Verdict · Updated April 2026
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus for Travel
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus is workable for travel but not the strongest fit — ranked #35 of 54 eligible cards. Several cards listed in alternatives outperform it for this specific use case.
Rank #35 of 5436th percentileWorkable but not optimal
Reviewed by CardCompare Editorial Board
|Data-driven ranking|Updated April 2026
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus
Chase · $69 annual fee
Southwest's entry-level airline card is ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Every dollar spent contributes to the coveted Southwest Companion Pass — once earned, you can bring a companion on every flight for just taxes. Southwest's bag-flies-free policy already makes flying cheaper, and this card amplifies those savings.
Full card review
Earn math — Travel profile
Based on typical travel spending of $25,200/year across the categories below.
Annual rewards
$378
Annual fee
$69
Net value
$309
Transfer partnersLounge accessNo foreign transaction feeTrip protection
Where the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus wins for travel
- No foreign transaction fee — saves 2-3% on every international purchase
- Trip cancellation and baggage protection often pay for the annual fee alone
Where it falls short
- No intro 0% APR and a high regular APR (28.49%) — carrying a balance is expensive
Top 3 alternatives for travel
Cards that rank higher than or close to the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus on our travel scoring model.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus a good card for travel?⌄
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus is workable for travel but not the strongest fit — ranked #35 of 54 eligible cards. Several cards listed in alternatives outperform it for this specific use case.
How much can I earn with the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus on travel spending?⌄
At the typical travel spending profile of $25,200/year, this card earns approximately $378 in rewards — net $309 after the $69 annual fee.
What are better alternatives to the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus for travel?⌄
Our top 3 alternatives are IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, Citi Strata Premier Card, American Express Platinum. Each ranks higher on our use-case scoring model for travel.
What credit score do I need for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus?⌄
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus typically requires good credit. Approval also depends on income, existing debt, and application history — a score in the stated range doesn't guarantee approval.
Is the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus's annual fee worth it for this use case?⌄
The $69 annual fee breaks even when you earn $69 in rewards. At the typical travel profile ($25,200/year), this card earns $378 — net positive after the fee.
Want the full card review?
See rewards, fees, and all perks of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus