Do you still need to print boarding passes?

The Great Boarding Pass Debate: Print or Perish?

For years, the ritual of printing out boarding passes felt as essential to air travel as remembering your passport. That crisp A4 sheet, carefully tucked away in a travel wallet, was a badge of honor, proof that you were ready to embark on an adventure. But in our increasingly digital world, is this paper trail still necessary?

While many airlines offer mobile boarding passes and some airports boast streamlined digital systems, clinging to that printed boarding pass might not be as archaic as it seems. Here’s why:

Technology isn’t foolproof: Phone batteries die, apps crash, and internet connections can be unreliable, especially in crowded airport terminals. A dead phone at the security checkpoint can quickly derail your travel plans.

Barcodes are king: That seemingly simple black and white square on your boarding pass is your ticket to security clearance and boarding the plane. A blurry screenshot or a cracked phone screen can render the barcode unreadable, leading to delays and frustration.

Peace of mind: For some travelers, holding that physical boarding pass provides a sense of security and organization. It’s one less thing to worry about in the whirlwind of airport logistics.

When in Rome… While many airports are embracing digitalization, some, especially in smaller locations or certain countries, might not be as equipped. Printing your boarding pass ensures a smooth experience regardless of your destination.

The Bottom Line:

While the need to print boarding passes is slowly fading, it hasn’t disappeared entirely. Until technology becomes universally reliable and accepted, having that paper backup is a smart and often stress-free approach. Think of it as a small price to pay for a smoother journey. So, the next time you travel, consider keeping that printer humming – your peace of mind might thank you for it.