Ever stood at the airport, bags in hand, wondering if you're too early (or heaven forbid, too late!) to check them in for your Southwest flight? You're not alone! It's a common travel query, and getting it right can mean the difference between a smooth start to your journey and a frantic dash. Let's break down exactly how early you can check bags for Southwest Airlines with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide.
Your Ultimate Guide: Checking Bags Early with Southwest Airlines
Step 1: Let's Get Started! Are You a Planner or a Last-Minute Packer?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, tell me: Are you the kind of traveler who has everything meticulously packed days in advance, or do you find yourself throwing things into a suitcase an hour before leaving for the airport? Your packing style might influence how you approach bag check-in. Regardless, understanding Southwest's policies is crucial for a stress-free experience.
Step 2: Understanding Southwest's General Bag Check-In Window
Southwest Airlines has a relatively consistent policy for checking bags. For most domestic flights, you can generally check your bags at the airport no earlier than four hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This applies to both the ticket counter and curbside check-in locations (where available).
Important Note for International Flights: If any portion of your itinerary includes an international flight, you will typically need to check your bags at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter upon arrival at the airport. For most international flights, passengers and their baggage must be checked in 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure. For flights departing Aruba, the minimum check-in time is at least 75 minutes before scheduled departure.
Step 3: Exploring Your Bag Check-In Options
Southwest offers a few ways to check your bags, each with its own advantages:
Sub-heading: Curbside Check-In
For many domestic flights, curbside check-in can be a real time-saver. You can drop off your bags right at the curb with a Southwest agent. This is usually available from three hours up to 60 minutes before scheduled departure.
Tip: Curbside check-in isn't available for international itineraries, so if you're flying outside the U.S., head straight to the ticket counter.
Sub-heading: Ticket Counter Check-In
The traditional method! Head inside the terminal to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Here, a friendly agent will assist you with checking your bags. The counter generally opens four hours before departure and typically closes 30 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights.
Sub-heading: Self-Service Kiosks
Many airports equipped with self-service kiosks allow you to print your boarding pass and baggage tags. Once you have your tags, you simply proceed to the designated bag drop area. These kiosks are usually available from three hours down to 30 minutes before departure for domestic flights.
Benefit: Using kiosks can often bypass longer lines at the full-service ticket counter.
Step 4: The "More Than Four Hours Early" Exception (Orlando MCO Specific)
While the general rule is four hours, there's a notable exception for travelers departing from Orlando International Airport (MCO). Southwest has an additional bag drop location in Terminal B, Level 1 (by Bus Spaces B20-22) that allows you to check bags more than four hours ahead of your flight's scheduled departure time. This is particularly useful for those staying at Disney Resorts that partner with Southwest for baggage services or for cruise passengers who drop off bags early after their cruise. This special bag drop is typically open Friday-Monday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Key Takeaway: If you're flying out of MCO and want to check bags super early, investigate this specific option!
Step 5: Don't Confuse Bag Check-In with Flight Check-In!
It's important to distinguish between checking your bags and checking in for your flight.
Sub-heading: Online and Mobile Check-In
You can check in for your Southwest flight online or via the Southwest mobile app starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This is highly recommended as it allows you to:
Secure your boarding position: Southwest uses an open seating policy, and boarding positions (A, B, C with numbers 1-60) are assigned based on when you check in. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position, which means more seat choice and overhead bin space.
Get your boarding pass: You can download it to your phone or print it at home.
Sub-heading: EarlyBird Check-In®
For an additional fee, Southwest offers EarlyBird Check-In®. If purchased, Southwest will automatically check you in and reserve your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. This is before the general 24-hour check-in window opens, giving you an even better chance at a desirable boarding position. While it doesn't guarantee an "A" boarding position, it significantly improves your odds.
Remember: Even with EarlyBird Check-In, you still need to physically drop off your bags at the airport within the allowed bag check-in window (generally four hours before departure).
Step 6: Why Arrive Early (Beyond Just Bag Check-In)?
Even if you check your bags within the permitted window, arriving at the airport well in advance of your flight is always a smart move. This allows ample time for:
Security screening: TSA lines can be unpredictable.
Navigating the airport: Finding your gate, especially in large airports.
Unexpected delays: Traffic, parking issues, or long lines at the ticket counter can all eat into your time.
Southwest generally recommends arriving:
2 hours before scheduled departure for domestic flights.
3 hours before scheduled departure for international flights.
Step 7: Double-Check Your Baggage - Weight and Size Limits!
While Southwest is generous with its two free checked bags per passenger, it's critical to adhere to their size and weight limits to avoid extra fees.
Weight Limit: Each checked bag can weigh up to 50 pounds (23 kg).
Size Limit: Each checked bag should not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Pro Tip: Invest in a portable luggage scale to avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport!
10 Related FAQ Questions: How to Smooth Your Southwest Bag Drop Experience
How to avoid overweight bag fees on Southwest?
Pack light, use a luggage scale at home, or consider shifting heavier items to your carry-on or personal item if they meet those limits.
How to track my checked bags on Southwest?
Southwest offers digital bag tracking through their app. Once your bag is tagged and scanned, you can often see its journey.
How to check bags for a Southwest connecting flight?
For connecting flights on Southwest, your bags are typically checked through to your final destination, so you generally won't need to re-check them unless you're arriving internationally and need to clear customs, in which case you'll pick them up and re-check them after customs.
How to get a good boarding position on Southwest if I'm checking bags?
Check in online exactly 24 hours before your flight, or purchase EarlyBird Check-In for an automatic check-in 36 hours prior. Your bag drop time doesn't affect your boarding position.
How to handle oversized or special baggage on Southwest?
Items exceeding 50 lbs or 62 linear inches (but under 100 lbs and 80 linear inches) will incur an additional fee. Items over 100 lbs or 80 linear inches may need to be shipped as cargo. Check Southwest's official policy for specific details on sports equipment or other special items.
How to find Southwest's bag drop-off location at the airport?
Look for "Southwest Airlines" signs at the airport terminal. They'll guide you to the ticket counters, self-service kiosks, and curbside check-in areas. Airport websites also often provide terminal maps.
How to check a car seat or stroller for free on Southwest?
Yes, car seats and strollers can typically be checked for free, in addition to your two free checked bags. You can check them at the ticket counter or gate.
How to avoid late bag check-in issues on Southwest?
Adhere to the minimum check-in times: 30 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights. Arriving earlier (2-3 hours suggested) provides a buffer for any unforeseen circumstances.
How to know if curbside check-in is available at my departure airport for Southwest?
While generally available at most major U.S. airports, it's always best to check the specific airport's website or Southwest's airport information page for details on available services and hours.
How to get a refund for EarlyBird Check-In if my flight changes?
EarlyBird Check-In is generally non-refundable. If you change your flight, the EarlyBird Check-In does not automatically transfer to the new flight, and you would need to purchase it again if desired for the new itinerary (subject to availability). Always review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase.
