Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines? Fantastic choice! Known for their generous baggage policy and unique open-seating system, Southwest offers a distinct travel experience. But before you can kick back in your chosen seat, you need to navigate the check-in process. Don't worry, it's straightforward, and I'm here to guide you every step of the way!
Your Ultimate Guide: How to Check In on Southwest Airlines
Let's get you checked in and ready for your flight! The key to a smooth Southwest experience, especially if you have a preference for where you sit, is checking in as early as possible.
Step 1: Understanding the Southwest Check-in Window - Don't Miss It!
Alright, first things first: when can you check in for your Southwest flight? This is crucial, as Southwest operates on an "open seating" policy, meaning your boarding position directly correlates with when you check in. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding group and position will be!
The 24-Hour Rule: For most passengers, online check-in for Southwest Airlines flights opens exactly 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is your prime window to secure a good boarding position. Set an alarm, seriously!
EarlyBird Check-In Advantage: If you purchased EarlyBird Check-In (we'll discuss this more later), you're automatically checked in starting 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. This gives you a significant advantage for an earlier boarding position.
Business Select/Anytime Fares & A-List/A-List Preferred: If you booked a Business Select or Anytime fare, or if you're a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred member, you also get automatic check-in at 36 hours prior to departure.
Step 2: Choosing Your Check-in Method - Pick What Works for You!
Southwest offers several convenient ways to check in. Let's explore your options:
Sub-heading: Option A: Online Check-in (Recommended for Best Boarding Position)
This is the most popular and recommended method for checking in, especially if you want a better chance at snagging your preferred seat.
Access the Southwest Website or App:
Website: Go to Southwest.com. Look for the "Check In" tab prominently displayed on the homepage.
Mobile App: Download the free Southwest Airlines app (available on iOS and Android). Open the app and tap "Check In" at the bottom of the screen.
Enter Your Details:
You'll need your six-character Confirmation Number (this is on your booking confirmation email) and the first and last name of any passenger on the itinerary.
Pro-Tip: If you have your Rapid Rewards number associated with the booking, you can often use that instead of the confirmation number.
Initiate Check-in:
On the website, click "Check In."
On the app, tap "Retrieve reservation."
Confirm Your Flight and Passengers:
The system will display your flight details. Double-check that it's the correct flight and that all passengers you wish to check in are selected.
Retrieve Your Boarding Pass:
Once checked in, you'll be assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position number (1-60). For example, you might see "A35."
Southwest will then offer you options to receive your boarding pass:
Mobile Boarding Pass: This is super convenient! You can save it directly to your phone's Apple Wallet (for iOS) or Google Pay (for Android). This allows you to breeze through security and boarding with just your phone.
Print at Home: You can print a physical copy of your boarding pass from your computer.
Email to Yourself: Have it sent to your email address for easy access and printing later.
Sub-heading: Option B: Mobile App Check-in (Quick and On-the-Go!)
The Southwest mobile app is incredibly user-friendly for check-in and managing your flight details.
Open the Southwest Airlines App: Ensure you have the latest version downloaded.
Tap "Check In": Located at the bottom of the main screen.
Enter Confirmation/Rapid Rewards Number and Last Name: Just like the website.
Follow Prompts: Confirm your flight, and then you'll receive your mobile boarding pass. You can easily add it to your digital wallet for quick access.
Benefit: The app also provides real-time updates on flight status, gate changes, and boarding information, making your travel day much smoother.
Sub-heading: Option C: Airport Check-in (For Those Who Prefer In-Person)
While online/mobile check-in is highly encouraged, you can still check in at the airport.
Self-Service Kiosks:
Most airports with Southwest service have self-service kiosks.
Simply touch the screen, enter your confirmation number or swipe your credit card used for booking, and follow the prompts to print your boarding pass.
Ideal for: Travelers with carry-on bags only, or those who have already checked in online but need a physical boarding pass.
Ticket Counter:
If you need assistance, have special requirements (like an unaccompanied minor or traveling with a pet), or prefer speaking to an agent, head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
Present your valid photo ID and confirmation number to the agent, and they will assist you with the check-in process and print your boarding pass.
Note: Airport ticket counters typically open three hours prior to scheduled departure.
Curbside Check-in (Where Available):
At select U.S. airports, Southwest offers curbside check-in. This is a great option if you have checked bags and want to avoid lugging them inside the terminal.
You'll need your photo ID and confirmation number. A Skycap will check you in and tag your bags.
Availability: Curbside check-in is usually available from 60 to 90 minutes before departure, but check with your specific airport for details.
Step 3: Understanding Your Boarding Position - The Southwest Difference
Once you've checked in, you'll receive a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a number (1-60). This is how Southwest organizes boarding:
Group A (A1-A60): These are the first to board, generally consisting of Business Select passengers, A-List/A-List Preferred members, EarlyBird Check-In purchasers, and those who performed online check-in very early.
Group B (B1-B60): The next group to board.
Group C (C1-C60): The last group to board.
Family Boarding: If you are traveling with a child aged six or younger, you can board during "Family Boarding," which occurs between the A group and the B group, regardless of your assigned boarding position. This allows families to sit together. (Limited to two adults per child).
Pre-boarding: Passengers requiring assistance or extra time to board can pre-board before Group A.
Your boarding pass will clearly display your group and number. When your group is called at the gate, simply line up in numerical order between the designated poles (e.g., A1-30, A31-60).
Step 4: Baggage Check-in - What You Need to Know
Southwest is famous for its two free checked bags policy (weight and size restrictions apply, usually 50 lbs and 62 inches linear dimensions).
Online Check-in with Bags: If you checked in online, you'll still need to bring your checked bags to the airport. You can drop them off at:
A self-service bag drop counter (if available).
The Southwest ticket counter.
Curbside check-in (where available).
Airport Check-in with Bags: If you check in at the airport kiosk or ticket counter, you can check your bags at the same time.
Important: Ensure your bags are within the weight and size limits to avoid excess baggage fees.
Step 5: Proceeding to Security and Gate - Almost There!
Once you have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and your bags are checked (if applicable), it's time to head through security.
Security Checkpoint: Have your boarding pass and a valid government-issued photo ID ready. Follow TSA guidelines for liquids, electronics, and other items.
Head to Your Gate: After clearing security, locate your departure gate number on your boarding pass or on the airport's information screens.
Be On Time: Southwest recommends being at your gate at least 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights. Boarding typically begins 30 minutes before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about checking in with Southwest Airlines, all starting with "How to":
How to get a better boarding position on Southwest?
The best way is to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight online or via the mobile app. Alternatively, purchase EarlyBird Check-In, Business Select fare, or be an A-List/A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards member for automatic early check-in.
How to check in for a connecting Southwest flight?
You only need to check in once for your entire itinerary, even if you have connecting flights. Your initial check-in covers all segments of your journey.
How to check in with Southwest if I purchased EarlyBird Check-In?
If you purchased EarlyBird Check-In, Southwest automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure. You'll still need to retrieve your boarding pass within the 24-hour window, but your preferred boarding position will already be secured.
How to add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing Southwest reservation?
You can typically add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing reservation on Southwest.com or via the mobile app up to 36 hours before departure, subject to availability and a fee.
How to use a mobile boarding pass on Southwest?
After checking in via the app or website, you'll have the option to save your boarding pass to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay). Simply open your digital wallet and present the mobile boarding pass at security checkpoints and during boarding.
How to print my Southwest boarding pass at the airport?
You can print your Southwest boarding pass at a self-service kiosk or the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport. You'll need your confirmation number and a valid ID.
How to check in bags with Southwest Airlines?
You can check in bags at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter, at a self-service bag drop, or at curbside check-in (where available) after you've completed your flight check-in. Remember, Southwest allows two free checked bags.
How to check in for an international Southwest flight?
The process is largely the same as domestic flights: online check-in opens 24 hours before departure. However, you must have your passport and any required travel documents ready for verification at the airport. Mobile boarding passes may not be available for all international flights.
How to change my Southwest flight after checking in?
You can generally change your Southwest flight on the same day of travel for free to another flight between the same origin and destination if space is available. This can often be done via the Southwest app or by speaking to a Customer Service Agent. Note that your original boarding position is not guaranteed.
How to know my Southwest boarding group and position?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position number (1-60) will be clearly displayed on your boarding pass once you have completed the check-in process.
