Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card

Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Southwest Offers Best Companion Pass Perk

For many travelers, Southwest Airlines offers the most valuable companion pass benefit. Their Companion Pass allows cardholders to bring along a designated companion for free on both paid and award flights. This perk has made Southwest one of the most popular airlines for couples, families, and friend groups looking to travel together on a budget.

Unlike other airline companion passes which may only be valid on select fare classes or require a minimum spend threshold, Southwest's is remarkably easy to earn and use. You just need to earn 125,000 qualifying points in a calendar year, from any combination of Southwest flights, credit card bonuses, and more. Once earned, the Companion Pass is valid for the remainder of the year earned plus the entire next calendar year.
This unlimited two-for-one deal on flights can translate to thousands in savings, especially for frequent Southwest flyers. Even leisure travelers can benefit - bring the Companion Pass along on a long weekend getaway and the savings add up quickly. Southwest serves over 100 destinations in the U.S., Mexico, Caribbean and Central America, so there are ample opportunities to use it.
While every Southwest flight includes two free checked bags, the Companion Pass also allows your companion the same free checked bag benefit. And complimentary in-flight drinks are included for both of you as well.

What else is in this post?

1. Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Southwest Offers Best Companion Pass Perk
2. Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Earn Miles Quickly with Sign-Up Bonuses
3. Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Transfer Points from Other Programs
4. Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Book Awards and Upgrades with Points
5. Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Leverage Airline Status for Perks
6. Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Fly in Style with First Class Companions

Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Earn Miles Quickly with Sign-Up Bonuses

One of the fastest ways to rack up a lot of miles or points is by taking advantage of credit card sign-up bonuses. When you open a new travel rewards credit card, issuers will often offer a one-time bonus of tens of thousands of points or miles as an incentive to sign up. This allows you to grow your mileage balances exponentially faster than just earning through regular spending.

For example, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card currently offers 50,000 bonus Rapid Rewards points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Since Southwest points don't expire, those 50k points could pay for several roundtrip flights or be put towards earning the coveted Companion Pass. Similarly, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers 60,000 bonus points (worth $750 in travel booked through Chase) after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
To maximize these sign-up bonus opportunities, consider staggering your applications throughout the year. Apply for one card every few months rather than signing up for multiple cards at once. This avoids large spending requirements over a short period of time. Pay off balances each month to avoid interest charges.

Also research which airline or hotel loyalty programs best suit your travel habits. Focusing your sign-up bonuses within one program helps you quickly build up a stash of miles to work towards elite status or redeem for free flights and hotel nights.

Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Transfer Points from Other Programs

One of the great advantages of travel rewards credit cards is the ability to transfer points between different loyalty programs. This flexibility can be incredibly valuable when it comes to booking flights, especially if you need to top up your account to have enough miles for an award ticket.
Many of the major credit card issuers, like Chase, American Express, and Citi, have robust transfer partner programs that allow you to move your points to a variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs. For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred 1:1 to programs like United MileagePlus, Marriott Bonvoy, and World of Hyatt. American Express Membership Rewards has even more transfer options, including Delta SkyMiles, Avianca LifeMiles, and Air Canada Aeroplan.
The key is to pay attention to the transfer ratios. While most transfers are 1:1, some programs may have less favorable rates, like 3:1 or 2.5:1. Do the math to ensure you're getting the best value when moving your points around.
Another important consideration is transfer times. Some loyalty programs process transfers instantaneously, while others can take a few business days. If you're in a time crunch to book an award ticket, the quicker the transfer, the better.
One smart strategy is to keep a stash of flexible points like Chase or Amex in your account. That way, when you find a great flight deal, you can quickly transfer the points to the right airline program and lock in the reservation. This is particularly useful for snagging limited award space or mistake fares.
Just be mindful of any expiration policies on the points or miles you're transferring. You don't want to inadvertently lose your hard-earned rewards. Always check the individual program rules before initiating a transfer.

Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Book Awards and Upgrades with Points

When traveling as a pair or group, stretching your points to cover multiple seats can be challenging. But awards and upgrades booked with points provide an optimal way to make the most of your rewards.

Most airlines allow you to use miles and points to upgrade from economy to business or first class. On some airlines this represents extraordinary value - think lie-flat seats for a fraction of the cash price. Even on domestic flights, scoring a few extra inches of legroom and free cocktails can enhance the journey.

Before redeeming for an upgrade, research the airline's specific rules around points upgrades. On many carriers, only certain discounted economy fares are eligible for upgrades using miles. So check this during booking to ensure your fare will qualify later on. During busy periods upgrades may be subject to availability. Having status in the airline's loyalty program or a co-branded credit card may give you prioritized upgrade access.
Upgrading with miles is especially convenient when you already have an existing itinerary booked but want to splurge on the outbound or return leg. Simply log into your frequent flyer account and request the upgrade using your miles. On some airlines this can be done instantly right up until check-in.

Booking award flights using miles and points similarly allows you to cover multiple seats while getting outsized value from your rewards. Most airlines use variable pricing for awards with mileage costs based on factors like destination, seasonality, and class of service. Being flexible on your dates opens up more options at the lowest redemption rates.

Certain sweet spots stand out for excellent value on award tickets. For example, flying to Hawaii in economy class or Europe in business class, you can often realize over 2 cents per mile in value. Compare that to the typical 1 cent baseline for valuing points. Transfer flexible credit card points to frequent flyer programs to top up accounts as needed.
Look for off-peak awards on programs like United that drop prices during low demand seasons. Taking advantage of sales and promotions that slash mileage rates can also help you do more with your points. And consider redeeming for one-way awards - this may cost fewer miles, allowing you to really maximize your rewards.

Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Leverage Airline Status for Perks

Having status in an airline's frequent flyer program unlocks an array of exclusive benefits that can make travel more comfortable. Depending on your status tier, perks may include free upgrades, bonus miles, priority check-in, waived baggage fees, and more. This gives frequent travelers all the more reason to remain loyal to one airline.
One great way to fast track your progress is by getting an airline credit card that confers automatic status. For example, the United Explorer Card grants cardholders United Silver status just for having the card. This provides access to preferred seating and a free checked bag.

Meanwhile, the Delta Reserve Credit Card from American Express offers Delta SkyMiles Platinum Medallion status when you meet spending requirements. Platinum fliers enjoy complimentary upgrades, Sky Club access, and more.
Even entry-level status can make a noticeable difference in your travel experience. Perks like free checked bags and early boarding can add up to hundreds in savings annually. You’ll also have a higher likelihood of scoring a first class upgrade when space is tight.

When booking flights, always include your frequent flyer number to earn miles towards status. Sign up for promotional challenges that let you boost your tier by flying a certain number of miles within a designated time period.

Double the Fun for Free: Snag a Companion Ticket with the Right Credit Card - Fly in Style with First Class Companions

When it comes to luxurious travel, there's nothing quite like flying first class. While it usually comes with a hefty price tag, first class tickets can become more attainable when you have a companion fare. With two-for-one deals, you and your companion can experience the height of air travel indulgence without breaking the bank.
Most airlines allow you to use companion passes and vouchers in any cabin class. This represents an incredible opportunity if you've been dreaming of that lay-flat seat and multi-course meal in the sky. Even domestic first class seats with extra legroom and free cocktails deliver major value when you're getting a second ticket essentially for free.
Prioritize long-haul international flights to maximize your first class experience. Flying overseas in a suite with fully reclining sleeper seats, given top-notch amenity kits and pajamas, and feasting on restaurant-quality cuisine will create lifelong memories. Some first class cabins even have showers you can freshen up in mid-flight.
Don't forget the special airport perks that come with first class tickets. You and your companion can relax in luxurious airline lounges before the flight, complete with complimentary premium food and beverages. Some airlines offer Porsche transfers straight to the plane. You'll be whisked through security and customs lines in many countries as well.
When it comes to seat selection, choose pods next to each other so you can enjoy the first class ride together. Some solo pods feature higher privacy shields that obstruct views of your companion. Opt for side-by-side seats without major barriers blocking the aisle.

Research airlines known for over-the-top first class service. The Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates, Etihad and Qatar pamper passengers with over-the-top luxury touches. Closer to home, JetBlue Mint offers lie-flat beds on transcontinental routes. Even American Airlines has upped its domestic first class game with meals from celebrity chefs.