How many times have you asked a friend who is going away to take you with or pack you in their suitcase? While we reckon that being cramped up in 55-inch bag for several hours may not be ideal, there is a way to travel for a reduced rate.
Introducing: the companion pass. If you are a frequent flier, the certificate allows you to bring a relative or friend on your flight for a discounted price, or, in some cases, for free. Although there are some restrictions that apply, it is for the most part a really good deal.
Here are 3 airlines that let you take advantage.
Southwest Airlines
When it comes to airlines in the United States, no one beats Southwest’s companion pass. It allows an additional person to come on each flight for free, as long as taxes and fees are paid for. All you need to earn the pass is take at least 100 Southwest flights during a calendar year, or achieve 35,000 Rapid Rewards points in the same timeframe. The pass is then valid for the remainder of the calendar year, as well as the following year.
British Airways
You’ll need a British Airways Visa Signature Credit Card for this one. Spending $30,000 in a calendar year will earn you a British Airways Travel Together Ticket that can be used in both economy and business class. The round-trip flight must originate in the US, and you’ll still have to pay in taxes and fees, as well as carrier chargers.
Lufthansa
The German airline offers a companion ticket to those who make a purchase with their Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard during the first year. As always, taxes and fees must still be paid, but it does result in an economy-class ticket for a round-trip flight from the US to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, or Asia. Cardholders can also expect to receive another companion ticket on each anniversary of their card.