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/ Documentation /Troubleshooting/ How to Fix the “Session Expired” Error Message

How to Fix the “Session Expired” Error Message

If you’re seeing a “Your session has expired” message on your Upsell or Downsell pages in CartFlows, it means the session data from the original checkout step is no longer available.

This documentation explains why this happens and how to resolve it.

Why This Happens

CartFlows relies on session cookies to pass data from the checkout page to the upsell and downsell steps. When that session data is missing or blocked, CartFlows cannot process the offer step, resulting in the “Session Expired” error.

Below are common causes of this issue.

Case 1: Page Opened Directly Without Test Mode

If the upsell or downsell page is opened directly by URL (outside the actual Funnel) and Test Mode is not enabled, the session key will not be set. This will trigger the error, especially for users who are not logged in.

Solution: If you want to preview the page layout or design, enable Test Mode and make sure you’re logged in while viewing the step.

For help, see this guide: Funnel in Test Mode

Case 2: Upsell or Downsell Placed After an Opt-in Step

Opt-in steps do not collect payment or generate an order. If you place an upsell or downsell after an opt-in step, CartFlows will not have the required session to proceed.

Solution: Do not place upsell or downsell steps immediately after an opt-in step. Make sure the customer completes a purchase on the checkout page first.

Case 3: Cookie Naming Restrictions by Hosting Provider

Some hosting environments (like Pantheon) block cookies that don’t follow a specific naming format (e.g. wp_, woocommerce_). Since CartFlows uses its own cookie (cartflows_session_), this may be blocked.

Solution: Contact your hosting provider and ask if they allow third-party cookies. If needed, request that they exclude CartFlows cookies from any restrictions. For reference, here’s the full list of CartFlows cookies.

Case 4: Missing SSL or Improper HTTPS Configuration

CartFlows cookies require a secure HTTPS connection. If your site does not have SSL properly installed or configured, session cookies may not register.

Solution: Make sure your website is fully configured to use HTTPS with a valid SSL certificate.

Case 5: Caching Conflicts

If CartFlows pages are cached at the browser, plugin, or server level, the session cookie may be blocked or not set correctly.

Solution:

  • Clear all site and browser cache
  • Temporarily disable any active caching plugins
  • Exclude CartFlows checkout, upsell, and downsell pages from caching

Refer to this doc for help: How to Disable Caching

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