How to Book a Companion Pass on Southwest Airlines?

Last Updated: October 3, 2025

Flying is always better when you can bring someone along—especially if their ticket is almost free. That’s exactly what the Southwest Companion Pass offers, making it one of the most valuable perks in the airline industry. For frequent travelers, families, and couples, this pass is like having a two-for-one deal on flights for up to two years.

But the big question remains: How to book a companion pass on Southwest? And does it really work for both domestic and international flights? Let’s walk through everything you need to know, from booking your first trip with a companion to maximizing this powerful benefit.

What Exactly Is the Southwest Companion Pass?

The Southwest Companion Pass allows you to choose one person—your “companion”—to fly with you at little to no extra cost every time you book a flight. Whether you pay with cash, points, or even book Southwest through Chase Ultimate Rewards, your companion only pays the government-imposed taxes and fees (starting at $5.60 each way within the U.S.).

That means:

You buy one ticket, and your companion gets theirs for nearly free.
It applies on every flight you take with Southwest as long as the pass is valid.
You can even change your designated companion up to three times per year.

For frequent flyers, the savings quickly add up to thousands of dollars.

Step-by-Step: How to Book Companion Pass Ticket on Southwest

Booking with the Companion Pass is simple once you understand the process. Here’s a clear breakdown:

1. Log in to Your Rapid Rewards Account

Go to the Southwest Airlines Book Flight page and sign in. The Companion Pass is tied to your Rapid Rewards number, so you must book through your account.

2. Book Your Own Flight

Choose your destination and purchase your ticket. This can be done using:

Cash (standard booking)
Rapid Rewards points
Chase Ultimate Rewards (by transferring points or booking through the travel portal)

The flexibility here is key—no matter how you book, the pass works.

3. Add Your Companion

Once your reservation is confirmed, open your booking in your account. You’ll see the “Add Companion” option. Clicking this will link your companion’s ticket to your own.

4. Pay Taxes and Fees

Your companion flies for free, but taxes and fees are mandatory. For U.S. flights, these start at $5.60 per one-way trip. For international destinations, the fees vary by country and airport but are still minimal compared to a full ticket price.

5. Get Confirmation

Both tickets will appear in your reservations. That’s it—you’re officially booked with your travel buddy at your side.

Also Read: Best Time to Book a Southwest Flight

How to Book Companion Pass on Southwest International Flights

Yes, the Companion Pass works internationally, too. The process is exactly the same as domestic booking. The only difference is that international flights often have higher taxes and fees, depending on the destination.

For example:

A trip to Mexico may include airport fees of around $70–$100.
Caribbean destinations may add fuel surcharges and local taxes.

Even with these additional costs, it’s still an unbeatable deal—especially when paired with Rapid Rewards points.

Also Read: Book a Multi City Flight on Southwest Airlines

When Should You Use the Companion Pass?

Since the pass allows unlimited usage, it’s best to use it as often as possible during its validity period. Here are smart ways to maximize it:

Weekend Getaways: Book last-minute short trips with your partner or friend.
Family Vacations: Save on airfare for family members.
International Trips: Take advantage of cheap Southwest fares to destinations like Mexico, Costa Rica, or the Caribbean.
Business Travel: If you travel frequently for work, bring along your spouse or family member at little cost.

The more flights you take, the more valuable the Companion Pass becomes.

Also Read: Southwest Airlines Change Flight

Pro Tips for Maximizing the Companion Pass

As a travel journalist and content marketer, here are some tested strategies for getting the most out of your pass:

Book Early

While the pass allows your companion to fly, it doesn’t guarantee seats. Booking ahead ensures both tickets are secured.

Rebook If Prices Drop

Southwest has no change fees. If your fare drops after booking, rebook the same flight at the lower price. Your companion’s ticket will automatically adjust.

Switch Companions Strategically

You can change your designated companion up to three times per calendar year. Use this flexibility if you sometimes want to bring a spouse, sometimes a friend, and sometimes a family member.

Pair With Rapid Rewards Points

The best way to stretch value? Redeem points for your flight, then add your companion for free. Two travelers, one redemption.

Combine With Chase Ultimate Rewards

If you’re a Chase cardholder, you can transfer points to Southwest or book flights directly with Chase Ultimate Rewards and still add your companion.

Also Read: Southwest Airlines Cancellation Policy

Why Travelers Love the Companion Pass

The Southwest Companion Pass is unique in the airline industry for two main reasons:

Unlimited Usage: Unlike one-time vouchers, you can use the pass on every flight.
No Route Restrictions: It applies to all Southwest routes, both domestic and international.

For couples who love exploring new places, or families trying to cut down travel costs, this is a game-changer. Many travelers say the pass is the single most valuable perk in U.S. air travel.

Also Read: Book Group Flights on Southwest Airlines

Book Smarter With Southwest and Affluence Travels

The Companion Pass is more than just a perk—it’s an invitation to travel more, explore more, and do it together with the person you love to travel with most. Whether you’re flying across the U.S. or heading to an international beach destination, booking your companion is quick, affordable, and incredibly rewarding.

Don’t let high airfare hold back your adventures. Start planning today—book your Southwest flights with Affluence Travels and unlock the power of the Companion Pass. Travel smarter, save more, and bring your favorite travel companion along for the ride.