If you’re flying with Southwest Airlines, checking in can be a quick and easy process with a little bit of preparation. Learn about the different check-in options available, including online check-in and early bird check-in, and get expert tips to make your Southwest check-in experience a breeze.
Know Your Check-In Time
One of the most important things to remember when checking in for your Southwest flight is to know your check-in time. This is the earliest time you can check in for your flight and it varies depending on your type of ticket. For example, if you have a Wanna Get Away fare, your check-in time will be 24 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time. If you have a Business Select fare, your check-in time will be 36 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time. Knowing your check-in time will ensure that you have the best chance of getting a good boarding position.
Arrive Early at the Airport
To ensure a smooth travel experience with Southwest, it’s important to arrive at the airport early. This will give you plenty of time to check in, go through security, and make your way to your gate without feeling rushed or stressed. Southwest recommends arriving at least 90 minutes before your flight’s scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 120 minutes for international flights. Keep in mind that airport security lines can be unpredictable, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution and arrive early.
Be Educated on the Various Check-In Options
Check-In Online
Southwest Airlines allows passengers to check-in online up to 24 hours before their flight. This is the easiest and most convenient way to check-in for your flight. Simply log on to the Southwest Airlines website and enter your confirmation number or Rapid Rewards number to access your reservation. From there, you can select your seat and print your boarding pass.
One of the biggest advantages of checking in online is that you can choose your seat in advance. This means that you can select a seat that is most comfortable for you and your travel companions. If you’re traveling with family or friends, you can select seats next to each other to make sure you can sit together during the flight.
Consider Early Bird Check-In
If you want to ensure that you get a good seat on your Southwest flight, consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In. This service automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time, giving you an earlier boarding position. EarlyBird Check-In costs $15-$25 per person each way, depending on the length of your flight. Keep in mind that EarlyBird Check-In does not guarantee a specific seat, but it does increase your chances of getting a better one.
Use the Southwest App
If you prefer to check-in on your mobile device, download the Southwest Airlines app. The app allows you to check-in for your flight, view your flight status, and even access your boarding pass without having to print it out. This is a great option for travelers who don’t have access to a printer.
The Southwest Airlines app also provides useful features such as flight tracking, gate information, and real-time updates on flight delays or cancellations. You can also use the app to view your Rapid Rewards account information and book future flights with ease.
Check in at the Airport
If you’re unable to check-in online or through the Southwest Airlines app, you can check-in at the airport. Southwest Airlines recommends that passengers arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow for enough time to check-in, go through security, and board their flight.
When you arrive at the airport, locate the Southwest Airlines check-in counter and present your government-issued ID and flight confirmation number. A Southwest Airlines representative will assist you with the check-in process and provide you with your boarding pass.
Check Your Flight Status
Before heading to the airport, make sure to check your flight status. This will give you an idea of any delays or cancellations that may affect your travel plans. You can check your flight status online, through the Southwest Airlines app, or by calling Southwest Airlines customer service.
If your flight is delayed or canceled, Southwest Airlines will make every effort to rebook you on the next available flight. You can also check the Southwest Airlines website for travel advisories and weather-related updates.
Know Your Boarding Group
Southwest Airlines has a unique boarding process that assigns passengers to boarding groups based on the order in which they checked in. The earlier you check-in, the better your boarding group will be. Make sure to check-in as early as possible to increase your chances of getting a good boarding group.
Southwest Airlines boarding groups are labeled A, B, and C, with each group having a number assigned to it. Passengers in Group A board first, followed by Group B, and then Group C. Each boarding group is further divided into numbered positions, with passengers boarding in numerical order within their group.
Know the Baggage Allowance
Make sure you know Southwest Airlines’ baggage allowance before you arrive at the airport. This will help you avoid any additional fees or surprises at check-in. Southwest Airlines allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Checked baggage fees may apply depending on the fare type and destination.
The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, and the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Some examples of personal items include purses, briefcases, backpacks, or small bags.
If you need to check bags, checked baggage fees may apply depending on the fare type and destination. Southwest Airlines, however, allows up to two checked bags per passenger, with weight and size restrictions. Additionally, Southwest Airlines does not charge a fee for overweight or oversized bags, as long as they do not exceed 100 pounds or 80 inches in combined length and width.
Join the Rapid Rewards Program
If you’re a frequent Southwest Airlines traveler, consider joining the Rapid Rewards program. This loyalty program allows you to earn points for every flight you take, which you can redeem for future flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more. The program also offers additional perks such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and access to exclusive promotions.
The more points you earn, the higher your membership level becomes, which unlocks additional perks such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and access to exclusive promotions.
One of the unique features of the Rapid Rewards program is that there are no blackout dates or seat restrictions. As long as there is a seat available on the flight, you can redeem your points for it. This makes it easier to use your points and get the most value out of them.
Consider Using TSA PreCheck
If you travel frequently, consider applying for TSA PreCheck. This program allows you to go through a separate security screening line, which is typically shorter and faster than the regular security line. TSA PreCheck also allows you to keep your shoes, belts, and jackets on, and your liquids and laptops in your bag, making the security screening process quicker and easier.
Conclusion
In conclusion, checking in for your Southwest Airlines flight at the right time can help make your travel experience smoother and less stressful. Whether you choose to check-in online, through the app, or at the airport, make sure to do so in a timely manner and stay up-to-date on your flight status. By following these tips, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable travel experience with Southwest Airlines.
Southwest Flight Check-In FAQ’s
How do I check-in with Southwest?
Southwest Airlines offers several options for check-in, including online check-in, mobile check-in, airport kiosk check-in, and traditional check-in at the airport counter.
How early do you have to check-in for a flight on Southwest?
The minimum time to check-in for a Southwest Airlines flight is: 30 minutes before scheduled departure time for US domestic flights and 60 minutes before scheduled departure time for international flights to/from the US.
Is Group B good on Southwest?
Group B is the second boarding group after Group A. Group B includes passengers who check-in between 24 hours and 36 hours before the flight’s scheduled departure time.
While being in Group A generally provides the best boarding position and access to the widest range of seating options, being in Group B is still a good boarding position on Southwest Airlines.
Does Southwest allow carry on?
Yes, Southwest Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard their flights free of charge. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and be no larger than 10 x 16 x 24 inches (25 x 40 x 60 cm), while the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and be no larger than 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (47 x 22 x 34 cm).
