When flying with Lufthansa, it's helpful to know how early you can check in to make your travel experience as smooth as possible. Lufthansa offers multiple check-in options to suit different travel needs, including online check-in, mobile app check-in, self-service kiosks at the airport, and traditional check-in counters. The earliest and most convenient method is online check-in, which opens 23 hours before your scheduled flight departure. This window applies to most Lufthansa flights, whether domestic, European, or long-haul international. Checking in early online allows you to choose your seat, update travel information, add checked baggage, and download or print your boarding pass. If you are traveling with only hand luggage, checking in online means you can skip the check-in counter and head straight to security, saving time at the airport.

The Lufthansa mobile app also allows you to check in 23 hours in advance. It’s available on both iOS and Android devices and provides all the same features as the website. You can check in, manage your booking, and receive your digital boarding pass directly on your phone. The app also sends real-time updates about your flight, such as boarding times, gate changes, or delays, which helps keep you informed and organized. The mobile boarding pass can be scanned at security and the gate, making it a fast and paperless way to board your flight.

For passengers who prefer checking in at the airport, Lufthansa provides self-service kiosks at many major airports. These kiosks usually open several hours before the first departure of the day and allow passengers to check in, select seats, and print boarding passes and luggage tags. After checking in at the kiosk, you can drop your checked baggage at Lufthansa’s designated bag-drop counter. The kiosks are especially useful for travelers who need to make changes or prefer to handle check-in in person but want to avoid long lines.

If you need assistance or have special travel needs, you can check in at Lufthansa’s airport check-in counters. These counters generally open 2 to 3 hours before departure for short-haul flights and up to 4 hours before long-haul or international flights. They typically close 45 to 60 minutes before departure, depending on the airport and destination. Passengers traveling with pets, unaccompanied minors, or those needing special services should arrive early and use the staffed counters to receive the necessary help.

Lufthansa recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before European flights and 3 hours before intercontinental flights. This allows enough time for check-in, baggage drop, security, and boarding. Boarding usually begins about 45 minutes before departure, and the gates typically close 15 to 20 minutes before takeoff, so punctuality is important.

In summary, you can check in for your Lufthansa flight as early as 23 hours before departure using the online or mobile options, which are fast, easy, and ideal for saving time. Airport kiosks and counters open a few hours before departure and are available for those who prefer in-person assistance. Checking in early and arriving on time ensures a smooth start to your journey with Lufthansa.