What is Southwest Airlines Earlybird Check in?

If you have a flight with Southwest soon and need to know about Southwest’s Earlybird Check-in, you’re in the right article. Here, in this blog post, you will learn all about Southwest Airlines what is earlybird check in. You will get to know what it is, how it works, and how it can benefit you. Earlybird Check-in is a special service that Southwest Airlines offers. You can pay a small fee to check in for your flight much earlier than other passengers. This gives you a big advantage when it comes to choosing your seats.

Since you’re checking in early, you can pick from a wider selection of available seats, including those closer to the front of the plane or with more legroom. This blog post will also cover the cost of Earlybird Check-in and how to purchase it. You will have all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether Earlybird Check-in is right for you.

What Is Earlybird Check-in On Southwest Airlines

If you’re wondering what is Southwest Airlines earlybird check in is, then this section will give you a brief intro to it. It is an optional service in which you have to pay a small fee, and this airline automatically checks you in for your flight 36 hours before it departs. This lets you board the plane earlier than other passengers. By boarding early, you have a better chance of choosing the seat you prefer, such as a window seat, an aisle seat, or a seat with more legroom.

How EarlyBird Check-in Works?

EarlyBird Check-in makes the check-in process automatic for your Southwest flight. To know how it works, read the following pointers:

• Computerized Check-in– The airline automatically checks you in for your flight 36 hours before it gets prepared to depart. This happens 12 hours earlier than the usual check-in time, 24 hours before your flight.

• Boarding Position Assignment– This airline also assigns you a boarding position when they automatically check you in. It means you’ll know your place in line to board the plane early in time.

• Earlier Seat Selection– EarlyBird Check-in lets you board the plane sooner by which you get to choose your seat first. You’ll have a better chance of getting the seat you want, like a window seat, an aisle seat, or a seat with more legroom.

Southwest EarlyBird: Is it Right for You?

It is a helpful add-on that can make your trip even better and comfortable. Check out the benefits of this service below:

Better Boarding Position

Southwest Airlines what is Earlybird check in lets you board the plane sooner. It automatically checks you two days before your flight, putting you ahead of other passengers. You will get to board the aircraft in one of the first groups. By boarding early, you gain the advantage of choosing your ideal seat, whether you prefer a window for the view, an aisle for easy access, or a seat closer to the front of the plane.

More Chances of Overhead Bin Space

Boarding early helps you find space in the overhead bins for your bags. It means you don’t have to worry about checking your bags at the gate or struggling to find a place to put them. You can keep your bags with you on the plane.

Decreased Travel Stress

It helps you relax and enjoy your trip. It does this by giving you a good spot in line to board the plane. You have a greater opportunity to select your preferred seating. Also, you save time at the airport because you don’t have to rush to check-in.

Flexibility and Convenience

This service makes things simple. It checks you in for your flight 36 hours before you go. This means you don’t have to remember to check in yourself, which is excellent if you have many flights or a busy life.

Budget-Friendly

EarlyBird Check-in usually doesn’t cost much. This makes it a good choice for travelers who want to improve their trip without spending much money.

Costs Associated with Earlybird Check-in

It costs between $15 and $99 per passenger per one-way flight. The price can depend on factors such as the flight’s length and the overall demand as well..

Who May Be Eligible for EarlyBird Check-in Without Paying?

Some travelers can get EarlyBird Check-in for free. 

• Frequent flyers who have a high status in Southwest’s rewards program often receive it. 
• Also, people who buy the more expensive “Business Select” tickets usually get EarlyBird Check-in included. 
• Some Southwest credit cardholders receive a few free EarlyBird Check-ins each year as a benefit of having the card.

How to Purchase EarlyBird Check-in?

You can purchase EarlyBird Check-in in a few ways:

During Flight Booking

Thinking about early check-in while you book your flight on Southwest is easy. You can do it on their official website (Southwest.com) at checkout. Or, if you prefer using your phone, you can also add EarlyBird Check-in during booking on the airline’s mobile app.

After Booking

Even if you’ve already booked your flight with this airline, you can still add EarlyBird Check-in. Just log in to your Southwest’s website account and find your reservation details. Look for the option to add EarlyBird Check-in and follow the simple instructions to complete the purchase. Their mobile app also lets you add early check-in to your reservation in just a few taps.

Alternatives to Southwest’s EarlyBird Check-in

While it offers an easy way to improve your boarding position and seat selection, there are some alternative options available:

Southwest University

This online training program teaches you how this airline boards passengers. It also gives you helpful tips for getting the seat you want. The best part is that it’s completely free. It can improve your understanding of how Southwest’s boarding order works.

Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Status

It lets you board the plane earlier than most passengers. To earn A-List status, you must fly a specific number of flights or gain an exact number of points within one year.

Business Select Fares

Southwest offers Business Select fares, which cost more than standard fares. But they have a big benefit: you get to board the plane first. This means you’ll be among the first passengers to choose seats and store luggage.

Check-in Early

Even if you don’t use EarlyBird Check-in, you can still improve your boarding position. Check-in for your flight as soon as the 24-hour check-in window opens. Use the airline app or website to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight departs. Checking in early gives you a better chance of getting a good boarding position, even without paying extra.

Tips & Tricks for Southwest EarlyBird

Southwest’s EarlyBird Check-in is a great tool, but here’s how to increase its benefits:

Perfect Timing

Use EarlyBird Check-in 36 hours before your flight to get the best seats. This happens automatically. If you have a flight with stops, make sure you have around 36 hours before each part of your trip. If you’re traveling with friends or family, buy this service for everyone so you can sit together.

Travel Companions

If you’re traveling with others, make sure everyone buys this check-in. This will help you all sit together. When traveling with children, consider buying it for them too. It will make it easier to sit near them.

Southwest Credit Cards

Even if you have the Southwest Companion Pass, it is still helpful for your travel buddy. It makes sure they get a boarding spot in the same group as you.

Alternative Options

If you buy a Business Select ticket, you must board the plane first (spots A1-A15). This gives you the most choice of seats. You also get to board early if you have A-List or A-List Preferred status. This means EarlyBird Check-in might not be as crucial for you.

Factors to Keep in Mind

EarlyBird might not make a big difference in where you sit for short flights. It might not be necessary if you don’t care too much about your seat.

Southwest Website & App

You can easily buy it and see your boarding group on the airline’s website or app. Set reminders for check-in so you know when to board the plane.

Frequently Asked Questions