Is Southwest Still Worth It? Companion Pass & Rapid Rewards Breakdown

Southwest has long been a favorite airline for budget-minded travelers — but with recent changes to fares, seating, and baggage rules, many people are wondering: Is it still worth it?In this episode, Genni sits down with Max Craig, a long-time Southwest expert who’s held the Companion Pass for 18 years straight, to break down what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how everyday travelers can still get outsized value from the Rapid Rewards program — without overcomplicating things.You’ll learn how the Companion Pass really works, who it’s best for (and who should skip it), and smart strategies for earning and keeping it year after year.In this episode, we cover:What the Southwest Companion Pass is — and why it’s still one of the best deals in domestic travelThe recent Southwest changes (basic fares, assigned seating, baggage rules) and what actually mattersWho Southwest works best for — and when it doesn’t make senseHow Companion Pass works on both cash and points bookingsSmart ways to earn the Companion Pass using credit card sign-up bonusesWhy starting in January is not “too late” — and may actually be betterThe difference between chasing elevated bonuses vs. going at your own paceYear-round strategies to maintain the Companion Pass without constant card churningTimestamps:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:57 Max Craig's Journey into Points and Miles02:16 Understanding the Southwest Companion Pass04:23 Southwest's Domestic and International Reach06:45 Recent Changes to Southwest's Fare Types and Policies18:38 Strategies for Earning and Maximizing the Companion Pass21:13 Timing and Tips for Achieving the Companion Pass26:27 Temporary Promotions and Final Thoughts29:20 Maximizing the Two Card Method30:02 Maintaining the Companion Pass30:24 Spoiling Your P232:11 Churning Southwest Cards33:40 Common Mistakes and Misconceptions40:24 Real World Examples of Companion Pass Benefits43:40 Southwest's New Seating Policy46:58 Rapid Fire Questions49:55 Where to Find Max Craig51:05 Conclusion and FarewellWhere to Find Max CraigYou can connect with Max primarily on Facebook:Facebook account: Max CraigFacebook groups: Optimize Southwest and Optimized Transferrable PointsWebsite: https://pointstothemax.com/ Support the showFull episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni: Join the Lazy Budget Travel Tips Facebook Group Grab the FREE Budget Travel 101 Course Follow Genni on Instagram Traveling Franklins Blog Get the Weekly Newsletter! P.S. If you’re loving the podcast, buying me a coffee (or burrito… iykyk) is a simple way to support the show and help it grow.