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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus: Worth the £99 Fee?
With 50,000 bonus points for new cardmembers and 2X points on select purchases, is the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card truly a traveler's best friend?
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 features a £99 annual fee and rewards 2X points on Southwest Airlines purchases and on the first £5,000 at gas stations and grocery stores. The regular APR ranges from 21.49% to 28.49% variable.
Rates shown are representative. Your actual rate depends on your credit profile. This is not financial advice.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
Solid travel perks but watch the APR.
Fees & Rates
According to Chase, the card carries an annual fee of £99. The APR varies between 21.49% and 28.49%, depending on your creditworthiness. There's no introductory APR offer, so be prepared for these rates from day one. The rewards rate stands at 2X points for Southwest Airlines purchases and specific gas and grocery store spends, then drops to 1X on other purchases. Be aware: there's a foreign transaction fee of 3%, which is a downside for international travelers.
What's Actually Good
The 50,000 bonus points are enticing, especially if you're a frequent Southwest flyer. Add the 3,000 anniversary points each year, and it starts to soften the annual fee blow. The first checked bag free is a nice touch for regular travelers. Plus, the 2X points on Southwest purchases and select spending categories can add up quickly if those align with your usual expenses.
The Catch
The hefty APR is a major consideration. If you don't pay off your balance each month, the interest could outweigh any rewards earned. The £99 annual fee needs to be justified by your spending and earning patterns. Additionally, the 3% foreign transaction fee makes it less appealing for those who travel internationally.
This Card Is For You If...
You're a Southwest Airlines loyalist who flies domestically often and can leverage the 2X points on gas and grocery stores. Ideal for someone with a credit score above 700 who pays their balance in full each month to avoid the steep APR.
The Bottom Line
If you're a frequent Southwest flyer and can make the most of the bonus points and rewards categories, the rewards might justify the annual fee. However, those who travel internationally or carry a balance might find better options elsewhere. For an alternative with no foreign transaction fees, check out Capital One SavorOne Student: Cash Back and No Fees.
