Flight booked. Bags packed. You have your itinerary printed out and ready to go. Business trip or vacation, everything is sorted, right? Nothing can stop you now! Except for missing your flight. Online blogs say you should collect your boarding pass ASAP, but why check in early for a flight?
We know all the tips and tricks of modern travel, so stay tuned as we reveal eight reasons you should consider online check-in as soon as possible.
Why Check in Early for a Flight?
You should check in for your flight as soon as the possibility opens. Checking in 30 days before might seem pedantic, but we promise it’s not!
WithApp in the Air, you can complete an online check-in automatically as soon as the check-in window opens.
But why bother? Why check in early for a flight you know you’re going to be on time for?
Even the best-laid plans can go awry, and there are plenty of times that an early check-in can save your skin.
Here are eight.
Reason #1: Bad Weather
It doesn’t matter how much you spend on luxury flights or elite status. You could be the most organized person in the world. Sometimes delays are out of your control, such as weather emergencies.
Early check-in won’t prevent these delays from happening. However, it can help you to navigate the chaos:
- Less airport stress:With travelers crammed into the airport thanks to flight delays, things can get hectic. Arriving early with check-in already completed means you can take rushing out of the equation.
- Priority standby:If your flight is overbooked or canceled, early check-in puts you at the top of the standby list for a new flight.
So, why check in early for a flight? It essentially gives you a head start in case of disruptions and delays.
Reason #2: Traffic Jams
Ideally, you should leave early to head to the airport. But as we’ve mentioned, things like rush hour traffic can get in your way.
Early check-in ensures you don’t have to waste time in line at the airport; you already have your boarding pass.
Reason #3: Your Car Breaks Down
Similarly, another answer to the question ‘why check in early for a flight?’ is if your car breaks down. If you check in for your flight early, there’s no worrying about what happens at the airport. You can once again make your way quickly through the airport after dropping checked luggage.
Reason #4: You Forgot Your Passport
We know you’re organized. You’ve spent weeks planning this trip; you have your packing cubes all meticulously prepared, your itinerary printed and laminated, and App in the Air ready to go. You set off on your journey all excited, but wait–you left your passport on top of your dresser!
It happens to the best of us.
So now, you have to turn back and go pick up your travel documents. Unfortunately, this can really delay you when you get to the airport. Instead of going through the entire check-in process when you get there, you can sail straight through baggage drop-off and security.
You might still make it on time!
Reason #5: Saves Money
Early check-in itself doesn’t always save money. So, why check in early for a flight if it won’t save you any cash? Depending on the airline, you can get some extra perks through early online check-in, even if you don’t want to pay a fee.
For example:
- Electronic ticket:These days, it can cost to print your boarding pass at the airport. Save money with an electronic boarding pass instead, which you can download right after you check in for your flight online.
- Seat selection:Some airlines randomly allocate seats or charge an arm and a leg for seat selection. This is especially true if you’re after extra legroom! If you’re getting a Southwest flight, for instance, seat allocation comes on a first-come, first-serve basis. So, early check-in can get you better seats. Who wants to be stuck in a middle seat for the whole flight?!
By the way, there are tons of other ways to save money while traveling.Learn how to save money on your next hotel stay, orpreplan your hotel bookingwith App in the Air.
Reason #6: Saves Stress at the Airport
Even for frequent flyers, travel can be stressful. Online check-in can save you some anxiety and give you a bit of time to relax on your journey.
That way, you’re not scrambling at the airport if anything happens.
By the way, check out ouressential tips for quicker airport security checks.
Reason #7: Easier Upgrades
While not guaranteed, some airlines prioritize early check-in customers when considering upgrades (especially on undersold flights). If there’s a chance of an empty seat in first class or business class, they might use check-in time as a criterion for an upgrade.
So, why check in early for a flight? It never hurts to increase your chances for a more comfortable flying experience away from the dreaded middle seat!
Even at a less exciting end of the scale if you’re flying with a low-cost airline, it might move you up in the boarding order.
Reason #8: More Time to Explore the Airport
Many airports have restaurants and even entertainment options like spas or shops to explore. Completing your check-in early gives you free time to wander at your leisure and take in the sights. You could even buy a keyring for a loved one!
How Early to Get to the Airport for a Domestic Flight
You should arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. The exact check-in time can vary depending on your airline, but most airlines open online check-in at least 24 hours before your flight.
Some, especially for long-haul international flights, open online check-in 30 days before, so you can be even more organized!
How Early Can You Check Bags for a Flight?
Different airlines and airports open bag drop at different times. However, the general rule of thumb is that you can drop off checked luggage 2-4 hours before departure.
What Happens if You Miss Your Flight?
You might still miss your flight after checking in, even if you went through the hassle of doing it early.
Don’t panic, though, it’s fixable!Missed your flight after checking in? Here’s what to do.
Key Takeaways
So, why check in early for a flight? There are plenty of reasons.
- Checking in early removes a lot of stress. Whether you hit traffic or forget something, checking in at the first available opportunity gives you one less thing to do when you get to the airport.
- Check in as early as possible to benefit from potential upgrades. Certain airlines dish out upgrades to elite status or bump you up the boarding order based on whether you checked in for your flight early. Get a better chance of your preferred seats and more.
- Save money on potential upgrades, too, because you’re further up the priority list after an early check-in.
- Checking in early also gives you more time to kick your feet up, explore the airport, and get your journey off to the smooth start you deserve.
Speaking of smooth,Simplify Your Flights – Use App in the Air Today.
FAQs
Our most frequently asked questions on checking in early.
1. How early should I get to the airport?
For short-haul flights, get to the airport at least two hours before your flight departure time. For long-haul flights, extend this to three hours before departure.
2. How early can you check in baggage for international flight?
Many airlines open bag drop 2-4 hours before departure. However, certain airlines may allow you to check bags up to six hours prior.
3. What happens if you don’t check in 24 hours before your flight?
If you fail to check in on time, your airline may think you’re not showing up. They may re-sell your ticket or cancel your journey. So, why check in early for a flight? It ensures that you actually get to go on your journey!
4. Is it better to check in online or at the airport?
Checking in for your flight online is quick, convenient, and saves a lot of hassle. It means you won’t miss check-in, too. However, some travelers have to check in at the airport for international flights, so check with your airline.
