How Do I Check In With Southwest Airlines? A Simple Guide for Every Traveler

Checking in with Southwest Airlines is a quick and simple process that gives you the flexibility to choose your seat and prepare for your flight with ease. Since Southwest uses an open seating policy instead of assigning specific seats, your check-in time directly affects your boarding position. The earlier you check in, the better chance you have at boarding earlier and choosing your preferred seat. So if you’re wondering how to check in with Southwest Airlines, here’s everything you need to know.

Southwest allows passengers to check in online starting 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. This is one of the most popular methods because it's fast, free, and accessible from anywhere. To check in online, simply visit the official Southwest Airlines website, click the “Check In” tab at the top, and enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name. Once your reservation is found, you can complete your check-in, view or change your boarding position, and receive your boarding pass. You can either print the pass or email it to yourself.

Another convenient option is to check in using the Southwest Airlines mobile app, available on both iOS and Android. With the app, you can check in right at the 24-hour mark and get a mobile boarding pass that can be scanned at security and at the gate. The app also allows you to track flight status, view gate changes, and get updates on delays or boarding times—all in real time.

If you're flying with Southwest and prefer to check in at the airport, you can do so at a self-service kiosk or the check-in counter. The kiosks allow you to check in by entering your confirmation number or scanning a government-issued ID. After checking in, you can print your boarding pass and bag tags if you have checked luggage. Then, drop off your bags at the Southwest bag drop counter. Keep in mind that bag check closes 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 60 minutes before departure for international flights.

For travelers who want to avoid the hassle of checking in exactly 24 hours before the flight, Southwest offers EarlyBird Check-In®, a paid service that automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure. This gives you a better boarding position than most other passengers without requiring you to manually check in. It’s a great option for busy travelers, families, or those who simply want peace of mind.

In summary, you can check in with Southwest Airlines in four easy ways: online via their website, through the mobile app, at a self-service kiosk, or with an agent at the airport. Checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight is key to getting the best boarding position under their open seating system. Whether you choose to check in digitally or in person, Southwest makes the process smooth, efficient, and traveler-friendly.