With airline apps, it’s really easy to check in directly from your phone prior to your flight. However, sometimes, you may want to check in at the airport. Perhaps there’s an issue with your seat, or you’re looking for an upgrade. Maybe the app is down, or it won’t let you check-in. Whatever the case may be, even with all the modern mobile conveniences, you can still check in at the airport. It’s quick and easy, as long as there are no lines, and here’s all you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- To avoid any potential issues or missed flights, it’s essential to arrive at the airport early and plan your time accordingly.
- Make sure you have all necessary documentation, such as your identification and confirmation number, ready beforehand to make the check-in process smoother and quicker.
- If you have any unique circumstances or issues with your ticket, it may be best to check in at the airport directly, where customer service can assist you in person.
- To avoid any fees, make sure to weigh your baggage beforehand and remove items if necessary to meet weight requirements.
- Once you’ve checked in, it’s important to proceed to airport security to ensure a smooth travel experience. If you have Global Entry or TSA Precheck, make sure to go to the appropriate line.
Checking-in At The Airport
You have to follow a few steps if you want to check in at the airport and make sure to have all your documentation ready to make the process as quick and painless as possible.
- Arrive at the airport early. You want to make sure you have enough time to deal with checking in should there be long lines, as well as to get through security. Make sure to research how long the process typically takes at your airport and plan accordingly. Recently, the typical two hours most people plan has not been enough and led to missed flights.
- Find your airport’s customer service desk. Different airlines have different desks, so make sure you locate their customer service desk and get in line. If you do not need assistance, some airlines have kiosks that you can use to check-in. There should be staff available to help should you run into issues.
- Get your documentation ready, including your identification and confirmation number. You should have gotten a confirmation email when you booked your flight. This will help should they have issues locating your reservation.
- Talk to customer service once it’s your turn. Share that you’d like to check in to your flight or if there are any concerns you have prior to checking in. They can help you upgrade, change your seat, and more.
- Check your bag. If you are checking your bag, place it on the scale. Make sure that you weigh it prior to going to the airport to avoid any fees. You can also take things out and put them in your carry-on bag if it’s close. Make sure your baggage is properly tagged prior to travelling to prevent any missing baggage issues.
- Proceed to security. Checking in is only part of the travelling experience. Once you’ve got your boarding pass, you need to go through airport security. If you have Global Entry or TSA Precheck, make sure you proceed to your line while everyone else can go to the general line and wait.
Checking in at the airport doesn’t have to be cumbersome, just as long as there are no long lines. If there are weather issues or other circumstances that cause delays in airline travel, it may be a long wait to check in, but it’s worth it to talk about alternative accommodations in-person with a professional.
Why Should You Check In At The Airport?
There are many reasons that you may want to check in at the airport instead of checking in online or on your phone. These include:
- Problem with your ticket
- Change in seating request
- Upgrade
- Error message
- Special accommodations
If any of these or other unique circumstances apply, you may want to check in directly at the airport. They can help answer any questions you may have and get your issues settled in no time. You may spend more time waiting in line, but it’s worth it to make sure you are being properly checked in instead of facing issues later at the gate.
Some people just prefer to check in at the airport, and that’s okay too! It’s up to you how you check in, just as long as you do.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What should I do if I encounter issues while checking in online or on my phone?
If you encounter issues while checking in online or on your phone, it’s best to check in directly at the airport. The customer service desk can assist you in person and resolve any issues.
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How early should I arrive at the airport to check in?
It’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight. However, it’s best to research how long the process typically takes at your airport and plan accordingly.
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Do I need to weigh my baggage before going to the airport?
Yes, it’s recommended to weigh your baggage beforehand to avoid any fees. Make sure to remove any items if necessary to meet weight requirements.
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Can I check in at the airport if I’ve already checked in online or on my phone?
Yes, you can still check in at the airport if you’ve already checked in online or on your phone. However, inform the customer service desk that you’ve already checked in and have your boarding pass ready.
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What should I do if I have special accommodations or requests?
If you have special accommodations or requests, check in directly at the airport. The customer service desk can assist you in person and ensure your needs are met.
