The Southwest Rapid Rewards program is popular for travellers seeking flexible rewards and cost-effective travel options. This program offers impressive value if you’re a frequent and savvy flyer or someone looking to make the most of occasional trips. This Southwest Rapid Rewards Review highlights what makes this loyalty program a standout choice for travellers seeking flexibility and value.

Members redeem over 14 million reward flights annually, with 85% praising the no-blackout-date policy.

Let’s find out how to turn your travel rewards into smarter savings.

 

What is Southwest Rapid Rewards?

Southwest Rapid Rewards is Southwest Airlines’ loyalty program that rewards travellers with points for every dollar spent on flights and other activities. Points can be redeemed for Southwest Rapid Rewards points for a free flight, gift cards, luxurious stays, and more, offering significant value for casual and frequent travellers. Unlike many other loyalty programs, it has no blackout dates.

It makes it easy to book flights using points whenever seats are available. The program also offers various earning opportunities beyond flights, including through partner hotels, car rentals, and dining programs, giving members multiple ways to rack up points quickly.

One of the most popular perks of the program is the Companion Pass. They allow a designated companion to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees) on any Southwest flight.

This benefit is attainable by earning 135,000 qualifying credit card points or flying 100 one-way flights in a calendar year. It’s a game-changer for frequent travellers.

Sign up for Southwest Rapid Rewards and enjoy the freedom of flexible rewards!

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How Does Southwest Rapid Rewards Work?

Southwest Rapid Rewards allows members to earn points based on the fare type and ticket cost. For instance, Wanna Get Away fares earn 6 points per $1 spent, Anytime fares earn 10 points per $1 spent, and Business Select fares earn 12 points per $1 spent. The more you travel, the faster you can accumulate points toward free flights and other rewards.

Members can also use Southwest credit cards, which offer sign-up bonuses of up to 50,000 points after meeting spending requirements. These cards also provide additional perks like earning points on everyday purchases, making it easier to maximize your rewards. You can quickly redeem points for Southwest flights with no blackout dates, offering a simple and flexible process.

The required points for a flight directly align with the cash price, providing transparency and ease of use.

 

Benefits of Choosing Southwest Rapid Rewards

Choosing Southwest Rapid Rewards offers exceptional value for travellers who prioritize flexibility, affordability, and convenience. The program ensures a seamless and rewarding travel experience. From no blackout dates to exclusive benefits like the Companion Pass, it adapts to the needs of both frequent and occasional flyers.

See several benefits –

 

• No Blackout Dates – Redeem your points for any available seat, providing unmatched flexibility.
• Companion Pass – Earn this coveted perk by flying 100 one-way flights or earning 135,000 qualifying points annually. It allows a companion to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees).
• Rapid Rewards Credit Cards – Chase offers co-branded cards with benefits like travel credit cards, bonus points, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Flexible Redemption Options – Use points not only for flights but also for gift cards, hotel stays, car rentals, and more.
• Family-Friendly Perks – Two free checked bags per passenger and no change fees make it ideal for family travel.

 

 

Features of Southwest Rapid Rewards

They combine ease of use with traveller-centric benefits to create a loyalty program that stands out. If you earn points on flights, use the Cash + Points feature, or enjoy tiered membership perks, the program enhances your travel journey while saving you money.

Look at the some features –

 

• First-Year Value – The first year of membership can bring substantial value if you sign up for a Rapid Rewards credit card, thanks to sign-up bonuses and Companion Pass opportunities.
• Ongoing Value – After the first year, the value continues with point earnings, exclusive perks, and the Companion Pass for frequent flyers.
• Cash + Points Feature – Combine cash and as few as 1,000 points to book flights, adding more flexibility to your travel planning.
• Free Baggage Allowance – Enjoy two free checked bags for every traveller in your booking, saving you money on every trip.
• No Change Fees – Modify or cancel your flight plans without incurring penalties, offering peace of mind.

 

 

How Much Does Southwest Rapid Rewards Cost?

Enrolling is free; you can earn points on flights and partner activities without membership fees. However, to enhance earning potential and access additional perks, Southwest offers co-branded premium credit cards through Chase with annual fees ranging from $69 to $149.

These cards provide benefits such as anniversary bonus points, travel credits, and upgraded boarding options, which can offset the annual fees for frequent travellers. Therefore, while a basic Rapid Rewards membership is free, a credit card involves a yearly fee and offers substantial added value.

Make every flight rewarding. CLICK HERE to join Southwest Rapid Rewards and start earning points!

 

Tiered Membership Levels

Southwest Rapid Rewards offers two elite status tiers, A-List and A-List Preferred, to reward loyal travellers with exclusive benefits. These tiers provide added flexibility, save time, and enhance comfort during your journey. These membership levels offer priority boarding and bonus points for a seamless trip.

See the benefits of each tier –

 

A-List Status

To achieve A-List status, you must complete 20 qualifying one-way flights or earn 35,000 tier qualifying points (TQPs) within a calendar year.

Benefits include –

• Priority Boarding – Receive an earlier boarding position for you and everyone on your reservation, allowing better seat selection.
• Fly By® Priority Check-In and Security Lane Access – Access expedited check-in and security lanes at select airports, reducing wait times.
• 25% Earning Bonus – Earn a 25% bonus on Rapid Rewards points for each qualifying flight, accelerating your points accumulation.
• Dedicated A-List Member Phone Line – Enjoy access to a dedicated customer service line for quicker assistance.
• Free Same-Day Standby – Take advantage of free same-day standby on earlier flights between the same cities.

 

A-List Preferred Status

A-List Preferred is the higher tier, requiring 40 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 TQPs in a calendar year.

In addition to all A-List benefits, A-List Preferred members enjoy –

• 100% Earning Bonus – Double the Rapid Rewards points on each qualifying flight, significantly boosting your points balance.
• Free Inflight WiFi – Stay connected during your flights with complimentary WiFi access.
• Dedicated A-List Preferred Member Phone Line -Access an exclusive customer service line for expedited support.

 

Earning Tier Qualifying Points

They allow travellers to reach new perks, such as priority boarding, bonus points, and free inflight WiFi, making your flying experience more comfortable and rewarding.

You can accumulate TQPs through –

• Revenue Flights – Earn points based on the fare type and ticket cost.
• Rapid Rewards Credit Card Spending – Eligible Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards earn 1,500 TQPs for every $5,000 spent on purchases, with no limit on the number of TQPs you can earn this way.

 

💁‍♀️ Also read – How Much Are Chase Ink Points Worth? A Complete Value

 

Credit Card Options

Southwest Airlines offers a range of Rapid Rewards credit cards through Chase, each tailored to travel preferences and financial goals. These cards provide opportunities to earn points faster, enjoy exclusive perks, and maximize your travel rewards. If you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, there’s a card designed to suit your needs.

Here’s an overview of the available options –

 

1. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

 

 

 

 

Apply Now on Chase’s Official Website

This entry-level card is perfect for casual travellers who want to earn rewards without a high annual fee. It offers bonus points for Southwest purchases, travel perks, and a minor anniversary points boost. Its affordable yearly Fee is a great way to start earning rewards.

 

Annual Fee – $69

Earning Rates –

• 2 points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming.

 

Features –

• Earn 3,000-anniversary points every year as a cardholder.
• Two EarlyBird Check-Ins® per year.
• 25% back on inflight purchases.
• Boost of 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points every year.

 

Foreign Transaction Fees – Yes

 

2. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card

 

 

 

 

Apply Now on Chase’s Official Website

A step up from the Plus card, the Premier card includes higher bonus point earnings and no foreign transaction fees. It’s ideal for travellers who often go abroad or spend frequently on travel. The anniversary points and EarlyBird Check-In perks add significant value.

 

Annual Fee – $99

Earning Rates –

• 3 points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• 2 points per $1 spent on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming.
• 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases.

 

Features –

• Earn 6,000-anniversary points every year as a cardholder.
• Two EarlyBird Check-Ins® per year.
• 25% back on inflight purchases.
• There are no foreign transaction fees.

 

3. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

 

 

 

 

Apply Now on Chase’s Official Website

The Priority card is Southwest’s premium personal card, offering the best travel perks, including an annual travel credit, upgraded boardings, and a generous anniversary points boost. It caters to frequent travellers seeking maximum rewards and benefits.

 

Annual Fee – $149

Earning Rates –

• 3 points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming.
• 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.

 

Features –

• Earn 7,500-anniversary points every year as a cardholder.
• $75 Southwest annual travel credit.
• Four Upgraded Boardings per year, when available.
• 25% back on inflight purchases.
• 1,500 Tier Qualifying Points toward A-List status for every $5,000 spent.
• There are no foreign transaction fees.

 

4. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card

 

 

 

 

Apply Now on Chase’s Official Website

This card caters to business owners who frequently travel with Southwest. They offer great earning rates and perks like no foreign fees. Cardholders also earn anniversary points annually and enjoy two EarlyBird Check-Ins® annually, adding convenience and value to their travel.

 

Annual Fee – $99

Earning Rates –

• 3 points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming.

 

Features –

• Earn 6,000-anniversary points every year as a cardholder.
• Two EarlyBird Check-Ins® per year.
• 25% back on inflight purchases.
• There are no foreign transaction fees.

 

5. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

 

 

 

 

Apply Now on Chase’s Official Website

The Performance Business card offers business travellers the highest earning potential and premium benefits. Features include TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credits, inflight WiFi credits, and upgraded boardings. It’s the ultimate choice for businesses looking to maximize travel rewards and benefits.

 

Annual Fee – $199

Earning Rates –

• 4 points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases.
• 3 points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases.
• 2 points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• 2 points per $1 spent on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming.
• 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

 

Features –

• Earn 9,000-anniversary points every year as a cardholder.
• Four Upgraded Boardings per year, when available.
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® fee credit.
• In-flight WiFi credits.
• 25% back on inflight purchases.
• 1,500 Tier Qualifying Points toward A-List status for every $10,000 spent.
• There are no foreign transaction fees.

 

Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different traveller needs. Consider your travel habits, spending patterns, and desired perks to choose the card that best aligns with your goals.

 

Customer Ratings

Travellers consistently praise it for its simplicity, flexibility, and value. Customers particularly appreciate the no-blackout-date policy, allowing them to quickly redeem credit card points for any available seat. The Companion Pass is frequently highlighted as one of the program’s standout features, offering unparalleled benefits for frequent flyers.

Look at the ratings across multiple platforms –

• 4.8 stars out of 6.7 million reviews on the Apple App Store
• 4.8 stars out of 163K reviews on the Google Play Store

 

This combination of high ratings and glowing reviews showcases why it is a top choice for frequent and casual travellers. The program continues to exceed expectations with its user-friendly platform, excellent customer service, and unique perks.

Also, according to U.S. News Travel, the program ranks No. 3 in Best Airline Rewards Programs, reflecting its popularity and effectiveness in meeting travelers’ needs.

Recommended read – Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Capital One Venture X – Which Card Is Right for You?

 

Cancellation Policy

They offer a flexible cancellation policy that allows passengers to cancel flights up to 10 minutes before the scheduled departure without incurring cancellation fees. The Wanna Get Away or Wanna Get Away Plus fares provide travel funds equal to the ticket’s value for future use. Travel funds from Wanna Get Away Plus fares are transferable to another traveller.

For Anytime and Business Select fares, passengers can choose between a refund to the original form of payment or conversion to travel funds. You can fully refund flights booked with Rapid Rewards points.

 

Customer Support

Southwest Airlines provides comprehensive customer support to assist travellers before, during, and after their journeys. Customers can reach the support team 24/7 by calling 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) for inquiries related to reservations, flight status, and general information. Dedicated contact options are available for baggage issues or post-travel feedback concerns.

They offer an online Help Center with FAQs and the option to email customer service for non-urgent matters. It is active on social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and X, where travellers can reach out for quick assistance or updates.

This multi-channel approach ensures that support is always accessible, enhancing the travel experience for all customers.

 

Is the Southwest Rapid Rewards Application Available?

Yes, the Southwest Rapid Rewards application is available for both iOS and Android devices, making it easy for members to manage their rewards on the go. The app lets you track your points, book flights, check-in, access your boarding pass, and stay updated on your travel itinerary.

The app also provides exclusive deals and promotions, allowing you to maximize your rewards and savings with just a few taps. It’s a convenient tool for frequent travellers looking to maximize their membership, offering seamless access to travel updates and itinerary management.

 

Southwest Rapid Rewards with Other Loyalty Programs

Southwest Rapid Rewards stands out among loyalty programs for its simplicity and traveler-friendly features. Unlike competitors such as Delta SkyMiles and American Airlines AAdvantage, Southwest offers no blackout dates, allowing members to redeem points for any available seat. The Companion Pass, a unique perk, provides unmatched value by letting a companion fly for free (excluding taxes and fees).

While other programs may focus on premium services or international routes, Southwest prioritizes affordability and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for domestic travellers. This straightforward approach ensures frequent and occasional flyers can quickly maximize their rewards without hidden restrictions or complexities.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. Can Southwest Rapid Rewards points expire?

No, Southwest Rapid Rewards points do not expire as long as the account remains active. Any qualifying activity, such as earning or redeeming points, ensures the points stay valid indefinitely.

 

2. Can points be used for international travel?

Yes, you can redeem Southwest Rapid Rewards points for flights to international destinations served by Southwest Airlines.

 

3. Are there fees to redeem points?

While there are no fees to redeem flight points, taxes and government fees must be paid in cash when booking.

 

4. Can multiple people earn points on the same flight booking?

No, only the individual flying earns points, even if someone else paid for the ticket.

 

5. Is there a way to accelerate earning tier-qualifying points (TQPs)?

Yes, eligible Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards earn 1,500 TQPs for every $5,000 spent on purchases, with no cap.

 

6. What happens to your points if you cancel a flight?

Points used for a cancelled flight are refunded to your Rapid Rewards account, making it risk-free to book with points.

 

7. Are there limits on how many Rapid Rewards points you can transfer?

Yes, you can transfer points between accounts for a fee, but the number of points you can transfer annually is restricted.

 

Bringing Everything Together

The Southwest Rapid Rewards program delivers substantial value. It’s perfect for travellers who prioritize flexibility, affordability, and convenience. The standout features, such as the Companion Pass and no blackout dates, make it a top choice. This loyalty program is a fantastic choice for both frequent and casual flyers. Bring the edge of the first-year sign-up bonuses and keep enjoying the ongoing rewards.

Join Southwest Rapid Rewards now and experience travel without compromise.

 

If you need help deciding which loyalty program fits your travel goals, let us help you. Fix a meeting with us. We are ready to guide you toward the perfect choice.