How Early Should I Check-in for a Southwest Flight?
When flying with Southwest Airlines, one of the key steps in preparing for your journey is understanding how early you should check-in. Southwest’s unique boarding process is different from most airlines, making check-in timing crucial for securing the best seat and avoiding last-minute stress. In this guide, we’ll explore when you should check in for your Southwest flight, what factors to consider, and how to make the most of the airline’s check-in system.
Southwest Airlines offers a 24-hour check-in window, meaning you can check in for your flight exactly 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This is a convenient feature that allows passengers to complete their check-in from the comfort of their home, hotel, or even on the go via the Southwest app.
Why 24 Hours?
Southwest Airlines assigns boarding positions based on the order in which passengers check in. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding group and position will be. Since Southwest does not assign specific seats but rather uses an open seating policy, early check-in is essential to secure the best choice of seats on the plane. Boarding positions are assigned in A, B, and C groups, followed by numbers (A1 to A60, B1 to B60, etc.). Checking in early maximizes your chances of getting a better boarding position.
If you wait until the last minute to check in for your Southwest flight, you may find yourself in a lower boarding group, such as C. This means you could be among the last passengers to board the plane, resulting in fewer available seats and potentially limited options in terms of where to sit.
Lower Boarding Groups: If you are assigned to a C boarding group, you may end up sitting in the back of the plane or in a seat that you don’t prefer. This can also limit your space for carry-on luggage, as overhead compartments may fill up quickly.
Higher Boarding Groups: If you check in early and secure an A or B boarding group, you’ll have a better chance of picking your preferred seat, whether it’s a window, aisle, or even an exit row with extra legroom.
If you’re wondering how early you can check in for Southwest flights beyond the regular 24-hour window, EarlyBird Check-In is an option worth considering. For an additional fee, EarlyBird automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight, ensuring you a better boarding position without having to worry about manually checking in.
Benefits of EarlyBird: This option guarantees an earlier boarding group (usually within the A group), giving you priority when it comes to seat selection and overhead bin space. It’s especially beneficial for passengers who want to board early, prefer sitting in specific areas of the plane, or need to ensure there is space for their carry-on luggage.
How to Add EarlyBird: You can add EarlyBird Check-In during the booking process or later through your Southwest account or by calling customer service.
While checking in early is important, it’s equally crucial to arrive at the airport on time. Southwest recommends that passengers arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. Even with early check-in, arriving early ensures you have enough time for baggage drop, security screening, and any unforeseen delays.
Set a Reminder: To make sure you don’t forget to check in, set a reminder for 24 hours before your flight departure. Southwest’s online check-in process is quick and easy, so you can complete it within minutes.
Use the Southwest App: The Southwest Airlines mobile app allows you to check in on the go, receive flight updates, and access your boarding pass directly from your phone.
Avoid the Rush: If you don’t have EarlyBird Check-In, aim to check in as soon as the 24-hour window opens. This will give you the best shot at securing an early boarding position.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on any potential changes to your flight, as check-in times and boarding groups may be affected by delays or cancellations.
The ideal time to check in for your Southwest Airlines flight is exactly 24 hours before your scheduled departure. This ensures you secure the best possible boarding position. However, if you want to increase your chances of boarding early, consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, which automatically checks you in 36 hours ahead of time for a better boarding group. Remember to arrive at the airport early—2 to 3 hours before your flight—to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a smooth start to your journey. By following these steps, you’ll maximize your chances of a comfortable, hassle-free flight with Southwest Airlines.