Is the Alaska Airlines credit card worth it is a question many U.S. travelers are asking in 2025 as Alaska Airlines continues to evolve its rewards program and credit card benefits. With recent updates to its loyalty structure, companion perks, and premium card options, the Alaska Airlines credit card has gained renewed attention among frequent flyers and casual travelers alike.
This article provides a fully factual, current, and detailed look at whether the Alaska Airlines credit card delivers real value today, based on confirmed benefits and fees available as of now.
What the Alaska Airlines Credit Card Offers Today
The Alaska Airlines credit card is issued by Bank of America and is tied directly to Alaska Airlines’ loyalty program, which now integrates benefits across Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines. Cardholders earn airline rewards on everyday spending while unlocking travel perks that apply when flying Alaska-operated flights.
There are multiple consumer card options, including a standard version with a moderate annual fee and a premium version with higher-end travel benefits. Each card targets different types of travelers, but all share a core set of airline-focused advantages.
Free Checked Bags Can Add Immediate Value
One of the most practical benefits of the Alaska Airlines credit card is the free first checked bag for the cardholder and eligible companions on the same reservation.
This benefit alone can result in significant savings:
- One round trip with a checked bag can offset most or all of the annual fee.
- Families or couples traveling together see even greater value.
- The benefit applies each time airfare is purchased with the card.
For travelers who routinely check bags, this feature remains one of the strongest reasons the Alaska Airlines credit card is worth considering.
Companion Fare Benefits Explained
A standout feature of the Alaska Airlines credit card is the annual companion fare, which allows a second traveler to fly on the same itinerary for a reduced base fare plus taxes and fees.
Key points about the companion fare:
- It is available each year after meeting the card’s eligibility requirements.
- It can be used on paid Alaska Airlines flights.
- It is valid for travel within eligible routes served by Alaska.
For travelers who regularly fly with a spouse, partner, or family member, the companion fare often delivers value far exceeding the card’s annual cost.
Premium Card Perks for Frequent Flyers
Alaska also offers a premium credit card option designed for travelers who fly more often or take international trips.
Additional premium benefits include:
- Faster earning toward elite status through credit card spending.
- Enhanced companion travel benefits that can be used on reward tickets.
- Airport lounge-related perks and priority travel services.
While the premium card carries a higher annual fee, frequent Alaska flyers may find the added comfort, status acceleration, and companion benefits worthwhile.
Earning Rewards on Everyday Spending
The Alaska Airlines credit card allows cardholders to earn airline rewards not only on flights but also on everyday purchases.
Typical earning categories include:
- Alaska Airlines purchases
- Select travel-related spending
- General everyday spending
Rewards earned can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and partner airline travel. For travelers loyal to Alaska Airlines, these rewards integrate seamlessly with flight bookings and elite benefits.
Elite Status Boost Without Flying More
One of the most important updates in recent years is the ability to earn elite-qualifying progress through credit card spending.
This feature matters because:
- Travelers can move closer to elite status even during lighter travel years.
- Benefits like priority boarding and seat selection become easier to achieve.
- Business travelers and remote workers benefit from flexible qualification paths.
For those pursuing elite status without increasing flight frequency, this benefit adds meaningful long-term value.
Inflight Savings and Travel Discounts
Cardholders receive savings on eligible inflight purchases, including food, beverages, and onboard services.
Additional benefits may include:
- Priority boarding on Alaska flights
- Discounts on lounge access memberships
- Occasional travel-related statement credits
These smaller perks combine to improve the overall travel experience, especially for frequent flyers.
Annual Fee vs. Real-World Value
To determine whether the Alaska Airlines credit card is worth it, travelers should compare the annual fee against the value of benefits they will realistically use.
The card tends to make sense if you:
- Fly Alaska Airlines at least once or twice per year
- Travel with a companion regularly
- Check bags on most trips
- Want airline-specific rewards rather than flexible points
If you rarely fly Alaska or prefer flexible travel rewards usable across many airlines, a general travel credit card may be a better fit.
Who Should Consider the Alaska Airlines Credit Card
The Alaska Airlines credit card is best suited for:
- Alaska Airlines loyalists
- West Coast travelers who frequently use Alaska routes
- Couples and families who can use the companion fare
- Flyers pursuing elite status benefits
It may be less appealing for travelers who:
- Rarely fly Alaska Airlines
- Prefer no-annual-fee credit cards
- Want rewards usable across many airlines and hotels
Is the Alaska Airlines Credit Card Worth It Overall?
When evaluating all confirmed benefits available in 2025, the answer to is the Alaska Airlines credit card worth it depends largely on travel habits. For frequent Alaska flyers and companion travelers, the combination of free checked bags, companion fares, elite status progress, and airline-specific rewards often delivers value well beyond the annual fee.
For occasional travelers who do not consistently fly Alaska, the value may be more limited, making flexible travel cards a stronger alternative.
What do you think—does the Alaska Airlines credit card fit your travel style, or do you prefer a different rewards strategy? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for more travel insights.