How early can you check in bags on SW?

[jodifla]

Car is due back at 2:30, and we don't leave until 5:30. How early can I check the bags??

 

[NotUrsula]

The usual is 4 hours before the flight. IME, if there is another flight going to your destination before yours and your bags are already checked, they will go out on that flight, so if you get home and your bags are not on the carousel, don't panic -- they will probably be in the baggage office.

 

[jodifla]

The usual is 4 hours before the flight. IME, if there is another flight going to your destination before yours and your bags are already checked, they will go out on that flight, so if you get home and your bags are not on the carousel, don't panic -- they will probably be in the baggage office.

This would be great! It means we can check the car in, the luggage in, then go the the Mall of America for a couple of hours.

Thanks.