How to Use Companion Fare Alaska: A Complete Guide to the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare

Travelers looking for ways to save on airfare often overlook one of the most valuable perks in the industry: the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare. If you're a frequent flyer or even planning a single trip with a companion, understanding how this fare works can unlock major savings. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the companion fare Alaska Airlines offers, from eligibility to booking and tips on maximizing its value.

What Is the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare?

The Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is a special travel benefit offered to holders of eligible Alaska Airlines credit cards. It allows a traveler to book a round-trip coach fare and bring a companion along on the same itinerary for a discounted rate—often just $99 plus taxes and fees (usually starting at $23). This benefit can be used once per year and is one of the most generous travel perks among U.S. airlines.

Key Benefits:

• Book a second ticket for only $99 + taxes/fees

• Valid for round-trip travel on Alaska Airlines-operated flights

• Usable once per year per credit card account

How Does Alaska Companion Fare Work?

So, how does Alaska companion fare work in practice? Here’s a breakdown:

1. Receive the Code: After your first year with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature credit card (or eligible card), you’ll receive a unique Companion Fare code in your Mileage Plan account.

2. Book the Primary Fare: You must book the first traveler at the regular published fare directly through Alaska Airlines.

3. Apply the Companion Fare Code: During checkout, enter your code to add a second passenger to the booking for $99 plus taxes.

4. Complete the Purchase: Pay for both tickets using your Alaska Airlines credit card.

5. Travel Together: Both passengers must be on the same itinerary and fly together on all legs of the trip.

How to Use Companion Fare Alaska Effectively

Using the companion fare Alaska efficiently can result in big savings, especially on longer or more expensive routes. Here's how to get the most out of it:

1. Book Early

The best fares and flight availability go fast. Book early to maximize value and find your preferred flights.

2. Choose Longer Routes

The more expensive the route, the more you save. Flights to Hawaii, Alaska, or the East Coast offer better returns.

3. Avoid Upgrades

The companion fare only applies to coach fares. Any changes or upgrades after booking could disqualify the discount.

4. Use Points + Companion Fare

While you can't use Mileage Plan miles to pay for the primary ticket in a companion fare booking, you can earn miles on both tickets.

Booking the Companion Fare: Step-by-Step

1. Login to your Mileage Plan account

2. Click on “Discount and Companion Fare Codes”

3. Find your Companion Fare Code and click “Shop”

4. Enter your travel details (origin, destination, dates)

5. Select flights and proceed to checkout

6. The Companion Fare will automatically apply, showing the discounted second ticket

Restrictions to Keep in Mind

While the Alaska Airlines companion fare is an incredible value, there are some limitations:

• Both tickets must be round-trip and on the same itinerary

• The fare is valid only on Alaska Airlines flights (not codeshares)

• Valid only for coach class (no First Class bookings)

• Must book through AlaskaAir.com using the cardholder's account

• The primary traveler must pay with their Alaska Airlines credit card

Tips for Maximizing the Companion Fare

• Pair it with sales: Combine it with seasonal deals for even greater savings

• Use for holiday travel: Save the fare for high-demand periods like Thanksgiving or Christmas

• Fly to expensive destinations: Use it for routes like New York to Anchorage or Seattle to Maui

• Add a stopover: On one-way segments, Alaska allows stopovers on award flights—check if this is possible with companion fare too

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I upgrade my seat after booking?

Yes, but only the primary traveler may be eligible for an upgrade using elite status or miles. The companion fare is for coach tickets only.

What happens if I cancel the trip?

If you cancel your trip, the Companion Fare code will be forfeited unless Alaska Airlines offers an exception due to special circumstances (e.g., COVID-related changes).

Is the Companion Fare transferable?

The companion traveler can be anyone you choose, but the primary traveler must be the cardholder.

When does the Companion Fare expire?

The code expires one year from the date of issue, and travel must be completed within that year.

Can I use the fare for one-way trips?

No, the companion fare Alaska Airlines benefit only applies to round-trip travel.

Final Thoughts

For those who fly at least once a year with a companion, the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is a fantastic perk that easily offsets the annual credit card fee. From romantic getaways and family vacations to bucket-list destinations, it offers exceptional value. Now that you know how does Alaska companion fare work, make sure to plan your next trip wisely to unlock the maximum benefits.

Whether you're a Mileage Plan member or considering getting the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card, the companion fare is a reason to fly smarter and travel more. Use this guide to book confidently and make the most of your companion fare Alaska Airlines adventure.