How Early Can You Check-In for a WestJet Flight?

Flight planning is always easier when you know the rules prior. If you're flying with WestJet and wondering how soon you can check in, this guide clears it all. Online options to airport counters, everything depends on how and where you're flying. This page by Air1Network elaborates it all.

When does WestJet Check-in Open Before a Flight?

You can start checking in for a WestJet flight exactly 24 hours before flying. This window applies across the board! Be if you're doing the WestJet check in online, using their mobile app, or checking in at the airport. Be ahead of the game, select the option to check in a full day early. It means you can secure your seat, confirm everything, and download or print your boarding pass long before leaving home.

But don’t forget—cut-off times are different depending on your route. Flights within Canada, WestJet closes check-in 45 minutes before takeoff. The deadline is 60 minutes before departure for international flights. So, WestJet early check in helps you get things sorted quickly. But it’s still on you to reach the airport in good time to avoid delays at bag drop or security. Call WestJet at 1-888-937-8538 or 1-844-414-9223 to get help over call.

Can I Check in Early for a WestJet Flight at the Airport?

Yes, you can. WestJet’s airport check-in counters usually open three hours before the flight. That’s perfect for travelers with baggage to drop off or anyone who prefers checking in face-to-face. The West Jet flight check in desks give you printed boarding passes and let you ask any last-minute questions about your seat or travel documents.

That said, early birds at the airport might still need to wait if counters haven’t opened. If you’re flying during peak hours or from a busy airport, it’s still smart to complete your WestJet web check in beforehand and simply head to baggage drop. That saves you from unnecessary waiting.

How does WestJet Online Check-in Work and When should I Use it?

WestJet online check-in works like:

Available 24 hours before your flight.
Use the WestJet website or app.
Choose your seat during check-in.
Get your boarding pass by email or phone.
Ideal if you're not checking bags.
Skip lines and go straight to security as WestJet early check in.
Have bags? Use the bag drop after check-in.
Not available for group bookings or pet travel.
Go to the counter if special help is needed. Or dial WestJet customer services at 1-888-937-8538 or 1-844-414-9223.

When do I need to Check in Baggage with WestJet?

When flying with checked luggage, you must follow check in baggage WestJet timelines. For domestic flights within Canada, baggage drop closes 45 minutes before flying. For international flights, the cut-off is 1 hour before takeoff. These rules apply even if you’ve already completed your WestJet web check in or used the mobile app.

Most WestJet fares include one checked bag weighing up to 23 kg. If your fare does not cover checked baggage, it is cheaper and faster to pay for it in advance. Getting your West Jet check in baggage done early also saves time at the airport. Especially when lines build up before busy flights.

For those traveling with oversized items—like instruments or sports gear: Be prepared to arrive even earlier. These have to be dropped off at specific counters and take longer to process.

So, how early can you check in for a WestJet flight? You can do it 24 hours before departure—online or through the app. It’s quick, simple, and saves you from airport lines. If you’re heading to the airport instead, counters usually open 3 hours before takeoff. But online check-in is still the smarter option. It gives you more control and less waiting. Just reach the airport early when you have bags to drop or you’re flying internationally. A bit of planning goes a long way. For flight updates or booking help, reach out to Air1Network or WestJet at 1-888-937-8538 or 1-844-414-9223 directly.