Can You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest? | Essential Travel Tips

Understanding EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines offers a unique boarding process, and EarlyBird Check-In is a popular option for travelers wanting to secure a better boarding position. Unlike traditional airlines that assign seats, Southwest uses an open seating policy where passengers board in groups and choose their seats on a first-come, first-served basis. EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight, ahead of the standard 24-hour check-in window, giving you an advantage in the boarding order.

This service is especially valuable for those who want to avoid the scramble of checking in exactly 24 hours before departure or for travelers who prefer to sit together with family or friends. However, there’s often confusion about whether this service can be added after booking or closer to the flight date.

Can You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest?

The straightforward answer is yes. Southwest allows passengers to add EarlyBird Check-In after booking their ticket. You don’t have to purchase it at the time of booking. You can add it anytime before the automatic check-in window closes, which is typically 36 hours before departure.

However, it’s important to note that once the automatic check-in has occurred—meaning once your boarding position has been assigned—you cannot add EarlyBird Check-In for that flight. In other words, adding EarlyBird Check-In later is possible but only up until the system’s auto-check-in trigger.

How and When to Add EarlyBird Check-In

Southwest makes adding EarlyBird pretty simple via their website or mobile app. Here’s how you can do it:

• Log in: Access your Southwest account or retrieve your reservation using your confirmation number.
• Select Your Flight: Find the specific flight reservation you want to modify.
• Add EarlyBird: Look for the option labeled “Add EarlyBird Check-In” and follow the prompts.
• Payment: Pay the fee (typically between $15-$25 per passenger per one-way flight).

You can do this at any point after booking but before 36 hours prior to departure. Once that window passes and automatic check-in happens without EarlyBird added, your boarding position is locked in without this benefit.

The Cost vs Benefits of Adding EarlyBird Late

Many travelers wonder if waiting until closer to departure to add EarlyBird makes sense financially or practically. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Aspect	Add EarlyBird During Booking	Add EarlyBird Later (Before 36 Hours)
Price	$15-$25 per segment	Same price range applies
Convenience	Simplifies check-in process upfront	Might be rushed if done last minute
Boarding Position Advantage	Guaranteed early boarding position assigned at 36 hours out	If added late but before auto-check-in, still gets early boarding slot
Risk of Missing Out	No risk; secured early boarding automatically	If missed deadline, no chance to add for that flight

Waiting until later might save some hassle upfront but comes with risks if you miss the auto-check-in time. The benefits remain consistent regardless of when you pay for it—early boarding priority within Southwest’s unique system.

The Impact of Adding EarlyBird Late on Boarding Position

Boarding positions on Southwest are assigned automatically at exactly 36 hours before departure for passengers with EarlyBird Check-In. If you add this service late but still within that timeframe, your boarding position will be assigned along with other EarlyBird passengers.

However, if you add it too close or after this cutoff, you’ll miss out on getting an early boarding number and will have to check in manually at the usual 24-hour mark like everyone else.

This means timing is crucial: adding EarlyBird late but before its automatic process ensures you get a better spot; missing this window means losing that advantage entirely.

The Difference Between Regular and EarlyBird Boarding Positions

Southwest divides its boarding into groups A, B, and C with numbers from 1-60 (or higher depending on aircraft size). Here’s what sets EarlyBird apart:

• EarlyBird passengers are placed ahead of regular check-ins within their group.
• This often means securing spots in Group A or early B with lower numbers.
• The earlier your number, the better seat options available onboard.

Adding EarlyBird later but before auto-check-in still guarantees this priority placement versus those who only check in manually at 24 hours.

Limitations and Important Considerations When Adding Late

While adding EarlyBird late is possible up until auto-check-in begins, there are some key points travelers should keep in mind:

• No refunds: Once purchased—even late—EarlyBird fees are non-refundable regardless of whether you use them or not.
• No upgrades: This service does not provide seat upgrades or reserved seating; it only improves boarding order.
• No guarantee of exact seat: Even with early boarding, seat selection depends on availability once onboard.
• Avoid last-minute rush: Adding too close to cutoff might cause technical issues or delays in confirmation.
• No changes after auto-check-in: If you miss adding it beforehand, there’s no way to retroactively apply it for that flight.
• Avoid confusion with Business Select fares: Business Select passengers already get priority boarding without needing EarlyBird.
• Affects both departing and connecting flights: You must purchase separately per flight segment if desired for connections.
• Avoid double purchases: Make sure not to buy multiple times accidentally when adding late via mobile apps or different devices.
• Cancellations/Changes: If you change flights after purchasing EarlyBird for one segment, you may need to purchase again for new flights depending on policy timing.
• Luggage considerations: This service does not affect checked bag priority; bags are handled separately under standard policies.

Keeping these factors in mind helps avoid surprises when deciding whether and when to add this service.

The Step-by-Step Process: Adding Late Without Hassle

Adding EarlyBird late isn’t complicated if done properly. Follow these steps precisely:

• Create/Login Account: Ensure you’re logged into your Southwest Rapid Rewards account or have your confirmation number handy.
• Navigating Reservations: Go directly into “Manage Reservations” from Southwest.com or app.
• Select Flight Segment(s): Pick each flight where you’d like to add EarlyBird separately if needed (departures and returns).
• Add Service Option: Click “Add Extras” then select “EarlyBird Check-In.” Confirm selection carefully so as not to duplicate purchases.
• Payment Process: Enter payment details securely; fees vary by route but average around $15-$25 per person each way.
• Email Confirmation: Wait for confirmation email verifying successful addition—this confirms your spot will be prioritized during auto-check-in at T-minus 36 hours.
• Avoid Last-Minute Delays:If possible, complete this step at least a day prior so there’s ample time for processing and assignment of boarding position.
• If Problems Arise:If unable to add online due to technical issues near cutoff time, call Southwest customer service immediately—they may assist depending on circumstances but no guarantees exist past deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest Airlines?

Yes, you can add EarlyBird Check-In later on Southwest Airlines. The key is to do so before the automatic check-in window opens, which is typically 36 hours before departure. After this point, adding EarlyBird is no longer possible for that flight.

What Is the Deadline to Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest?

The deadline to add EarlyBird Check-In later on Southwest is before the system automatically checks you in, usually 36 hours prior to your flight’s departure. Once auto-check-in happens, your boarding position is assigned and you cannot add EarlyBird afterward.

How Do You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest?

To add EarlyBird Check-In later on Southwest, log into your account or access your reservation. Then select your flight and choose the option to add EarlyBird Check-In. Complete the payment process before the 36-hour cutoff to secure better boarding priority.

Is It Beneficial to Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest?

Adding EarlyBird Check-In later on Southwest can still be beneficial if done before the deadline. It guarantees an earlier boarding position compared to standard check-in at 24 hours, helping you secure preferred seating or board with family and friends.

Can You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest After Boarding Positions Are Assigned?

No, once boarding positions are assigned through automatic check-in, you cannot add EarlyBird Check-In later on Southwest for that flight. The service must be purchased and added prior to this auto-check-in to take effect.

The Role of Rapid Rewards Members and Business Select Fares

Rapid Rewards elite status holders receive some priority benefits during boarding but do not get automatic early check-in unless they buy EarlyBird separately. Business Select fares come with priority A1-A15 boarding without needing additional fees.

If you’re flying Business Select or hold A-List/A-List Preferred status:

• You typically don’t need to buy EarlyBird since your fare includes better boarding positions automatically.
• If unsure about your status benefits relative to early boarding privileges—check your reservation details carefully before purchasing extra services like EarlyBird later on.

This distinction matters because buying an unnecessary extra could mean wasted money.

The Impact of COVID-19 Adjustments On Boarding Policies  

Southwest has modified some protocols during pandemic times affecting how passengers board flights including mask policies and social distancing guidelines onboard.

While these changes don’t directly affect whether Can You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest?, they impact passenger experiences during boarding:

• Slightly staggered group calls might alter timing slightly compared with pre-pandemic procedures;
• The value of guaranteed earlier group placement through services like EarlyBird remains strong as seat selection options become more limited due to spacing policies;
• You should always verify latest airline updates close to travel dates since policies evolve rapidly;

Your Final Word – Can You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest?

Yes! Adding EarlyBird Check-In later on Southwest Airlines remains an option up until exactly 36 hours prior to departure when automatic check-in assigns boarding positions.

If timed correctly:

• You’ll enjoy priority group placement just like those who purchased upfront;
• You avoid scrambling online right at the usual opening time;
• You improve chances of snagging preferred seats under open seating rules;

However:

• You cannot add it once automatic check-in has run;
• You must pay separate fees per segment;
• You should avoid waiting until last minute due to potential technical glitches;

Plan accordingly by monitoring your flight timeline closely! Adding this perk even later than booking maintains value—but only if done before that crucial cutoff.

Travel smart by understanding how Can You Add EarlyBird Check-In Later On Southwest? works so you get ahead—not stuck behind—in line!