When flying with Southwest Airlines, checking in at the right time is crucial for securing a better boarding position due to their unique open seating policy. Southwest does not assign seats; instead, passengers are assigned a boarding group and position (like A25 or B10) based on how early they check in. For this reason, you should check in exactly 24 hours before your scheduled departure time to get the best possible boarding spot. Check-in can be completed easily through the Southwest Airlines website, mobile app, or at an airport kiosk. For travelers who want to avoid the hassle of remembering the 24-hour check-in window, Southwest offers EarlyBird Check-In, a paid option that automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, often resulting in a better boarding position than standard check-in. However, EarlyBird Check-In does not guarantee an “A” group boarding number, so results may vary. If you choose not to purchase EarlyBird, it’s highly recommended to set a reminder and check in exactly at the 24-hour mark to improve your chances of boarding earlier, which increases your likelihood of getting your preferred seat, especially if you’re traveling with companions or want a specific location on the plane like an aisle or window. For domestic flights, Southwest recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours prior to departure, and for international flights, at least three hours prior to departure to allow sufficient time for baggage check, security screening, and boarding. Even if you’ve already checked in online, arriving early ensures you have enough time to print a boarding pass if needed, drop off checked luggage, and handle any last-minute issues. If you’re traveling with checked bags, they must be dropped off at least 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights, and at least 60 minutes before for international flights. Southwest’s boarding process starts approximately 30 minutes before departure, and boarding groups line up numerically based on their position, so being checked in early gives you a distinct advantage in choosing your seat and overhead bin space. Business Select and A-List Preferred passengers typically receive earlier boarding positions (A1–A15), making check-in time less critical for them, but for all other fare types, including Wanna Get Away and Anytime, check-in time can significantly impact the travel experience. In conclusion, the best strategy for checking in for a Southwest flight is to do so exactly 24 hours in advance of your flight to maximize your boarding position, unless you’ve opted for EarlyBird Check-In or are flying Business Select. Always ensure you arrive at the airport with ample time before your flight to accommodate security, boarding, and any possible delays. By following these tips, you’ll have a smoother and more efficient travel experience with Southwest Airlines and increase your chances of getting the seat you want.