How to Check-in With KLM: Essentials for Your Upcoming Flight

Written By Joanna Teljeur

Last Updated: August 28, 2024

Once upon a time, the only way passengers could check-in for their KLM flight was to go to the airport and wait in the queue. We now have several easier and faster options. If you're a new flyer, these options can add a layer of uncertainty to your travel plans.

In this guide, we hope to clear any worries you might have. Keep reading to find out how to check-in with KLM, your options, tips, and tricks you need to make your flight hassle-free.

Understanding KLM Check-in

After you’ve purchased your ticket, you must check-in to let KLM know that you still intend to travel on your scheduled flight. Each airline has a slightly different check-in window. In case of KLM, it is 30 hours before your departure. It’s important to check-in on time so you can get your boarding pass, check your luggage, and select your seat if you haven’t already.

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What is KLM’s Check-in Window

As a KLM passenger, you have to check-in for your flight within a certain timeframe, as seen below. 

KLM check-in opens:

• 30 hours before departure on European flights 
• 24 hours prior to departure on flights headed to the United States

Make sure you don’t wait until the last minute!

KLM check-in closes: 

• 40 minutes before departure on European flights 
• 60 minutes before US flights

Step-by-step Guide: How to Check-in for Your KLM Flight 

After you collect your travel documents, including your passport and booking number, the first thing you need to decide is which check-in method you prefer: You can check in online on the KLM website or by downloading the KLM app. You can also check in at the airport at either the check-in desk or at one of the self-serve kiosks. 

We’re going to give you all the steps for each method so you’ll know exactly what to do.

How to Check-in on the KLM Website

1. Go to the KLM website (KLM.com) and select the Check-in tab at the top left of your screen.
2. Next, log in using your account info or your ticket or booking number, your last name, and your flight number.
3. At this point, you might need to enter your ID/passport information.
4. Choose your seats if you haven’t already, and save or confirm your selection to move to the next step.
5. Choose your checked baggage preferences and pay for the fees if this applies to you.
6. You should receive your boarding pass via email or on your KLM App.
7. When you get to the airport, stop at a self-serve kiosk so you can print your bag tags (if you have checked baggage), and then drop them off at the drop-off area.

Not all airports have kiosks, so when this happens, go to the KLM check-in counter, and they will print your bag tags and boarding pass(es).

 How to Check-in on the KLM App

I flew (KLM) Premium Comfort, which offered a streamlined service right through check-in, starting on the app. I didn't have much faith in this app when I installed it, but it really does help simplify things.” - Marcel Kuijper, Tripadvisor

Airline apps, like the one KLM offers, are a great tool for travelling, and we highly recommend downloading it onto your device. It allows you to check-in and get your boarding pass as well as manage your seats, baggage, and other flight info. Most importantly, you can keep track of your KLM flight's status! 

So first, you will need to download the KLM app from the Apple Store for iOS users or the Google Play store, if you have an Android. Next, open the app and log in. You can also use your booking reference number to access your flight information.

1. Find the Check-in option in the KLM app, and select it to begin the process.
2. Now, you can select a seat if you haven’t already. You’ll usually be promoted to do this as the app will show you a seating map. Once you’ve chosen your seat, you can move to the next step.
3. Next, add checked baggage and pay for it if this applies to you.
4. Finally, you can access your boarding pass by either saving it to your phone or sending it in an email to yourself. You can also print a copy as a backup.
5. When you get to the airport, look for a self-service kiosk to print your bag tags if you have checked luggage. Attach the tags to your luggage and then drop it off at the baggage drop-off area. You can also do this step at the check-in counter.

How to Check-in at the Airport

If you decide to check-in at the airport, you’ll have two options: the self-serve kiosks and the check-in counter, so we’ll walk you through how to do each.

Check-in Using a Kiosk 

Not all airports will have kiosks, so if this happens, just find the check-in desk instead.

1. Find a self-service kiosk at the airport
2. Scan your passport or enter your booking number
3. Select your seat (as applied) on the seating map
4. Add and/or pay for checked baggage and print bag tags
5. Attach bag tags to your checked luggage and drop it off at the designated baggage drop-off.

Check-in at the KLM Check-in Counter

Check-in counters can have different opening and closing hours, so always double-check this information on your departure airport’s website.

1. Find the KLM check-in counter at your departure airport.
2. Show your travel documents to the KLM agent
3. The KLM agent will help you with seat assignments and checked baggage
4. You’ll be given your boarding pass(es) and instructed to drop your checked baggage at the drop-off area.

Airports With Earlier Check-In Times

How to Manage Your KLM Booking

Before checking-in to your KLM flight, you might want to review or change some details about your booking. You can do this on the KLM app or KLM’s website. Just look for the MY TRIP tab, select it, and log into your account.

From there, you can add baggage, select seats, and make other alterations.

How Early Should You Arrive at the Airport?

So, how early should you arrive at the airport? First, consider what extra time and assistance you’ll need. If you’re flying with children or with pets, for example, you’ll want to allow more time. Also, if you’re travelling from an airport with high traffic, you should definitely give yourself a buffer so you can get through security, as the lines can be long.

Typically, it’s wise to arrive 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time, but if you’re travelling internationally, try to get to the airport 3 hours before departure. 

Problems With KLM Check-In

You Can’t Access Your Booking Info

You can usually access your KLM itinerary in the MY TRIP section of the website and app, but if you’re having trouble, you should go to the airport early and have a KLM representative help you. If you have time, you can also try contacting the airline here. 

This will give you local phone numbers, WhatsApp, Messenger, and Apple Message options

The KLM App or Website Isn’t Working Properly

If you’re trying to check-in to your KLM flight, but the website or app isn’t functioning properly, try using a different browser or restarting your device. If you continue to have problems, you should plan to arrive at the airport early to complete check-in at a kiosk or at the check-in counter.

Tricks for Easy Check-in

Want to make your trip less stressful? These tips should help.

1. Download KLM’s app because it can make the entire check-in process fast and easy. Another bonus is that it will alert you to any changes to your flight, like KLM delays or cancellations. If your flight is cancelled, you can usually get a rebooking through the app as well. 
2. Keep travel documents in order. It’s also a good idea to take photos of everything in case something happens with your phone or other device.
3. Don’t put off checking-in. You never know what could happen that could prevent you from checking-in, so it’s best to do it early.
4. Arrive at the airport early. Getting to the airport 2 and 3 hours ahead of time might seem excessive, but with check-in lines and security screenings, these hours will pass quickly. Plus, the earlier you get there, the more time you have to unwind before your flight.

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Frequently Asked Questions