With Jet2 for instance you can check in online 28 days before travel so if you count 28 days before return flight you should be able to do both together, print both tickets off before you go.
Also mooch through this long thread (or post there) http://www.holidaytruths.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=2256&start=480

Thanks for that Glynis. I thought it would be something like 24 hours.

The details are on the website at http://www.bmibaby.com/bmibaby/en/webcheckin.aspx
Checkin 72hours before the flight - a seperate checkin required for outward and return legs.

I am flying with Thomsons from Manchester in December on an early morning flight, is it worth doing the self check in or am I best going to the normal check in desks ? Are there many check in kiosks and how many bag drops. Years ago I used to enjoy flying from terminal 2 because the desk were always open and there were no queues, is this still the case ?

The reason I ask is that I did online check in with Jet 2 earlier this year and the bag drop queue was as long as the normal check in desks but we did have our seat numbers already, I hate the anticipation, so no complaints.

Sorry so many questions and sorry if it`s in the wrong place.

christine w,

What time are you flying? It can get quite busy from about 7.30-8am (depending on day) so it could be worth using them. However if you're checking-in earlier than that, I've always walked straight to the desks as it's quiet early morning.

Darren

I am fling at 6am, so I hope the desks are quiet. Thanks Darren