The Southwest 85,000 Point Bonus: A Potential Pitfall for Companion Pass Seekers

 

Chase just announced the new Southwest personal credit card bonus offer and it's a whopping 85,000 bonus points! Wow! 

This is the highest offer we have seen in a long time. 

• $3,000 minimum spend 
• $69 annual fee 
• 85,000 bonus points

What can you buy for 85,000 Southwest points? A lot. Take a look at the points you would need for this one way flight from San Diego to New Orleans in November. You could go to New Orleans six times. 

And how about just 3,000 points to travel from San Diego to San Francisco. Well, you could make that trip, uh, a lot. 

This offer may be perfect for some people and if it is, please use my referral link. But it may ruin plans for others so keep reading. 

You might be wondering, "How could 85,000 Southwest Rapid Rewards points possibly be bad?" It's not about the number of points, but the timing of the Southwest credit card offer. This lucrative deal ends on October 9th, creating a tight window for those aiming to earn the coveted Southwest Companion Pass for 2025-2026.

Why the Southwest Companion Pass is the Ultimate Travel Hack

1. The Southwest Companion Pass is arguably the best travel perk in the airline industry.
2. It offers BOGO (Buy One Get One) flights for up to two years.
3. Valid for travel anywhere Southwest Airlines flies.
4. Use your Rapid Rewards points to book your flight and add a companion for FREE.
5. Southwest's new online tool allows you to change your designated companion up to three times per calendar year.

The Hidden Catch in the 85,000 Bonus Offer

While the bonus seems attractive, here's why it could be problematic for Companion Pass aspirants:

1. You have three months from card application to reach the $3,000 minimum spend.
2. Once you hit this threshold, it triggers the bonus point award.
3. To earn the Companion Pass for 2025-2026, you must reach the $3,000 spend:
   • After January 1st, 2025, OR
   • After your credit card statement closes for 2024 (typically mid to late December)

The #1 Mistake in Companion Pass Strategy

Many eager travelers make this critical error: reaching the minimum spend too early. This can trigger the bonus in 2024 instead of 2025, potentially:

• Costing you the Companion Pass entirely
• Reducing your pass benefits by an entire year

It's a significant setback in your travel hacking journey!

Navigating the Timing Challenge

While the timing is tricky, it's not impossible. However, you may need expert guidance to navigate this credit card reward strategy successfully. Consider joining a Travel Coaching Program for personalized advice.

My goal is to help 25 people, including myself, earn the Southwest Companion Pass for 2025-2026. With the right strategy, you could be flying 2-for-1 for two full years!

Remember: Timing is everything when it comes to maximizing your Southwest Rapid Rewards and earning the Companion Pass. Don't let a hasty decision cost you thousands in potential travel savings!

Are you ready to master the art of credit card rewards and travel hacking? Join our community of savvy travelers and learn how to turn points into unforgettable experiences!