Ready to conquer the Southwest Airlines check-in game and snag that coveted boarding position? You've come to the right place! Unlike many airlines with assigned seating, Southwest operates on a unique "open seating" policy, where your boarding position directly impacts your seat choice and access to overhead bin space. This means knowing exactly how early you can check in is key to a smooth and stress-free journey.
Let's dive into the details, step-by-step, so you can master the art of Southwest check-in!
The Standard Play: 24 Hours Before Departure
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| How Early Can You Check In For A Southwest Airlines Flight |
Step 1: Mark Your Calendar (and Set Alarms!)
So, you're wondering, "When can I actually check in?" For most Southwest passengers, the standard check-in window opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is your primary window of opportunity to secure the best possible boarding position without paying extra.
Why is this so important? Southwest assigns boarding positions (A, B, or C, followed by a number 1-60+) based on when you check in. The earlier you check in, the lower your number, and the earlier you board. "A" positions board first, then "B," then "C." A lower number within your group means you're among the first to board that group.
Pro-Tip: If you're serious about getting a good boarding position, set an alarm on your phone for 24 hours and 5 minutes before your flight's departure. This gives you a few minutes to get ready and ensure you're on the Southwest website or app precisely when the window opens.
Step 2: Choose Your Check-In Method
Southwest offers several convenient ways to check in once the window opens:
Sub-heading: Online Check-In (Recommended for Speed)
This is by far the fastest and most popular method for securing a good boarding position.
Visit Southwest.com or use the Southwest Mobile App:
Navigate to the "Check In" section.
Enter your confirmation number, your first name, and your last name.
Retrieve Your Reservation: The system will locate your flight details.
Click "Check In": With a single click, you'll be assigned your boarding group and position.
Obtain Your Boarding Pass: You'll have options to:
Print your boarding pass at home.
Receive a mobile boarding pass on your device (highly recommended for convenience).
Have it emailed to you for later printing.
Sub-heading: Airport Kiosk Check-In
If you're already at the airport, self-service kiosks are available.
Locate a Southwest Kiosk: These are typically found in the check-in area of the airport.
Scan Your Confirmation or Credit Card: Follow the on-screen prompts.
Confirm Your Details: Verify your flight information.
Print Your Boarding Pass: The kiosk will issue a physical boarding pass.
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
Sub-heading: Ticket Counter Check-In
While an option, this is generally the slowest method and not recommended if you're aiming for an early boarding position.
Approach a Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter Agent:
Provide Your Confirmation Number and ID: The agent will process your check-in.
Receive Your Printed Boarding Pass:
The Early Bird Gets the "A" (or at least a better spot): EarlyBird Check-In®
Step 1: Understand EarlyBird Check-In®
So, what if you can't be at your computer or phone exactly 24 hours before? Or you just want an even better chance at an "A" or "B" boarding position? That's where EarlyBird Check-In® comes in. This is Southwest's paid option for automatic check-in.
How it works: When you purchase EarlyBird Check-In®, Southwest automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position 12 hours before the regular 24-hour check-in window opens, meaning 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time. This places you ahead of those who wait for the standard 24-hour check-in.
Cost: The price for EarlyBird Check-In® varies based on the popularity and length of your flight, typically starting around $15 per person, per one-way flight.
Does it guarantee A1-A15? No. While it significantly improves your chances of getting a high "A" or "B" position, the first 15 positions (A1-A15) are reserved for Business Select® fare holders and A-List/A-List Preferred members. EarlyBird Check-In® positions are assigned after these groups.
Step 2: Purchasing EarlyBird Check-In®
You can add EarlyBird Check-In® to your reservation in several ways:
Sub-heading: During Initial Flight Booking
This is the most common time to purchase EarlyBird Check-In®. Look for the option during the booking process on Southwest.com or the Southwest mobile app. If you purchase it at this stage, all eligible passengers on your itinerary will also need to purchase it.
Sub-heading: After Booking (Up to 36 Hours Before Departure)
You can add EarlyBird Check-In® to an existing reservation up to 36 hours before your flight's scheduled local departure time.
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
Log in to your Southwest Account: Or access your reservation using your confirmation number.
Find Your Trip: Navigate to your upcoming flights.
Select "Add EarlyBird Check-In": This option will be available if it's still possible to purchase.
Complete the Purchase: Follow the prompts to pay the associated fee.
The Elite Advantage: A-List & A-List Preferred Members
Step 1: Enjoy Automatic Priority
For Southwest's most loyal flyers, the check-in process is even simpler. If you are a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred Member, you automatically receive priority boarding.
Automatic Check-in: Your boarding position will be automatically reserved for you and any Passengers on your reservation 36 hours prior to the flight's scheduled departure.
Still Need to Retrieve Boarding Pass: While your position is reserved, you and your companions will still need to check in within the standard 24-hour window to retrieve your boarding passes. You can do this online, via the app, or at an airport kiosk.
Boarding Priority: A-List and A-List Preferred Members (and those on their reservation) will typically receive positions within the coveted A1-A15 group, or immediately after. This is the absolute best way to ensure you're among the first to board.
Special Circumstances
Sub-heading: International Flights
For international flights, while you can still check in online starting 24 hours prior to departure, you may be required to verify your passport with a Southwest agent at the ticket counter or a self-service kiosk at the airport before a physical or digital boarding pass is issued. This typically needs to be done at least 60 minutes prior to your scheduled departure.
Sub-heading: Unaccompanied Minors and Special Needs Passengers
Passengers with special needs, such as unaccompanied minors or those traveling with a pet, generally cannot complete the full check-in process online. They will need to check in at the airport ticket counter for assistance.
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding (Day of Travel)
If you miss the 24-hour check-in window and haven't purchased EarlyBird, there's still a slim chance to improve your boarding position. Southwest sometimes offers "Upgraded Boarding" for purchase at the airport (either at the gate or ticket counter) on the day of travel. This is subject to availability and typically assigns you an A1-A15 position if available. Prices can vary.
Tip: Scroll slowly when the content gets detailed.
Quick Recap of Check-In Times:
Standard Online/App Check-in: 24 hours before scheduled departure.
EarlyBird Check-In®: Automatic check-in 36 hours before scheduled departure (if purchased).
A-List/A-List Preferred: Automatic priority boarding position reserved 36 hours before scheduled departure (still need to retrieve boarding pass within 24 hours).
Airport Check-in (Kiosk/Counter): Available once the 24-hour window opens, but generally slower and less likely to yield a prime boarding position.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get the best boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
The best way is to purchase a Business Select fare or achieve A-List/A-List Preferred status. Otherwise, checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight's departure (by setting an alarm!) or purchasing EarlyBird Check-In® are your best bets.
How to check in for a Southwest flight online?
Visit Southwest.com or use the Southwest Airlines mobile app, go to the "Check In" section, enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name, then click "Check In."
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In® for a Southwest flight?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In® during the initial flight booking process, or later by accessing your reservation on Southwest.com or the app up to 36 hours before your flight's departure.
How to know if EarlyBird Check-In® is worth it?
EarlyBird Check-In® is often worth it if you prioritize getting an earlier boarding position for better seat selection (aisle/window, front of the plane) and overhead bin space, especially on popular routes or if you cannot check in precisely at the 24-hour mark.
QuickTip: Use posts like this as quick references.
How to get a mobile boarding pass for Southwest Airlines?
After checking in online or via the app, you'll be given the option to download your mobile boarding pass to your device (e.g., Apple Wallet, Google Pay) or have it emailed.
How to check in luggage for a Southwest Airlines flight?
You can check in your luggage at the airport ticket counter or a self-service kiosk (if available for self-tagging) after you've completed your flight check-in. Remember to allow sufficient time for baggage drop-off.
How to use Southwest's self-service kiosks at the airport?
At the kiosk, you can scan your confirmation number or credit card, verify your flight details, and print your boarding pass. Many kiosks also allow self-tagging for bags.
How to change your seat on a Southwest flight?
Since Southwest has open seating, you don't "change" your seat in advance. Your boarding position determines when you get on the plane, and then you select any available seat once on board. To get a better choice of seats, aim for an earlier boarding position.
How to check in for an international Southwest flight?
You can check in online 24 hours before, but for international flights, you must verify your passport at a Southwest ticket counter or kiosk at the airport at least 60 minutes prior to departure to receive your boarding pass.
How to confirm your Southwest Airlines boarding group and position?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+) will be displayed on your boarding pass once you have successfully checked in, whether it's a printed pass or a mobile boarding pass.
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