Do I need a paper boarding pass for international flights?

There's also the consideration of border control if you're traveling internationally — sometimes border agents might ask to see your boarding pass, and it's usually easier to hand them the paper version rather than your whole phone.



In 2026, while mobile boarding passes are accepted at the vast majority of international airports, it is still highly recommended to carry a paper backup. Most major airlines provide a digital QR code via their app that you can scan at security, duty-free, and the boarding gate. However, certain countries and specific airports (particularly in parts of Asia, Africa, and South America) still legally require a physical paper pass for immigration "stamping" or for security records that the digital version cannot accommodate. Additionally, technology is not infallible; a dead phone battery, a cracked screen that won't scan, or a lack of airport Wi-Fi can prevent you from accessing your digital pass at a critical moment. Some low-cost international carriers also charge "check-in fees" at the airport if you don't arrive with a pre-printed pass. To be safe, you should check in online to secure your seat and download the mobile version, but then print a hard copy at home or at an airport kiosk. This "belt and braces" approach ensures that even if your phone fails or you encounter a "low-tech" security checkpoint, you have the one document required to legally board the aircraft.

People Also Ask

Boarding passes are always required to board a flight. Often, airlines accept either paper or electronic boarding passes (on phone or tablet).

MORE DETAILS

Generally speaking, we like to err on the side of caution and suggest you print out your boarding pass, even if you already checked in online and have a mobile version on your phone.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, simply show your mobile boarding pass on a mobile phone, iPad, or Apple Watch and a valid form of identification to the TSA Agent at security to proceed. To board your flight, scan your mobile boarding pass by holding one of the devices listed above with your pass facing the scanner.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, simply show your mobile boarding pass on a mobile phone, iPad, or Apple Watch and a valid form of identification to the TSA Agent at security to proceed. To board your flight, scan your mobile boarding pass by holding one of the devices listed above with your pass facing the scanner.

MORE DETAILS

Can I use my mobile boarding pass to go through the security checkpoint and board my flight? Yes, simply show your mobile boarding pass on a mobile phone, iPad, or Apple Watch and a valid form of identification to the TSA Agent at security to proceed.

MORE DETAILS

If you check in at the airport, you may print your boarding pass from a self-service kiosk near check-in, or an airline representative can print one for you at the check-in counter. If you lose your pre-printed boarding pass or misplace the link, you can reprint your boarding pass when you get to the airport.

MORE DETAILS

“If you ever lose your boarding card, then simply talk to the airline guy or the security officer confidently and ask for his help politely. “It is an obligation for the airline to issue you a new boarding card as long as it wont cause major delay to the flight and you do not have any security issues.”

MORE DETAILS

Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.
  • Driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) ...
  • U.S. passport.
  • U.S. passport card.
  • DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)


MORE DETAILS

If you don't check in, you won't receive a boarding pass that allows you to board the plane, and your seat might be given up to a standby passenger. The check-in process also confirms your traveler details like your passport information and frequent flyer number.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, as long as it has a QR Code that can be scanned. If you have an iPhone usually there would be an option with the airlines app to add to your Apple Wallet app. Can you use a laptop to print a boarding pass? Yes, you can use a laptop to print a boarding pass, as long as you have access to a printer.

MORE DETAILS

What to Do After Online Check-In. Once you receive your electronic boarding pass, you can head straight to security if you're traveling carry-on only. If you're checking a bag, you'll still need to stop by the ticketing area at the airport. Look for special “bag drop” lines that bypass longer check-in lines.

MORE DETAILS

The General Guideline for How Early You Should Get to the Airport. Generally speaking, most airlines advise that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to a domestic flight, and at least 3 hours prior to an international flight.

MORE DETAILS

Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

MORE DETAILS

For general warrants the airport scanning system does not scan for general warrants or penalty history. However, even if an outstanding warrant is detected, you can pay the fine on the spot.

MORE DETAILS

When you're traveling outside of the United States, we suggest arriving at least 3 hours prior to your departure. You must be checked in at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure. Additionally, we recommend being at the gate and ready to board 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

MORE DETAILS