest flyers.

With benefits like no foreign transaction fees, 2X points on the internet, cable & phone services, select streaming, and tier qualifying points towards A-List status, it enhances the overall travel experience.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
Business travelers who frequent Southwest Airlines will appreciate the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card.

It offers a 6,000 points anniversary bonus with just a annual_fees annual fee.

With features like 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X points on hotels, rental cars, and local transit, and a valuable welcome bonus, it provides excellent value to cardholders..
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card is the ideal choice for business owners seeking premium benefits.

With 4X points on Southwest purchases, 9,000-anniversary bonus points, and unique perks like in-flight Wi-Fi credits, it delivers exceptional value.

It is tailored for business owners, offering 3X points on hotels & rental cars, 2X points on social media, search engine advertising, internet, cable & phone services, and local transit.

The card also offers valuable tier qualifying points, bringing cardholders closer to A-List status and its associated benefits.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
For those looking for a straightforward way to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is an excellent option.

It comes with 2X points on Southwest purchases, local transit, hotels & rental cars, select streaming, internet & cable, and more.

With a generous welcome bonus of bonus_miles_full And 3,000-anniversary bonus points, it’s a practical choice for occasional Southwest travelers.

The card’s affordability, with just a $69 annual fee and travel benefits, makes it an attractive option.
card_name
While not a Southwest-specific card, the card_name is a versatile travel card that complements Southwest Rapid Rewards.

With 5X points on travel, 3X on dining and groceries, and flexible redemption options, it offers excellent value for travel enthusiasts.

Cardholders can also get a welcome bonus of Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, with a $95 annual fee. Points earned can be transferred to Southwest Rapid Rewards, providing flexibility in travel choices.
card_name
The card_name is a no-annual-fee option that can contribute to earning Southwest Rapid Rewards points.

With unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, it’s a straightforward and flexible rewarding card.

While not specifically designed for Southwest, its cash back can be converted to Ultimate Rewards points, transferable to Southwest Rapid Rewards for travel benefits.

Cardholders also earn 5% cash back on travel and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Elite Status Tiers and Benefits

Southwest Airlines offers elite status through its Rapid Rewards program, providing exclusive benefits to frequent flyers.

With two distinct tiers, A-List and A-List Preferred, travelers can enjoy enhanced perks and privileges. Let’s delve into the qualifications and advantages of each tier.

Accumulating tier-qualifying points is attainable through flying Southwest on eligible paid flights or leveraging credit card spend, notably with most of Southwest’s co-branded credit cards.

Elevate your Southwest journey with elite status perks that redefine the art of travel.

Elite Status Tiers	Eligibility	Bonus	Benefits
A-List	By flying 25 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier-qualifying points in a calendar year.	25%	– Priority Boarding – Priority Check-In – Same-day Standby Privileges – A dedicated phone line
A-List Preferred	By completing 50 qualifying one-way flights or earning 70,000 tier-qualifying points in a calendar year.	100%	– All A-List benefits – Free in-flight Wi-Fi – Priority Standby

How to earn A-List on Southwest?

Achieving the prestigious A-List or A-List Preferred status with Southwest Rapid Rewards requires a specific number of ‘qualifying one-way flights’ or the accrual of ‘tier qualifying points’ within a calendar year.

Upon attainment, the elite status remains valid throughout the subsequent calendar year.

To reach A-List status, get 25 qualifying one-way flights or collect 35,000 tier qualifying points.

A-List Preferred, with doubled requirements, demands 50 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 tier qualifying points.

Notably, a qualifying one-way flight spans the entire journey from origin to destination, encompassing any connections.

Tier qualifying points can be earned through purchasing Southwest flight tickets or using Southwest credit cards, such as the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card, where $10,000 spent yields 1,500 tier qualifying points.

What are Southwest A-List benefits?

Southwest members can unlock a realm of travel privileges with Southwest A-List status, offering an array of perks designed for seamless and enjoyable journeys.

Priority Boarding
You can skip the long lines and enjoy priority boarding, ensuring an earlier position for a seamless and relaxed boarding experience.
Dedicated Customer Service Line
Get access to a specialized customer service line, ensuring swift and personalized assistance for any inquiries and support needed during the travel journey for A-List members.
Priority Lane and Express Lane
A-List Members enjoy a dedicated lane at both Southwest check-in counters and airport security checkpoints, providing an efficient experience from check-in to boarding.
Same-Day Change/Standby
They also have the privilege of a same-day confirmed change with no difference in base fare if a seat is available on the same calendar day.

Standby options are also available, allowing for flexibility in travel plans.

How much is A-List status worth?

A-List status on Southwest comes loaded with valuable benefits, making it a worthwhile investment for avid travelers!

The priority boarding, accelerated point earnings, and dedicated customer service contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.

The perks associated with Southwest A-List status are estimated to be valued at $123, while those linked to A-List Preferred status are estimated at a substantial $984.

While the tangible value may vary depending on your travel habits, the time saved, enhanced comfort, and flexibility render A-List status invaluable for those who often use Southwest flights.

It’s not just a status; it’s an elevated journey.

How to earn the Southwest Companion Pass?

The Southwest Companion Pass is a coveted and valuable benefit within the Rapid Rewards program.

To attain the Companion Pass, you must either complete 100 qualifying one-way flights or earn 135,000 qualifying points within a calendar year.

Qualifying points encompass those earned through purchasing Southwest tickets, utilizing Southwest credit cards, and accruing points from specific Rapid Rewards partners.

It’s advisable to aim for qualification early in the year to maximize the pass’s utility.

This pass offers the remarkable advantage of allowing a companion to fly with you at minimal cost (with both passengers only responsible for taxes and security fees, starting from $5.60 one way) from the moment you attain it until the end of the following calendar year.

The value of this substantial perk makes the Companion Pass one of the most sought-after rewards in the travel realm, emphasizing the value of loyalty and dedication to Southwest Airlines.

Notably, certain exclusions apply when earning Rapid Rewards. Points transferred from partners like Chase Ultimate Rewards and purchased Rapid Rewards points do not contribute to Companion Pass qualification.

For real-time progress tracking, log in to Southwest and navigate to “My Account.”

How do Southwest Rapid Rewards points compare to other programs?

Southwest Rapid Rewards points stand out in the competitive landscape of loyalty programs. Unlike many counterparts, Southwest employs a revenue-based system, tying points to the cost of the ticket rather than distance or class.

It offers greater flexibility and transparency, making it easier to understand and utilize rewards.

While other programs may boast extensive partnerships, Southwest’s straightforward approach and multiple transfer partners appeal to those seeking simplicity and tangible value.

Most importantly, Rapid Rewards Points come with no blackout dates, unlike other programs with a date of expiry.

Southwest also attracts with its minimal fees, particularly because they don’t charge for checked bags.

Although it lags in elite status benefits and lacks a first-class option, Southwest shines by ranking first in total fees, third in in-flight experience, and second as one of the most pet-friendly airlines.

Program	Earning Style	Reward Value
Southwest Rapid Rewards	Revenue-based, straightforward	1.5 cents
Delta SkyMiles	Distance and class-based	1.3 cents
American AAdvantage	Miles per flight distance	1 cent
United MileagePlus	Miles per flight distance	1.2 cent

Do Southwest points expire?

Southwest Rapid Rewards points do not expire and remain evergreen, a boon for infrequent Southwest flyers.

However, it’s crucial to note that closing your Southwest account leads to losing all the points.

This leniency provides ample time and flexibility for travelers to make the most of their accrued points without the pressure of expiration.

Ensure your account stays active to retain your valuable points.

Notably, not only do Southwest points stand the test of time, but Travel Funds, earned by canceling flights with Wanna Get Away or Wanna Get Away Plus fares, also boast an indefinite shelf life, adding to the program’s flexibility and member benefits.

Why Maximize your Southwest Rapid Rewards with Uthrive?

You can maximize your Southwest Rapid Rewards effortlessly with Uthrive!

This innovative app acts as your personalized credit card manager, recommending the best card for each purchase, whether it’s groceries, dining, or travel. The app helps you track your rewards easily with its user-friendly interface.

No more setting reminders or shortcuts—just input your credit cards, and Uthrive ensures you get the most savings and cash back without extra effort.

On average, you can unlock an additional $200-800 in savings or cashback.

FAQs

How do you get free Southwest points?

You can earn free Southwest points through various methods, including flying with Southwest, using co-branded credit cards, participating in partner promotions, and utilizing the Rapid Rewards shopping portal.

How many points are needed for a free flight on Southwest?

The number of points needed for a free flight on Southwest varies based on factors like destination, time, and fare class.

Southwest employs a dynamic pricing model, with points relating to the cash price of the ticket.

Can I use Southwest points for hotels?

While Southwest doesn’t have its own hotel program, you can indirectly use Rapid Rewards points for hotels by transferring them to certain hotel loyalty programs partnered with Southwest, like Marriott Bonvoy, Best Western, and World of Hyatt.

How much is 15,000 Southwest points worth?

The value of 15,000 Southwest points depends on factors like the flight’s cash price and availability.

Generally, it can be worth around $200 or more when redeemed for flights.

Is it worth it to buy points on Southwest?

Buying points on Southwest can be worth it if it helps you reach a specific reward or Companion Pass faster.

Evaluate the cost versus the value of the redemption to ensure it aligns with your travel plans.

It’s beneficial for topping up points but may not always be the most cost-effective strategy if not buying on sale or discount.

How do I find my Southwest Rapid Rewards number?

To find your Southwest Rapid Rewards number, log in to your Southwest account on the airline’s website or app.

You will find your Rapid Rewards number in your account details.

Can you share Southwest Rapid Rewards points with friends and family?

Yes, Southwest allows you to share Rapid Rewards points with friends and family through the Points Sharing feature.

You can transfer points to others or receive points from them to reach rewards faster.

How does the Southwest Rapid Rewards program work?

The Southwest Rapid Rewards program operates on a point-based system, allowing members to earn and redeem points for various travel-related benefits.

Points can be earned through Southwest flights, partner transactions, co-branded credit card usage, and more.

Do Southwest Rapid Rewards points expire?

Southwest Rapid Rewards points do not expire and remain evergreen, a boon for infrequent Southwest flyers.

However, it’s crucial to note that closing your Southwest account leads to losing all the points.

Is Southwest Rapid Rewards worth it?

Southwest Rapid Rewards is worth it for frequent flyers seeking flexibility, no change fees, and a straightforward rewards program.

The absence of blackout dates and generous policies enhance its overall value.