Did you know there may be a way you can automatically check yourself in on a Southwest flight online without having to agonize (me!) about remembering to check in exactly 24 hours ahead of your flight’s departure time in order to get the best boarding order?
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How to Automatically Check in for a Southwest Flight
Would you rather automatically check in for your Southwest flight instead of trying to remember to check in the INSTANT you’re allowed (24 hours ahead of departure)?
The Art of Travel Hacking blog offers a small bit of code you can install in your browser that will automatically check you in!
Once checked in, the code also works to send your boarding pass by text to your phone :).
The script works for browsers, including:
- Chrome
- Safari
- Firefox
- Opera
- Some Android browsers
Step by Step How It Works
Once you have added the script following his steps here, you will go to Southwest.com, click on Check In before the 24-hour mark of your flight but no more than two weeks beforehand.
You’ll try to check in for your Southwest flight and then you’ll get an error message that it’s too early.
BUT, you will also see a box below that lets you enter the check-in date and time you’d like, the phone number you want your boarding pass texted to, and then click on Auto Check in.
My readers recommend setting the check-in time to at least 4-5 seconds AFTER your 24-hour mark ahead of departure to ensure it doesn’t try to check you in too early.
The blog also notes to make sure your computer’s clock is accurate, make adjustments for time zones in your departing and arrival destinations, and you may need to keep your computer from “falling asleep.”
Read his post for suggestions on how to fix these issues.
It also works for international flights, BUT you need to have your passport and emergency contact information filled in beforehand. You can do that on Southwest’s Manage Reservations page.
What Others Have to Say About This Technique
Big caveat here: I HAVE NOT TRIED THIS.
But I think it sounds like such a good idea I wanted to share it with you.
Here is one reader’s review:
More tips on Southwest flight check-in and how to get the best seat on a Southwest flight.
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Read More…
- 14 Great Ways to Use the Southwest App
- Southwest Early Bird Check-in: What Is It and How Does It Work?
- Southwest Elite Status: Is It Worth It?
- Southwest Group Travel Is a Deal for Groups of 10 or More!
