How Early Can You Check In for Lufthansa?

When flying with Lufthansa, knowing how early you can check in can help you plan your journey more smoothly. Lufthansa offers both online and airport check-in options, giving passengers the flexibility to choose what suits them best. For most flights, online check-in becomes available 23 hours before the scheduled departure. This applies whether you’re flying within Germany, within Europe, or internationally. Checking in online not only saves you time at the airport, but also allows you to select your seat, enter passport details (if needed), and obtain your boarding pass, which can be printed or saved to your mobile phone.

The Lufthansa mobile app and the airline’s website are both reliable options for online check-in. All you need is your booking code or ticket number and your last name. After you check in, you’ll have the option to receive a mobile boarding pass via text or email, which can be scanned directly at security and the boarding gate. This is especially helpful for travelers with carry-on luggage only, as it allows them to skip the check-in counter altogether.

If you have checked luggage, Lufthansa provides convenient bag drop counters at all major airports. Just make sure to arrive at the airport early enough to drop off your bags before the cut-off time. For most short-haul flights, the baggage drop counter closes 40 minutes before departure, while for long-haul or intercontinental flights, it closes 60 minutes before. Lufthansa strongly recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours early for European flights and 3 hours early for intercontinental flights, especially during busy travel times.

For travelers who are not able or prefer not to check in online, Lufthansa also offers airport check-in kiosks and manned counters, which typically open 3 to 4 hours before flight time. These are great options if you're traveling with special needs, oversized baggage, or pets, or if you simply want extra assistance.

In conclusion, Lufthansa allows passengers to check in online starting 23 hours before departure, and recommends early arrival at the airport to ensure a stress-free experience. Whether you check in digitally or at the airport, being prepared in advance makes for a smoother and more comfortable journey with Lufthansa.