+1-866-551-1186 How early should I check-in for a Southwest flight?

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When flying with Southwest Airlines, knowing how early you should check in is essential for securing a good boarding position and enjoying a smooth travel experience. Unlike many other airlines, Southwest uses an open seating policy, meaning that seats are not assigned ahead of time. Instead, passengers board in the order of their assigned boarding groups, which are based on when they check in. To get the best seat choices—whether that’s a window, aisle, or front-row spot—it’s highly recommended to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time. This is the earliest possible moment you can check in online or through the Southwest mobile app. The check-in process is quick and simple: visit southwest.com, click on “Check In,” and enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name. After checking in, you’ll receive a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a number (such as A23 or B15), which determines when you board the plane. The earlier you check in, the closer you are to the front of the boarding line. If you’re not able to check in exactly 24 hours in advance, consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, which automatically checks you in before the standard check-in window opens. This optional service costs between $15 and $25 each way and can greatly improve your boarding position, although it doesn’t guarantee an A-group placement. For passengers with Business Select fares, Southwest automatically assigns a boarding position between A1 and A15, offering the earliest boarding access. Additionally, A-List and A-List Preferred members of the Southwest Rapid Rewards program receive priority check-in and boarding as part of their elite benefits. If you prefer to check in at the airport, you can do so at Southwest’s self-service kiosks or with a gate agent. These counters usually open two to three hours before departure, and it’s a good idea to arrive early—especially if you have checked luggage. For domestic flights, arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes to 2 hours early is recommended, while international travelers should plan to arrive 2 to 3 hours in advance to allow time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. If you’re traveling with children aged six or younger, you can take advantage of Family Boarding, which occurs after Group A and before Group B, allowing families to find seats together even if they didn’t check in early. In summary, the best way to check in for a Southwest flight is to do it online or through the app exactly 24 hours before your flight. This maximizes your chances of getting a good seat and reduces airport stress. If you're unable to check in at that time, EarlyBird Check-In is a great backup option. Whether you're flying for business or leisure, understanding and using Southwest's early check-in process can help you start your trip on the right foot.