Your Go-to Guide to Checking in at the Airport

For a stress-free check-in experience:

• Download your airline’s app for quick check-in and boarding pass.
• Check-in online 24 hours in advance and pay for checked or carry-on bags beforehand.
• Double-check that all your luggage meets the size requirements.
• Arrive early!

Your bags are packed, and your travel arrangements are all set – it's finally travel time! But first, you need to check in for your flight. Whether this is your first time flying or your hundredth, checking in at the airport can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re at an international airport with massive terminals or a tram. But knowing how to check in at the airport smoothly can make your journey much more enjoyable.

That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide for a smooth, stress-free, and quick(ish) airport check-in. Discover tips, advice, and valuable information for a novice or seasoned traveler. We’ll share tips to make check-in a breeze, from online check-in hacks to security line shortcuts. Get ready for a seamless airport experience.

Explore the check-in options

For first-time flyers, you may wonder what it even means to “check in." Checking in for your flight is a crucial step before boarding. This process lets passengers confirm they will be on the correct flight. It also allows you to print a boarding pass, select your seat if it has not already been selected, and pay for checked or carry-on bags and luggage. Some airlines also give passengers the option to pre-board faster, upgrade their seats, order snacks in advance, or buy Wi-Fi. If you plan well, the check-in process is much easier to master.

Before you go, decide if you will check in online, via the app, or at the airport. If checking in online or through the app, you should do so before heading to the airport. You will be asked to either log in to your account or add your confirmation number and last name on the reservation. If you choose to check in at the airport, you can usually either visit a self-service kiosk or an airport check-in desk. If you need assistance with check-in, you can speak to a specialist who can give you your boarding pass and take your luggage. Check-in times vary for every flight, depending on the crowds. Online check-in can help reduce your wait times.

1. Online/app check-in: convenient and fast, completed via the airline's website or app.

• Visit the airline's website or app: locate their check-in portal or sign in to your account.
• Enter details: input your booking reference and last name. Your check-in begins 24 hours before takeoff. Click on manage reservation or check-in.
• Select your seat: choose available options or let the system auto-assign.
• Check baggage allowance: add any baggage if needed.
• Print your boarding pass or save it digitally: have it ready for airport security and boarding.

2. Kiosk check-in: available at many airports, these self-service machines help avoid long lines at the counter.

• Locate a kiosk: available near the check-in counters.
• Enter booking information: using your booking reference or passport.
• Select your seat: choose available options or let the system auto-assign.
• Print boarding pass: retrieved directly from the machine.
• Bags can be dropped off at designated drop-off points. If you have baggage to check-in, you can drop it off at the baggage stations or the airline’s counter.

3. Counter check-in: this traditional method is often necessary for international travel or special requirements.

• Head to the airline's counter: aim to arrive three hours before an international flight and two hours for domestic.
• Present documents: have your government-issued ID or passport, booking reference, and any required visas ready.
• Check-in your luggage: the counter staff will tag and take your bags.
• Receive boarding pass: they’ll print your boarding pass for you. Confirm flight details and head to security.

Our step-by-step guide to efficiently check-in at the airport

Step 1: Prepare all your documentation and paperwork before traveling

Before you head to the airport, ensure you have a valid government-issued photo identification or passport and double-check their expiration date. You can also print your boarding pass (or save it on a mobile device) and any other travel arrangements you need, including rental car information if applicable. It’s best to have everything ready and easily accessible when you arrive. International travelers also need additional documentation, like visa forms or medical records.

Step 2: Arrive at the airport with plenty of time

It’s a good idea to check your flight status before getting to the airport in case of flight delays. We suggest arriving at the airport two hours before your scheduled domestic flight and three hours before international. Gates typically close 30-45 minutes before take-off, so you must ensure you have enough time to get through security and make it to the gate. This travel time increases during peak season and holidays, so plan accordingly. Checking in the day before will save you valuable time at the airport.

Step 3: Locate your airline’s terminal and check-in desks

When you arrive at your airline’s terminal, you can check in if you haven’t already done so at a kiosk or counter desk. If already checked in, go to step 5 and drop your bags at designated bag drops or head to security.

Step 4: Check your luggage or use bag drop-off

Most airlines will allow you to check one bag and bring one carry-on bag, depending on the ticket type. Typically, the maximum weight limit is 40-50 pounds per checked bag, as well as some size restrictions. The most common maximum allowed size for a bag is 62 linear (total) inches. A common checked bag size is 27" x 21" x 14". Limits vary for every airline, so it’s essential to check out your airline’s policies beforehand. You must visit the counter for assistance if you check large items like surfboards, golf clubs, or any other non-standard luggage.

Step 5: Head to the security checkpoints

If you made it to security, congratulations – you’re officially checked in for your flight. But there is still one more step before relaxing at your gate. Security checkpoints can be stressful, but they help ensure safety on your flight. If you’re lucky, there is a short line that you can zip through, but the reality may be a little more hectic.TSA Precheck,Global Entry, and Clear are three options for a quick security pass. This expedited process speeds up the security lines and allows passengers to keep their three-ounce liquids packed, leave computers in bags, and keep belts and shoes on.

When passing through security, make sure you throw out any water bottles or liquids before placing your items in trays to be x-rayed. They look for dangerous goods or prohibited items and may even do random searches. Security lines can be very long, so prep for your screening to be as quick as possible by adhering to TSA regulations.

Step 6: Find your gate

In many cases, your gate number will already be printed on your boarding pass. However, both the gate number and terminal can change, so it’s important that you double-check flight departure screens for updates. When navigating the airport, look for signs to direct you to your gate. Plan to arrive at your gate with some extra time to grab something to eat, drink, and take a bathroom break before boarding.

Checking in to international flights

The check-in process is generally the same for domestic flights. For international flights, you should arrive three hours before your departure time, and you need to bring a few more travel documents.

There are a few things to keep in mind:

• Everyone traveling, regardless of age, needs their own set of travel documents.
• Always use the information exactly as it appears on your passport (to book and fill out any documents).
• Check with the consulate of every country you’re entering (or passing through) to ensure you meet all travel requirements.
• Some countries require proof of return or onward travel, a visiting address, and sufficient funds for your stay.

International travelers also need additional documentation for check-in and customs, including:

• A valid passport. Some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the period of their intended stay. If you're unsure, check your destination's requirements.
• Visa forms if the country you are visiting requires one.
• Other relevant travel documents and/or medical notes (if required).
• Be ready for the customs and border protection process. Security personnel will identify you and review your documents, and you may be asked to provide specific documents or answer questions about your travels.

Special assistance at airports

If you need special assistance at the airport, you can visit your airline’s or airport’s special assistance desk. If you or someone you are traveling with needs wheelchair assistance, you can call at least 48 hours before your flight to request wheelchair services for shorter wait times. You can also request special assistance when making or managing your reservation if you have special requests.

Special passengers include:

• VIPs
• Unaccompanied children
• Seniors
• Pregnant women
• Those traveling with infants
• Passengers with disabilities
• Service animals or people traveling with pets
• Any other passengers requiring extra assistance

Traveling with children

Traveling with little ones can be challenging but very doable. If you are bringing a stroller or car seat, you can carry it all the way to the gate, and they will store it for you and have it ready when you deplane. Children under 18 don't need an ID to fly domestically, but a passport is needed for international flights.

Bonus tip: bring snacks, bottles, diapers, chargers, and things to do on the place to keep the kids entertained.

Know before you go: quick tips from the pros for stress-free check-in

• Download your airline’s app for quick check-in and boarding pass.
• Check-in online 24 hours in advance and pay for checked or carry-on bags beforehand.
• Double-check that all your luggage meets the size requirements,
• Arrive early!
• Pack your personal items and include a phone charger, snacks, ID and/or passport, and all travel arrangements and documents.
• Bring headphones for in-flight entertainment (wireless and wired).

All airlines have their own rules, so it’s wise to visit their websites prior to checking in. For example, Spirit Airlines may not include a carry-on with a basic fare, so you may want to check your bags and pre-pay for that.

FAQs

1. Is it better to check in online or at the airport?

This may be a personal preference, but we suggest doing as much as you can in advance to save time and hassles and avoid missing your flight. If you can check in prior to your flight online or via the airline's app (Delta, Jet Blue, United, etc.), you can secure your seat, pay for any carry-on or checked bags, and print a boarding pass. If you have the airline app, when your boarding pass is ready, you can add it to Apple Wallet for a quick find.

2. Are there TSA rules for checked luggage?

Yes, the TSA has strict rules for smooth travel. Before arriving at the airport, check out TSA’s What Can I Bring to know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage.

3. Can you check in a day early?

Yes! In fact, it is recommended that you check in 24 hours before your scheduled take-off time.

4. How long before boarding does check-in close?

For most airports, you must check in at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Additionally, you’re required to be at the gate and ready to board 15 minutes before scheduled departure. Some large airports, like Atlanta (ATL), require passengers to check in 45 minutes before takeoff to allow time to get to their gate.

5. How early can you check in for flights at the airport?

Most airlines open online check-in 24 hours prior to the flight. If you check in at the airport, passengers may do so beginning three hours before their scheduled flight time if checking bags. Remember that some airlines have first-come, first-serve seating, and checking in early will guarantee a faster boarding time and a good seat.

6. How early do you have to be at the airport after checking in online?

If you’ve checked in online, it’s typically recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours for an international one.

7. Do I have to check in again for a connecting flight?

In most cases, you'll receive your boarding pass for your connecting flight when you check in for your first flight. If you haven't received it, you can go to the counter desk or kiosk of the airline you're flying with to collect it.

Ready to jet?

Book your next flight and test your newfound check-in skills – we know you’ll breeze through the airport like a pro! Follow this guide to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether you choose online, kiosk, or counter check-in, preparing beforehand will set the tone and start your trip off right.