How do I check into my Southwest -02

How To Check Into Southwest Flight? 2025 Step By Step

by

So how to check into a Southwest flight?

Most airlines’ check-in processes are straightforward and fairly simple, and Southwest’s check-in is no exception.

The goal of checking in for your flight is to get your boarding pass and reserve or buy your seat.

Let’s see how to get your boarding pass on Southwest Airlines and skip the long waiting line at the airline check-in desk.

Let’s find out.

TL;DR

  • Southwest check-in opens 24 hours before departure.
  • Check in online, via the mobile app, at kiosks, ticket counters, or Skycap podiums.
  • Southwest uses open seating; boarding pass shows boarding group and position.
  • Military fares must check in at the airport.
  • Mobile boarding pass is sufficient; printing a backup is optional.
Southwest Airlines plane in flight with text 'How To Check On Southwest?' above it." If you want, I can also suggest a slightly longer, SEO-friendly version. Do you want me to do that?
southwest check in/ Courtesy of Southwest

How Early Do You Have to Check In on Southwest?

Southwest check-in for your flight is available up to 24 hours prior to departure so you can get your boarding pass.

You can also check in at a Southwest Airlines Skycap Podium (where available), Ticket Counter, or E-Ticket Check-In kiosk at the airport.

Read also:

How To Check Into Southwest Flight?

You can check in for Southwest flights on the airline’s website or on the Southwest app (iPhone or Android).

Southwest online flight check-in form with fields for confirmation number, first name, and last name, followed by a yellow "Check in" button
check in Southwest website

The process is almost the same. The advantage of the mobile app is that you can generate a digital boarding pass directly in your mobile wallet.

Southwest mobile flight check-in screen with fields for confirmation number, first name, and last name, and a yellow button labeled “Retrieve reservation.” Text below notes that trips are eligible for check-in 24 hours before a flight.
check in Southwest app
  • Enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name, then click Retrieve Reservation and proceed to check in.
Southwest mobile check-in confirmation screen showing “You’re checked in!” with flight details, including departure time, flight number, TSA PreCheck indicator, boarding group B, and position 11. A yellow “View boarding pass” button is displayed below
Image Courtesy of southwest
  • Click on View My Boarding Pass to get your boarding pass.
Southwest Airlines boarding pass from Milwaukee (MKE) to Los Angeles (LAX), Flight 1963, Group B, Position 11, with TSA PreCheck and QR code
Image Courtesy of southwest
  • Here is your boarding pass. You can now add it to your wallet by clicking Add in the right corner.
Southwest Airlines boarding pass from Milwaukee (MKE) to Los Angeles (LAX), Group B, Position 11, with TSA PreCheck and QR code
Image Courtesy of southwest

Can I Check In on Southwest Without My Confirmation Number?

When checking in on Southwest’s website, you will need your confirmation number to edit your flight, add baggage, and get your boarding pass.

If you do not have your confirmation number, check the email you used for booking.

If you still can’t get the confirmation code, just call Southwest Customer service they will assist you.

What Are the Check-In Requirements on Southwest?

To check in on Southwest Airlines online and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile wallet, you will need to:

  • Be age-verified if traveling on Senior, Child, or Infant fares.
  • Check in beginning 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure time.
  • Check in at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time.
  • Have purchased an eligible fare type (customers holding reservations for military fares must proceed to the airport check-in).

I hope this helps.

Happy travels

FAQ: Southwest Airlines Check-In and Seating

  • Q: May I curbside check in with Southwest?
    A: No. The only airline which has curbside check-in is American Airlines, and they are eliminating their curbside check-in program as well. You must check in via the website, mobile app, kiosk, ticket counter, or Skycap podium (where available).
  • Q: Can I pre-reserve or pre-purchase a specific seat?
    A: No. Southwest has open seating. Your boarding pass indicates your boarding group and position; when you board the plane, you choose your seat.
  • Q: Is there a bonus miles promotion at check-in at Southwest?
    A: No. American does not include bonus miles promotions at mobile and online check-in such as offered by Southwest.
  • Q: Are international check-in windows mentioned to be expressly added like AA?
    A: No. Only that check-in can be done 24 hours before departure and at least 1 hour before; no other international check-in windows are mentioned.
  • Q: Can I precheck or check in with military fare online for Southwest?
    A: No. Customers of the military fare must check in at the airport; online check-in is not available for military fares.
  • Q: Is it highly recommended that I print a backup boarding pass?
    A: Not particularly. Southwest does accept mobile boarding passes, and printing a backup is a choice, as opposed to AA, which strongly recommends it.
Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.