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The 11+ Best Credit Cards for Southwest Airlines Flyers [2025]

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Katie Corrigan Seemann
Updated: 
Edited by: Juan Ruiz
& Keri Stooksbury
The 11+ Best Credit Cards for Southwest Airlines Flyers [2025]
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Southwest Airlines is more than just a low-cost carrier; it has a reputation among travelers for excellent customer service and offering low-cost flights to popular destinations. You can also fly Southwest to destinations like Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Cancún, Belize, Aruba, and Hawaii.

If you love using miles to pay for flights, you are in luck. Southwest has an easy-to-use frequent flyer program called Rapid Rewards. One element of this program that stands out is that there are no blackout dates; if a seat is available on a flight, you can use miles to purchase a seat on that flight.

There are many ways to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points. Not surprisingly, one of the best ways to earn points fast is with a credit card. This article will highlight all of the credit cards that will help you earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points and can help you decide what credit card might be best for you.

Why Fly on Southwest Airlines?

If you are a frequent Southwest Airlines customer, you know why it is a favorite among frequent travelers. If you have never flown Southwest, you might be wondering what all the hype is about and if you should give it a try.

Here are just a few reasons why Southwest is so popular among travelers:

The 11 Best Credit Cards for Southwest Flyers

Credit cards are the best way to earn points or miles quickly. In addition to great welcome offers, many cards earn 2x or 3x in select bonus categories. Putting your everyday spending on the right credit card can ensure you have plenty of points to book your next flight.

There are 3 categories of cards that earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points or earn points that can be transferred to Southwest Rapid Rewards.

  1. Southwest Airlines credit cards
  2. Chase credit cards that earn transferable Ultimate Rewards points
  3. Marriott Bonvoy credit cards that earn transferable Marriott Bonvoy points

Card Summary

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Card Name

Welcome Offer and Annual Fee

Earning Rates and Benefits for Southwest Flyers

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
  • 50,000 pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit CardEarn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $149
  • 1x-3x pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
    • Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
    • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
    • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
    • Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
  • 7,500 anniversary points each year on your card renewal
  • $75 annual Southwest travel credit
  • 4 Upgraded Boardings per year
  • Earn Tier Qualifying Points for your spend
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
  • 50,000 pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit CardEarn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $99
  • 1x-3x pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
    • Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
    • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
    • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
    • Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
  • 6,000 anniversary points each year on your card renewal
  • 2 EarlyBird Check-In certificates per year
  • Earn Tier Qualifying Points for your spend
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
  • 50,000 pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit CardEarn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $69
  • 1x-2x pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
    • Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
    • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
    • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
    • Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
  • 3,000 anniversary points each year on your card renewal
  • 2 EarlyBird Check-In certificates per year
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
  • 60,000 pointsChase Sapphire Preferred® CardEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $95
  • 1x-5x pointsChase Sapphire Preferred® Card
    • Earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
    • Earn 3x points on dining
    • Earn 3x points on select streaming services and online groceries
    • Earn 2x points on all other travel purchases
    • Earn 1x points on all other purchases
  • Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to Southwest
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • 60,000 pointsChase Sapphire Reserve®Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $550
  • 1x-10x pointsChase Sapphire Reserve®
    • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.
    • Earn 3x points on other travel and dining
    • Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to Southwest
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
  • $200Chase Freedom Unlimited®Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • 1.5%-5% cash-backChase Freedom Unlimited®
    • 5% cash-back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
    • 3% cash-back on drugstore purchases.
    • 3% cash-back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services.
    • 1.5% unlimited cash back on all other purchases.
  • When paired with a premium Chase Travel points-earning card, points transfer to Southwest
Chase Freedom Flex℠
  • $200Chase Freedom Flex®Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • 1%-5% cash-backChase Freedom Flex®
    • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
    • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
    • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases.
    • 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services.
    • 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases.
  • When paired with a premium Chase Ultimate Rewards points-earning card, points transfer to Southwest
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
  • 30,000 pointsMarriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit CardEarn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • 1x-14x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
    • Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
    • Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services.
    • Earn 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to Southwest
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
  • NEW OFFERUp to 3 Free Night Awards + 50,000 pointsMarriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit CardEarn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) plus 50,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases.
  • Annual fee of $95
  • 2x-17x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
    • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
    • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
    • Earn 2X points for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.
  • Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to Southwest

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card

  • Up to 135,000 pointsMarriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® CardEarn up to 135,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points. Earn 85,000 points after you spend $5,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Annual fee of $250 (rates & fees)
  • 2x-6x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card
    • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
    • Earn 4X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
    • Earn 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases.
    • Terms Apply.
  • Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to Southwest
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
  • Up to 150,000 pointsMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardEarn up to 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points. Earn 100,000 points after you spend $6,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • 2x-6x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
    • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
    • Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
    • Earn 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
    • Terms Apply.
  • Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to Southwest

Hot Tip: Looking for even more ways to earn lots of Southwest Rapid Rewards points but don’t have any flights planned? Check out our guide to earning Southwest Rapid Rewards points without flying.

Southwest Credit Cards

Southwest offers 5 different credit cards — 3 personal and 2 business — backed by Chase.

There are a few things to keep in mind when looking at Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards:

  1. These cards are subject to Chase’s unspoken 5/24 rule. If you aren’t familiar with this rule, it appears that Chase is not likely to approve you for another Chase credit card if you’ve opened 5 or more credit cards, regardless of bank, within the last 24 months.
  2. Southwest will not grant you a welcome offer on a personal Southwest credit card if you already are a Southwest cardholder or if you previously were a cardholder and earned a welcome offer within the last 24 months.
  3. You can earn a welcome offer on a personal Southwest card and a Southwest business card without waiting 24 months.

Hot Tip: For a head-to-head comparison of Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards, check out the best Chase Southwest credit cards, comparing the benefits and perks of each.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
50,000 points
$650
$149
20.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is the most premium personal Southwest card offering from Chase. When you peel back the curtain, it is easy to see why.

Not only does the card offer multiple bonus categories to help you earn more Southwest Rapid Rewards points, but it is also loaded with benefits that are sure to offer quite a bit of value to Southwest flyers.

Here is a full overview of the card to help you decide if it is a good fit for your wallet.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
  • 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshare purchases
  • 2x points per $1 on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming purchases
Cons
  • $149 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable points
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 7,500 anniversary points each year.
  • Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
  • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
  • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
  • $75 Southwest® travel credit each year.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
50,000 points
Up to $650
$99
20.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

Another week, another flight. Flying weekly can get tiring, but you know that every flight gets you closer to taking some great vacations with your significant other or your favorite travel buddy.

To save money on the flights, you like to use Southwest Airlines.

So why not get the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card to help you earn extra Rapid Rewards points?

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
  • 2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners
  • 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshares
Cons
  • $99 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 6,000 anniversary points each year.
  • Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
  • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
  • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
  • 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card makes it easy to earn unlimited points and qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
This card makes it easy to earn unlimited points and qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass.
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
50,000 points
$650
$69
20.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

If you spend a lot of time in the air, it’s important to get a great deal on your plane tickets.

Southwest Airlines can help you get those deals.

One way to save is by using the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card. This card helps you earn points for all your spending, and earning more reward points is always a good thing for a busy traveler!

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 2x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
  • 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshares
  • 2x points per $1 on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming
Cons
  • $69 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 3,000 anniversary points each year.
  • Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
  • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
  • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
  • 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
  • Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Hot Tip:

Most Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards come with a 3-month complimentary Instacart+ membership and a $10 monthly Instacart credit as long as your Instacart+ membership is active. Use your eligible card to redeem the credit. Benefits end December 31, 2027.

Other Chase Credit Cards

Ultimate Rewards-Earning Chase Credit Cards

Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to Southwest at a 1:1 ratio. Since the points transfer nearly instantly, this means you can earn and use your Ultimate Rewards points quickly on award travel.

Chase offers some of the best travel rewards credit cards available. The credit cards earn flexible points that can be transferred to the Chase travel partners, including Southwest. Chase Ultimate Rewards points can also be redeemed through the Chase Travel portal for 1 to 1.5 cents a point, depending on which Chase credit card you have.

Keep in mind a few things when looking to transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Southwest Airlines:

  • When you have the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, your points are worth 1.5 cents per point if redeemed through Chase Trave. Since this rate is slightly higher than the 1:1 ratio you get when you transfer points to Southwest, you will want to price out your trip with both Chase and at Southwest.com. Sometimes, it might be cheaper to book through Chase.
  • These cards are also subject to the Chase 5/24 rule mentioned above.
BEST BEGINNER CARD
Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$95
19.99% - 28.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
  • 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
  • 2x points on all other travel worldwide
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
  • 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Sapphire Reserve®Terms Apply / Rates & Fees
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$550
20.24% - 28.74% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent
Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
  • 5x points on airfare booked through Chase TravelSM
  • 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases; 1x point on all other purchases
Cons
  • $550 annual fee
  • Does not offer any hotel elite status
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $120 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Bottom Line: Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred into Southwest Rapid Rewards points at a 1:1 ratio. 

Chase’s Cash-Back Credit Cards

Chase offers a line of cash-back cards that have big earning potential.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®Terms Apply / Rates & Fees
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
$200
$0
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
  • 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
  • 1.5% back on all other purchases
Cons
    • 3% foreign transaction fee
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase TravelSM, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% – 28.49%.
  • No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Freedom Flex®
Chase Freedom Flex®
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Chase Freedom Flex®
The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
$200
$0
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ sure does pack quite a punch — especially for a no-annual-fee card.

The Freedom Flex card is an incredible option for those looking for a well-rounded cash-back card, or a powerful point-earner when paired with a premium card in the Ultimate Rewards family.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%.
  • Powerful cash-back earner: 5% back on quarterly categories and travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% back on all other purchases
  • No annual fee
Cons
    • 3% foreign transaction fees in U.S. dollars
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
  • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
  • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99%-28.49%.
  • No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Be aware that if you have a premium card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, Chase Sapphire Reserve card, or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, you can turn your cash-back from these cards into transferable Ultimate Rewards points, which can be more valuable.

For example, you can earn 1.5% cash-back on non-bonuses categories with the Freedom Unlimited card. But if you also have the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, you could be earning 1.5 points per dollar instead spent. These points can then be transferred to Southwest Airlines at a 1:1 ratio.

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to many different airlines, including Southwest. Unfortunately, Marriott’s transfer ratio to most airlines is 3:1; that means that for every 3 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred, you only get 1 Southwest Rapid Rewards point.

There is a 5,000-point bonus for every 60,000 points you transfer, so if you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, you will get 25,000 Southwest Rapid Rewards points.

While it might not be the best avenue to use your Marriott Bonvoy points, if you would rather have Southwest Rapid Rewards points than Marriott Bonvoy points, this can be a good opportunity to boost your Southwest Rapid Rewards points.

The following credit cards all earn Marriott Bonvoy points that can be transferred into Southwest Rapid Rewards points:

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.
Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
30,000 points
$210
$0
20.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
  • 2x points at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services
  • 5 Elite Night Credits each year
Cons
  • Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
  • Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase®!
  • Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
  • Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services.
  • 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Travel now, pay later - Break up purchases into equal monthly payments with no interest plus no plan fees on qualifying travel purchases. Terms apply.
  • NEW! Pay Yourself Back® - Redeem Marriott Bonvoy® points for a statement credit to cover qualifying travel purchases made directly with airlines or at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, up to $750 total in redemptions per year.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

NEW OFFER
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.
Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) plus 50,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases.
Up to 3 Free Night Awards + 50,000 points
Up to $1,400
$95
20.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
  • Automatic Silver Elite Status
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) plus 50,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
  • 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.
Earn up to 135,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points. Earn 85,000 points after you spend $5,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Up to 135,000 points
Up to $945
$250
20.24%-29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
  • 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn up to 135,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points. Earn 85,000 points after you spend $5,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
  • Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
  • Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Marriott Bonvoy® 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
  • With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite Status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit.
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
  • Plan It® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
  • $250 Annual Fee.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.
Earn up to 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points. Earn 100,000 points after you spend $6,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Up to 150,000 points
Up to $1,050
$650
20.24%-29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
  • 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
Read Full Review
Card Highlights
  • Earn up to 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points. Earn 100,000 points after you spend $6,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy® Platinum Elite Status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when the stay is booked with a Qualifying Rate at hotels that participate in Marriott Bonvoy, subject to availability upon check-in.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection*, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. *Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Bottom Line: Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to Southwest at a 3:1 ratio. For every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer, you will get a 5,000-point bonus. This means that 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points would turn into 25,000 Southwest Rapid Rewards points. 

American Express Credit Cards

If you are in a pinch, and really need Southwest Rapid Rewards points, you can earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points by transferring your Membership Rewards points with American Express.

This is not the best use for your Membership Rewards points, so this is something you would only want to do to top off your account for a specific redemption.

To do this, you would first transfer your American Express Membership Rewards to Marriott Bonvoy. Marriott is an Amex hotel partner at a 1:1 ratio. Then you can transfer those Marriott Bonvoy points to Southwest Rapid Rewards at the 3:1 ratio mentioned above. That means that for every 3 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer you will only get 1 Southwest Rapid Rewards point.

Again, this method is not ideal, but it’s always good to know all of your options in a pinch.

The Best Card To Earn Southwest Points for Every Type of Traveler

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Type of Traveler

Recommended Card for Earning Southwest Points

A casual traveler who uses Southwest a couple of times a year

Chase Sapphire Preferred card: Stick with flexible points that can be transferred to Southwest, or any other Chase hotel or airline partner, any time you need them.

A frequent flyer on Southwest Airlines

Southwest Priority card: This card earns 2x on Southwest purchases and includes 4 upgraded boarding passes and a $75 Southwest credit each year.

A traveler who values perks like priority boarding, inflight drinks, and Wi-Fi discounts

Southwest Priority card: This card includes 4 upgraded boarding passes plus a 20% rebate on inflight drinks and Wi-Fi purchases.

A traveler who rarely uses Southwest Airlines

Chase Sapphire Preferred card: This is one of the best overall travel rewards cards out there. It offers strong earning potential plus flexibility when it comes to using your points.

A business owner who only uses Southwest a couple of times a year

Ink Business Preferred card: Stick with flexible points that can be transferred to Southwest, or any other Chase hotel or airline partner, any time you need them. This card also offers lots of perks for business owners.

A business owner who flies on Southwest Airlines often

Ink Business Preferred card: This card earns 3 points per $1 spent (up to $150,000) each year on purchases in the multiple bonus categories including travel.

A business owner who wants A-List status on Southwest Airlines

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card: This card earns tier qualifying points towards A-list status.

Any traveler who wants to earn the Southwest Companion Pass

Any of the Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards. Points earned from any of the Southwest credit cards will count towards the 135,000 points needed to earn the Companion Pass plus cardholders get a 10,000 point boost towards Companion Pass qualification each year (these points are not redeemable points).

Final Thoughts

Southwest Airlines is a customer favorite for many reasons, like its easy-to-use Rapid Rewards program, no checked bag or change fees, and great customer service. It’s no wonder why lots of different types of travelers fly Southwest every day.

No matter how often you fly Southwest Airlines, there is a great credit card out there to help you earn lots of Rapid Rewards.

Featured Image Credit: Alberto Riva

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best credit card to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points?

There isn’t 1 card that is best for every traveler. Different types of travelers can benefit from different credit cards offering various bonuses and perks. However, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is one card that is generally a winner for everyone.

This card earns 2x points on travel and dining. These points can be transferred to Southwest, as well as other hotel and airline partners, and the annual fee is $95.

How can I earn Southwest points quickly?

Earning Southwest Rapid Rewards points quickly is easy when you are using the right credit card. Using a credit card that offers multiple points per dollar in categories that you routinely use is the key to earning points fast.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card and Ink Business Preferred card both earn 3 points per dollar on travel purchases. The points from these cards can then be transferred to Southwest Airlines at a 1:1 ratio.

Do Southwest points expire?

No, Southwest points do not expire.

Which Southwest credit card is best?

That depends on what you want out of the card! On the personal side, the Southwest Priority card offers the most benefits but charges the highest annual fee. The Southwest Plus card and Southwest Premier card, on the other hand, come with more affordable annual fees but don’t offer as many benefits.

Consider how often you fly with Southwest, or how often you will fly Southwest in the future, and then select the card that makes the most sense for you.

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About Katie Corrigan Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then, and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, LongWeekends Magazine, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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