If you don’t check in 24 hours before your flight, there may be some problems depending on the airline and your travel plans. Many airlines allow online check-in starting 24 hours before departure, and checking in early can help you get a better seat or boarding position, especially with airlines that use open seating, like Southwest. If you don’t check in online during that window, you can still check in at the airport, but you might face longer lines, extra fees, or fewer seat choices. Some low-cost airlines, like Flair or Ryanair, charge extra if you don’t check in online. They may ask you to pay a fee to check in at the airport, which can increase your travel costs. In these cases, not checking in online could also delay you if the airport is busy. You might have to wait in line to print your boarding pass or drop off your bags, and this could make you late for boarding or even miss your flight. If you have luggage to check, many airlines require that you finish check-in and bag drop well before the flight. For domestic flights, it’s often 45 to 60 minutes before departure. For international flights, it could be 60 to 90 minutes. If you arrive too late to check your bags, you might not be allowed to board. Not checking in on time can also impact seat selection. If you wait too long, the only seats left might be in less comfortable areas, or you might be separated from your travel companions. To avoid stress or extra charges, it’s best to check in as early as possible—ideally right at the 24-hour mark. That way, you’ll have more control over your travel experience and avoid last-minute problems at the airport. |
