It's the age-old question for Southwest flyers: how early can I check in to snag that coveted A boarding group and get your pick of seats? Unlike other airlines, Southwest operates on an open seating policy, which means your boarding position is everything. The earlier you check in, the better your position, and the higher your chances of getting your preferred seat and overhead bin space. So, let's dive into the details and get you ready for a smooth Southwest journey!
The Quest for the Perfect Boarding Position: How Early Can You Check In at Southwest Airlines?
Are you tired of being stuck in the middle seat, or worse, separated from your travel companions on a full flight? If so, understanding Southwest's check-in process and how to optimize your boarding position is paramount. It’s not just about getting on the plane; it’s about getting on comfortably.
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Standard Check-In Window
Let's start with the basics. The standard check-in window for all Southwest flights opens at a very specific time.
The 24-Hour Rule: Your Go-To for Free Check-In
For the vast majority of Southwest passengers, the ability to check in begins exactly 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time. This applies whether you're checking in online, via the mobile app, or even at an airport kiosk.
Why is this important? Because boarding positions (A, B, or C, followed by a number 1-60+) are assigned based on a combination of factors, with the primary one being when you check in. The faster you check in once the window opens, the better your assigned boarding position. Set a reminder on your phone!
The Race Against the Clock: Every Second Counts
Imagine your flight departs at 3:00 PM on Friday. You can officially check in at 3:00 PM on Thursday. Be ready to hit that "Check In" button right as the clock strikes the 24-hour mark. Even a few seconds can make a difference between an A and a B boarding pass, especially on popular routes.
Step 2: Boosting Your Boarding Position: Paid & Elite Options
While the 24-hour window is the standard, Southwest offers ways to get ahead of the game, guaranteeing you an earlier check-in or a better boarding position.
Sub-heading: EarlyBird Check-In: The Convenience Factor
What it is: EarlyBird Check-In is a paid option offered by Southwest that automatically checks you in before the traditional 24-hour check-in window opens. This means you don't have to worry about setting an alarm or being glued to your phone at the exact 24-hour mark.
How early does it check you in? If you purchase EarlyBird Check-In, Southwest automatically checks you in starting 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time. This gives you a significant advantage over those waiting for the 24-hour mark.
Benefits:
Earlier Boarding Position: While it doesn't guarantee an A group boarding pass, it significantly increases your chances of getting an earlier position (often in the A or early B group).
Preferred Seat Selection: With an earlier boarding position, you have a much better opportunity to select your preferred available seat, whether it's a window, aisle, or closer to the front.
Overhead Bin Access: Early access to overhead bin storage is a huge perk, especially for those with carry-on luggage.
Cost: EarlyBird Check-In pricing varies based on the popularity and length of each one-way flight, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight.
When to purchase: You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In at the time of booking your flight, or you can add it later to an existing reservation up to 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time, depending on availability. It's often recommended to purchase it as early as possible if you want to ensure its availability, especially for busy flights.
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding: Last-Minute A1-A15
What it is: Upgraded Boarding is another paid option available for purchase on the day of travel, once you're at the airport. It allows you to secure one of the coveted A1-A15 boarding positions.
When to purchase: This option becomes available for purchase 24 hours before the flight and sales end 30 minutes before departure, depending on availability. You can usually purchase it at the Southwest check-in counter or at the gate.
Cost: The cost for Upgraded Boarding also varies but can be higher than EarlyBird Check-In, as it guarantees a prime boarding spot.
Consideration: This is a great option if you missed the EarlyBird window or simply want to ensure a top boarding position for a specific flight.
Sub-heading: A-List & A-List Preferred Status: Elite Benefits
What it is: Southwest's Rapid Rewards A-List and A-List Preferred elite status offer significant benefits, including priority boarding.
How early do they check in? If you are an A-List or A-List Preferred Member, your boarding position will be automatically reserved 36 hours prior to your flight. This puts you in a similar position to those who purchase EarlyBird Check-In, without the additional cost.
Key difference: While your position is reserved, you still need to check in within 24 hours of scheduled departure to retrieve your boarding pass. However, your pre-assigned superior position will be maintained.
Additional perks: A-List and A-List Preferred members also receive benefits like priority lanes at check-in and security, free checked bags (A-List Preferred gets two, A-List gets one), and bonus points earning.
Sub-heading: Business Select Fares: The Ultimate Priority
What it is: Business Select is Southwest's highest fare class. It comes with a range of premium benefits.
Priority Boarding: Passengers with Business Select fares are automatically assigned positions in the A1-A15 range, guaranteeing them the very first boarding positions. You don't need to do anything extra; it's part of the fare.
Other benefits: Business Select also includes refundable tickets, free same-day flight changes, and complimentary premium drinks on board.
Step 3: Retrieving Your Boarding Pass: Multiple Options
Once you've checked in (either automatically or manually), you'll need to retrieve your boarding pass.
Online/Mobile App: The easiest way is to access your boarding pass through Southwest.com or the Southwest mobile app. You can save it to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet, Google Pay) for convenience. This is generally available 24 hours before departure.
Airport Kiosk: Self-service kiosks are available at the airport from 30 minutes to 3 hours before departure for domestic flights.
Ticket Counter: You can always check in and get a printed boarding pass at the Southwest ticket counter, typically from 30 minutes to 3 hours before departure for domestic flights.
Curbside Check-in: At select U.S. airport locations, curbside check-in is available from 60 minutes to 3 hours before departure.
Step 4: Understanding Boarding Groups and Seating
Southwest's unique boarding system is crucial to grasp for a stress-free travel day.
Groups A, B, and C: You'll be assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position number (1-60+), like A35 or B12. This combination is displayed on your boarding pass.
Lining Up: At the gate, you'll find numbered posts where you line up according to your assigned boarding position.
Open Seating: Once your boarding group is called, you board the aircraft in numerical order. Remember, Southwest does not assign seats. You simply choose any available seat upon boarding. This is why an earlier boarding position is so valuable – it gives you more options!
Special Boarding Procedures:
Family Boarding: If you are traveling with a child six years old or younger, up to two adults may board during Family Boarding. This occurs after the "A" group has boarded and before the "B" group begins boarding, allowing families to sit together.
Preboarding/Extra Time (XT): Customers with disabilities who need a specific seat, assistance boarding, or need to stow an assistive device may qualify for preboarding. Others who need a little extra time may board between the "A" and "B" groups, before Family Boarding. Speak to a Southwest Customer Service Agent for assistance.
Conclusion: Plan Your Check-In for a Seamless Journey
Knowing how early you can check in at Southwest Airlines is key to a more comfortable and less stressful travel experience. Whether you're a budget-conscious traveler setting a 24-hour alarm or willing to invest in EarlyBird Check-In for peace of mind, understanding the system empowers you to make the best choices for your trip. Prioritize that early check-in, and you'll be well on your way to a great flight with Southwest!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get the best boarding position on Southwest Airlines for free?
To get the best boarding position for free, you must check in exactly 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time. Be online and ready to hit the check-in button the moment the window opens.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for a Southwest flight?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In when you initially book your flight on Southwest.com, or you can add it to an existing reservation through the "Manage Trip" section on their website or app, up to 36 hours before departure, if available.
How to check in for a Southwest flight if I have EarlyBird Check-In?
If you have EarlyBird Check-In, you don't need to do anything on the day of travel. Southwest automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position beginning 36 hours before your flight. You will still need to retrieve your boarding pass within the 24-hour window.
How to know my boarding group and position on Southwest?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+) will be displayed on your boarding pass once you have successfully checked in for your flight.
How to check in for a Southwest flight using the mobile app?
Open the Southwest Airlines mobile app, tap on the "Check In" button, enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name, and follow the prompts to complete the check-in process. Your mobile boarding pass will then be available in the app.
How to get a printed boarding pass at the airport for Southwest?
You can get a printed boarding pass at the airport by using a self-service kiosk or by visiting the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
How to change my flight on Southwest after checking in?
You can often change your flight on the day of travel through Southwest's "Same-Day Change" or "Same-Day Standby" options. Eligibility and fees may vary based on your fare type and elite status. You typically need to make the change at least 10-30 minutes prior to your original flight's departure.
How to board with a family on Southwest Airlines?
If you are traveling with a child aged six years or younger, up to two adults in your party can board during "Family Boarding," which takes place after the A group has boarded and before the B group.
How to get priority boarding on Southwest without elite status or paying?
The only way to consistently get a good boarding position without elite status or paying for EarlyBird is to check in precisely at the 24-hour mark before your flight's departure.
How to know the minimum check-in time for a Southwest flight?
The minimum check-in time for Southwest domestic flights is 30 minutes before scheduled departure, and for international flights, it's 60 minutes. However, it's highly recommended to check in much earlier to secure a better boarding position.