Ever wondered how to get that piece of paper (or digital equivalent!) that allows you to sashay onto your Southwest Airlines flight? You're in the right place! Printing your Southwest Airlines boarding pass is a straightforward process, but knowing your options can save you time and stress at the airport. Let's dive into all the ways you can secure your boarding pass, from the comfort of your home to the hustle and bustle of the airport.
Your Gateway to the Skies: Printing Your Southwest Boarding Pass
Southwest Airlines, known for its open seating policy, emphasizes early check-in to secure a better boarding position. This means getting your boarding pass as soon as possible after the 24-hour check-in window opens is key to snagging your preferred seat. So, let's get you ready for departure!
Step 1: Get Ready to Check In!
Before you can print anything, you need to check in for your flight. This is the crucial first step.
What you'll need: Your confirmation number (a six-character alphanumeric code you received when you booked your flight) and the first and last name of a passenger on the reservation. If you're a Rapid Rewards member, your Rapid Rewards number can also be used.
When to check in: Southwest Airlines opens online check-in exactly 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure time. Set a reminder! This is especially important for Southwest due to their open seating. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+) will be, which directly impacts when you get to board the plane and choose your seat.
Pro Tip: If you've purchased EarlyBird Check-In, Southwest will automatically check you in and reserve your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's departure – 12 hours before general boarding opens. Even with EarlyBird, you'll still need to retrieve your boarding pass within the standard 24-hour window.
Step 2: Choose Your Check-In Method
Southwest offers several convenient ways to check in and get your boarding pass. Pick the one that suits you best!
Option A: Online Check-In (Recommended for Speed and Convenience)
This is arguably the most popular and efficient method.
Step 2a: Head to the Southwest Website or App.
Via Website: Open your web browser and go to
www.southwest.com. Look for a prominent "Check In" button or link on the homepage.Via Mobile App: Download the free Southwest Airlines® mobile app (available on iOS and Android). Open the app and tap "Check In."
Step 2b: Enter Your Details.
You'll be prompted to enter your confirmation number and the first and last name of a passenger on the reservation.
Step 2c: Retrieve Your Reservation.
Click "Check in" (on desktop) or "Retrieve reservation" (on mobile). Your flight details will appear.
Step 2d: Confirm and Obtain Your Boarding Pass.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the check-in process. Once successful, you'll see options to get your boarding pass:
Print Boarding Pass: This option will generate a printable PDF that you can send to your home printer. Make sure your printer has ink and paper!
Mobile Boarding Pass: This is the most convenient option for many. You can:
Save it directly to your phone's Apple Wallet (for iPhones) or Google Pay (for Android phones).
Have it emailed to you.
Screenshot the boarding pass image on your phone (though saving to a digital wallet is more reliable).
Present your mobile boarding pass at security checkpoints and during boarding by simply scanning the QR code on your phone. No paper needed!
Option B: Airport Self-Service Kiosk
If you prefer a physical boarding pass or didn't get a chance to print at home, the airport kiosks are a great alternative.
Step 2a: Locate a Southwest Self-Service Kiosk.
Upon arriving at the airport, look for the designated Southwest Airlines area. You'll typically find self-service kiosks near the ticket counters.
Step 2b: Identify Yourself.
The kiosk will prompt you to enter your confirmation number, Rapid Rewards number, or even swipe a major credit card with your name on it to retrieve your reservation.
Step 2c: Print Your Boarding Pass.
Follow the on-screen instructions. Once your reservation is found, you'll have the option to print your boarding pass directly from the kiosk. These are usually on a thicker, more durable card stock than standard printer paper.
Note: Most airports Southwest serves have self-tagging kiosks if you need to check bags too.
Option C: Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter
For those who prefer a human touch, or have specific needs (like unaccompanied minors or those traveling with pets), the traditional ticket counter is always an option.
Step 2a: Head to the Southwest Ticket Counter.
Find the Southwest Airlines check-in counters in the airport terminal.
Step 2b: Provide Your Information.
A Southwest Customer Service Agent will ask for your identification (a valid government-issued ID like a driver's license or passport) and your confirmation number.
Step 2c: Receive Your Boarding Pass.
The agent will process your check-in and hand you a printed boarding pass. They can also assist with checking any luggage.
Option D: Curbside Check-in (Limited Availability)
At select U.S. airport locations, Southwest offers curbside check-in.
Step 2a: Find the Curbside Check-in Area.
Look for the Southwest Airlines curbside check-in area outside the terminal, usually near the departures drop-off.
Step 2b: Present ID and Reservation.
You'll need your photo ID and flight reservation code.
Step 2c: Get Your Boarding Pass.
An attendant will check you in and provide your printed boarding pass, and can also assist with checking bags. This option is typically available from 60 minutes to 3 hours before departure, depending on the airport.
Step 3: What to Do With Your Boarding Pass
Once you have your boarding pass, whether printed or on your phone, you're ready for the next steps in your travel journey!
Security Checkpoint: You'll need to present your boarding pass (either paper or mobile) along with your valid photo ID to the TSA agent at the security checkpoint.
Boarding: At the gate, when your boarding group (A, B, or C) is called, find your designated place in line. Your boarding pass will display your group and position (e.g., A35). When it's your turn, present your boarding pass to the gate agent for scanning as you walk onto the plane.
Remember, Southwest does not have assigned seats, so your boarding position is crucial for choosing your preferred spot on the aircraft. Checking in as early as possible within the 24-hour window (or purchasing EarlyBird Check-In) significantly improves your chances of getting a better boarding position.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check in for my Southwest flight online?
You can check in online via www.southwest.com or the Southwest Airlines mobile app, starting 24 hours before your flight's departure, using your confirmation number and last name.
How to get a mobile boarding pass for Southwest Airlines?
After checking in online via the Southwest app or website, you'll have the option to save your boarding pass directly to your phone's Apple Wallet or Google Pay, or have it emailed to you.
How to print my Southwest boarding pass at home?
After checking in online on www.southwest.com, you'll be given the option to print your boarding pass. Click on "Print Boarding Pass" and ensure your printer is connected and ready.
How to print my Southwest boarding pass at the airport?
You can print your Southwest boarding pass at a self-service kiosk located in the Southwest Airlines area of the airport lobby by entering your confirmation number or swiping a credit card. Alternatively, a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter can print it for you.
How to find my Southwest confirmation number?
Your confirmation number is a six-character alphanumeric code usually found in your booking confirmation email from Southwest Airlines.
How to check in early for Southwest flights with 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 standard 24-hour window.
How to know my boarding group and position with Southwest?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+) will be assigned upon check-in and displayed on your boarding pass. This determines your place in the boarding line.
How to travel internationally with Southwest and get my boarding pass?
For international travel, you can check in online, but you will often need to verify your passport at a Southwest Airlines ticket counter or kiosk at the airport before a physical or digital boarding pass is issued.
How to get a boarding pass if my phone battery dies?
If your phone battery dies, you can always print a physical boarding pass at an airport self-service kiosk or at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. It's a good idea to have a backup plan.
How to use a mobile boarding pass at TSA security and the gate?
Simply open your mobile boarding pass on your phone (from Apple Wallet, Google Pay, or the Southwest app) and present the QR code to the TSA agent and then the gate agent for scanning.