Southwest Airlines credit cards rank high among rewards-focused flyers, and three specific features drive their popularity with Kiplinger readers.
First, Southwest's rapid rewards program delivers value quickly. The airline offers bonus points on both the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card. New cardholders earn sign-up bonuses that can translate into free flights within weeks of opening an account. Compared to competitors that require months of spending to generate a single free ticket, Southwest's earning curve moves faster.
Second, Southwest eliminates baggage fees for primary cardholders. The airline charges two free checked bags on every flight, a benefit worth $60 to $120 per round trip depending on the route. Other airlines charge $30 to $35 per checked bag for non-elite members. This single feature covers the annual fee on many Southwest cards within one or two trips.
Third, Southwest's flexibility stands out. The airline allows free seat changes and flight changes without penalties. Cardholders can book a flight, then switch to a different time or date without paying change fees that typically run $50 to $100 at competitors like American, Delta, or United. This flexibility reduces travel anxiety and lets families adjust plans when schedules shift.
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card charges $69 annually, while the Plus version costs $99 yearly but adds additional perks. Both waive the first year's fee for new applicants. Readers value these cards because the annual fees pay for themselves through baggage allowances alone, leaving earning rates and sign-up bonuses as pure upside.
Competing airlines like Delta, United, and American offer solid rewards programs with their own loyalty benefits. However, Southwest's combination of fast earning, tangible baggage benefits, and flexible booking policies creates a compelling case for frequent flyers who prioritize simplicity and value