Southwest Companion Pass: Limited-Time Offer vs. Traditional Method—Which One Should You Choose?

The Southwest Companion Pass is one of the best travel perks available, letting you bring a companion on any Southwest flight for just the cost of taxes and fees. No blackout dates, no limits, and you can use it as many times as you want while it’s active.

But what’s the best way to earn it? Sometimes, Southwest runs a limited-time promo that makes qualifying easier, but is it the best option? Or should you hold out and earn it the traditional way for a longer pass? Let’s break it down.

What Is the Southwest Companion Pass?

Typically, you need to earn 135,000 Rapid Rewards points in a calendar year to unlock the Southwest Companion Pass. Once earned, it's valid for the rest of that year plus the entire following year, which is why timing matters.

However, Southwest sometimes offers a shortcut, where you can get the Companion Pass faster just by opening a Southwest credit card and meeting the spending requirement. The catch? This promo version expires much soonerthan the standard pass.

If you’re new to earning points for free travel, I cover step-by-step strategies in my Beginner’s Guide to Points & Miles, which can help you earn free flights even faster.

Option 1: The Limited-Time Offer (Easier, But Shorter Duration)

For a limited time, Southwest occasionally offers a fast-track Companion Pass when you sign up for an eligible Southwest credit card and meet the spending requirement.

✔ Pros:

✅ The fastest and easiest way to earn the pass—no need to track points or hit 135,000.
✅ You get it sooner, meaning you can start using it right away.
✅ Ideal for travelers who don’t fly Southwest frequently but have upcoming trips planned.

Cons:

❌ The pass expires sooner than the traditional version.
❌ You don’t earn as many Rapid Rewards points in the process.

If you’re working toward earning points for free travel, make sure to check out my favorite credit cards for beginners here.

Who Should Choose This?

If you want the Companion Pass with minimal effort, this promo is the easiest way to get it. It’s also a great option if you already have Southwest flights planned and want to maximize your savings immediately.

However, if you fly Southwest often, or want to stretch your pass for nearly two full years, going the traditional route by earning 135,000 points could be the better choice.

If you’re just getting started, make sure to sign up for my email list so you don’t miss travel deals, transfer bonuses, and point redemption strategies for family travel.

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