Best Credit Card for Southwest Airlines in 2026
We ranked every major cash back credit card by what you actually earn at Southwest Airlines. The top pick earns 10% — here's the full breakdown.
8 cards earning 2%+ at Southwest Airlines · sorted by highest cash back · updated Q1 2026
Why #1: Top pick: earns 10% cash back at Southwest Airlines — the highest rate available. Annual fee of $395/yr is easily offset by heavy use.
Why #2: Top pick: earns 8% cash back at Southwest Airlines — the highest rate available. Annual fee of $795/yr is easily offset by heavy use.
Why #3: Top pick: earns 5% cash back at Southwest Airlines — the highest rate available. No annual fee required.
Why #4: Top pick: earns 5% cash back at Southwest Airlines — the highest rate available. No annual fee required.
Why #5: Top pick: earns 5% cash back at Southwest Airlines — the highest rate available. No annual fee required.
Why #6: Top pick: earns 5% cash back at Southwest Airlines — the highest rate available. No annual fee required.
Why #7: Top pick: earns 5% cash back at Southwest Airlines — the highest rate available. Annual fee of $95/yr is easily offset by heavy use.
Why #8: Solid 3% cash back at Southwest Airlines with no activation needed. No annual fee — easy to hold long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best credit card to use at Southwest Airlines?
The best card at Southwest Airlines right now is the Capital One Venture X Rewards, earning 10% cash back. 10x miles on hotels & rental cars via Capital One Travel
Does any credit card offer more than 2% at Southwest Airlines?
Yes — the Capital One Venture X Rewards at 10%, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® at 8%, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® at 5% all earn above 2% at Southwest Airlines.
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