What Is a Companion Pass or Companion Fare?
This guide explains what a companion pass and companion fare are, how you get them, and what to watch for.
What it is
A companion benefit lets a second traveler join you at little or no cost when you book a qualifying paid ticket, either entirely free or for just the taxes and fees. You pay for your own seat as normal, and the companion effectively rides along, which is why a good companion benefit can nearly halve the cost of traveling as a pair.
How you get one
There are two main routes. Some airlines award a companion pass as an elite-style perk you earn by flying a lot or earning a set number of points in a period, the most famous being a season-long, unlimited version. Separately, several co-branded airline credit cards include an annual companion certificate or discounted companion fare as a card benefit, which for many travelers is the easiest way to get one. A dedicated program example is the Southwest Companion Pass.
What to watch for
The value hinges on the fine print. Companion certificates often apply only to certain fare classes, routes, or booking windows, may exclude peak dates, and still require you to pay taxes and fees. A card companion benefit can easily justify the annual fee if you will use it, but only if your travel fits the restrictions, so read the terms before you count on it.
- A companion travels free or for just taxes and fees.
- You still buy your own qualifying ticket.
- Some airlines award it through flying or points.
- Several airline cards include an annual companion certificate.
- Restrictions on routes, fares, and dates vary widely.
Frequently asked questions
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