Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines? Fantastic choice! Known for their unique open seating and "Bags Fly Free" policy, Southwest offers a distinct travel experience. But before you can enjoy those perks, you need to check in. And if you're like many travelers, you might be wondering, "How exactly do I check in on Southwest Airlines to get the best possible boarding position?"
Well, you've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the Southwest Airlines check-in process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your journey. Let's dive in!
Understanding Southwest's Boarding Process
Before we get into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand Southwest's unique boarding system. Unlike most airlines that assign specific seats, Southwest uses an "open seating" policy. Your boarding pass will display a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position number (1-60+) within that group (e.g., A35). This group and number determine your place in the boarding line.
The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position is likely to be, giving you more choices for seats and overhead bin space. This is why understanding the check-in timing is paramount!
Step 1: When Can You Check In? Timing is Everything!
This is perhaps the most critical piece of information for Southwest flyers. If you want a good boarding position, you need to be ready to check in as soon as the window opens.
Sub-heading: The Standard 24-Hour Window
For most Southwest passengers, online check-in opens exactly 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure time. Set a reminder, an alarm, or even recruit a friend if you're going to be busy! The earlier you check in within this window, the better your boarding position will be.
Pro Tip: If your flight is at 3:00 PM on a Saturday, you can check in starting at 3:00 PM on Friday. Be punctual – every second counts for those coveted "A" boarding positions!
Sub-heading: EarlyBird Check-In: The Convenience Option
Do you want to avoid the 24-hour check-in scramble? Southwest offers an optional service called EarlyBird Check-In®.
What it is: If you purchase EarlyBird Check-In, Southwest automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight's departure. This is 12 hours before the general 24-hour check-in opens, giving you a significantly better chance at an earlier boarding position (A or early B group).
Benefits:
Automatic Check-in: No need to set alarms; Southwest handles it for you.
Better Boarding Position: Generally, you'll receive an earlier boarding group and number, leading to more seat choices (window, aisle, front of the plane) and better access to overhead bin space.
Reduced Stress: Peace of mind knowing your boarding position is secured.
Cost: EarlyBird Check-In comes with a fee, which can vary based on the popularity and length of your flight, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight.
How to purchase: You can add EarlyBird Check-In during the initial booking process or add it later to an existing reservation up to 36 hours before departure (subject to availability).
Note: While EarlyBird Check-In significantly improves your chances, it does not guarantee an A1-A15 boarding position, as those are primarily reserved for Business Select fares.
Sub-heading: Business Select, Anytime Fares, and Rapid Rewards A-List
If you've purchased a Business Select fare, Anytime fare, or are a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred or A-List Member, you already receive priority boarding benefits. Southwest will automatically reserve your boarding position 36 hours before departure. You'll still need to retrieve your boarding pass within the 24-hour window, but your position is secured.
Step 2: Choosing Your Check-in Method
Southwest offers several convenient ways to check in. Pick the one that suits you best!
Sub-heading: Online Check-in (Recommended)
This is by far the most popular and recommended method for checking in with Southwest due to its speed and efficiency.
Access the Southwest Website or App:
Go to Southwest.com on your computer.
Download and open the Southwest Airlines mobile app (available for iOS and Android). The app is highly recommended for its ease of use and mobile boarding pass feature.
Navigate to the "Check In" Section: On the homepage of the website or the main screen of the app, you'll see a prominent "Check In" button or link. Click or tap on it.
Enter Your Information: You'll need one of the following to retrieve your reservation:
Your Confirmation Number (a 6-character alphanumeric code you received when you booked your flight).
Your Rapid Rewards Number (if you're a member and linked it to your booking).
Your first and last name as they appear on your reservation.
Retrieve Your Reservation: After entering the details, click "Check In" or "Retrieve Reservation."
Review Your Flight Details: Confirm that the flight displayed is the correct one.
Confirm Check-in: Follow the prompts to confirm your check-in. You may be asked to acknowledge baggage policies or other travel information.
Obtain Your Boarding Pass: Once checked in, you'll be assigned your boarding group and position. You'll then have several options for your boarding pass:
Mobile Boarding Pass: This is the easiest! If using the app, your boarding pass will be accessible directly within the app. You can also add it to your Apple Wallet (iOS) or Google Pay (Android) for quick access. This is generally accepted at security checkpoints and for boarding.
Print at Home: You can print your boarding pass directly from the Southwest website.
Email: Have your boarding pass emailed to you, which you can then print or display on your mobile device.
Text Message: Receive a link to your mobile boarding pass via text message.
Sub-heading: Airport Check-in (Less Recommended for Priority)
While convenient for some, checking in at the airport generally does not result in the best boarding positions compared to online check-in, as many people will have already checked in online.
Self-Service Kiosk:
Locate a Southwest self-service kiosk at the airport.
Follow the on-screen instructions. You'll typically need your confirmation number, Rapid Rewards number, or a credit card used for booking.
Print your boarding pass.
Southwest Ticket Counter:
Head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
A Customer Service Agent will assist you with checking in and printing your boarding pass. You'll need to present a valid photo ID.
Curbside Check-in (Select Locations):
At some airports, Southwest offers curbside check-in. You can check in and drop off your bags without going inside the terminal. You'll need your photo ID and flight information.
Important: If you are traveling internationally, or with specific requirements (e.g., unaccompanied minor, pet, certain international destinations), you may be required to check in at the airport ticket counter for document verification, even if you check in online.
Step 3: What to Do After Checking In
Congratulations, you're checked in! But what's next?
Sub-heading: Understanding Your Boarding Pass
Your Southwest boarding pass will prominently display your:
Boarding Group (A, B, or C): This tells you which group you'll board with. "A" is first, then "B," then "C."
Position Number (1-60+): This number indicates your specific place within your assigned group. So, A15 boards before A16, B30 before B31, and so on.
Sub-heading: Bag Drop (if applicable)
If you have checked bags, even if you checked in online:
Proceed to the Bag Drop: Look for the designated "Bag Drop" area or the main Southwest ticket counter.
Present ID and Boarding Pass: Hand over your ID and boarding pass to the agent.
Bags Tagged: Your bags will be weighed and tagged, and you'll receive a claim check. Remember, Southwest allows two free checked bags per passenger (size and weight restrictions apply).
Sub-heading: Head to Security
With your boarding pass in hand (mobile or printed) and bags checked, proceed to the TSA security checkpoint. Have your ID ready to present to the TSA agent.
Sub-heading: Arrive at the Gate Early
Southwest typically begins boarding as early as 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure. It's recommended to be in the gate area no later than 30 minutes before your flight. All passengers must have their boarding pass and be available for boarding at least 10 minutes prior to departure, or Southwest may cancel your reserved space.
Sub-heading: Boarding the Aircraft
When your boarding group is called (e.g., "Now boarding Group A, positions 1-30"), find your designated place in line at the numbered posts in the gate area. Board the aircraft in numerical order within your group. Once onboard, simply choose any available seat and stow your carry-on items in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get the best boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
The best way is to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time, or purchase EarlyBird Check-In for automatic check-in 36 hours prior.
How to check in online for Southwest Airlines?
Go to Southwest.com or use the Southwest mobile app, click "Check In," enter your confirmation number and last name, and follow the prompts.
How to use a mobile boarding pass for Southwest?
After checking in via the Southwest app, your mobile boarding pass will be available directly in the app. You can also add it to your phone's wallet (Apple Wallet/Google Pay) for easy access.
How to print a Southwest boarding pass at home?
After checking in on Southwest.com, you'll be given the option to print your boarding pass directly from your computer.
How to check in bags after checking in online with Southwest?
Proceed to the Southwest Airlines bag drop area or ticket counter at the airport, present your ID and boarding pass, and your bags will be tagged.
How to check in for an international Southwest flight?
While you can often start the check-in process online, for international flights (excluding some destinations like Aruba, Havana, Punta Cana), you'll likely need to present your passport at the airport ticket counter or a kiosk for verification before your boarding pass is fully issued.
How to add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing Southwest reservation?
You can usually add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing reservation on Southwest.com or via the app, typically up to 36 hours prior to your flight's departure, subject to availability.
How to know my boarding group and position on Southwest?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position number (1-60+) will be displayed on your boarding pass once you have successfully checked in.
How to change my seat on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest has open seating, so you don't pick a seat when you check in. Your boarding position simply determines when you get to board and choose from the available seats.
How to resolve check-in issues with Southwest Airlines?
If you encounter any problems during check-in, first try troubleshooting on the Southwest website or app. If the issue persists, contact Southwest Airlines customer service via phone or visit a ticket agent at the airport.
