Contactless Check-in: You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers

This blog post was updated on February 29, 2024.

If you’re an avid reader of travel writing and online travel content, you’ve probably been seeing a new term on travel blogs and social media posts by travel influencers: contactless check-in. Travel is evolving, and at the forefront of this shift is the rising trend of contactless check-in. It’s not just a convenience; it’s a practical game-changer, reshaping how we approach security and efficiency during our journeys.

What’s more, contactless check-in is steadily becoming a new industry standard. But many travelers are still in the dark about contactless check-in and how it fits into their travel plans. Thankfully, we’ve put together a helpful breakdown, answering the essential questions to help you fully understand the concept.

What is Contactless Check-In?

Contactless check-in is a way of checking in at airports, hotels, and other places when you’re traveling that uses little to no possible contact to prevent the spread of any potential illnesses. This practice, as you might have guessed, took off during the height of the pandemic, but both passengers and providers saw the long-term benefits and contactless check-in seems to be with us for the long haul.

The procedure utilizes automated and self-check-in technology, via customer smartphones or touchscreen kiosks, so the physical contact between staff and customers is limited. Whether you’re buzzing through airports or settling into hotels, this is your VIP ticket to a streamlined experience. Airports also now have self-serving check-in kiosks for you luggage. No lines, no stress – just smooth sailing into the sky.

Why is it Important?

Again, contactless check-in was initially a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the idea seems to have stuck. Imagine moving through security with minimal touchpoints, prioritizing health and safety, but also convenience. Utilizing mobile apps and self-check-in options helps provide a secure entry without the need for all that paperwork. Ultimately, it’s not just about maintaining health; it’s about enhancing your trip so you can travel with ease.

Most airlines now offer online check-in starting 24 hours before departure through their website or app. You can print the boarding pass at home or download it to your phone. That’s the primary method of contactless check-in. However, if you’re flying in a large group, require a wheelchair, or are flying internationally without your passport information, you’ll probably need to check in the regular way.

Where Can I Use Contactless Check-In?

In theory, you can use contactless check-in anywhere you need to check into while traveling. Airports and hotels are the most likely places you’ll find the option. But it can also be available when you access a lounge, pick up a rental car, or take a shuttle bus. The critical aspect is that the business or accommodation typically requires a reservation or registration. But keep in mind, the contactless check-in phenomenon has also expanded to theme parks, museums, and restaurants around the world.

How Can I Tell if Contactless Check-In is an Option?

You’ll need to look up your airline, car rental agency, or hotel’s procedures to see if they’re offering contactless check-in. Most of the time, you can find out by going to their website. But if you’re still not sure you can always call their customer service phone number and ask.

Remember, it’s not just about convenience; it’s about making informed choices that align with your priorities. So, be a savvy traveler – explore all digital options and make that call if need be, or even do some online research. Your journey’s peace of mind begins with a phone call or click away.

Can I Do Contactless Check-In on My Own?

Yes. While a business or company might not use the phrase “contactless check-in,” they still might have it as an option. Their existing digital concierge features or customer service preferences designed for quick check-ins may come in handy. So, again, it’s important to check with whatever airlines, hotels, or other accommodations you’re using before your trip.

Do I Need to Download Any App?

More than likely, you will need to download a specific app to take advantage of contactless check-in. Most of these check-ins are done via smartphone. And there’s no one overall app for the process: each airline, hotel chain, or other travel brand will have its own app. So you’ll likely have to download more than one and create accounts before you leave home. But keep in mind that these apps open doors to a range of contactless services – from obtaining your digital boarding pass to unlocking your hotel room. It’s like having a personal travel agent in your pocket.

Should I Bring Anything Else with Me?

Every reservation can require different things depending on the booking, and the requirements can vary from company to company. Some may just need your reservation number. Others may require photo ID. It’s crucial to find out ahead of time what identification or other information you may need to have with you. And, make sure you have digital copies on your phone. Lastly, maybe think about getting a power bank, or at least keeping a charger handy so you can make sure your phone is charged when you need it.

What About My Luggage?

Many airports are also embracing contactless procedures for your luggage. Imagine strolling up to a designated kiosk, placing your bags on a conveyor, and letting technology do the rest. It’s like having your own concierge, and it allows for a smooth transition to get your luggage from your hands to the airplane. When you get to the airport, you’ll just need to find an available machine, where you can scan your boarding pass or enter in your info, register your bags, and pay any applicable fees. It’ll print luggage tags for you to attach to your bags, and then you drop your luggage off a designated collection point.

RELATED: Worried About Getting Sick While You Travel? Remember These Wellness Tips Protect Your Health

How Do I Check-In Without Contact at a Hotel?

Every hotel and hotel chain does things differently. If you want to use contactless check-in wherever you’ll be staying, you’ll need to look up the protocols and procedures for each option and do some comparing and contrasting. If the hotel offers contactless check-in, it will likely use an app to keep things contact-free. Some hotel chain apps handle everything from room service to room keys. But just because a hotel also uses a mobile app for online check-in or check-out doesn’t mean it’ll be contactless. If you can’t find any information about contactless check-in on their website, you should call.

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