Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines? One of the unique aspects of Southwest's boarding process is its open seating policy, which makes when you check in particularly important for snagging your preferred seat and overhead bin space. So, the burning question is: How early can you check in on Southwest Airlines? Let's dive deep into all the ways you can ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your journey!
Step 1: Are you ready to beat the boarding rush?
Before we even get into the nitty-gritty of check-in times, ask yourself: How important is your boarding position to you? If you're someone who values getting an aisle or window seat, or ensuring your carry-on has a spot in the overhead bin, then paying close attention to check-in times is crucial for your Southwest experience. Southwest doesn't assign seats, so your boarding position (A, B, or C, followed by a number) determines when you get on the plane and thus, your seat selection opportunities. Let's make sure you're well-equipped to get the best possible start!
Step 2: The Standard Check-In Window: 24 Hours Before Departure
For most Southwest passengers, the standard online check-in window opens 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure time. This is your primary opportunity to secure a boarding position.
How it Works:
Online and App Access: You can check in easily through the Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) or their mobile app.
Confirmation Number is Key: All you need is your confirmation number (found in your booking email) and your first and last name.
First-Come, First-Served: Within this 24-hour window, boarding positions are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. The faster you check in once the window opens, the better your chances of getting an earlier boarding group (A, then B, then C) and a lower number within that group.
Why it Matters:
Better Boarding Position: A lower boarding number means you get to board earlier, giving you more choices for seats (aisle, window, front of the plane) and more access to overhead bin space.
Avoid the dreaded middle seat: If you're traveling solo or as a pair, checking in promptly at the 24-hour mark significantly increases your odds of avoiding a middle seat.
Stress Reduction: Knowing you have your boarding pass and a decent boarding position can alleviate a lot of pre-flight stress.
Step 3: EarlyBird Check-In: The Paid Advantage
For those who want to take the guesswork out of the 24-hour scramble and guarantee an even earlier check-in, Southwest offers a paid option called EarlyBird Check-In®.
What is EarlyBird Check-In?
EarlyBird Check-In is a service that automatically checks you in and reserves your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. This is a full 12 hours before the general 24-hour check-in opens.
How to Purchase EarlyBird Check-In:
During Booking: You can typically purchase EarlyBird Check-In when you initially book your flight on Southwest.com or through their app.
After Booking: If you've already booked your flight, you can often add EarlyBird Check-In to your reservation later, up to 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure time, subject to availability.
Cost: The cost for EarlyBird Check-In varies, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight. The price depends on the popularity and length of the specific flight.
Benefits of EarlyBird Check-In:
Automatic Check-in: You don't need to set an alarm or remember to check in. Southwest does it for you.
Improved Boarding Position: While it doesn't guarantee an "A" boarding position (Business Select passengers and A-List members have priority), it significantly improves your chances of getting an earlier boarding group and number compared to waiting for the 24-hour window.
Earlier Access to Overhead Bins: With an earlier boarding position, you're more likely to find available overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage, avoiding the need to gate-check your bag.
Peace of Mind: For many travelers, the convenience and assurance of an earlier boarding position are well worth the additional fee.
Important Considerations for EarlyBird Check-In:
Availability: EarlyBird Check-In is subject to availability and may not be an option for all flights, especially last-minute bookings.
Priority Order: While EarlyBird helps, remember that Business Select fares and A-List/A-List Preferred members get even earlier boarding priority.
Per Segment: If you have a connecting flight, you'll need to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for each segment if you want the benefit for both.
Step 4: Other Ways to Get an Early Boarding Position
While the 24-hour window and EarlyBird Check-In are the most common methods, there are a couple of other ways to secure an earlier spot on a Southwest flight:
A. Business Select Fares:
Guaranteed A1-A15: If you purchase a Business Select fare, you are guaranteed a boarding position in the highly coveted A1-A15 group. This is the absolute earliest you can board and ensures prime seat selection and overhead bin access.
Higher Cost: Business Select fares are generally the most expensive ticket option due to these added benefits and flexibility.
B. Rapid Rewards A-List & A-List Preferred Members:
Automatic Priority Boarding: If you have A-List or A-List Preferred status with Southwest's Rapid Rewards program, you receive automatic priority boarding with every flight.
No Manual Check-in Needed for Position: While you'll still need to retrieve your boarding pass within 24 hours of departure, your boarding position will be reserved 36 hours before departure, similar to EarlyBird.
C. Upgraded Boarding at the Gate:
Last-Minute Opportunity: If available, you can purchase Upgraded Boarding at the gate on the day of departure. This allows you to upgrade your boarding position to A1-A15 if there are spots remaining.
Cost: This option typically costs between $30 and $149 per segment, per customer, and is subject to availability. It's a great last-ditch effort if you missed out on EarlyBird or didn't get a great position during general check-in.
Step 5: Don't Forget to Retrieve Your Boarding Pass!
Regardless of when or how you check in, you'll still need to retrieve your boarding pass.
How to Get Your Boarding Pass:
Mobile Boarding Pass: The easiest way is to use the Southwest Airlines mobile app. Your mobile boarding pass can be saved to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay for quick access.
Print at Home: You can print your boarding pass from the Southwest website.
Airport Kiosk or Counter: If you prefer, you can get a printed boarding pass at a self-service kiosk or the Southwest ticket counter at the airport.
Passport Verification (International Flights): For international flights, you may need to have your passport scanned and verified at the airport by a Customer Service Agent or kiosk before a physical or digital boarding pass is issued, even if you checked in online.
When to Retrieve Your Boarding Pass:
You can typically retrieve your boarding pass as early as 24 hours prior to scheduled departure, even if you purchased EarlyBird Check-In. While EarlyBird reserves your position at 36 hours, the boarding pass itself becomes available at the 24-hour mark.
Summary of Southwest Check-In Times:
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a better boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
To get a better boarding position on Southwest, either check in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchase EarlyBird Check-In for automatic check-in at 36 hours, buy a Business Select fare, or be a Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred member. You can also try to purchase Upgraded Boarding at the gate if available.
How to check in online for Southwest Airlines?
Go to Southwest.com or open the Southwest app, select "Check In," enter your confirmation number and first/last name, and follow the prompts to complete your check-in and retrieve your boarding pass.
How to know when to check in for my Southwest flight?
The standard check-in window opens 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. If you purchased EarlyBird Check-In, Southwest automatically checks you in 36 hours before.
How to add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing Southwest reservation?
You can usually add EarlyBird Check-In by going to your reservation on Southwest.com or the app and looking for the "Add EarlyBird Check-In" option. This is available up to 36 hours before your flight, subject to availability.
How to print my Southwest boarding pass at home?
After checking in online within the 24-hour window, you'll be given the option to print your boarding pass directly from the Southwest Airlines website.
How to use a mobile boarding pass on Southwest?
Download the Southwest Airlines app and check in. Your mobile boarding pass will be accessible in the app and can often be added to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) for easy access at security and boarding.
How to board early on Southwest without paying extra?
The only way to board early without paying extra (beyond your initial ticket) is to be a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred member, as this status grants you priority boarding as a benefit. Otherwise, checking in exactly at the 24-hour mark for general boarding is your best free option.
How to check in for an international Southwest flight?
For international Southwest flights, you can still check in online 24 hours prior. However, you'll likely need to present your passport at the airport (ticket counter or kiosk) for verification before your boarding pass is fully issued.
How to know if EarlyBird Check-In is available for my flight?
When booking your flight or attempting to add it to an existing reservation, Southwest will indicate if EarlyBird Check-In is available for your specific flight. If you don't see the option, it may be sold out.
How to understand Southwest's boarding groups (A, B, C)?
Southwest uses an open seating policy with A, B, and C boarding groups, each containing positions 1-60+. Group A boards first, followed by Group B, and then Group C. Within each group, lower numbers board earlier, giving you more choices for seating and overhead bin space.
