Episode Details

Southwest just changed how the Companion Pass works, and the card bonus route most of us have used for years is going away. In this episode I walk you through what changed on October 15, what to do before December 2, how to check your own Companion Pass points, and what 2027 looks like if you miss the window.

In this episode:

• What Southwest changed and what stops counting toward the pass starting January 1, 2027
• The December 2 date: if you are approved for a Southwest card by then and meet the welcome bonus requirements, those bonus points can still count, even if you finish the spending in early 2027
• Why I am telling my clients to open the business card (80K bonus) and the personal card (50K bonus) now
• How to log in and see your Companion Pass qualifying points, and how to figure out your gap
• What 2027 looks like: the new three-trip pass at 95,000 TQPs and the unlimited pass at 140,000 TQPs
• The new premium Southwest card from Chase and the Icon Lounges coming in late 2027

Resources:

• The Southwest Business card I would grab NOW: Chase Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier Business | Travel Freely
• The Southwest Plus card: Chase Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Plus | Travel Freely
• The Southwest Premier Card: Chase Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier | Travel Freely
• The Travel Points Lounge