Flying with Southwest Airlines is a unique experience, largely due to their open seating policy. This means that getting a good boarding position is key to selecting your preferred seat and ensuring overhead bin space. The check-in process plays a crucial role in this, so let's dive into a comprehensive guide to ensure you're well-prepared for your next Southwest adventure!
Ready to get started? Let's make your Southwest check-in a breeze!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Checking In with Southwest Airlines
Checking in for your Southwest flight is straightforward, but understanding the nuances can significantly improve your travel day. Here's how to do it, with options for every traveler.
Step 1: Understand the Southwest Check-in Window
This is arguably the most crucial step for a smooth Southwest experience! Unlike many airlines that allow check-in days in advance, Southwest's standard online and mobile check-in window opens exactly 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure time.
Why 24 Hours is Your Magic Number:
Boarding Position is Key: Southwest operates on an open seating policy. This means there are no assigned seats when you book your ticket. Your boarding position (e.g., A1-A60, B1-B60, C1-C60) is assigned at the moment you check in. The earlier you check in within that 24-hour window, the better your boarding position will likely be.
Better Seat Selection: A lower boarding number (like A1-A15) means you'll be among the first to board, giving you a wider choice of seats, including window or aisle seats, or the ability to sit together with your travel companions.
Overhead Bin Access: An earlier boarding position also means earlier access to overhead bin space, which is especially important if you have a carry-on bag.
Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for precisely 24 hours before your flight's departure! This proactive approach can make a significant difference in your onboard comfort.
Step 2: Choose Your Check-in Method
Southwest offers several convenient ways to check in. Pick the one that best suits your needs and travel style.
Sub-heading: Option A: Online Check-in via Southwest.com
This is the most popular and recommended method for most travelers due to its speed and convenience.
Navigate to the Southwest Website: Open your web browser and go to
www.southwest.com.Locate the "Check In" Tab: On the homepage, you'll typically find a prominent "Check In" tab or link in the navigation bar. Click on it.
Enter Your Details: You'll be prompted to enter:
Confirmation Number: This is the six-character alphanumeric code provided when you booked your flight. It's usually found in your booking confirmation email.
First Name
Last Name
Click "Check In" or "Retrieve Reservation": After entering your details, click the appropriate button.
Confirm Your Flight Details: The system will display your flight information. Review it carefully to ensure everything is correct.
Receive Your Boarding Pass: Once confirmed, your boarding pass will be generated. You'll see your assigned boarding group (A, B, or C) and your position within that group (e.g., A35, B22).
Choose Your Boarding Pass Delivery Method: You'll typically have options to:
Print your boarding pass at home.
Email your boarding pass to yourself for later printing or mobile access.
Save it to your mobile device (e.g., Apple Wallet or Google Pay). This is highly recommended for ease of use at the airport.
Sub-heading: Option B: Mobile Check-in via the Southwest App
The Southwest mobile app is incredibly handy for travelers on the go.
Download the Southwest App: If you haven't already, download the official Southwest Airlines app from your device's app store (iOS or Android).
Open the App: Launch the Southwest Airlines app.
Log In (Optional but Recommended): If you have a Rapid Rewards account, logging in can make the process even smoother as your booked trips will often be visible immediately. You can also proceed without logging in.
Tap "Check In": On the app's home screen, you'll find a clear "Check In" button.
Enter Your Details: Similar to the website, you'll enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name.
Retrieve Your Reservation: The app will pull up your flight details.
Generate Mobile Boarding Pass: Your mobile boarding pass, showing your boarding group and position, will appear.
Save to Mobile Wallet: Crucially, the app will offer you the option to add your boarding pass to Apple Wallet (for iOS) or Google Pay (for Android). Do this! It makes accessing your boarding pass at security and the gate incredibly quick. You can also often access it directly within the app.
Sub-heading: Option C: Airport Check-in (Kiosk or Ticket Counter)
While online and mobile check-in are preferred for better boarding positions, airport check-in is always an option if you prefer or need to check bags.
Arrive Early: If checking in at the airport, allow ample time – at least 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
Self-Service Kiosk:
Locate a Southwest self-service kiosk in the airport lobby.
You can retrieve your reservation by entering your confirmation number, Rapid Rewards number, or by swiping a major credit card with your name on it.
Follow the on-screen prompts to check in and print your boarding pass. These kiosks also allow you to add your Rapid Rewards number, upgrade your fare (if available), and pay baggage fees.
Southwest Ticket Counter:
If you need personalized assistance, have special circumstances (e.g., unaccompanied minor, international travel with specific document checks), or prefer human interaction, head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
A Customer Service Agent will assist you with the check-in process and print your boarding pass. Be ready to present your identification.
Step 3: Understanding Your Boarding Position (A, B, C Groups)
Southwest's unique boarding system is central to its travel experience.
Sub-heading: The A, B, C System
Group A: Generally the first to board, positions A1-A60. These are typically secured by Business Select fares, A-List/A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards members, and those who purchase EarlyBird Check-In or check in immediately at the 24-hour mark.
Group B: Boards after Group A, positions B1-B60. This group usually gets a decent selection of window and aisle seats, though choices might be more limited.
Group C: Boards last, positions C1-C60. Passengers in this group often find only middle seats available, and overhead bin space can be scarce.
Sub-heading: The Boarding Process at the Gate
At the gate, you'll notice numbered pillars or signs. When your boarding group is called (e.g., "Group A, positions 1 through 30"), line up between the corresponding numbers. Once Group A is called and boarded, Group B follows, and then Group C.
Step 4: Options for Enhanced Boarding (If Desired)
If you're worried about getting a good seat or ensuring you sit with your travel companions, Southwest offers options to improve your boarding position.
Sub-heading: EarlyBird Check-In
What it is: A paid service that automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's departure, 12 hours before general check-in opens.
Benefits: Significantly increases your chances of getting an A or early B boarding position. This is ideal if you can't check in exactly at the 24-hour mark, value specific seat choices (window/aisle), or are traveling with family and want to sit together.
Cost: Varies by flight, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight.
How to Purchase: Can be added during the initial booking process or later via "Manage Reservations" on Southwest.com or the app, up to 36 hours before departure (subject to availability).
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding
What it is: The opportunity to purchase an A1-A15 boarding position, if available, on the day of travel.
Benefits: Guarantees you'll be among the very first passengers to board, securing prime seat selection and overhead bin space.
Cost: Varies, but can be higher than EarlyBird Check-In.
How to Purchase: Can be purchased at the airport kiosk or ticket counter on the day of departure, if available, or sometimes online within 24 hours of the flight.
Sub-heading: Business Select Fares
Included Benefit: If you purchase a Business Select fare, an A1-A15 boarding position is automatically included. This is the ultimate way to ensure early boarding.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred Status
Elite Perk: Frequent flyers who achieve A-List or A-List Preferred status automatically receive priority boarding benefits, often securing A-group positions.
Sub-heading: Family Boarding
For Families with Young Children: If you're traveling with a child aged six years old or younger, you and up to one other adult can board during Family Boarding. This occurs after the "A" group has boarded but before the "B" group begins. This is a great perk to ensure families can sit together without needing to purchase EarlyBird or Upgraded Boarding. Simply listen for the announcement at the gate.
Step 5: Post-Check-in & Airport Arrival
Once you've checked in and secured your boarding pass, here's what to do next.
Sub-heading: Baggage Check-in
If you have checked bags:
If you checked in online or via the app, head to the baggage drop-off area at the Southwest ticket counter or curb-side check-in (where available).
You'll need to show your boarding pass and ID.
Remember Southwest's generous baggage policy: two free checked bags (up to 50 lbs and specific dimensions).
If you only have carry-on bags: You can proceed directly to the security checkpoint with your mobile or printed boarding pass.
Sub-heading: Airport Security
Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and a valid photo ID ready for TSA (Transportation Security Administration) screening.
Follow all TSA guidelines regarding liquids, electronics, and other items.
Sub-heading: Head to Your Gate
Locate your gate number on your boarding pass or an airport display screen.
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the gate, especially in large airports.
Keep an eye on flight status monitors for any gate changes or delays.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a better boarding position on Southwest?
Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchase EarlyBird Check-In, buy a Business Select fare, or achieve Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred status.
How to check in an infant on Southwest Airlines?
Infants traveling as lap children do not need a boarding pass but require a Boarding Verification Document (BVD) obtained at the ticket counter with proof of age (birth certificate or passport). You can then utilize Family Boarding.
How to check in bags for Southwest Airlines?
After checking in online or via the app, take your bags to the Southwest ticket counter or curb-side check-in at the airport. You'll need your boarding pass and ID.
How to use a mobile boarding pass on Southwest?
Once checked in on the Southwest app, save your boarding pass to Apple Wallet (iOS) or Google Pay (Android). Present this digital pass at security checkpoints and during boarding.
How to change my seat after checking in on Southwest?
Southwest does not assign seats. Your boarding position determines when you board, and then you select any available seat. You cannot "change" a seat after checking in, as there isn't one assigned. A better boarding position gives you more choices.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for Southwest?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In during your initial flight booking on Southwest.com or the app, or later via the "Manage Reservations" section up to 36 hours before departure (subject to availability).
How to know my boarding group and position for Southwest?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position number (1-60) will be clearly displayed on your boarding pass after you check in.
How to check in for a connecting Southwest flight?
When you check in for your initial flight, you will typically receive boarding passes for all segments of your connecting itinerary at the same time.
How to find my Southwest confirmation number?
Your six-character alphanumeric confirmation number is provided in your original flight booking confirmation email. It can also usually be found in your Southwest Airlines account if you were logged in when booking.
How to check in if I have a Southwest credit?
The check-in process remains the same regardless of how you paid for your flight (e.g., cash, points, travel funds). You'll still use your confirmation number and last name.
