You're ready for your next adventure with Southwest Airlines, and you want to ensure you get the best possible boarding position. Southwest's unique open-seating policy means that the earlier you check in, the better your boarding group, and thus, the better your chances of snagging your preferred seat and overhead bin space. Let's dive into how you can master the art of early check-in on Southwest Airlines!
The Southwest Boarding Game: Understanding the System
Before we get into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand Southwest's boarding process. Unlike most airlines with assigned seating, Southwest uses a "first-come, first-served" approach once you board the plane. Your boarding pass will have a group (A, B, or C) and a number (1-60).
Group A: Boards first, offering the best selection of seats and overhead bin space.
Group B: Boards second, still providing decent options but with fewer choices than Group A.
Group C: Boards last, often leaving only middle seats and potentially limited overhead bin space.
Your goal for a comfortable flight is typically to secure an A or early B boarding position. Now, let's look at how you can make that happen!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Early Check-In on Southwest Airlines
Are you ready to beat the rush and secure a great boarding position? Let's get started!
Step 1: Decide Your Early Check-In Strategy - Do You Want to Pay for Peace of Mind, or Play the Timing Game?
This is where your journey to early check-in begins! Southwest offers a couple of paths to an earlier boarding position. Consider your budget, travel preferences, and how much "control" you want over your boarding experience.
Sub-heading: Option A: Purchase EarlyBird Check-In (The "Set It and Forget It" Method)
Southwest's EarlyBird Check-In® is designed for convenience. For a fee, Southwest automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position before the general 24-hour check-in window opens. This means less stress and a better chance at an A or early B group.
What it is: EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in beginning 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time.
Benefits: You get an earlier boarding position than those who check in at the 24-hour mark, a better opportunity to select your preferred seat (window/aisle), and earlier access to overhead bin storage.
Cost: EarlyBird Check-In pricing starts at $15 per person, per one-way flight, but can vary based on the popularity and length of each flight. It can go up to $99 per person per one-way flight. Remember, it's per segment, so for a round trip, you'll pay for each leg.
Who it's good for: Travelers who want to ensure a better boarding position without having to remember to check in exactly 24 hours before, those with specific seat preferences (window/aisle), and those who want to guarantee overhead bin space. It's also a great option if you know you'll be busy or unable to access the internet at the 24-hour mark.
Sub-heading: Option B: Master the 24-Hour Manual Check-In (The "Free but Focused" Method)
If you prefer to save the EarlyBird fee, you can still aim for a good boarding position by checking in precisely 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This requires a bit of timing and quick action, but it's completely free!
What it is: Manually checking in online or via the app exactly 24 hours before your flight's departure.
Benefits: It's free! The earlier you check in within this 24-hour window, the better your assigned boarding position will generally be.
Who it's good for: Budget-conscious travelers, those who don't mind a little strategy, and those who are able to be online right at the 24-hour mark.
Sub-heading: Other Avenues for Earlier Boarding
Business Select Fares: If you purchase a Business Select fare, EarlyBird Check-In is included and you're typically assigned an A1-A15 boarding position.
Anytime Fares: EarlyBird Check-In is also included with Anytime fares.
Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred Status: If you hold A-List or A-List Preferred status with Southwest's Rapid Rewards program, you'll receive priority boarding, often placing you in the A group.
Upgraded Boarding: If available, you can purchase Upgraded Boarding at the airport (either at a self-service kiosk or the customer service counter) on the day of travel. This can secure you an A1-A15 boarding position, but it's subject to availability and typically costs between $30 and $149. This is a good last-minute option if you weren't able to get a good position through other means.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards: Some Southwest credit cards offer complimentary EarlyBird Check-In benefits as a perk. Check your card's benefits to see if you qualify.
Family Boarding: If you are traveling with a child age six or younger, you and up to one other adult can board during Family Boarding, which occurs after the A group but before the B group. This is a great way to ensure you can sit together, so EarlyBird might not be necessary in this scenario.
Step 2: Executing Your Check-In - The Moment of Truth!
Once you've decided on your strategy, it's time to put it into action.
Sub-heading: For EarlyBird Check-In Purchasers (The Easy Way)
If you've purchased EarlyBird Check-In, you actually don't need to do anything at the 24-hour mark! Southwest automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position 36 hours before your flight.
Confirmation: While you don't need to take action to get checked in, you'll still need to retrieve your boarding pass.
How to get your boarding pass:
Southwest Airlines App: Download the free Southwest Airlines app (available for iOS and Android). Log in, go to "My Trips," and your boarding pass will be available to view and save to your mobile wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) within 24 hours of departure.
Southwest.com: Visit Southwest.com, click on "Check In," enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name. You can then print your boarding pass or opt to have it emailed or texted to you.
Airport Kiosk/Ticket Counter: If you prefer a physical boarding pass, you can print it at a self-service kiosk or get one from a Southwest agent at the airport on the day of your flight.
Sub-heading: For 24-Hour Manual Check-In (The Timed Approach)
This is where precision matters!
Set an Alarm: Set an alarm for exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. If your flight departs at 3:00 PM on Saturday, set your alarm for 3:00 PM on Friday.
Be Ready: A few minutes before your alarm, have your computer or mobile device ready.
On Southwest.com: Go to the "Check In" section.
On the Southwest App: Open the app and navigate to "Check In."
Enter Your Details: Have your confirmation number, first name, and last name readily available. You can even pre-fill these details in the app or on the website if the fields are persistent.
Hit "Check In" Precisely: As soon as the clock hits the 24-hour mark, hit that "Check In" button! Even a few seconds can make a difference in your boarding position, especially on popular routes.
Retrieve Your Boarding Pass: Once checked in, your boarding pass with your assigned group and number will be displayed. You can then:
Save it to your mobile wallet (highly recommended for ease of use at the airport).
Print it at home.
Have it emailed or texted to you.
Print it later at an airport kiosk or ticket counter.
Step 3: Understanding Your Boarding Position and What's Next
Once you have your boarding pass, you'll see your assigned boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60).
A1-A60: These are the prime positions.
B1-B60: Still good, often allowing for window or aisle seats.
C1-C60: You'll likely be looking at middle seats.
Sub-heading: Boarding at the Gate
On the day of your flight, head to your gate. Southwest uses a unique boarding process at the gate:
Find Your Numbered Pole: You'll see numbered poles or signs in the boarding area. These correspond to boarding positions. For example, if you are A35, you'll stand between the A31-35 and A36-40 markers.
Listen for Announcements: The gate agent will call for pre-boarding, followed by Group A (usually in sections, e.g., A1-30, then A31-60), then Family Boarding, and then Groups B and C.
Board the Aircraft: When your group and position are called, proceed down the jet bridge and onto the plane. Find any available open seat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Early Check-In on Southwest Airlines
Here are 10 common questions related to early check-in on Southwest, with quick answers:
How to check my boarding position after early check-in?
You can view your boarding position on the Southwest Airlines app by going to "My Trips" or by checking in on Southwest.com after the 24-hour mark, even if EarlyBird automatically checked you in earlier. Your boarding pass will display your group and number.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In if I already booked my flight?
You can usually add EarlyBird Check-In to an existing reservation on Southwest.com by going to "Manage Reservations" or within the Southwest mobile app up to 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time, subject to availability.
How to know if EarlyBird Check-In is worth the cost for my flight?
EarlyBird Check-In is often worth it for full flights, peak travel times, if you have specific seat preferences (window/aisle), if you're traveling with carry-on luggage and want overhead bin space, or if you can't guarantee you'll be able to check in exactly 24 hours beforehand.
How to check in for an international Southwest flight early?
For international flights, you can secure your boarding position online via the app or website 24 hours prior, just like domestic flights. However, you will typically need to have your passport verified by a Customer Service Agent or kiosk at the airport ticket counter on the day of travel before a physical or digital boarding pass is fully issued.
How to manage my reservation and add EarlyBird Check-In on the Southwest app?
Open the Southwest Airlines app, log in to your Rapid Rewards account (or enter your confirmation number), go to "My Trips," select your upcoming flight, and look for the option to "Add EarlyBird Check-In" or "Manage Trip."
How to get a good boarding position without paying for EarlyBird?
Set a reminder for exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time and check in online or via the Southwest app as precisely as possible. Being prompt is key to securing a better position.
How to check in for multiple passengers on the same reservation?
When you check in online or via the app, all passengers on the same confirmation number will be checked in simultaneously and assigned sequential boarding positions (e.g., A30, A31, A32), optimizing your chances of sitting together.
How to get a mobile boarding pass for my Southwest flight?
After checking in online or via the app, select the option to receive a mobile boarding pass. You can usually save it directly to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) for easy access.
How to resolve issues if I can't check in online for Southwest?
First, double-check your confirmation number, first name, and last name for any typos. Try clearing your browser's cache or using a different device/browser. If the issue persists, contact Southwest Customer Service directly for assistance.
How to get an A-group boarding position if I'm not A-List or Business Select?
Besides purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, your best bet is to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight. You can also try purchasing "Upgraded Boarding" at the airport on the day of travel, if available, which can get you an A1-A15 position.
