How To Earn Tier Qualifying Points Southwest

Let's talk about a fun little game many of us love to play: flying! And when it comes to flying and getting rewarded, Southwest Airlines has a pretty neat system. We're diving into how to earn Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) with Southwest, and trust me, it's not as complicated as it sounds. Think of it as unlocking secret levels in your travel adventures, making every flight a step closer to some pretty sweet perks.

So, why bother with TQPs? Well, they are your key to Southwest's Companion Pass and A-List status. For the beginner flyer just starting to explore the skies, earning TQPs can be a gentle introduction to loyalty programs. It makes those first few trips feel more significant. For families planning their next vacation, the Companion Pass is an absolute game-changer, essentially letting one person fly free with you on every flight booked with points or cash! Imagine the savings and the extra trips you could take. And for the hobbyist traveler who loves to jet-set, TQPs are the fuel that powers bigger travel goals, offering benefits like priority boarding and dedicated customer service that make the whole experience smoother and more enjoyable.

The beauty of earning TQPs with Southwest is its simplicity. Unlike some other airlines that require a complex mix of miles and segments, Southwest keeps it straightforward. You earn TQPs based on the fare you pay. The more you spend on your flight, the more TQPs you earn. It's a direct correlation – cash spent equals TQPs earned. For instance, if you book a Wanna Get Away fare, you'll earn 6 TQPs per dollar spent. Book a Business Select fare, and you're looking at 12 TQPs per dollar. Even a Anytime fare nets you 8 TQPs per dollar. So, depending on your budget and flexibility, you can tailor your ticket choice to maximize your TQP earnings.

Getting started is easier than packing a carry-on! First, make sure you're signed up for the Southwest Rapid Rewards program. It's free! Then, every time you book a flight, just make sure your Rapid Rewards number is linked to your reservation. That's it! The TQPs will automatically be added to your account after you complete your travel. For those who travel frequently, consider Southwest's credit cards. Many of them offer a generous sign-up bonus of TQPs, giving you a significant head start towards your goals, especially the coveted Companion Pass.

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Think about it: a few well-planned trips throughout the year, perhaps a couple of longer family vacations and some spontaneous weekend getaways, can easily put you in the running for the Companion Pass. It’s not about flying every single week, but rather about being smart with your travel choices. You might even find yourself choosing Southwest for your next business trip simply because of the TQP earning potential.

Ultimately, earning Tier Qualifying Points with Southwest is about making your travel work for you. It’s a fun and accessible way to get more value out of your flights, unlocking benefits that can lead to significant savings and a more comfortable travel experience. So, happy flying, and may your TQPs soar!