Alaska Companion Fare Guide – How to Earn, Use & Maximize Your Travel Savings

Alaska Companion Fare: The Ultimate Guide to Earning and Using This Travel Perk

If you’re a frequent traveler or simply someone looking to get the most value from your airline loyalty, the Alaska Companion Fare is one of the best perks available. Offered through the Alaska Airlines credit card program, this benefit can unlock hundreds of dollars in savings annually. But what exactly is the Alaska Companion Fare, how does it work, and how can you maximize its value?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Alaska Companion Fare, from eligibility and booking to tips for getting the most out of your benefit.

What Is the Alaska Companion Fare?

The Alaska Companion Fare is a travel benefit provided to holders of the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card and Alaska Airlines Visa Business card. It allows you to book a second ticket on the same itinerary for just $99 (plus taxes and fees starting at $23) when you purchase a paid roundtrip coach ticket on Alaska Airlines.

In other words, you can bring a friend or family member along for a roundtrip domestic or international flight for a fraction of the regular price, making it one of the most generous travel rewards available through any airline credit card.

How to Get the Alaska Companion Fare

To qualify for the Alaska Companion Fare, you’ll need to apply for and be approved for the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card. Once you’re approved and meet the initial spending requirements (typically within the first 90 days), you’ll receive your first Alaska Companion Fare code.

Even better, cardholders receive one Alaska Companion Fare annually on their account anniversary, provided the account remains in good standing.

Booking with the Alaska Companion Fare

Booking with the Alaska Companion Fare is straightforward. Here’s how it works:

1. Log in to your Mileage Plan account at alaskaair.com.

2. Navigate to “Discount and companion fare codes.”

3. Find your Alaska Companion Fare code and click “Shop.”

4. Choose your flights – both the primary traveler and companion must fly on the same itinerary.

5. Apply the code at checkout.

You’ll pay for one ticket at full price, and the second ticket will cost $99 plus applicable taxes and fees. The Alaska Companion Fare can be used for both domestic and select international flights operated by Alaska Airlines.

Restrictions and Fine Print

Like any travel perk, the Alaska Companion Fare comes with a few restrictions:

• Must be used on Alaska Airlines-operated flights only. Codes are not valid for codeshare or partner flights.

• Valid for economy class fares only. However, once booked, travelers can often upgrade using miles or cash.

• Both travelers must fly the same itinerary.

• Expiration dates apply. The Alaska Companion Fare code expires 12 months from the issue date, but travel can occur after that, as long as it’s booked before expiration.

Maximizing the Alaska Companion Fare

To get the best value from the Alaska Companion Fare, consider the following strategies:

1. Use it on longer, more expensive flights. The more expensive the base fare, the more money you save on the second ticket.

2. Fly during peak seasons. Traveling during holidays or summer months when fares are higher increases your overall savings.

3. Book early. Alaska Airlines’ lowest fares can sell out quickly, so plan ahead to secure the best itinerary and price.

4. Combine with sales. Occasionally, Alaska Airlines offers flash sales. Combine these with your Alaska Companion Fare to maximize value.

Why the Alaska Companion Fare Stands Out

Compared to companion fares offered by other airlines, the Alaska Companion Fare is particularly valuable because:

• There are no blackout dates.

• It’s available every year as a cardholder benefit.

• It covers both domestic and select international flights.

• You can earn miles on both tickets when traveling.

It’s rare to find a benefit that provides such reliable value year after year, especially for those who travel frequently or enjoy trips with family or a partner.

Is the Alaska Companion Fare Worth It?

Absolutely—if you fly Alaska Airlines even once or twice a year with another person, the Alaska Companion Fare can more than cover the cost of the annual credit card fee (typically around $95). For frequent West Coast travelers, families, and couples, this perk can lead to significant savings on airfare.

Final Thoughts

The Alaska Companion Fare is a standout benefit in the world of travel rewards. It’s easy to use, renews annually, and can lead to hundreds of dollars in savings on Alaska Airlines flights. Whether you’re flying to Seattle, Anchorage, Hawaii, or across the country, having access to this fare can make your travel more affordable—and more enjoyable.

If you haven’t already, consider applying for the Alaska Airlines Visa card to unlock this powerful benefit. And if you already have one, don’t let your Alaska Companion Fare go to waste—book your next trip today and save big.