Hey there, fellow traveler! Are you ready to embark on your Southwest Airlines adventure, but a little unsure about how to get that all-important ticket in your hand? Don't worry, you're in the right place! While Southwest doesn't issue traditional "tickets" in the same way some other airlines do (you've likely got a confirmation number and a boarding pass on the way), getting your boarding pass printed is a breeze. Let's get you set up for a smooth journey!
The Ultimate Guide: How to Print Your Southwest Airlines Boarding Pass
When you fly with Southwest, your "ticket" is essentially your reservation confirmation, and what you'll need to print is your boarding pass. This is your golden ticket (pun intended!) to get through security and onto your flight. Southwest offers a few convenient ways to get this done, whether you prefer the digital route or a good old-fashioned paper copy.
 |
| How To Print Out Ticket For Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Check-in Process (Crucial for Boarding Position!)
Before you even think about printing, you need to check in for your flight. This is super important with Southwest because they have an open seating policy, and your boarding position (A, B, or C, followed by a number) is assigned based on when you check in. The earlier you check in, generally the better your boarding position!
When to Check In:
Southwest online check-in opens 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure time. Set an alarm!
If you purchased EarlyBird Check-In, Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before departure, giving you an even better chance at a prime boarding position. You'll still need to retrieve your boarding pass within the 24-hour window.
Business Select fares and Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred members also receive automatic check-in.
Information You'll Need:
Your Southwest Airlines Confirmation Number (a 6-character alphanumeric code).
The first and last name of a passenger on the itinerary.
Step 2: Printing Your Boarding Pass from Home (The Most Convenient Way!)
This is often the easiest and most recommended method, as it saves you time and potential hassle at the airport.
Sub-heading: Online Check-in via Southwest.com
Open Your Web Browser: Go to the official Southwest Airlines website:
www.southwest.com Navigate to "Check In": On the homepage, you'll see a prominent "Check In" button or link. Click on it.
Enter Your Flight Information:
You'll be prompted to enter your Confirmation Number.
Then, enter the First Name and Last Name of a passenger on the reservation.
Click "Check In" or "Retrieve Reservation."
Review Your Details and Get Your Boarding Pass:
Once your reservation is retrieved, you'll see your flight details and your assigned boarding group and position (e.g., A35, B12).
Look for an option to "Print Boarding Pass." This might be a button or a link.
Clicking this will usually open a new window or tab with your boarding pass displayed in a printable format (often a PDF).
Print It Out:
Ensure your printer is connected and has ink/toner.
Use your browser's print function (usually Ctrl+P on Windows, Cmd+P on Mac, or by going to File > Print).
Tip: It's always a good idea to print a backup copy, just in case!
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Sub-heading: Using the Southwest Airlines Mobile App
While this doesn't directly print a physical copy, it's an excellent digital alternative that often negates the need for a paper boarding pass. You can then print from an email if needed.
Download the App: If you haven't already, download the Southwest Airlines app from your device's app store (Apple App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android).
Log In or Check In as a Guest: You can log in to your Rapid Rewards account, or simply select "Check In" and enter your confirmation number and last name.
Retrieve Your Flight: Your flight information will appear.
Access Your Mobile Boarding Pass: The app will display your mobile boarding pass with a scannable barcode.
Options for Digital Use or Email:
Save to Wallet: You can typically add your boarding pass to Apple Wallet (iOS) or Google Pay (Android) for quick access.
Email or Text: Southwest often provides an option to send your boarding pass to yourself via email or text message. If you choose the email option, you can then open that email on a computer with a printer and print it from there. This is a great workaround if you checked in on your phone but need a physical copy later.
Step 3: Printing Your Boarding Pass at the Airport (When Home Printing Isn't an Option)
No printer at home? No problem! Southwest offers several ways to get your boarding pass at the airport.
Sub-heading: Self-Service Kiosks
These are incredibly convenient and can save you time waiting in line at the ticket counter.
Locate a Kiosk: Upon arrival at the airport, look for Southwest Airlines self-service kiosks. They are usually located near the check-in counters or in the main terminal area.
Initiate the Process: On the touchscreen, you'll typically see options like "Check In" or "Print Boarding Pass."
Enter Your Information:
You can usually retrieve your reservation by:
Entering your Confirmation Number.
Swiping a major credit card with your name on it (this doesn't charge you, it just identifies your reservation).
Entering your Rapid Rewards number.
Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your identity (e.g., entering your birthdate).
Select "Print Boarding Pass": Once your reservation is found, choose the option to print your boarding pass.
Collect Your Pass: Your boarding pass will print out from the kiosk. Don't forget any baggage tags if you're checking luggage!
Sub-heading: Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter
For personalized assistance or if you have specific issues, the ticket counter is always an option.
Head to the Counter: Locate the Southwest Airlines ticket counter in the airport terminal.
Provide Your Details: Inform the agent you need to print your boarding pass. Have your Confirmation Number and a valid photo ID ready.
Receive Your Boarding Pass: The agent will retrieve your reservation and print your boarding pass for you. This is also where you'll check any baggage.
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
Sub-heading: Curbside Check-in (Where Available)
Some airports offer curbside check-in, which can be a quick way to get your boarding pass and check bags if you're arriving by car.
Look for Curbside Check-in: As you pull up to the terminal, look for the designated Southwest Airlines curbside check-in area.
Hand Over Information: A skycap will ask for your Confirmation Number and ID.
Get Your Boarding Pass: They can print your boarding pass on the spot and tag your luggage. Remember to tip your skycap for their convenience!
Step 4: What to Do After Printing Your Boarding Pass
Review Your Information: Double-check that your name, flight number, destination, and boarding group/position are correct on the printed pass.
Keep it Safe: Store your boarding pass in an easily accessible place. If it's a paper copy, avoid folding it across the barcode.
Proceed to Security: With your boarding pass in hand (physical or mobile) and a valid ID, you're ready to head to the TSA security checkpoint.
At the Gate: Once you're through security, proceed to your designated gate. Keep an eye on the boarding monitors for updates. When your boarding group is called, line up in numerical order to board your flight!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check in for a Southwest Airlines flight online?
You can check in online at
How to get a mobile boarding pass for Southwest Airlines?
After checking in online or through the Southwest app, you'll be given the option to receive a mobile boarding pass directly in the app, save it to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay, or have it sent to your email or via text message.
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
How to print multiple Southwest Airlines boarding passes for a group?
When you check in online for a group on the same reservation, you'll typically have the option to print all boarding passes associated with that confirmation number. If using the app, the main ticket purchaser can usually access and share mobile boarding passes for the entire group.
How to retrieve a lost or unprinted Southwest Airlines boarding pass?
You can easily retrieve and print your boarding pass again by checking in online again (within the 24-hour window), using a self-service kiosk at the airport, or by visiting the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
How to get a physical boarding pass if I only have a mobile one?
If you only have a mobile boarding pass, you can visit a Southwest Airlines self-service kiosk at the airport and use your confirmation number or credit card to print a physical copy, or go to the ticket counter.
How to know my boarding group and position on Southwest Airlines?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60+) will be assigned when you check in for your flight and will be clearly displayed on your boarding pass (both digital and printed).
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
How to print baggage tags for Southwest Airlines at home?
Southwest Airlines does not typically offer the option to print baggage tags at home. You will receive baggage tags at the airport either from a self-service kiosk or at the ticket counter when you check in your bags.
How to change my seat on Southwest Airlines after printing my boarding pass?
Southwest Airlines has an open seating policy, meaning there are no assigned seats. Your boarding pass dictates when you board the plane, not where you sit. Once on board, you choose any available seat. You cannot change your "seat" after printing, as there isn't one assigned.
How to print a Southwest Airlines itinerary, not just the boarding pass?
You can usually access and print your flight itinerary (which includes your confirmation number and flight details) from the "My Trips" or "Manage Reservation" section on
How to get a boarding pass if I purchased EarlyBird Check-In for Southwest Airlines?
Even with EarlyBird Check-In, which automatically checks you in 36 hours prior to departure, you still need to retrieve your boarding pass within the 24-hour check-in window. You can do this online, via the app, or at an airport kiosk/counter. Your boarding position will be pre-assigned thanks to EarlyBird.
 |
