Alright, fellow traveler, buckle up! You're about to dive deep into the world of Southwest Airlines check-in, a system that's a little different from other airlines and can significantly impact your flight experience. Ever wondered how some people always seem to nab those prime window seats or front-row spots on a Southwest flight? It often comes down to when they check in. Let's break it down!
How Early Can You Check In with Southwest Airlines? Your Ultimate Guide to Boarding Smarter
Southwest Airlines operates on an open-seating policy. This means there are no assigned seats when you book your ticket. Instead, your boarding position is determined by when you check in. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60 within that group) will be, which directly translates to a better selection of seats and overhead bin space. So, if you want that coveted window seat or to sit with your travel companions, mastering Southwest's check-in timings is key!
 |
| How Early Can You Check In With Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understanding the Basics – The 24-Hour Window
Ready to get started? The absolute baseline for checking in with Southwest Airlines is 24 hours before your flight's scheduled local departure time. This is the general check-in window for all passengers, regardless of fare type, unless you've purchased an add-on or have elite status.
Why is this important? Because Southwest assigns boarding positions on a first-come, first-served basis within this 24-hour window. If you're checking in right at the 24-hour mark, you're competing with everyone else who's also trying to get a good boarding position. It's a bit like a digital sprint!
How to "Win" the 24-Hour Sprint: Set an alarm! Seriously. If you want the best possible boarding position without paying extra, be ready to hit that check-in button the moment the 24-hour mark hits. Use a precise time source, like time.gov, to ensure you're as accurate as possible.
Step 2: Gaining an Edge – EarlyBird Check-In®
For those who prefer a more relaxed approach or want a better chance at an "A" boarding group, Southwest offers EarlyBird Check-In®. This is a paid add-on that automatically checks you in before the traditional 24-hour window opens to the general public.
Sub-heading: What is EarlyBird Check-In® and When Does it Happen?
EarlyBird Check-In® is designed to take the stress out of the 24-hour check-in rush. If you purchase EarlyBird, Southwest automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position starting 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time. This means you'll be placed in a boarding group before those who check in manually at the 24-hour mark.
The Benefits:
Earlier Boarding Position: While not guaranteed an "A" group, you'll generally receive a much earlier boarding position compared to manual check-in.
Better Seat Selection: An earlier boarding position means more available seats, increasing your chances of getting your preferred window, aisle, or even a row to yourself!
Earlier Access to Overhead Bins: Especially crucial on fuller flights, an earlier boarding position helps ensure you find space for your carry-on luggage.
Peace of Mind: No need to set alarms or scramble at the 24-hour mark. Southwest handles it for you.
Sub-heading: How to Purchase EarlyBird Check-In®
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In® in a few ways:
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
During Initial Booking: The easiest way is to add it while you're booking your flight on Southwest.com or through their app.
Post-Booking (Up to 36 Hours Prior): If you didn't purchase it initially, you can often add EarlyBird Check-In® to an existing reservation up to 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure, depending on availability. It's important to note that EarlyBird Check-In is subject to availability and may sell out, especially on popular flights.
Cost of EarlyBird Check-In®: The price for EarlyBird Check-In® varies, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight. The cost can fluctuate based on the popularity and length of your specific flight. Keep in mind, if you have a round-trip flight, you'll need to purchase it for each leg separately.
Step 3: Elite Status and Premium Fares – Automatic Early Check-In
Southwest also offers automatic early check-in as a benefit for certain elite status members and premium fare types.
Sub-heading: A-List and A-List Preferred Members
If you're a Rapid Rewards® A-List or A-List Preferred member, you and everyone on your reservation automatically receive a priority boarding position. Southwest reserves these positions 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time, similar to EarlyBird Check-In.
Key Difference from EarlyBird: While both offer automatic check-in at 36 hours, A-List and A-List Preferred members typically get a higher priority in boarding position assignment than those who purchased EarlyBird Check-In with Wanna Get Away® or Wanna Get Away Plus® fares. You'll still need to check in within the 24-hour window to retrieve your boarding pass, but your position will already be secured.
Sub-heading: Business Select® and Anytime Fares
Passengers who purchase Business Select® or Anytime fares also receive priority boarding benefits.
Business Select®: These fares are Southwest's highest tier and come with guaranteed A1-A15 boarding positions. This is the absolute best way to ensure you're among the first to board, allowing for maximum seat choice.
Anytime Fares: These fares include EarlyBird Check-In® automatically, providing you with an earlier boarding position before the general 24-hour check-in. This means you don't need to purchase EarlyBird separately if you've opted for an Anytime fare.
Step 4: Last-Minute Options – Upgraded Boarding and Airport Check-In
What if you missed the 24-hour window, or even the chance to buy EarlyBird? Don't despair!
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding
If available, you can purchase Upgraded Boarding at the gate or ticket counter on the day of departure. This allows you to potentially secure a spot in the A1-A15 boarding group for an additional fee (which can range from $30-$149 per flight, depending on the route). This is a great option if you absolutely need an early boarding position and didn't get one through other means.
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
Sub-heading: Airport Check-In
While not recommended for securing a good boarding position, you can always check in at the airport.
Self-Service Kiosks: Available at most airports, these kiosks allow you to check in and print your boarding pass.
Ticket Counter: You can also check in with a Southwest agent at the ticket counter.
Important Airport Check-in Deadlines:
For domestic flights, you typically need to complete check-in and have any checked baggage processed at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
For international flights, this deadline is usually 60 minutes before departure. Always confirm specific airport requirements, as these times can vary.
Step 5: Retrieving Your Boarding Pass
Once you've checked in through any of the above methods, you'll need to retrieve your boarding pass.
 |
Sub-heading: Mobile Boarding Pass
The most convenient way to access your boarding pass is through the Southwest Airlines mobile app. After checking in, your mobile boarding pass will be available directly in the app. You can also add it to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay for quick access. This is highly recommended for a smooth airport experience.
Sub-heading: Printed Boarding Pass
If you prefer a physical copy, you have a few options:
Print at Home: You can print your boarding pass from Southwest.com after checking in online.
Airport Kiosk: Use a self-service kiosk at the airport to print your boarding pass.
Ticket Counter: A Southwest agent can print your boarding pass for you at the ticket counter.
In Summary: When Can You Check In with Southwest?
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
36 Hours Before Departure (Automatic):
If you purchased EarlyBird Check-In®.
If you are a Rapid Rewards® A-List or A-List Preferred member.
If you purchased an Anytime fare (includes EarlyBird).
If you purchased a Business Select® fare (guaranteed A1-A15).
24 Hours Before Departure (Manual):
For all other passengers, this is your primary window to check in online or via the mobile app to get your boarding position.
Day of Departure (Airport/Paid):
Upgraded Boarding: Purchase at the gate or ticket counter (if available) for an A1-A15 position.
Airport Kiosk/Ticket Counter: For general check-in.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about checking in with Southwest Airlines:
How to get the best boarding position on Southwest Airlines without paying extra?
To get the best boarding position without paying extra, set an alarm and check in online or via the Southwest app exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. Be ready to click "Check In" the moment the window opens.
How to check in for a Southwest flight if I have connecting flights?
You only need to check in once for your entire Southwest itinerary, even if you have connecting flights. Your boarding passes for all segments will be generated after your initial check-in.
How to know my boarding group and position after checking in with Southwest?
After you check in, your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60) will be displayed on your boarding pass. If you're using the mobile app, it will be clearly visible there.
How to add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing Southwest reservation?
You can add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing reservation by going to your trip details on Southwest.com or the mobile app, selecting your flight, and looking for the "Add EarlyBird Check-In" option. This is subject to availability and must be purchased at least 36 hours before departure.
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
How to check if EarlyBird Check-In is worth it for my Southwest flight?
EarlyBird Check-In is often worth it for full flights, peak travel times, or if you prioritize getting a window/aisle seat or sitting with your group. For less crowded flights or if you're comfortable with a middle seat, it might not be necessary.
How to print my Southwest boarding pass if I don't have a printer at home?
You can print your Southwest boarding pass at an airport self-service kiosk, at the Southwest ticket counter, or by using the mobile boarding pass on your smartphone through the Southwest app.
How to get my boarding pass if I checked in with EarlyBird Check-In or as an A-List member?
Even with EarlyBird Check-In or A-List status, you still need to actively "check in" (usually by retrieving your boarding pass) within the 24-hour window to get your digital or printed boarding pass. Your position will have already been assigned at the 36-hour mark.
How to handle checked baggage when checking in online with Southwest?
If you check in online, you'll still need to drop off your checked baggage at the Southwest baggage drop counter or curbside check-in (where available) at the airport. Ensure you arrive well before the baggage check-in deadlines (30 minutes for domestic, 60 minutes for international).
How to change my Southwest flight on the day of travel for an earlier flight?
Southwest offers Same-Day Change and Same-Day Standby options. You can often change your flight for free to an earlier flight on the same day if space is available (origin and destination must remain the same). A-List and A-List Preferred members have priority for standby. You can manage this through the Southwest app or at the airport.
How to ensure my family or group gets to sit together on Southwest?
To increase your chances of sitting together on Southwest, the best strategy is for everyone in your group to either purchase EarlyBird Check-In, have A-List status, or all check in online precisely at the 24-hour mark simultaneously. Boarding as early as possible provides the best opportunity to find seats together.
 |
