You've booked your Southwest flight, the bags are packed (or soon will be!), and now you're wondering: how early can I check in to secure that coveted "A" boarding position? You've come to the right place! Southwest's unique open-seating policy means check-in time is crucial for getting the seat you want. Let's dive into everything you need to know, step-by-step.
The Ultimate Guide: Checking In for Your Southwest Airlines Flight
Step 1: Understand the Southwest Check-in Philosophy
Alright, let's get real for a moment. Unlike many airlines where you select your seat at the time of booking, Southwest operates on a first-come, first-served seating policy. This means that when you board, you pick any available seat. Your boarding position (A, B, or C, followed by a number) is assigned based on when you check in. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position, and thus, the better your chances of snagging that window seat, aisle seat, or sitting with your travel companions.
So, are you ready to master the art of the Southwest check-in and get the best possible seat? Let's go!
Step 2: The Standard 24-Hour Check-in Window
The golden rule for Southwest Airlines check-in is the 24-hour mark.
2.1 Online and Mobile Check-in
For all Southwest flights, both domestic and international, you can check in online or via the Southwest mobile app starting 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time.
This means if your flight departs at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, you can begin checking in at 3:00 PM on Monday.
Why is this important? Because this is when the general boarding positions (B and C groups, and often the latter part of the A group) are assigned. Being right on time at the 24-hour mark can significantly improve your boarding position.
2.2 How to Check In at the 24-Hour Mark
Via Southwest.com:
Go to the Southwest Airlines website.
Click on the "Check In" tab.
Enter your confirmation number (a 6-digit alphanumeric code) and the first and last name of a passenger on the itinerary.
Click "Check In" or "Retrieve Reservation."
Follow the prompts to complete your check-in and retrieve your boarding pass. You can print it, have it emailed, or save it to your mobile device.
Via the Southwest Mobile App:
Open the Southwest Airlines app on your smartphone.
Tap on the "Check In" icon.
Enter your confirmation number and last name.
Tap "Retrieve Reservation" and proceed to check in.
Your mobile boarding pass will then be available directly within the app, and you can often add it to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay for quick access.
Step 3: EarlyBird Check-In: The Shortcut to Better Boarding
If you're not a fan of the 24-hour check-in dash, or if securing an earlier boarding position is paramount for you, Southwest offers EarlyBird Check-In.
3.1 What is EarlyBird Check-In?
EarlyBird Check-In is an add-on service that automatically checks you in and reserves your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time.
This is 12 hours before general check-in opens! This significantly increases your chances of getting an "A" or early "B" boarding position, giving you first pick of seats and overhead bin space.
It does not guarantee an "A" boarding position, but it gives you a much better shot. Boarding positions for EarlyBird customers are assigned based on the time of purchase and fare type (e.g., Anytime fares get priority over Wanna Get Away Plus/Wanna Get Away with EarlyBird).
3.2 How to Purchase EarlyBird Check-In
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In when you initially book your flight.
If you've already booked, you can add it to an existing reservation up to 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time, subject to availability.
The price for EarlyBird Check-In varies, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight, depending on the route and demand.
You can usually add EarlyBird Check-In through the "Manage Reservation" section on Southwest.com or via the mobile app.
3.3 Who Benefits Most from EarlyBird Check-In?
Families traveling together: To increase the likelihood of sitting together.
Business travelers: Who want to ensure a productive flight with their preferred seat.
Passengers with carry-on luggage: To get early access to overhead bins.
Anyone who values specific seating: Whether it's a window, aisle, or front of the plane.
Step 4: Other Check-in Options and Important Deadlines
While online/mobile check-in is the most common, Southwest also provides other options. However, these are generally less advantageous for securing a good boarding position.
4.1 Airport Check-in (Kiosks & Ticket Counters)
You can check in at self-service kiosks or at the ticket counter upon arrival at the airport.
Kiosks are generally available starting a few hours before departure, and usually close about 30 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights.
Ticket counters are staffed and typically open 2-3 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
4.2 Curbside Check-in
In select U.S. airport locations, you may be able to check in and drop off checked bags curbside.
This service typically opens 2-3 hours before departure and closes at the same time as the ticket counter.
4.3 Check-in Deadlines (Crucial!)
Domestic Flights:
Minimum check-in time (with or without checked bags): You must be checked in and have your boarding pass by 30 minutes prior to your flight's scheduled departure time.
Baggage drop-off deadline: If you are checking bags, they must be checked at the ticket counter or curbside at least 60 minutes prior to your flight's scheduled departure time.
Boarding gate closure: Boarding generally closes 10 minutes prior to departure. It's best to be at your gate much earlier than this.
International Flights (to/from the U.S.):
Minimum check-in time (with or without checked bags): You must be checked in and have your boarding pass by 60 minutes prior to your flight's scheduled departure time.
Baggage drop-off deadline: Checked bags for international flights must be presented at the ticket counter at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure. (Note: For flights departing Aruba (AUA), baggage is not accepted less than 75 minutes prior.)
Step 5: After Check-in: Getting to the Airport and Boarding
Once you've successfully checked in, here's what to do next:
5.1 Arriving at the Airport
Domestic Flights: Southwest recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled domestic flight, especially if you have bags to check or are traveling during peak times.
International Flights: For international travel, aim to arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for check-in, security, and any international customs procedures.
5.2 Security Checkpoint
Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and a valid government-issued photo ID ready for the TSA security checkpoint.
5.3 Boarding Process
Southwest's unique boarding process is organized by boarding groups (A, B, C) and numbers (1-60+).
Listen for announcements for your boarding group.
When your group is called, line up in numerical order at the designated boarding poles.
Once on the plane, find any open seat that suits you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to Southwest Airlines check-in:
How to check in online for a Southwest flight?
To check in online, visit Southwest.com or use the Southwest mobile app, click "Check In," enter your confirmation number and last name, and follow the prompts.
How to get an A boarding position on Southwest?
To increase your chances of getting an A boarding position, purchase EarlyBird Check-In or check in precisely 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time.
How to add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing Southwest reservation?
You can add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing reservation on Southwest.com or via the mobile app in the "Manage Reservation" section, subject to availability, up to 36 hours before departure.
How to get a mobile boarding pass for Southwest?
After checking in online or via the app, you'll have the option to save your mobile boarding pass directly to your phone (e.g., Apple Wallet, Google Pay) or view it in the app.
How to check in a group on Southwest Airlines?
For groups of 10 or more, Southwest offers specific group travel services. While individual check-in is still required, consider EarlyBird Check-In for all members to improve seating together.
How to check in for a Southwest international flight?
The check-in window for international flights is the same as domestic flights: 24 hours before departure for standard check-in. However, ensure you meet the earlier airport arrival and baggage check-in deadlines (60 minutes prior to departure).
How to check my boarding position after checking in for Southwest?
Your boarding position (e.g., A35) will be displayed on your boarding pass after you complete the check-in process. It will also be visible in the Southwest app.
How to retrieve a lost Southwest boarding pass?
If you've lost your printed boarding pass, you can re-print it from Southwest.com (within the 24-hour window), access it via the mobile app, or get one at an airport kiosk or ticket counter.
How to check in at the airport for a Southwest flight?
At the airport, you can check in using the self-service kiosks or by speaking with an agent at the Southwest ticket counter. Remember these options may result in later boarding positions.
How to know the exact 24-hour mark for Southwest check-in?
Set an alarm! Note your flight's scheduled departure time, and then set a reminder for precisely 24 hours prior to that time. For example, if your flight leaves at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, set your alarm for 10:00 AM on Tuesday.
