Southwest Airlines is a favorite among frequent travelers, offering flexible rewards, no hidden fees, and exceptional customer service. If you’re looking to maximize your travel experience, choosing the best Southwest airline credit cards is a game-changer. These cards offer generous rewards, free flights, and travel perks that can help you save big on airfare.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best Southwest airline credit cards, compare their benefits, and help you choose the right one for your needs.
Why Choose a Southwest Credit Card?
Before diving into the best options, let’s explore why a Southwest Airlines credit card is worth considering:
- Companion Pass – One of the most valuable perks in the travel industry, allowing you to bring a companion for free (excluding taxes and fees).
- No Blackout Dates – Redeem points for any available seat with no restrictions.
- Two Free Checked Bags – Save money on baggage fees.
- Flexible Cancellations – Easily cancel or change flights without hefty penalties.
- Rapid Rewards Points – Earn points on everyday spending and travel.
These benefits make Southwest credit cards some of the best options for frequent flyers looking to maximize their travel rewards.
Best Southwest Airline Credit Cards in 2024
Let’s break down the top Southwest credit cards and their key features.
1. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
Best for: Occasional travelers who want a low annual fee
- Sign-up Bonus: 50,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $69
- Earning Rate:
- 2x points on Southwest purchases
- 2x points on local transit, internet, cable, and phone services
- 1x points on everything else
- Perks:
- 3,000 anniversary points each year
- 2 EarlyBird Check-In credits per year
2. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
Best for: Frequent Southwest travelers
- Sign-up Bonus: 60,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $99
- Earning Rate:
- 3x points on Southwest purchases
- 2x points on select travel categories
- 1x points on all other purchases
- Perks:
- 6,000 anniversary points each year
- 2 EarlyBird Check-In credits per year
- No foreign transaction fees
3. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
Best for: Maximize rewards and benefits
- Sign-up Bonus: 75,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $149
- Earning Rate:
- 3x points on Southwest purchases
- 2x points on travel and dining
- 1x points on everything else
- Perks:
- 7,500 anniversary points
- $75 Southwest travel credit
- 4 upgraded boardings per year
- No foreign transaction fees
4. Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
Best for: Small business owners and frequent flyers
- Sign-up Bonus: 80,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $199
- Earning Rate:
- 4x points on Southwest purchases
- 3x points on hotels, car rentals, and rideshare
- 2x points on social media and advertising
- 1x points on everything else
- Perks:
- 9,000 anniversary points
- Up to 365 in-flight WiFi credits
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck reimbursement
Comparing the Best Southwest Airline Credit Cards
To help you decide, here’s a comparison chart of the best Southwest airline credit cards based on key factors.
| Card | Annual Fee | Sign-Up Bonus | Anniversary Points | Foreign Transaction Fees | Special Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Plus | $69 | 50,000 points | 3,000 | Yes | 2 EarlyBird Check-In credits |
| Southwest Premier | $99 | 60,000 points | 6,000 | No | No foreign fees |
| Southwest Priority | $149 | 75,000 points | 7,500 | No | $75 travel credit, 4 upgraded boardings |
| Southwest Business | $199 | 80,000 points | 9,000 | No | 365 WiFi credits, TSA PreCheck reimbursement |
Which Card is Right for You?
- Casual travelers: Southwest Plus
- Frequent Southwest flyers: Southwest Premier or Priority
- Business owners: Southwest Performance Business
Maximizing Your Southwest Credit Card Rewards
Once you’ve chosen a Southwest credit card, here are some tips to make the most of it:
1. Earn the Companion Pass
The best way to maximize Southwest cards is by earning the Companion Pass, which allows a designated person to fly with you for free for up to two years.
2. Utilize Partner Programs
Book hotels, car rentals, and use dining programs that partner with Southwest to accumulate extra points.
3. Take Advantage of Promotions
Southwest frequently offers limited-time bonuses on flights and purchases—be sure to check these promotions regularly.
4. Combine Points with Travel Credits
The Priority card’s $75 travel credit helps offset costs when redeeming points for flights.
For more tips on maximizing credit card rewards, check out our guide on WeDoPoints.com.
5 Real Reviews from Southwest Credit Card Users
1. John M. – Southwest Priority Card
“I love the Priority Card! The $75 travel credit and upgraded boardings make flying Southwest even better. Highly recommend!”
2. Sarah L. – Southwest Premier Card
“I travel for work frequently, and this card helps me rack up points fast. The no foreign transaction fees are a huge plus.”
3. James R. – Southwest Plus Card
“Great for earning points without a high annual fee. The EarlyBird Check-Ins are a nice bonus.”
4. Emily W. – Southwest Business Card
“As a business owner, this card is perfect. The 4x points on Southwest purchases and WiFi credits are invaluable.”
5. Daniel P. – Southwest Priority Card
“Earning the Companion Pass changed how I travel. My wife and I fly together for free all the time!”
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best Southwest airline credit cards depends on your travel habits and spending preferences. Whether you’re looking for low fees, maximum rewards, or business perks, there’s a perfect Southwest credit card for you.
For more expert credit card advice, visit WeDoPoints.com. Happy travels!
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