Introduction
Southwest Rapid Rewards program is a favorite among frequent flyers for its flexibility and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just getting started, understanding how to earn and redeem Rapid Rewards points can enhance your travel experience and save you money. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best strategies for earning and redeeming Southwest Rapid Rewards points.
I. Earning Rapid Rewards Points
1. Flying with Southwest Airlines:
The most straightforward way to earn Rapid Rewards points is by flying with Southwest Airlines. Points are awarded based on the fare type you purchase:
- Wanna Get Away: 6 points per dollar spent
- Anytime: 10 points per dollar spent
- Business Select: 12 points per dollar spent
2. Using Southwest Credit Cards:
Southwest offers co-branded credit cards through Chase, such as the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Premier, and Priority cards. These cards offer generous sign-up bonuses and points for every dollar spent. Additionally, you earn extra points for purchases made directly with Southwest and on travel-related expenses.
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3. Shopping and Dining Partners:
By using the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal and participating in the Rapid Rewards Dining program, you can earn points on everyday purchases. Simply sign up, link your credit cards, and start earning points at participating retailers and restaurants.
4. Hotel and Car Rental Partners:
Southwest partners with various hotel chains and car rental companies. Booking your stay or rental car through Southwest’s partners can help you rack up additional points. Major partners include Marriott, Hilton, Hertz, and Alamo.
5. Special Promotions:
Keep an eye out for special promotions offered by Southwest and its partners. These promotions often provide opportunities to earn bonus points on flights, car rentals, hotel stays, and more.
II. Redeeming Southwest Rapid Rewards Points
1. Book Flights: The most popular way to redeem Rapid Rewards points is for Southwest flights. Points can be used to book any available seat without blackout dates. The number of points required varies based on the cash price of the ticket, so you get more value for your points on cheaper flights.
2. Companion Pass: The Companion Pass is one of the most coveted perks of the Rapid Rewards program. To earn it, you need to fly 100 qualifying one-way flights or earn 135,000 qualifying points in a calendar year. Once you have the Companion Pass, you can designate a companion to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees) on any Southwest flight for the remainder of the year and the entire following year.
Read more: Ultimate Guide on Best Days to get discount on Southwest Flight Deals
3. Hotel Stays and Car Rentals: Use your points to book hotel stays and car rentals through the Southwest Rapid Rewards program. While this might not always provide the best value compared to flights, it can be a good option if you have extra points.
4. Gift Cards and Merchandise: Points can also be redeemed for gift cards and merchandise through Southwest Rapid rewards online portal. However, this option typically offers a lower value per point compared to booking flights.
Conclusion
Southwest Rapid Rewards points offer incredible flexibility and value for frequent travelers. By strategically earning points through flights, credit card spending, shopping, dining, and utilizing promotions, you can accumulate points quickly. When it comes to redeeming points, focus on booking flights to maximize your value, and don’t forget about the Companion Pass for unparalleled savings. Happy travels!