Skip to main content

A Southwest fan's guide to the Southwest Rapid Rewards® program

minute read

    As a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, you automatically become a member of the Southwest Rapid Rewards program. This is great news for Southwest® fans because members may earn points by flying or spending with Southwest partners, or by making everyday purchases with the card.

    Then, these points may be redeemed for a range of benefits, including flights on Southwest. If you want to make the most out of your Southwest Rapid Rewards, one of their three credit card options may help you get there.

    What is the Southwest Rapid Rewards program?

    If you are not already a Member, when you are approved for a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card, you will automatically be enrolled in the Rapid Rewards® program. This loyalty program enables Customers to earn points and use them on travel expenses with Southwest or its partners, in addition to a variety of redemption opportunities.

    The program includes perks like no blackout dates, no baggage fees or other hidden charges, along with the potential to earn the Southwest Companion Pass®, allows you to choose one family member or friend to fly with you every time you purchase or redeem points for a flight. All you need to cover are the associated taxes and fees.

    Rapid Rewards Members may also cancel a flight booked on points for no fee when canceled at least 10 minutes before the flight's departure time. The points that you redeemed will go back into your account while the taxes and fees will be refunded back to the credit card that was used.

    How to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points

    You may earn points on flights and on everyday purchases with Southwest® partners. Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers may earn points on every dollar you spend with your card.

    When it comes to earning Rapid Rewards® points on flights, the points you earn depend on the amount and type of fare you choose. You may earn 12 points per dollar spent on Business Select® fares, 10 points per dollar spent on Anytime® fares as well as six points per dollar spent on Wanna Get Away® fares.

    To earn even more points, Southwest partners with a variety of hotel brands, restaurants, gas and car rental companies, as well as retailers that participate in the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal.

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers may earn additional points on Southwest flight, Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners, local transit and commuting, and internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming. You may also earn one point for every dollar spent on all other purchases.

    How to redeem Southwest Rapid Rewards points

    Cardmembers that have a Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier, or a Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card may use points for golf trips, spa packages, and more. Your points may be used for hotel stays, retail items, gift cards, and car rentals. Points may also be redeemed for partner gift cards and merchandise sold on the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal.

    If you choose to redeem your points for a Southwest flight, you'll need to purchase your ticket through the Southwest Airlines website, mobile app, or over the phone with a Customer Service Representative. To redeem your points, you'll need the minimum number of points needed, and if you keep your account open, Rapid Rewards points will not expire.

    Ready to fly

    If you want to get the most—and the most out of—the Southwest Rapid Rewards program, a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card may be the right fit for you. Whether you're a frequent or occasional flyer, Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards offer something for every Southwest Rapid Rewards fan.

    What to read next