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Program Comparison

United MileagePlus vs Southwest Rapid Rewards

A detailed comparison of United MileagePlus and Southwest Rapid Rewards to help you decide which loyalty program is the best fit for your travel needs.

United MileagePlus

United Airlines

Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest Airlines

Star Alliance
Alliance
None
miles
Currency
points
5 base miles per $1 on eligible United flights. Elite bonuses: Silver +40%, Gold +60%, Platinum +80%, 1K +100%
Earn Rate
Business Select 14 pts/$, Anytime 10 pts/$, Wanna Get Away Plus 6 pts/$, Wanna Get Away 2 pts/$. A-List +25% bonus, A-List Preferred +100% bonus
1.2¢ per mile
Avg Value
1.4¢ per point
Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, Premier 1K, Global Services
Elite Tiers
A-List, A-List Preferred
Miles do not expire as long as the account is open and in good standing
Expiration
Points do not expire as long as the account is active and in good standing
Marriott Bonvoy, Chase Ultimate Rewards
Transfer Partners
Chase Ultimate Rewards (incoming only)
Frequent domestic US travelers and Star Alliance flyers based at United hubs (ORD, EWR, IAH, SFO, DEN)
Best For
Budget-conscious domestic travelers who value flexibility, free checked bags, and no change fees

Choose United MileagePlus if you...

Frequent domestic US travelers and Star Alliance flyers based at United hubs (ORD, EWR, IAH, SFO, DEN). United Airlines' loyalty program offering miles for flights, upgrades, and partner purchases across the Star Alliance network.

Choose Southwest Rapid Rewards if you...

Budget-conscious domestic travelers who value flexibility, free checked bags, and no change fees. Southwest Airlines' loyalty program with no blackout dates, no change fees, and revenue-based earning. Companion Pass available at 135,000 qualifying points or 100 flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, United MileagePlus or Southwest Rapid Rewards?

It depends on your travel patterns. United MileagePlus is best for frequent domestic us travelers and star alliance flyers based at united hubs (ord, ewr, iah, sfo, den). Southwest Rapid Rewards is best for budget-conscious domestic travelers who value flexibility, free checked bags, and no change fees. Consider your home airport, preferred destinations, and how often you travel when choosing.

Do United MileagePlus or Southwest Rapid Rewards miles expire?

United MileagePlus: Miles do not expire as long as the account is open and in good standing. Southwest Rapid Rewards: Points do not expire as long as the account is active and in good standing.

Can I transfer points between United MileagePlus and Southwest Rapid Rewards?

There is no direct transfer relationship between United MileagePlus and Southwest Rapid Rewards. You would need to earn points separately in each program.

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