Introduction:
Are you a frequent traveler looking for a credit card with great perks and benefits? Look no further! In this article, we will look at the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Visa Card, which is the first card in the Southwest Visa line. We’ll explore the benefits of owning this card, the value of its rewards points, and ultimately whether it’s worth it for you. So let’s go !
Benefits and Benefits of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Visa Card
If you’re considering this card, it’s important to understand its tangible benefits and reward multipliers. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card comes with a $69 annual fee, which is charged the first month after card approval and each subsequent year on your card member’s birthday. Although the annual fee may seem like an inconvenience, the benefits are worth it.
Tangible benefits: First, let’s talk about the sign-up bonus. Southwest updates its sign-up bonuses frequently, so it’s important to check the current offer. Plus, every year on your card member’s birthday, you’ll receive 3,000 points, two early check-ins and 25% off onboard purchases. These benefits alone make owning the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card valuable.
Spending Benefits: When it comes to spending, this card offers twice the points on purchases in the Southwest, two points per dollar on purchases at hotels and car rental partners, two points per dollar on purchases in rideshare and a point per dollar on everything else. These reward multipliers can help you accumulate points quickly.
Maximize the value of your points
Understanding the value of your rewards points is crucial to determining whether a credit card is worth it for you. Southwest Rapid Rewards points can be redeemed for flights, statement credits, gift cards, hotels and car rentals. Flight redemptions offer the highest value, with each point valued between 1.3 and 1.5 cents. For example, a 50,000 point sign-up bonus can be worth up to $750 in free flights.
Even though statement credits and gift card redemptions offer lower value, they can still be worth it. Statement credits are valued at around 0.8 cents per point, meaning a 50,000 point sign-up bonus could be worth around $400 in statement credits. Gift cards offer the lowest value, however, with each point worth about 0.5 to 0.6 cents. It is important to carefully consider your buyout options.
The Companion Pass: a valuable advantage
One of the most notable benefits of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card is the Companion Pass. By earning 135,000 Rapid Rewards points in a calendar year, you automatically qualify for the Companion Pass. This pass allows you to bring a companion on any Southwest flight for free. There are some restrictions, but overall it’s an incredible benefit.
To maximize the value of the Companion Pass, it is recommended to time your registration and spending to coincide with the new year. This way, you have the entire year to earn the required points and enjoy the Companion Pass for the remainder of that year and the following calendar year. The Companion Pass is a game-changer for enthusiasts of the South West.
Is the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card worth it?
In conclusion, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Visa Card offers significant value to travelers who fly frequently with Southwest. With the chance to earn the Companion Pass and a generous sign-up bonus, you can enjoy hundreds of dollars in free flights. Considering the modest $69 annual fee, this card is a great addition to your lineup if you’re a Southwest fan and plan to travel in the near future.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on research and personal experience. Please review the current Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Visa Card terms and conditions before applying.
