Southwest Airlines check-in is a key part of your travel process, and knowing how and when to do it can help you get a better boarding position and a smoother airport experience. Unlike many airlines, Southwest does not assign seats in advance. Instead, passengers board in a specific order based on their check-in time, so the earlier you check in, the earlier you can board and pick your preferred seat. Southwest check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time, and this is when you should check in to get the best boarding group—Group A, B, or C, with a number that determines your order within the group. You can check in using the Southwest website, the Southwest mobile app, or at an airport kiosk or counter.

To check in online, go to southwest.com or open the app, click “Check In,” and enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name. Once your reservation is pulled up, Southwest will assign you a boarding position automatically. You can then print your boarding pass, email it to yourself, or download a mobile boarding pass. Mobile check-in is popular with frequent travelers because it’s fast, easy, and eliminates the need for paper tickets. If you forget to check in right at the 24-hour mark, your boarding group may be later, giving you fewer choices for seating and overhead bin space.

If you want to secure a better boarding position without worrying about when to check in, you can purchase EarlyBird Check-In. This add-on automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight, ahead of regular passengers. While it doesn’t guarantee Group A, it usually results in a better position than checking in manually. Families traveling with children aged six or under can use Family Boarding, which occurs between Groups A and B, even if they didn’t check in early. You can also upgrade to Upgraded Boarding, available at the gate for a fee, to move into an A1–A15 spot if there are openings.

If you’re checking bags, you can still check in online and head to the bag drop counter at the airport. Bags must be checked at least 45 minutes before departure, and Southwest recommends arriving at least two hours before your flight. For airport check-in, Southwest offers self-service kiosks and manned ticket counters, which can also be used for printing boarding passes, checking luggage, or getting help from a Southwest employee.

In summary, Southwest Airlines check-in begins 24 hours before your flight and can be done through the website, app, or at the airport. For the best boarding position, check in as soon as the window opens or consider EarlyBird Check-In. The process is designed to be simple, fast, and flexible, giving travelers full control over their seating and boarding experience. Whether you’re flying short-haul or across the country, knowing how Southwest check-in works helps you start your trip with ease and confidence.