It's almost travel time, and you're wondering how to check into Southwest Airlines? Don't fret, because you've come to the right place! Southwest's check-in process is designed to be straightforward, but knowing the ins and outs can make your journey even smoother, especially when it comes to snagging that coveted boarding position. Let's dive in!
Your Ultimate Guide to Southwest Airlines Check-In
Southwest Airlines operates on a unique open seating policy. This means there are no pre-assigned seats. Instead, your boarding position, determined by when you check in, dictates when you get on the plane and choose your seat. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position, and thus, the more seat options you'll have!
Step 1: Know Your Check-in Window and Be Ready!
Alright, before we even get to how to check in, let's talk about when to check in. This is arguably the most crucial step for Southwest flyers.
The Golden 24-Hour Window
The general check-in window for Southwest Airlines opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is your prime opportunity to secure the best possible boarding position. Set an alarm, mark your calendar, do whatever you need to do to remember this moment!
Why is this important? Because boarding positions (A, B, or C, followed by a number 1-60+) are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within this 24-hour window. A lower number means you board earlier. Group A will board before Group B, and so on.
EarlyBird Check-In: A Game Changer for Some
If the thought of setting an alarm 24 hours before your flight makes you anxious, or if you simply want to guarantee a better boarding position without the hassle, consider EarlyBird Check-In.
What it is: EarlyBird Check-In is an optional add-on that automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. This is 12 hours before the general public can check in, giving you a significant advantage.
How it works: If you purchase EarlyBird, Southwest automatically assigns you a boarding position based on your purchase time relative to others with EarlyBird. While it doesn't guarantee an A boarding position, it significantly increases your chances of getting one.
Cost: The fee for EarlyBird Check-In typically ranges from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight, and is subject to availability. You can purchase it when you book your flight or add it later through your reservation (up to 36 hours before departure, if available).
Who benefits: Travelers who prioritize specific seats (window, aisle, front of the plane), those traveling with groups who want to sit together, or anyone who simply wants less stress on travel day.
Other Automatic Check-in Options
Business Select Fares: If you've purchased a Business Select fare, you are automatically checked in 36 hours before your flight and are assigned one of the first boarding positions (A1-A15).
A-List and A-List Preferred Members: If you hold elite status with Southwest's Rapid Rewards program (A-List or A-List Preferred), you are also automatically checked in 36 hours before your flight, after Business Select passengers but before EarlyBird.
Step 2: Choose Your Check-In Method
Southwest offers several convenient ways to check in. Pick the one that best suits your needs!
Option A: Online Check-In (Highly Recommended!)
This is the most popular and often the fastest way to check in.
Access the Southwest Website: Go to Southwest.com. On the homepage, you'll see a "Check In" tab. Click on it.
Enter Your Information: You'll be prompted to enter your:
Confirmation Number: This is a 6-character alphanumeric code found on your booking confirmation email.
First Name: As it appears on your reservation.
Last Name: As it appears on your reservation.
Alternatively, you can use your Rapid Rewards number or the credit card used for booking.
Find Your Reservation: Click "Check In." The system will locate your flight.
Confirm and Get Your Boarding Pass: Follow the on-screen prompts. You may be asked to confirm details. Once complete, your boarding pass will be generated.
Print at Home: You'll have the option to print your boarding pass directly from your computer.
Email it: Send it to yourself or another passenger.
Save to Mobile Device: This is ideal for quick access at the airport. You can save it to your Apple Wallet (for iPhones) or Google Pay (for Android).
Option B: Southwest Airlines Mobile App
The Southwest app is incredibly user-friendly and a fantastic tool for managing your travel.
Download the App: If you haven't already, download the Southwest Airlines app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
Log In or Access as Guest: You can log in with your Rapid Rewards account for easy access to your trips, or proceed as a guest using your confirmation number.
Navigate to "Check In": On the app's home screen, you'll usually see a prominent "Check In" button or tab.
Enter Details (if not logged in): If you're not logged in, you'll need your confirmation number and last name.
Retrieve and View Boarding Pass: Once checked in, your mobile boarding pass will appear directly in the app. You can usually add it to your digital wallet (Apple Wallet/Google Pay) for even quicker access at security and boarding.
The app also provides real-time flight status updates, gate information, and even allows you to book Lyft rides!
Option C: Airport Self-Service Kiosk
For those who prefer to check in at the airport, self-service kiosks are a convenient option.
Locate a Kiosk: Find a Southwest Airlines self-service kiosk in the airport lobby.
Identify Yourself: You can retrieve your reservation by:
Entering your confirmation number.
Entering your Rapid Rewards number.
Swiping a major credit card with your name on it.
Follow Prompts: The kiosk will guide you through the check-in process.
Print Boarding Pass and Bag Tags: Once checked in, the kiosk will print your boarding pass. If you have checked bags, it will also print bag tags for you to attach.
Option D: Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter
If you require personal assistance, have special circumstances (e.g., Unaccompanied Minors), or simply prefer a human touch, the traditional ticket counter is always available.
Head to the Ticket Counter: Go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter in the airport lobby.
Provide Information: A Customer Service Agent will ask for your identification and confirmation number.
Receive Assistance: They will check you in, print your boarding pass, and assist with any special requests or baggage.
Step 3: Bag Drop (If Applicable)
If you've checked in online or via the app but have checked luggage, your next step is to drop off your bags.
Self-Service Bag Drop: If you used a kiosk to print bag tags, simply attach them and take your bags to the designated bag drop area.
Ticket Counter Bag Drop: If you didn't print tags or prefer assistance, go to the ticket counter with your bags.
Important Baggage Deadlines:
Domestic Flights: Baggage must be checked at least 40 minutes before scheduled departure.
International Flights: Baggage must be checked at least 60 minutes before scheduled departure (or 75 minutes for flights departing from Aruba).
Always factor in potential lines and give yourself ample time!
Step 4: Proceed to Security and Boarding
Once you have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and your bags are checked (if any), you're ready for the final stages before boarding.
TSA Security Checkpoint: Head to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint. Have your boarding pass and a valid government-issued ID ready.
Find Your Gate: After clearing security, locate your departure gate as indicated on your boarding pass or airport monitors.
Boarding Process: Southwest's unique boarding process is as follows:
Groups A, B, C: Your boarding pass will display your group (A, B, or C) and your position within that group (e.g., A35).
Line Up: When your group is called, line up at the numbered posts in the gate area according to your position.
Open Seating: Once you board the aircraft, you can choose any available seat.
Family Boarding: Southwest offers "Family Boarding" after the A group has boarded and before the B group, for families traveling with children age six or younger. Up to two adults can board with the child during this time.
Preboarding/Special Assistance: Customers with disabilities who require specific seating or assistance can preboard before general boarding. Speak to a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or gate for this.
Key Things to Remember for a Smooth Check-In
Always Arrive Early: Southwest recommends arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This allows plenty of time for check-in, bag drop, and security.
Have Your ID Ready: For domestic travel, a valid government-issued photo ID is required. For international travel, ensure your passport and any necessary visas are valid and readily accessible.
Confirmation Number is Your Friend: Keep your confirmation number handy, as it's essential for all check-in methods.
Stay Updated: Download the Southwest app and enable notifications for real-time updates on your flight status, gate changes, or delays.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a better boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
The best way to get a better boarding position is to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure using the Southwest website or mobile app. Alternatively, purchase EarlyBird Check-In for automatic check-in 36 hours prior, or fly on a Business Select fare or hold A-List/A-List Preferred status.
How to check in for an international Southwest Airlines flight?
You can check in for international flights online or via the mobile app 24 hours before departure. However, for most international flights, you must have your passport verified by a Customer Service Agent at the airport ticket counter or kiosk before a physical or digital boarding pass is issued. Baggage must be checked at the counter for international itineraries.
How to check in with Southwest if I have connecting flights?
You only need to check in once per one-way itinerary on Southwest, even if you have connecting flights. Your boarding pass will be valid for all segments of your journey.
How to get my boarding pass after checking in online?
After checking in online, you can choose to print your boarding pass at home, have it emailed to you, or save it as a mobile boarding pass to your smartphone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) through the Southwest app.
How to add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing Southwest reservation?
If available, you can add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing reservation by going to the "Manage Reservations" section on Southwest.com or within the mobile app, and looking for the EarlyBird option. It can be purchased up to 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure.
How to check baggage with Southwest Airlines?
If you checked in online, you can use self-service kiosks at the airport to print bag tags and then proceed to a designated bag drop area. Alternatively, you can always check your bags with a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter.
How to use a mobile boarding pass on Southwest?
Simply open the Southwest app or your digital wallet (Apple Wallet/Google Pay) on your smartphone to display your mobile boarding pass. Present it to TSA agents at the security checkpoint and to the gate agent when boarding.
How to know my boarding group and position on Southwest?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+) will be clearly displayed on your boarding pass once you have completed the check-in process.
How to check in for Southwest if I don't have a printer?
You can opt for a mobile boarding pass via the Southwest app, save it to your digital wallet, or use a self-service kiosk at the airport to print your boarding pass. You can also get it printed at the ticket counter.
How to check in with Southwest if I have a special request or need assistance?
If you have special requests or require assistance (e.g., wheelchair assistance, preboarding for disabilities, Unaccompanied Minor), it is best to check in at the airport ticket counter where a Customer Service Agent can directly assist you and ensure all your needs are met.
