Best Credit Card for Southwest Airlines
Compare the top credit cards to maximize your rewards every time you shop at Southwest Airlines.
Choosing the right card for this category can meaningfully boost your overall rewards return on everyday spending.
Top Pick
Chase Freedom Flex
5x on Chase Travel (Q2 2026) - Purchases through the Chase Travel portal. Note: Freedom Flex earns 4x on Chase Travel year-round, so this quarter effectively earns 9x on Chase Travel.
Note: This card has a combined $1,500 spending cap across ALL rotating categories this period. Earnings above this amount will be at the base rate. Remember to activate between 3/1/2026 - 6/14/2026.
More Good Options
Credit One Bank Cash BackCredit One Bank Wander American Express Card10xpts/dollar10.0%return10x on Rental Cars
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U.S. Bank FlexPerksU.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite10xpts/dollar10.0%return10x on Car Rentals (Travel Center)
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Bilt RewardsBilt Palladium Card2xpts/dollar4.0%return2x base rate (no bonus for Car Rentals)
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Rewards Calculator
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Common Questions
What is the best credit card to use at Southwest Airlines?
The Chase Freedom Flex is currently the top pick at Southwest Airlines, earning 5x points per dollar — an effective 10.0% return. 5x on Chase Travel (Q2 2026) - Purchases through the Chase Travel portal. Note: Freedom Flex earns 4x on Chase Travel year-round, so this quarter effectively earns 9x on Chase Travel.
How many points do I earn at Southwest Airlines per dollar spent?
Top cards earn between 2x and 10x at Southwest Airlines. Leading options include: Chase Freedom Flex (5x), Credit One Bank Wander American Express Card (10x), U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite (10x).
Does Southwest Airlines count as car rentals for credit card rewards?
Southwest Airlines typically falls under the Car Rentals category for credit card reward purposes. Cards with a car rentals spending bonus will earn an elevated rate here. Choosing the right card for this category can meaningfully boost your overall rewards return on everyday spending.
Is there a no-annual-fee card that earns well at Southwest Airlines?
Yes — the Chase Freedom Flex has no annual fee and earns 5x at Southwest Airlines (10.0% effective return). 5x on Chase Travel (Q2 2026) - Purchases through the Chase Travel portal. Note: Freedom Flex earns 4x on Chase Travel year-round, so this quarter effectively earns 9x on Chase Travel.