What is the difference between boarding pass and checkin?

Traveling via flight for the first time can be confusing for many travelers as they are not familiar with all the processes and struggle to get answers to multiple questions such as "What is the difference between boarding pass and checkin?" If you are also one of those who are not aware of the bonding pass and check-in processes, then elaborated information is provided in the sections approaching. It must be noted that all the checkin options described below might not be available for every airline, therefore you must check for the availability and then proceed further. 

What is a boarding pass? 

There are many travelers who are unaware of what is a boarding pass, and they often struggle to get an answer to the question, "What is the difference between boarding pass and checkin?" If you are also one of those, then you must note that boarding passes are generally provided to the passengers once they complete the checkin process. This essential document enables travelers to enter the restricted area at the airport and is mandatory to board an aircraft. The boarding pass consists of important information like your name, seat number, cabin class, etc. 

Important Checkin policies to be considered: 

There are certain common checkin policies that passengers must be aware of and follow; refer to the following essential checkin-policies: 

  • Travelers must make sure they complete the checkin process at least 45-60 minutes before flight departure. 
  • Those who have special needs such as assistance, traveling with infants, or as a group must opt for airport checkin. 
  • Those who have additional-luggage or pets to be carried must be available at the airport 3-hours ahead flight-departure.

Different kinds of Checkin :

  • Online checkin: This is the easiest and most flexible option to checkin for your upcoming flight as you have the freedom to process it from your comfort zone. You can use this option by following the steps described below: 
  1. Go to the official website of the airline you have bookings for. 
  2. Now find your ticket by heading to the manage my booking section.
  3. Next, you will be asked to fill in the ticket holder's name and booking code.
  4. As you complete all the formalities, you will find your ticket.
  5. Now click on the checkin button. 
  6. Once the process is completed, you can download your boarding passes. 
  • Checkin via mobile application: Most airlines also allow travelers to chekin for their flights via mobile application.  If you have already installed the application on your device, then go through the following steps to complete the checkin process: 
  1. Open mobile application.
  2. Now, you must find your tickets by entering your booking essentials.
  3. Once tickets are found, you must tap on the checkin option.
  4. Follow the quick steps and complete the process. 
  • Self checkin at the Kiosk: Not every passenger is familiar with the online checkin procedure; therefore, they can make use of the airport checkin option. If you have not already completed the checkin process, then you can proceed with this option. You must head to the self-checkin kiosk at the airport. Now, you will be asked to insert the passenger's surname and flight booking reference number. You must follow the displayed instructions to complete the process. As you complete the process, you can even select the preferd seats and print your boarding passes. 
  • Airport checkin:  Travelers always have the option to proceed with the airport checkin if they fail to continue with the options described above. Even if they are not familiar with the process, they can seek assistance by reaching the airport check-in counters. The representative will complete the check-in process for the travelers and provide them with the flight boarding passes. 
  • Curbside Checkin: This option is not available for all airlines; however, there are many that offer curbside checkin as it is a convenient way to select your seats and get your boarding passes. If you are running short of time, then you can skip the usual checkin and head to the curbside checkin counter to get all the steps completed. 

Conclusion: All the essential information that is crucial for travelers to know about flight boarding and checkin is provided above. Going through the details carefully, your question, "What is the difference between boarding pass and checkin? Must have been cleared. You have the option to make use of any of the checking options from the alternatives mentioned above.