Southwest Changes Companion Pass Earning Requirements for 2026

Southwest Airlines has updated the Companion Pass earning requirements for the 2026 calendar year:

What changed: - Qualifying points threshold: 150,000 (was 135,000) - New: Credit card sign-up bonuses now count toward the Companion Pass at 100% (previously 80%) - New: Rapid Rewards shopping portal purchases earn 2x qualifying points - Tier qualifying flights now also earn bonus qualifying points

What is the Companion Pass? Once earned, a designated companion flies free (just taxes/fees) on every Southwest flight you book for the remainder of the calendar year plus the entire following year. It's widely considered the most valuable airline perk available.

Strategy for 2026: 1. Open the Southwest Priority card (50,000 bonus points) 2. Open the Southwest Plus card (40,000 bonus points) — total: 90,000 3. Put $15,000-20,000 on the Priority card for remaining ~60,000 points 4. Use the Rapid Rewards shopping portal for bonus qualifying points

Cost-benefit: For couples or families who fly Southwest 4+ times/year, the Companion Pass can save $2,000+ annually. Even with the higher threshold, it remains achievable in one calendar year with strategic credit card use.