Southwest Airlines Check-in Policy: Rules, Methods to Check-in & Tips

After reserving a flight ticket on Southwest Airlines, the biggest task for a passenger is to complete the check-in process. It becomes more difficult if you are a first-time traveler. But you don’t have to worry, as the Southwest Airlines check-in policy is quite basic. With Southwest Airlines, you can check-in through several mediums. All you need to do is follow some of the simple steps to check-in on your flight.

If you are curious to know more about teh different options for check-in on a Southwest Airlines flight, then you must read this guide till the end.

In this guide, we’ll discuss both online and offline options for check-in on Southwest Airlines flights. Not only this, but we’ll also discuss the eligibility criteria for check-in.

How Does Southwest Check-in Policy Works?

Southwest Airlines has a very unique check-in policy. As per the Southwest check-in rule, the airline does not assign seats to the passengers. Instead of the seats, the airline assigns “Zones” so that you can select your own seat after boarding the flight.

These zones are A, B, and C. Plus, these zones are further divided into two groups:

• 1 to 30
• 31 to 60

In addition, Southwest Airlines assigns the ‘Zone’ based on different factors, including:

• The type of ticket you bought
• When you check in for your flight
• If you have a child who’s age is six or younger
• If you have bought EarlyBird, check-in
• Whether you have an elite status at Southwest Airlines

Key Highlights of Southwest Airlines EarlyBird Check-in Policy

Southwest Airlines is a well-known airline. There are some situations in which you might have to wait for a long time in the check-in queues to complete the procedure at the airport. So, to avoid this situation, you can apply for an early check. There are various perks of EarlyBird check-in on Southwest Airlines. Some of them are given below:

• If you choose the EarlyBird check-in option, then you will get the facility to select the seat that fits your preference.
• Also, it provides the advantage of accessing the overhead bin storage for your personal items or carry-on baggage.
• The earlyBird check-in option also permits you to board the flight earlier than the other passengers.
• Plus, with the help of this policy, you get sufficient time to complete the other formalities at the airport without any hassle.
• Moreover, you can eliminate paying any money for arriving late at the boarding gate.
• Most importantly, it helps in minimizing the chances of missing a flight. 

List of Required Documents for Check-in on Southwest Airlines

There are some of the important documents that are necessary to carry for a smooth check-in process. Also, it helps you to confirm whether you are eligible to travel on the flight or if you are legally eligible to travel to a different destination or not. Below is a list of all the essential documents which are necessary during the check-in:

• According to the Southwest Airlines check-in process, it is essential to bring a government-authorized ID card to travel by air. They must have your full name, gender, photo, and current address.
• Also, a passport is another important document while traveling to an international destination. 
• Furthermore, for all international trips, business/tourist visas are compulsory.
• In addition, to show up at the departure terminal gate, you must have an electronic ticket and boarding pass.
• Also, if you have any medical issues, then you must bring documents related to your medical history.
• Moreover, if you are traveling with your pet, then it is essential to carry the rabies certificate and health certificate.

Rules and Requirements of Southwest Airlines Check-in Policy 

Here are some of the rules and requirements related to the Southwest Airlines check-in time. So, if  you are traveling with Southwest Airlines, then make sure to follow them:

• You can check in with Southwest Airlines 24 hours before the departure of your flight.
• Also, you must ensure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of your domestic flight and 3 hours before in case of international flight.
• Southwest Airlines offers several ways to check in. These methods include both online and offline mediums.
• According to the Southwest Airlines check-in policy, it is essential to keep all the booking information, along with the last name and confirmation number, handy for a smooth check-in procedure.
• While traveling with Southwest Airlines, make sure to reach the gate before the boarding time.
• Also, for security purposes, it is crucial to carry a government-issued ID, passport, and Visa.

Methods to Check-in On Southwest Airlines 

The Southwest Airlines check-in policy allows you to check in on your flight in multiple ways. It will help you to accommodate the comfort, convenience, and time constraints while traveling. Below are all the options that are available on Southwest Airlines for check-in:

Steps to Request Online Check-in Southwest Airlines

The Southwest Airlines check-in policy allows travelers to check in online for everyone on their booking in no time. The online check-in process begins 24 hours before the scheduled departure of the flight. Here are the quick steps to web check-in on Southwest Airlines:

• First, go to the official website of Southwest Airlines.
• Next, go to the ‘Manage Booking’ section.
• Now, log into your manage booking account with your credentials. 
• You need to enter your last name along with the booking reference number in the respective fields to log into the manage booking account.
• After logging into the account, you’ll get access to your flight details.
• So, choose the preferred seats; otherwise, Southwest Airlines will assign you a random seat.
• After that, enter your details on Southwest Airlines check-in documents.
• Next, you’ll be redirected to the confirmation page.
• Furthermore, you’ll get the access to your Southwest Airlines boarding passes, So, you can either save it in your mobile or print it out for easier retrieval.
• Lastly, go to the counter or boarding gate to present the completed check-in and board the flight.

Instructions to Request Southwest Mobile Check-in 

Under the Southwest Airlines check-in policy, you get the facility to use a mobile device to complete the check-in procedure and obtain mobile boarding passes. Here are the quick steps to request mobile check-in on Southwest Airlines:

• First, begin the process by accessing the Southwest mobile app on your tablet or phone.
• Now, log into your manage booking account with your booking confirmation number and last name.
• Once you log into your account, you’ll get the ‘Check-in’ option in the main menu.
• After that, you’ll be redirected to a new page. Here you’ll need to enter your preferred arrangement,change or upgrade the fare.
• Once you enter all the information in the required fields, tap on the ‘Submit’ option.
• Southwest Airlines will automatically process the check-in request and send the confirmation by sending an SMS or email for the Southwest boarding pass via phone.
• Lastly, download and print the boarding passes of your flight before arriving at the airport for quick check-in.

Steps to Check-in on Southwest Airlines Through Kiosk Machines

As per the Southwest Airlines check-in policy, you can use a kiosk machine to complete the check-in process, print the boarding passes, print baggage tags, add emergency contact details, scan the passport, and much more. Here are the simple steps to check in with the help of a kiosk machine available at the airport:

• First, go to your nearest departure airport and go straight to the entrance gate to find the kiosk podium or go to the ticket counter.
•  Once you find the kiosk podium, select your preferred language to proceed further.
• Next, enter all the important details in the respective fields, including your booking confirmation number, first and last name, and the date and time of your reservation.
• After filling out the information, recheck them to avoid any errors.
• Now, click on the ‘Check-in’ option.
• Next, tap on the ‘Southwest Airlines print boarding pass.’  
• Once you get your boarding passes, go to the flight boarding area. That’s how you can check in on a Southwest flight with the help of a kiosk podium.

Instructions to Check-in on Southwest Airlines Flight at the Airport

Southwest Airlines also offers the option to check in at the airport as well. You can seek assistance from the airline executive to complete the check-in process. To check in on Southwest Airlines at the airport, follow the instructions given below:

• Begin the process by reaching your nearest departure airport.
• After that, visit the Southwest Airlines check-in count.
• Next, share your booking reference number, passport, and other details with the airline representative.
• After that, the airline agent will use the details you provided to complete the check-in procedure on your behalf.
• Now, choose your preferred seat and the number of your baggage.
• After that, make the necessary payment with the help of available modes.
• Lastly, print your Southwest Airlines passes at the boarding gate.

Who is Required to Complete the Check-in Procedure at the Airport?

It is not possible for everyone to complete the check-in process online. There are some flyers who need to complete the check-in at the airport. The category of such passengers is listed below:

• A person traveling with a Military fare. 
• Travelers who are flying with paper tickets. 
• A flyer who is traveling with a pet. 
• A traveler who is traveling with an infant.
•  A minor under Southwest UMNR Policy

Tips to Get a Better Seat on Southwest Airlines during Check-in

If you are a first-time traveler on Southwest Airlines, then you must follow these tips and tricks to get better seat options during the check-in.

• To get a better seat on a Southwest Airlines flight, earn Southwest Elite status.
• Also, purchase an EarlyBird check-in.
• Moreover, you can purchase an upgraded boarding position starting 24 hours before the departure of your flight.
• Furthermore, you can get a credit card that comes with upgraded boarding passes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. How early do you have to check in for Southwest?

Ans. As per Southwest Airlines flight check-in policy, to pass through the security checkpoint, passengers are required to retrieve their boarding pass either online or at the airport. On Southwest Airlines flyers can check-in as early as 24 hours before the departure of their flight.

Q. How does online check-in work with Southwest?

Ans.  The online check-in process on Southwest Airlines is quite simple. All you need to do is log into your manage booking account and follow the on-screen instructions to check in. Once the check-in process is complete, take a screenshot of your boarding passes on your phone for the future.

Q. Do I need to print my boarding pass Southwest?

Ans.  As per the Southwest Airlines check-in policy, there is no such requirement to print a boarding pass if you already have it on your phone. However, it is always suggested to print the boarding pass for a safer side.

Q. What is the fastest way to check in on Southwest?

Ans. The fastest way to check in on a Southwest Airlines flight is to purchase the EarlyBird check-in. If you purchase the EarlyBird check-in, Southwest Airlines automatically checks you in and books your boarding position 36 hours before the scheduled departure of your flight. Generally, it is even before the check-in starts.

Q. Does checking in early get you a better seat on Southwest?

Ans.  Yes, check-in helps you in getting a better seat on Southwest Airlines. If you select the EarlyBird check-in, then you might not get an A boarding position, but it will help you in improving your seat selection options.

Q. Do I have to check in at the counter if I checked in online?

Ans.  In most of the cases you only require to go to check-in at the count if you need to drop off any baggage. However, if you don’t have any checked baggage, then you don’t have to go to the airline counter or kiosk. You can proceed further directly to the security checkpoint and the gate.

Q. Which is better, check-in online or at the airport?

Ans.  According to the Southwest Airlines check-in policy, if you are traveling on a short-haul flight and you have only one hand luggage, then you can go with the online check-in option, as it will help you in saving your time. However, if you are traveling with bulky luggage, then you must go with the check-in at the airport method due to security reasons.

Q. Is it better to check in early or late for Southwest?

Ans.  If you are traveling on Southwest Airlines, then you must check in as early as possible. It will help you grab a better opportunity to choose your preferred seat and access the overhead bin to store your luggage.

Q. Can I use my phone as a boarding pass for Southwest?

Ans.  Yes, you can use your mobile phone as a boarding pass for Southwest Airlines. A mobile boarding pass is an electronic document that is available on your personal device. It permits you to go through the security checkpoints and board your flight conveniently. Moreover, it is created and provided with the help of mobile channels on iOS, Android, and mobile websites.

Q. Do I need to print my boarding pass if I checked in online?

Ans.  No, there is no need to print your boarding pass if you check in online. With the help of a digital boarding pass, you can easily board the flight. However, to avoid unexpected inconvenience, it is always suggested to print and keep a physical boarding pass.

Q. How do I get a good seat on Southwest?

Ans.  There are several ways to get a good seat on Southwest Airlines. Some of them are:

• Have the right Southwest credit card
• Earn elite status with Southwest
• Check-in 24 hours before departure
• Bring your kids with you or say you need extra time.

Q. Do seniors get early boarding on Southwest?

Ans.  No, seniors don’t get the facility to pre-board the flight due to their age. So, they need to wait until their turn comes.

Q. Who qualifies for Southwest early boarding?

Ans. As per the Southwest Airlines check-in policy, the airline permits passengers to board early if they require additional assistance and flyers traveling with a child under the age of six years or younger. So, if the traveler fulfills any of these conditions, then they can qualify for the Southwest early boarding.

Q. What happens if you don’t check in 24 hours before your flight?

Ans. Southwest Airlines has a limited number of seats available on a particular flight. Therefore, if you don’t check in early, then there are possibility that the airline give your seat to other travelers on standby.

Q. What are the advantages of online check-in on Southwest Airlines?

Ans.  There are multiple advantages of online check-in on Southwest Airlines. These perks include:

• You can avoid standing in the long check-in queues at the airport.
• Plus, you can print your boarding passes at home.
• Also, you get the facility to select the seat assignment before other travelers.