Do you have a flight reservation with Ryanair and now wondering about the check in process? If flying, understanding the Ryanair check in policy is important to avoid unnecessary charges & boarding issues. As a low-cost carrier, the airline has specific check in policy and procedure, including online, mobile, and airport check-ins. Moreover, in this blog, we will learn about the methods, including conditions and restrictions. Thus, continue to read further and get all the details handy.

What Documents are Needed for Ryanair Check-in?

To complete the check in with Ryanair, passengers have to provide a passport or a national identity card. Also, travelers need to have a Ryanair booking reference, and a device with a camera if checking in online or using the app.

  • Valid Passport or National ID card
  • Booking reference number
  • Visa or travel documents, if required by the destination country.

When Can You Check in For Ryanair?

The Ryanair check in time depends on whether you purchased a reserved seat. So, the timing to complete the check-in is as follows:

  • With reserved seats, the check-in starts 60 days in advance.
  • Without reservation: it starts 24 hours before departure.

Important Note: If you forget to check in online and reach the airport without a boarding pass, you’ll have to pay a boarding pass reissue fee. which can cost up to £/€20 per passenger.

Ryanair Check-in Options

Ryanair offers multiple ways to complete the check-in, including both online and offline. But the online check-in option is a more convenient and preferred method. Here is a breakdown of your options:

Method 1: Online Check-in

Open 2 hours before the departure.
For the reserved seat, check starts 60 days before the flight.

Ryanair Online Check-in Process

  • Visit the Ryanair Website www.www.ryanair.com
  • Log in to the “Ryanair Manage My Booking” option.
  • Enter the last name and the booking confirmation code.
  • Now access the booking, tap on the check-in option.
  • Follow the steps to check in and download the boarding pass.

Tip: You can print the Ryanair boarding pass or download it to your mobile.

Method 2: Ryanair Check-in online Free App,

The app is available for both Android and iOS. The Ryanair mobile app allows to check in, download boarding passes, track flights, and manage bookings. The process is similar to a website check-in. In addition, with mobile check in there is no need to print anything, simply show the mobile boarding pass at the airport.

Method 3: Ryanair Check in at the Airport

Airport check is best for last-minute check-ins, however, it is not recommended as it charges a fee. This is usually around £/€55 per passenger. Therefore, to avoid the extra charges, complete the Ryanair check-in online free, or through the customer service team.

Note: Only passengers who are unable to check in online (e.g., those with special requirements or traveling on certain routes) are exception from this fee.

Ryanair Seating Policy During Check-in

Ryanair offers passengers 2 different seats options, including free random and paid seats.

  • Free Random Seats: If you choose not to pay, Ryanair will assign a seat randomly during check-in.
  • Paid Reserved Seats: You can select your seat by paying a small fee, €4 to €20, depending on the route and seat type.

Passengers who want to sit together can purchase a seat, as random allocation may separate them.

What if You Miss the Ryanair sign-in Deadlines?

Skipping the free check-in window can be costly, as passengers have to pay the change fees to complete the check-in. However, the late Ryanair check in fee is around €55 per passenger at the airport. Moreover, if checked in but lost the boarding pass, Ryanair may charge €20 to reissue it.

Can I Make the Changes After Ryanair Check in?

Yes, but the name or flight changes after sign-in are not free and can be expensive. To make changes, “uncheck-in” first. This can only be done by contacting Ryanair customer service and is subject to approval.

Tip: Only check in after confirming that your plans and travel details are final.

Ryanair Check-in for Children, Infants, and Special Assistance:

Ryanair allows parents to sign in a baby sling, one full pushchair, plus one car seat, or travel cot per child, free of charge. Additionally, airlines allow to check in other things online, with a weight of 20kg per item. For special assistance, notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure.

Traveling with Infant (Under 2) 
  • Must sit on an adult’s lap.
  • Adults can carry a baby bag of up to 5 kg.

Children Under 12

  • Must be seated next to a parent.
  • The airline requires parents to purchase seats to ensure families sit together.

Special Assistance

  • Passengers requiring a wheelchair or other assistance must inform Ryanair during booking.
  • Some passengers in this category may be exempt from online check-in and can check in at the airport for free.

Ryanair Check-in Tips to Save Time & Money

Here are some tips and tricks that help passengers save time and effort. Thus, if you are doing the check in, consider using these points and make the most of Ryanair check in.

  • Double-Check Your Info: Typos can cost you.
  • Use the App: It’s fast, reliable, and avoids printing hassles.
  • Check in Early: If you’ve purchased seats, don’t wait until the last minute.
  • Print as Backup: Even if you use the app, print a boarding pass in case your phone dies or malfunctions.
  • Be Aware of Airport Rules: Not all airports accept mobile passes.

Conclusion

To cut the long story short, Ryanair check-in is effortless when passenger know the process and plan. Whether a first-time flyer or a frequent traveler, checking in online or via the Ryanair app will save time, efforts, money and hassle. Therefore, be careful about the Ryanair sign-in deadlines, fees, and documentation requirements to make a smooth start to the journey.

So the next time you ask, “How does Ryanair check-in work?”, know exactly what to do. However, if still have doubts, reach out to us at and get immediate help.