Initially was trying to stay out of the weeds, but some details:
- I use SWA app for 20-40 RT/yr; its dirt simple after 1-2 uses. I even book flights by app.
- I think most carriers require check-in (and boarding pass) no more than 24hrs before departure. Only reason I use printed pass is when I miss a flight, or a cancellation and have to re-book at the gate & agent prints it.
- The Google app is perhaps simply a ‘wallet’ (I’m in Apple world, so ???) - like Apple wallet. I know of no requirement to ‘pay’ anything from it; it is just a graphic storage folder as I use it.
- If the app ‘sees’ your reservation now, I think you are all set - - just check-in and get a pass when 24h window opens.
- Once acquired, you can simply leave the app open in background with the pass visible - and skip the digital wallet. Only downside is if you close the app, lose power, etc - - and then have no connection when you queue up to board.
Lot of gotchas have to align, but that is ‘how this goes wrong’.
- Alternative, you can probably get the pass in app, do a screen capture of the QR code, and use that photo as your storage mechanism - - but never tried it, so caveat emptor.
Lots of options, both printed and digital, but this is my experience.