Dumb Question-Southwest tickets

[Disneybound!!]

I'm sorry if this is a dumb question, but I couldn't find the answer. I know you guys can help! I purchased 2 tickets directly from SW, and I have confirmation numbers. However, it doesn't tell me how I'm actually going to get the tickets nor does it say that they are e-tickets. Do I actually get a ticket or just print off the confirmation pages and take that to check-in? I just want to be sure that I have what I need. Actually, the tickets are for my parents and they haven't flown before, and I want it to be smooth for them. Thanks so much for the help!

 

[DebbieB]

I'm sorry if this is a dumb question, but I couldn't find the answer. I know you guys can help! I purchased 2 tickets directly from SW, and I have confirmation numbers. However, it doesn't tell me how I'm actually going to get the tickets nor does it say that they are e-tickets. Do I actually get a ticket or just print off the confirmation pages and take that to check-in? I just want to be sure that I have what I need. Actually, the tickets are for my parents and they haven't flown before, and I want it to be smooth for them. Thanks so much for the help!

If you booked online, they are e-tickets. Most airlines don't issue paper tickets at all anymore.

 

[Shelly F - Ohio]

Just be sure to check them in online for their flight 24 hrs before their flight departs. If they wait till they get to the airport they may get a higher boarding number which means there is a chance they would sit together because they will be one of the last ones to board the plane. SW does not assign seats it a first come first serve deal based on the boarding number.

 

[disneyfaninaz]

I don't know when your parents are flying, but you might want to consider buying Early Bird Check In for their flights now. It costs $10 per ticket. SWA will automatically check them in 36 hours before their flight. That way, neither they nor you need to worry about checking in exactly at 24 hours. All they need to do is check their bags at the airport and print their boarding passes.

 

[NotUrsula]

You can just print off the confirmation pages for them to take to the airport. They will be expected to use kiosks to check in, and the key bit of information needed is the Itinerary number on the receipt page, plus the passengers names. Highlight that itinerary number so that it is easy to see. (There ARE staff members at the check-in desk, but each one is normally now responsible for at least 2 lines; they depend on passengers to do part of the transaction via the kiosks if possible.)

If they are elderly and you really want to make things as easy as possible for them, I suggest gifting them with a couple of metal-free around-the-neck ID holders that they can just flip over and show to all of the various people who will be asking to see an ID. (And making sure that they HAVE a valid gov't issued photo ID should go without saying. If they don't drive, then they should take passports with them or get DMV id-only cards.)

Also help them prep for security; that will be a shock if they have never done it. Be specific re: the shoe thing.

 

[Missytara]

My last trip, I swear my "tickets" looked just like a register receipt.

 

[Disneybound!!]

Thanks ya'll! Those are all excellent suggestions! Can the Early Bird check-in be purchased separate from the tickets? I'm going to go check that on SW's website. If it can check them in automatically, I would feel much better about that. They are (thankfully) perfectly capable and able bodied (for the most part), but I know how confusing this can be to myself and I've flown several times. I just don't want them to have any problems! I really appreciate your help!

 

[Thumper_Man]

Yes. The Early bird can be purchased separate and added to any confirmation at any time. HERE's the link to early bird. Just punch in the necessary information and you will be able to add it.

 

[Disneybound!!]

I added the Early Bird and that will give me enough time that I'll be able to print their boarding passes for them before I go. I feel so much better about it now! Thanks again everyone! I sure do love the Dis!!