Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card review

For many travelers, choosing the right credit card to complement their lifestyle is crucial. Among the myriad of options, the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card stands out, especially for those loyal to Southwest Airlines. This card is not just a means to make purchases but a gateway to a more rewarding travel experience.

The card's design is specifically tailored to benefit frequent flyers of Southwest Airlines, offering an array of perks and rewards that make traveling not just more affordable but also more enjoyable. Let's delve into the details and explore what makes this credit card a must-have for Southwest Airlines enthusiasts.

What is the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card?

The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is a travel rewards credit card in partnership with Southwest Airlines. It's designed for those who frequently fly with the airline and want to earn points for their spending. The card comes with a variety of benefits, making it an attractive choice for travelers.

With this card, you can earn points on everyday purchases, which are then redeemable for flights, hotel stays, and more. Additionally, the card comes with an annual bonus that helps offset the cost of the annual fee while continuing to reward cardholders for their loyalty to Southwest Airlines.

As a cardholder, you also enjoy the convenience of no foreign transaction fees, making it an ideal companion for international travel. The card's association with Rapid Rewards means that every dollar spent is a step closer to your next dream destination.

What Are the Benefits of the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card?

• The card offers 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points annually, getting you closer to the coveted Companion Pass.
• You can earn points on every purchase, with enhanced rates for spending on Southwest Airlines and partner purchases.
• An anniversary bonus of 7,500 points is awarded to cardholders each year, providing an extra boost to your points balance.
• There are no foreign transaction fees on international purchases, which is a significant advantage for those who travel abroad.
• Cardmembers have the opportunity to achieve A-List status, which offers perks such as priority boarding and check-in.

How Does the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card Compare to Other Cards?

When pitted against other travel credit cards, the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card holds its own with a competitive rewards structure. For a $149 annual fee, the card offers a higher earning potential on Southwest purchases compared to other cards in the market.

The Premier card also stands out with its anniversary bonus and lack of foreign transaction fees, aspects that are not always offered by other travel credit cards. Its direct link to the Southwest Rapid Rewards program makes it particularly valuable for those who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines.

While there are cards with lower annual fees, they often do not offer the same level of rewards or perks, such as the $75 annual travel credit and unlimited tier qualifying points towards A-List status that the Premier card provides.

What Is the Sign-Up Bonus for the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card?

The allure of the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is heightened by its generous sign-up bonus. New cardholders can earn 50,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of account opening.

This introductory offer is a substantial incentive for those considering the card, providing a significant points boost that can be redeemed for flights and more. It's an excellent starting point for new members to quickly accrue rewards and enjoy the benefits of the Rapid Rewards program.

However, it's important to note that this sign-up bonus is only available to those who have not received a new member bonus for the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card in the last 24 months, ensuring fairness and exclusivity for new cardholders.

How Can You Redeem Points With the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card?

Redeeming points with the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is a straightforward and flexible process. Points can be used for a variety of rewards, including:

• Flights on Southwest Airlines and international flights on partner airlines.
• Hotel stays at a wide range of properties worldwide.
• Car rentals to complete your travel needs.
• Events and experiences to make your trips more memorable.
• Gift cards and merchandise for a diverse selection of goods and services.

The redemption process is user-friendly, allowing cardholders to easily manage their points and plan their travels accordingly.

For a more visual understanding, let's take a look at a video that further explains the benefits and uses of the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card:

Is the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card Worth It?

Determining the value of a credit card is subjective and depends on individual spending habits and travel preferences. For frequent Southwest flyers, the Premier card offers a compelling rewards structure that can justify its annual fee.

The card's benefits, such as the anniversary points bonus, $75 annual travel credit, and the ability to earn points towards the Companion Pass, make it an attractive option. Furthermore, the lack of foreign transaction fees and the potential to reach A-List status add to the card's appeal.

In conclusion, for those who travel often with Southwest Airlines, the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card can offer exceptional value, enhancing the overall travel experience while offering financial benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card

What is the annual fee for Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier?

The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card has an annual fee of $149. This fee is offset by the various benefits and rewards the card offers, which can exceed the cost of the fee for frequent travelers.

Cardholders should evaluate their travel patterns and spending to determine if the rewards and benefits will adequately balance out the annual fee.

How do I upgrade my Southwest credit card to Premier?

To upgrade your existing Southwest credit card to a Premier card, you should contact Southwest Airlines customer service or the bank that issued your current card. They will guide you through the process and the eligibility criteria for the upgrade.

Keep in mind that upgrading may involve a review of your credit history and current account status to ensure you meet the requirements for the Premier card.

Does the Southwest Premier card get priority boarding?

While the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card does not automatically grant priority boarding, cardholders can use their earned points or purchase upgraded boarding positions. Cardholders with A-List status, which can be achieved through points earned with the Premier card, do receive priority boarding benefits.

What credit score do you need for a Southwest priority card?

To qualify for the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card, it's generally recommended to have a good to excellent credit score. This typically means a score of 670 or higher, although approval is subject to various factors and a comprehensive review of your credit history.

In summary, the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is a powerful tool for travelers who are loyal to Southwest Airlines. With generous rewards, practical benefits, and a significant sign-up bonus, this card can deliver remarkable value to those who fly frequently with the airline. By carefully considering the card's features and aligning them with personal travel habits, cardholders can maximize the potential of their travel experiences and financial savings.

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