How Much to Spend to Get Southwest Companion Pass: A Comprehensive Guide
The Southwest Companion Pass is a highly coveted benefit offered by Southwest Airlines, allowing passengers to bring a companion on every flight they book for just the cost of taxes and fees. Achieving this pass is a goal for many frequent flyers, but how much does it actually cost? In this article, we’ll explore the various factors that contribute to the total expenditure and provide a comprehensive guide on how to maximize your chances of obtaining the Southwest Companion Pass.
Understanding the Southwest Companion Pass
Before diving into the costs, it’s essential to understand what the Southwest Companion Pass entails. This pass is valid for two years from the date of issuance and allows the cardholder to bring one companion on every flight they book, excluding blackouts and certain dates. The companion pays only the taxes and fees associated with the flight, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Qualifying for the Companion Pass
To qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass, you must earn 110,000 qualifying points within a calendar year. These points can be earned through various means, including flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and credit card spending. It’s important to note that the Companion Pass is not automatically issued upon reaching the required points; you must apply for it separately.
Calculating the Cost
Now that we understand the qualifications and benefits, let’s calculate the cost of obtaining the Southwest Companion Pass. The primary expense comes from earning the 110,000 qualifying points. Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs:
1. Flights: The most straightforward way to earn points is by flying. If you’re a frequent traveler, you may already be accumulating points through your flights. However, if you need to purchase additional flights to reach the 110,000-point threshold, the cost can vary depending on the route and fare class.
2. Credit Card Spending: Another way to earn points is by using a credit card that offers a sign-up bonus and rewards points for spending. Some cards offer a sign-up bonus of 50,000 to 100,000 points, which can significantly reduce the time and cost of earning the required points. However, it’s important to note that you should only apply for credit cards if you can manage the credit responsibly and pay off the balance each month to avoid interest charges.
3. Other Partnerships: Southwest Airlines has partnerships with various hotels, car rental companies, and other airlines, allowing you to earn points through these partnerships. While this can be a cost-effective way to earn points, it may not be sufficient on its own to reach the 110,000-point threshold.
Maximizing Your Chances
To maximize your chances of obtaining the Southwest Companion Pass, consider the following tips:
1. Plan Ahead: Start planning your points-earning strategy well in advance of the calendar year you wish to qualify for the pass. This will give you enough time to accumulate the required points.
2. Utilize Credit Card Bonuses: Take advantage of sign-up bonuses offered by credit cards, but be mindful of the spending requirements and interest rates.
3. Monitor Your Points: Keep track of your points balance and ensure you’re on track to reach the 110,000-point threshold. Adjust your strategy if necessary.
4. Combine Points: If you have points from multiple sources, consider combining them to reach the threshold faster.
In conclusion, the cost of obtaining the Southwest Companion Pass can vary depending on your individual circumstances and points-earning strategy. By understanding the qualifications, calculating the potential costs, and implementing a well-planned approach, you can increase your chances of obtaining this valuable benefit.
