How do I check a bag with Southwest?
How do I check a bag with Southwest? Check your bags digitally ahead of time (where available), at the airport using our self-tagging kiosks (where available), or with a friendly Southwest® agent. Please see optional travel charges for more details.
Can I ask to check my bag at the gate?
When overhead bins fill up, travelers with carry-ons that don't fit under the seat will be asked to gate check their bag. Gate checking is always free of charge, and basically means your carry-on will be put into the cargo hold with all the other checked luggage.
Can I pay to check a bag at the airport?
You must prepay for your checked bags at least 24 hours before your flight to receive any discount. Prices are based on standard sized bags for one-way flights. Oversized and overweight bags, as well as special items, must be paid for at the airport.
What documents do you need to check-in your luggage?
Checking In Your Luggage Depending on your destination, an airline agent first asks for your tickets, passports (including visas, if required), and other documents. Once you hand over your luggage for the check-in, the counter agent places your bag on a scale and weighs it.
What is the fastest way to check-in on Southwest?
If you purchase EarlyBird Check-In, we'll automatically check you in and reserve your boarding position 36 hours before you flight's departure. This is before our general 24-hour check-in begins.
Do I need to print my boarding pass?
Depending on the requirements of airport authorities, you will need to present a mobile boarding pass, a paper boarding pass printed out by you or a paper boarding pass picked up from the check-in desk.