Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority is Southwest's top personal card. The $229 fee is offset by 7,500 anniversary points, preferred seat selection at booking, free first checked bag for you and up to 8 companions, and a 10% annual flight discount. All points count toward the Companion Pass.
Pros & cons
- 90,000-point welcome offer counts toward Companion Pass qualification
- Free first checked bag for you and up to 8 companions
- Preferred seat selection at time of booking for up to 8 passengers
- Unlimited Extra Legroom upgrades within 48 hours when available
- 7,500 anniversary points each year
- 10% flight discount code annually
- 2,500 TQPs per $5,000 toward A-List status
- $229 annual fee is highest in the Southwest personal lineup
- No lounge access -- Southwest does not have branded lounges
- Points locked to Southwest Rapid Rewards and do not transfer to other airlines
- 10% flight discount is one code per year
- Southwest now charges for checked bags unless you have this card or higher fare classes
Who this card is for
Frequent Southwest flyers working toward the Companion Pass who need 135,000 points in a calendar year
Families who benefit from free bags for up to 8 companions
Travelers who want preferred seating at booking rather than the 48-hour window
A-List status chasers who earn TQPs through card spend
Occasional Southwest travelers who fly fewer than 4-6 times per year
Those who never travel with companions
Travelers who prioritize lounge access
Earning rates
Benefits breakdown
The Priority earns most on Southwest and delivers preferred boarding and seating for the cardholder and up to 8 companions -- especially valuable for group and family travel.
What to look out for
No Companion Pass Guarantee
The 90,000 welcome offer plus typical annual spending gets close to the 135,000-point Companion Pass threshold but does not guarantee it. Track progress in the Southwest app.
Southwest Now Charges for Bags
Since May 2025, Southwest charges for bags. This card restores the free bag benefit only for cardholders.
Annual Fee Increased
The Priority fee rose from $149 to $229 in 2025. Ensure benefits exceed the fee before renewing.
