Is Southwest Airlines Early Bird Check-In Worth It?

Southwest Early Bird Check-In secures your boarding position up to 36 hours before departure.

Traveling with Southwest Airlines is all about having fun and being flexible. But let's be honest: nobody likes rushing to find a decent seat! If you're someone who prefers to plan ahead—like an early bird catching the best spot—then you'll want to know about Southwest Airlines Early Bird Check-In.

In this blog, we'll explore how Early Bird Check-In works and help you decide if it's the right choice for your next adventure with Southwest.

What is Southwest EarlyBird Check-In?

Southwest EarlyBird Check-In is a valuable service that allows you to board your flight earlier than those who check in at the standard time. By using this service, you can secure a better boarding position, helping you find a more desirable seat on the plane.

🎯 Why Consider It?

• Save Time: Avoid the rush and long lines at the airport.
• Board Earlier: Enjoy priority boarding, giving you more seat options.
• Stress Less: No need to worry about checking in manually!

➤ Cost: The price for EarlyBird ranges from $15 to $ 99 per person one-way, depending on how close you are to your departure date.

Fond Tip: EarlyBird gives you a better boarding position, but remember that the airline reserves the first 15 spots for passengers who purchase Business Select tickets.

How Does Southwest Early Bird Check-In Work?

Southwest Early Bird Check in works as a convenient way to enhance your travel experience by improving your boarding position. Here's how it functions:

1. Automatic Check-In

When you purchase Early Bird Check-In, Southwest does the check-in for you 36 hours before your flight. No more worrying about setting an alarm to check in on time!

2. Boarding Groups

With Southwest Earlybird Checkin, you'll get placed into one of three boarding groups: A, B, or C. Here's what that means:

• Group A: You board first, which gives you the best choice of seats.
• Group B: You board next, which is still pretty good.
• Group C: You board last, which may leave you with fewer seat options.

3. Priority Seating

Southwest Early Bird Check in helps you avoid the rush at the gate. While you might not be the first to board, checking in 24 hours before your flight gives you a better chance at getting a good seat, especially if you're traveling with family or friends.

Learn More: How to Use the Southwest Airlines Low Fare Calendar for Cheap Flights?

Is Southwest Early Bird Check-In Worth It?

Yes, Southwest Early Bird Check-in can be worth it if you want to enhance your travel experience. Here's why:

How Much is Early Bird Check-In Southwest?

The price for Southwest Airlines Early Bird Check-In generally ranges from $15 to $25 per person (one-way). The exact cost depends on availability and can vary based on how popular the flight is and its length.

For example, if you're flying from Austin to Denver, you could choose Southwest Airlines Early Bird Check in for just the departure flight or both legs of the trip, depending on how much you value a better boarding position.

For help with booking, contact FondTravels at +1 (571) 389 6426.

Does Southwest Early Bird Automatically Check You In?

Yes, it does! When you buy Earlybird Check-in Southwest, the airline takes care of the check-in for you. They automatically check you in 36 hours before your flight, long before the general check-in opens 24 hours prior.

This means you can relax and skip the stress of racing to your phone to check in right at the 24-hour mark. Instead, you can focus on your trip while Southwest secures your boarding position.

How can I Get a Free EarlyBird Check-In Southwest?

Getting a free SWA Early Bird Check-In might seem challenging, but there are some simple ways to increase the chances:

1. Join Rapid Rewards

Sign up for Southwest's Rapid Rewards program. Sometimes, they send out emails offering bonus points that you can use for Early Bird Check-In.

2. Buy Anytime Tickets

If you fly a lot, consider getting an Anytime ticket. It includes Early Bird Check-In for free, so you won't have to stress about boarding positions!

3. Check Credit Card Benefits

Do you have a Southwest credit card? If so, check its perks! Many of these cards come with benefits like reimbursing you for Early Bird Check-In fees. It's a great way to get that bonus check-in without spending extra.

Fond Tip: For a better boarding position than EarlyBird, consider upgraded boarding, available for purchase online or at the gate.

Do Southwest Credit Cards Include EarlyBird Check-In?

Yes, some Southwest credit cards come with EarlyBird Check-In benefits. The annual fee for the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is $69 and allows for two reimbursements each year. The Premier Credit Card and the Premier Business Credit Card both charge a $99 annual fee and also offer two reimbursements per year. These benefits can help make your travel smoother and more enjoyable.

Why Should I Choose Southwest Airlines Early Bird Check-In?

Choosing Southwest Early Check in can make your travel experience smoother and less stressful. Here's why you might want to consider it:

1. Better Seats

Let's be real—no one likes to get stuck in the middle seat! With Early Bird Check-In, you board earlier, giving you a better chance at choosing your favorite spot, whether that's a window for the view or an aisle for easy access.

2. More Space for Your Luggage

Ever been stuck without space for your bag? It's the worst! Early Bird helps you get on board first, which means you get first dibs on overhead storage, so no more panicking about where your carry-on will fit.

3. Stress-Free Check-In

Setting alarms to check in exactly 24 hours before the flight? Nope, not with Early Bird. Southwest does it for you 36 hours ahead, so you can only focus on your trip instead of stressing over check-in time.

4. Great for Group Travel

If you're flying with family or friends, Early Bird helps you sit together without the chaos, making the whole trip smoother.

Also Read: Best Time to Book Southwest Flights in 2024

Who Should Not Choose Southwest Early Bird Check-In?

Not everyone needs the Earlybird Check-In Southwest option, and that's totally okay! Here are a few groups who might want to pass on it:

1. Families with Small Kids: If you're flying with little ones under 6, you might want to pass on Earlybird Check-In. Southwest lets families with young children board between A and B groups, which often ensures you'll sit together without extra costs.

2. Occasional Travelers: Only fly once in a blue moon? If you're not too picky about your seat, you can save some cash by skipping Earlybird. Just check in right when it opens, and you'll still get a decent spot!

3. Budget-Savvy Groups: If you're traveling with a group of five, paying for Earlybird can quickly add up. Instead, save that money for fun activities or a group dinner at your destination!

How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest?

Want to get that Early Bird Southwest Check-In? Here's how you can do it:

1. When Booking a Flight: ✅

➔ Go to their official website and choose your flight.

➔ After selecting your flight, you'll see the total cost.

➔ Before you enter your contact info, look for the option to add Early Bird Check-In. Just check the box, and it's added to your booking!

Need help? Contact FondTravels at +1 (571) 389 6426.

2. For Existing Bookings: 🛫

➔ Log in to your Southwest account.

➔ Go to the "My Trips" section.

➔ Find your flight and look for the option to add EarlyBird Check-In Southwest. Click on it, and you're all set!

Fond Tip: You can buy EarlyBird Check-In for Wanna Get Away fares online, by phone, or through the app up to 36 hours before departure.

Is Southwest EarlyBird Check-In refundable?

No, Southwest EarlyBird Check-In is not refundable. If you cancel your flight, you won't get back the fee for EarlyBird Check-In.

But if Southwest cancels your flight, you'll receive a refund for the EarlyBird fee, which usually shows up on your credit card within seven business days.

Final Thoughts on EarlyBird Check-In Southwest?

Choosing Southwest Airlines EarlyBird Check-In is more than just convenience it saves you time and helps your trip start off right. By securing your boarding spot up to 36 hours before your flight, you can skip the last-minute rush and avoid long lines. While the cost might make you think twice, consider it an investment in your comfort. A little extra comfort can make your journey much more enjoyable. Safe travels and enjoy every moment! For help with your booking, just reach out to FondTravels at +1 (571) 389 6426. We're here to make your booking easy!

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