Traveling with Southwest Airlines is a unique experience, especially when it comes to their open seating policy. This means how early you check in can significantly impact your boarding position and, consequently, your seat choice. So, if you're wondering, "How far in advance can you check in with Southwest Airlines?" – you've come to the right place! Let's dive into the details and make sure you're well-prepared for your next Southwest flight.
Are you ready to optimize your Southwest boarding experience? Let's get started!
Understanding Southwest's Check-In Window
Southwest Airlines operates on a first-come, first-served boarding system. Unlike airlines that pre-assign seats, your boarding position (A, B, or C, followed by a number from 1-60) is determined by when you check in. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position and the more seat options you'll have.
Step 1: The Standard Check-In Window – 24 Hours Prior
The standard check-in window for all Southwest Airlines flights, both domestic and international, opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is your prime opportunity to secure the best possible boarding position without any extra cost.
When to Check In: Set a reminder for precisely 24 hours before your flight. For example, if your flight departs at 3:00 PM on a Saturday, check-in opens at 3:00 PM on Friday.
Why it Matters: Checking in right at the 24-hour mark is crucial for getting a desirable boarding group (like A or early B), which allows you to board earlier and have a wider selection of seats and overhead bin space. Missing this window can mean ending up in a later boarding group, limiting your choices.
Step 2: The Advantage of EarlyBird Check-In – 36 Hours Prior (Paid Option)
For those who prioritize an earlier boarding position and want to avoid the rush of checking in right at the 24-hour mark, Southwest offers a paid service called EarlyBird Check-In.
What it Is: EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. This is 12 hours before the general 24-hour check-in window opens.
Benefits:
Automatic Check-in: You don't need to set a reminder or be online at a specific time. Southwest handles the check-in for you.
Better Boarding Position: By checking you in earlier than the general public, EarlyBird Check-In significantly increases your chances of securing a more favorable boarding position (though it doesn't guarantee an A-group boarding).
Reduced Stress: Peace of mind knowing your boarding position is secured, allowing you to focus on other travel preparations.
Cost: The price for EarlyBird Check-In varies, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight, depending on the route and demand.
How to Purchase: You can usually purchase EarlyBird Check-In during your initial flight booking on Southwest.com or add it to an existing reservation up to 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time. It's important to note that availability can be limited.
Who it's Best For: Passengers who want to ensure an earlier boarding position, especially on popular routes, those traveling with families who want to sit together, or business travelers who need quick access to overhead bins.
Step 3: Other Ways to Secure an Early Boarding Position
While the 24-hour check-in and EarlyBird Check-In are the primary methods, there are other ways to increase your chances of a good boarding spot:
Sub-heading: Business Select Fares
Premium Option: If you purchase a Business Select fare, you are guaranteed one of the first 15 boarding positions (A1-A15). This is the highest priority boarding available on Southwest.
Included Perks: Business Select fares also typically include other benefits like a complimentary premium drink and extra Rapid Rewards points.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards A-List and A-List Preferred Members
Loyalty Benefits: If you are a Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred member, you receive priority boarding automatically. You'll be assigned an A-group boarding position (or the best available after Business Select) regardless of when you check in.
How to Qualify: A-List status is earned by flying a certain number of qualifying one-way flights or earning a specific amount of Tier Qualifying Points within a calendar year.
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding at the Gate
Last-Minute Opportunity: If available, you may have the option to purchase "Upgraded Boarding" at the airport gate on the day of your flight. This can secure you an A1-A15 boarding position if spots are open.
Availability: This is highly dependent on availability and is often limited. It's a good option if you missed the 24-hour window and EarlyBird Check-In wasn't an option or sold out.
Step 4: The Check-In Process – What You'll Need and How to Do It
No matter which method you choose, the actual check-in process is straightforward.
Sub-heading: What You'll Need
Confirmation Number: This is the 6-character alphanumeric code you received when you booked your flight.
First Name: The first name of one of the passengers on the reservation.
Last Name: The last name of one of the passengers on the reservation.
Passport Information (for International Flights): If traveling internationally, be prepared to enter or verify passport details.
Sub-heading: Online Check-In (Recommended)
Go to the Southwest Airlines Website: Navigate to Southwest.com.
Click "Check In": Locate the "Check In" tab at the top of the homepage.
Enter Details: Input your Confirmation Number, First Name, and Last Name.
Retrieve Reservation: Click "Check In" to find your flight.
Follow Prompts: Confirm your flight details and any necessary passenger information.
Get Boarding Pass: Once checked in, you'll receive your boarding pass with your assigned boarding group and position. You can choose to:
Print it at home.
Have it emailed to you.
Send it to your mobile device (Apple Wallet, Google Pay).
Sub-heading: Southwest Mobile App Check-In (Highly Convenient)
Open the Southwest App: Download and open the official Southwest Airlines app on your smartphone.
Tap "Check In": Select the "Check In" option.
Enter Details: Input your Confirmation Number, First Name, and Last Name.
Access Boarding Pass: Your boarding pass will be available directly within the app and can often be saved to your phone's digital wallet for easy access. The app also provides real-time updates on flight status and gate changes.
Sub-heading: Airport Check-In (Least Recommended for Boarding Position)
Self-Service Kiosk: At the airport, locate a Southwest self-service kiosk. Enter your confirmation number and follow the prompts to print your boarding pass.
Ticket Counter: Speak with a Southwest Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter. Provide your confirmation number and ID, and they will assist you with check-in and provide a printed boarding pass.
Important Note for International Flights: If you are traveling internationally, you must have your passport verified by a Customer Service Agent or kiosk at the ticket counter on the day of travel before a physical or digital boarding pass is issued. This is true even if you checked in online.
Key Considerations for Your Southwest Check-In
Time is of the Essence: For the best boarding position, especially without EarlyBird, being online and checking in right at the 24-hour mark is paramount.
International Travel: While online check-in is available 24 hours prior for international flights, you will still need to present your passport to a Southwest agent or kiosk at the airport for verification before your boarding pass is fully activated. For certain destinations (like Aruba, Havana, and Punta Cana), you might be required to get your boarding pass exclusively at the airport.
Baggage Check-In: If you have checked baggage, you'll still need to drop it off at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter or a baggage drop location at the airport. Be aware of the baggage check-in deadlines, which are typically 45 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and 60-75 minutes for international flights.
No-Show Policy: If your plans change and you are not going to travel, cancel your reservation at least 10 minutes prior to scheduled departure. Failure to do so can result in forfeiture of Wanna Get Away® or Wanna Get Away Plus® funds/points.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check in online with Southwest Airlines?
You can check in online by visiting Southwest.com or using the Southwest mobile app exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. Enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name to retrieve your reservation and get your boarding pass.
How to get a good boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
To get a good boarding position, check in online exactly 24 hours before your flight departs. Alternatively, purchase EarlyBird Check-In for an earlier automatic check-in (36 hours prior), buy a Business Select fare, or be a Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred member.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for Southwest flights?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In during the initial booking process on Southwest.com or add it to an existing reservation up to 36 hours before your flight's departure, subject to availability.
How to check in for an international Southwest flight?
You can check in online for international flights 24 hours prior to departure, but you must present your passport to a Southwest agent or kiosk at the airport for verification before your boarding pass is fully valid.
How to check baggage with Southwest Airlines?
After checking in online, you will need to drop off your checked bags at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter or a baggage drop area at the airport. Be sure to arrive before the baggage check-in deadline (typically 45 minutes domestic, 60-75 minutes international).
How to get your boarding pass after checking in with Southwest?
After checking in online or via the app, you can print your boarding pass at home, have it emailed to you, save it to your mobile device's digital wallet, or print it at an airport kiosk or ticket counter.
How to know your boarding group and position on Southwest?
Once you have checked in, your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position number (1-60) will be displayed on your boarding pass.
How to change your flight on the day of travel with Southwest?
Southwest offers "Same-Day Change" and "Same-Day Standby" options. Eligibility and fees vary by fare type. You can often make these changes via the Southwest app, mobile web, or by speaking with a Customer Service Agent at the airport.
How to use the Southwest Airlines mobile app for check-in?
Download the Southwest Airlines app, open it, tap the "Check In" button, enter your confirmation details, and your boarding pass will be available directly in the app.
How to ensure family members sit together on a Southwest flight?
To increase your chances of sitting together, check in as early as possible (24 hours prior) or purchase EarlyBird Check-In for all family members. This will help you secure earlier boarding positions, allowing you to choose seats together.
