N702ML

Quick question....

I just purchased an international itinerary with Southwest Airlines vacations.

At no point during the purchase online did I see the option to do Early Bird check-in.

After I booked the package online, I called Southwest reservations and paid for Early Bird check-in.

Then, looking online, I read:

"If your itinerary includes at least one international flight, online checkin is available at southwest.com as early as 24 hours and as late as 90 minutes before your flight’s scheduled departure time. Although your boarding position can be secured online, you must check-in at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter upon arrival at the airport to have your passport verified, to check luggage, and to receive your boarding pass."

So my question is: Does purchasing Early Bird check-in for international flights help? Or do I still need to check in 24 hours early?

Thanks in advance.

jeffandnicole

Yes, EBCI works normally, even for international flights. You'll be automatically checked in.

When you arrive at the airport, you'll need to go to the ticket counter - they'll review your Passport Info and print your boarding pass, stamping it as necessary. Your boarding number will be determined by your EBCI placement.

hhoope01

I had no issues with EBCI last year with our trip to Aruba. And just last week I had no issues purchasing it for my November trip to Puerto Vallarta. The EBCI icon shows up just as it normally should on the reservation page (in the Extras column.)

Huy Tran

I am flying Southwest for the first time (within US) and not buying Early bird check in. Do I have to check in online within 24 hours or can go to the counter for check-in before the flight? Thanks for reading.

rsteinmetz70112

You can check-in as you say BUT Southwest has open seating, that is first to board get to pick the seat they want. The earlier you check-in the earlier the boarding position.