Travelling with loved ones is always more enjoyable, and Southwest Airlines makes this easier with its coveted Companion Pass. But what if you already have a booking? Can you get Southwest Companion free if booked via Expedia? The short answer is yes, but there are specific steps and rules you need to follow. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to seamlessly add a Southwest Companion to your flight and make your travel planning stress-free.
What Is the Southwest Companion Pass?
The Southwest Companion Pass is one of the most generous perks in the airline industry. It allows you to choose one person to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees) every time you purchase or redeem points for a flight.
How do I qualify for the companion pass?
To qualify, you need to earn 135,000 qualifying points or take 100 one-way flights within a calendar year. Once earned, the pass is valid for the remainder of the year and the entire following year.
Why Is It So Popular?
The flexibility of the pass is a game changer. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, having a companion fly almost free can significantly reduce travel costs. It’s an unbeatable value for frequent flyers.
Can You Add a Companion to an Existing Southwest Reservation?
Yes, Southwest Airlines allows you to add a companion to an existing reservation if you already hold a Companion Pass. However, certain conditions apply to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Steps to Add a Companion to Your Existing Booking
Ensure Your Companion Pass Is Active
First, confirm that your Companion Pass is valid and tied to your Rapid Rewards account.Log Into Your Account
Use the Southwest website or app to log into your Rapid Rewards account.Find Your Reservation
Navigate to the “My Trips” section to locate the flight you’ve booked.Add Your Companion
Click on your booking and select the option to add a companion. Follow the prompts to input their details.Pay Taxes and Fees
While the Companion Pass covers the ticket cost, you’ll still need to pay the applicable taxes and fees, usually ranging from $5.60 one-way for domestic flights.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
- Availability: Companion bookings depend on seat availability. If the flight is fully booked, adding your companion might not be possible.
- One companion at a time: You can only designate one companion at a time, though you can change your companion up to three times per year.
- No Changes to the Original Ticket: The primary ticket must remain unchanged once the companion is added.
Can You Get Southwest Companion Free If Booked via Expedia?
Here’s where things get tricky. If you’ve booked your Southwest flight through a third-party site like Expedia, adding a companion may not be as straightforward. Southwest requires the original booking to be made through their official website or app to ensure eligibility for Companion Pass benefits.
While you may still be able to fly with your companion, you’ll likely need to transfer the booking to Southwest’s platform to add them. Always check with Southwest’s customer service for clarification in such cases.
Benefits of Adding A Companion to Existing Reservations:
Cost Savings
The primary appeal of the Companion Pass is cost savings. By adding a companion to your flight, you’re effectively halving your travel expenses.
Ease of Use
Southwest’s straightforward process for managing reservations makes adding a companion hassle-free for eligible bookings.
Flexibility
Unlike other airlines with restrictive companion policies, Southwest offers flexibility in terms of flight choices and changes, provided the seat availability is there.
Common Challenges When Adding a Companion
While the process is relatively simple, you might face some challenges:
1. Seat Availability Issues
Flights can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking your companion seat as soon as possible is crucial to avoid disappointment.
2. Timing of the Booking
If you add your companion too late, you may face restrictions due to flight capacity or ticket rules.
3. Booking Changes
If you change your flight after adding a companion, their ticket will need to be rebooked, which might incur additional charges.
Tips for Hassle-Free Companion Booking
- Book Early
Always book your flights as early as possible to ensure companion seat availability. - Check Southwest’s Official Channels
Make all bookings through Southwest’s official website or app to avoid complications. - Monitor Flight Availability
Keep an eye on seat availability to add your companion promptly.
The Role of Rapid Rewards in Companion Travel
Earning Points for Companion Pass
Rapid Rewards points are key to qualifying for the Companion Pass. Accumulate points through:
- Flights booked with Southwest.
- Credit card purchases with Southwest co-branded cards.
- Partnered hotel and rental car bookings.
Redeeming Points for Companion Flights
Points can also be redeemed for your primary ticket, enabling you to fly with your companion at minimal cost.
Conclusion
Adding a Southwest Companion to an existing reservation is not only possible but also relatively simple if you follow the right steps. From ensuring your companion pass is active to booking directly through Southwest, attention to detail is crucial for a seamless experience. Whether you’re booking directly or wondering Can you get Southwest Companion free if booked via Expedia?, understanding the nuances of Southwest’s policies will save you time and money.
FAQs
1. Can I change my companion after adding them to a booking?
Yes, but you’re allowed only three companion changes per calendar year. Contact Southwest for assistance.
2. What happens if the flight is full when I try to add a companion?
Unfortunately, if no seats are available, you won’t be able to add a companion. Always book early to avoid this issue.
3. Can I use the Companion Pass on international flights?
Yes, but you’ll need to pay applicable taxes and fees specific to international destinations.
4. Can I add a companion to a group booking?
Yes, as long as you’re using your Rapid Rewards account to manage the reservation.
5. Do I earn Rapid Rewards points for my companion’s ticket?
No, points are only earned for the primary traveller’s ticket.
