If you're a frequent flyer or simply planning a trip with a companion, the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare can be one of the best travel perks available. Exclusive to Alaska Airlines credit cardholders, this benefit allows you to bring a travel partner along for as low as $122 ($99 fare + taxes and fees) when booking a round-trip flight. But how does Alaska Companion Fare work, and how can you maximize its value?
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to use Companion Fare Alaska, how to book, the rules you need to know, and tips to get the most out of this valuable travel benefit.
What is the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare?
The Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is a reward issued to eligible cardholders of the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card and the Alaska Airlines Business Credit Card. Once per year, cardholders receive a companion fare discount code, allowing them to purchase a second round-trip ticket for a companion for just $99 plus taxes and fees (typically around $22).
This benefit applies to coach (economy class) travel on Alaska Airlines-operated flights, including some destinations in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica.
How Does Alaska Companion Fare Work?
The process of using the Companion Fare Alaska Airlines benefit is straightforward but requires understanding a few key rules. Here’s a breakdown of how Alaska Companion Fare works:
Eligibility: You must be a primary cardholder of an eligible Alaska Airlines credit card. Each year, upon card anniversary or meeting initial spend requirements, you’ll receive a discount code in your Mileage Plan account.
Booking Together: The fare applies only when two travelers book a round-trip, same itinerary together. Both travelers must fly on the same flights and dates.
Discounted Companion Ticket: The companion pays only $99 + taxes/fees for the same ticket. The primary traveler pays the full fare (non-sale economy class rates).
Where to Book: You can redeem the code only on AlaskaAir.com while logged into your Mileage Plan account. It cannot be redeemed via third-party websites or travel agents.
Expiration: The code is valid for one year from the issue date, but you only need to book within that year — the actual flight can occur later.
How to Use Companion Fare Alaska (Step-by-Step)
Let’s walk through the steps to use your Companion Fare Alaska code:
Step 1: Log in to Your Mileage Plan Account
Visit alaskaair.com and sign in with your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan credentials. Go to "Discount and Companion Fare Codes" to view your active code.
Step 2: Start a Flight Search
Click "Shop" from your Companion Fare dashboard. Enter your origin, destination, travel dates, and select 2 passengers.
Step 3: Choose Eligible Flights
Make sure your chosen flights are operated entirely by Alaska Airlines. Codeshares and partner airlines (like American Airlines or British Airways) are not eligible.
Step 4: Apply the Companion Fare Code
The system will automatically apply your Companion Fare code from your account if you started the search from the correct section. You’ll see a breakdown of fares showing the primary fare and the discounted companion fare.
Step 5: Complete Your Booking
Proceed with checkout as normal. You’ll pay the full fare for the first ticket and $99 + taxes and fees for the second. Both passengers will be on the same itinerary.
Where Can You Use the Alaska Companion Fare?
The Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is valid for flights to:
All 50 U.S. states
Canada
Mexico
Costa Rica
This includes destinations like Honolulu, Los Angeles, Anchorage, Vancouver, and San José (Costa Rica), as long as the flights are operated by Alaska Airlines.
Restrictions of the Alaska Companion Fare
While the Companion Fare Alaska Airlines is incredibly valuable, there are a few important rules to keep in mind:
No Partner Airlines: Only valid on Alaska Airlines flights. You cannot use it on partner airlines like American or Qantas.
Round-Trip Only: One-way or multi-city itineraries are not eligible.
Same Itinerary: Both travelers must book and fly together on the same itinerary.
Coach Class Only: The fare is limited to economy class bookings.
Non-Refundable: Once booked, these tickets are non-refundable. Changes may result in a fare difference.
Tips to Maximize Your Alaska Airlines Companion Fare
To get the best value from the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare, consider the following tips:
1. Use for Expensive Routes
Try to use your Companion Fare for flights that typically cost more, such as coast-to-coast or Hawaii routes. The higher the base fare, the more you save on the second ticket.
2. Book Early
Since availability can be limited, especially during holidays or peak travel seasons, booking in advance gives you the best chance to find eligible flights.
3. Combine with Sales (When Possible)
Although Companion Fares can’t always be combined with Alaska’s lowest fares, you can still find good deals on many dates if you’re flexible.
4. Check Taxes and Fees
While the base fare is $99, the total cost for the companion can rise slightly due to route-specific taxes. Always review the final total before booking.
5. Use Your Companion Fare Strategically
You only get one per year, so save it for a trip where paying full price for two tickets would otherwise be cost-prohibitive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use the Companion Fare for a child or minor?
Yes, you can book the companion ticket for anyone, including children, as long as both passengers are on the same reservation.
Q2: What happens if I cancel my Companion Fare flight?
If you cancel, you may receive credit for future travel, but you’ll lose the Companion Fare code unless you rebook quickly under certain conditions.
Q3: Can I upgrade the Companion Fare ticket?
Yes, you may be able to upgrade using miles or paid options if there is space, but the fare must still be booked in economy class initially.
Q4: Can I transfer the Companion Fare to someone else?
No. Only the cardholder can redeem the code, though the companion can be anyone of your choice.
Conclusion
Now that you understand how to use Companion Fare Alaska, it’s clear why this benefit is one of the top reasons travelers choose the Alaska Airlines credit card. With potential savings of hundreds of dollars per year, the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is perfect for couples, families, and friends who want to travel together affordably.
From how Alaska Companion Fare works to tips on finding the best deals, this guide gives you everything you need to book your next trip confidently. Don’t let your Companion Fare go unused—log in, plan ahead, and start saving on your next adventure with Companion Fare Alaska Airlines.
