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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus: Not for Everyone
50,000 bonus points and 2X points on select purchases, but a £99 annual fee and high APR could deter some.
The Quick Version
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card offers 50,000 bonus points after spending £1,000 in the first three months. It gives 2X points on Southwest purchases and the first £5,000 spent at gas stations and grocery stores annually. However, the £99 annual fee and a high variable APR of 21.49%-28.49% could be dealbreakers for budget-conscious users.
Rates shown are representative. Your actual rate depends on your credit profile. This is not financial advice.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
Solid for frequent Southwest flyers, but watch the fees.
Fees & Rates
According to Chase, the card comes with an annual fee of £99. The variable APR ranges from 21.49% to 28.49%, among the higher end. No introductory APR is offered, so if you plan to carry a balance, be cautious. Also, note the absence of foreign transaction fees, making this an attractive option for international travel.
What's Actually Good
The card shines if you frequently fly with Southwest. You earn 2X points on Southwest purchases and on the first £5,000 in combined purchases made at gas stations and grocery stores each year. The 50,000-point bonus can cover several flights if redeemed wisely. Plus, you get a free checked bag on every flight, saving up to £60 per round trip.
The Catch
Where it falls short is the APR and the £99 annual fee. The APR can climb to 28.49% variable, which is significant if you carry a balance. The 2X points cap on non-Southwest purchases is also limited to the first £5,000 annually, which might not suit high spenders. If you're not a frequent Southwest flyer, the perks may not justify the cost.
This Card Is For You If...
This card is best for frequent Southwest flyers who pay off their balance monthly. If you spend heavily on travel and groceries, and can maximize the 50,000 bonus points, it’s a decent fit. However, skip this if you carry a balance or if Southwest isn’t your primary airline. Other cards may offer better rewards for everyday spending.
The Bottom Line
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is excellent for those who fly Southwest often and can leverage the bonus points and free checked bags. However, the APR and annual fee mean it's not for everyone. For a broader range of travel rewards, check out other options in our list of Top Rewards Credit Cards for August 2026.
