Unlock Hidden Travel Hacks: Why the Southwest Priority Credit Card Could Be Your Ultimate Flight Game-Changer
Related: How to quickly earn the Southwest Companion Pass
Southwest Priority Credit Card benefits
The Southwest Priority card offers the following benefits, many of which can help offset the annual fee. Most benefits will make the day-of-travel experience much more enjoyable. It’s important to note that current cardholders will receive all their current benefits until Dec. 31.
Cardholders receive:
- Anniversary bonus: On your card anniversary each year, you’ll receive 7,500 Rapid Rewards points, worth $105 based on TPG’s July 2025 valuations.
- Annual Southwest travel credit: During each cardmember year, you’ll receive a $75 travel credit that can be used on most Southwest purchases, including tickets (excluding upgraded boardings and inflight purchases; this credit will end Dec. 31).
- Two EarlyBird Check-Ins annually: These EarlyBird Check-Ins can cost as much $99 (ends Dec. 31).
- Four upgraded boardings per year: For flights operating in 2025, you’ll have the ability to upgrade your boarding up to four times (ends Dec. 31).
- Free first checked bag: Receive a free first checked bag for you and up to eight passengers traveling on the same reservation. (A standard first checked bag costs $35, which would save a family of four $280 on a round-trip itinerary.)
- Group 5 priority boarding (for 2026 and beyond): If you have A-list status, you can board with an earlier group.
- Preferred seat selection at booking: When available, you and up to eight passengers traveling on the same reservation can select preferred seating at the time of booking.
- Unlimited extra-legroom upgrades: When available, you and up to eight passengers traveling on the same reservation can select extra-legroom seats within 48 hours prior to departure. This arguably is the most valuable perk provided by the card, as most domestic airlines only offer complimentary extra-legroom seating to their elite members or require a hefty spending amount on a cobranded card.
- 25% inflight savings: Receive 25% back (as a statement credit) after you use your card to purchase inflight drinks and Wi-Fi.
- Tier qualifying points boost: Earn 2,500 tier qualifying points that count toward A-List and A-List Preferred status for every $5,000 you spend in a calendar year.
- 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost annually: Cardholders receive 10,000 points toward a Companion Pass each year.
In addition to the Southwest-specific benefits, the card comes with lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, extended warranty protection and purchase protection.
Post Comment