How to Fix WooCommerce Checkout Page Redirecting to Cart issue
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How to Fix WooCommerce Checkout Page Redirecting to Cart issue

Mike0

Table of Contents

Introduction

WooCommerce is one of the most popular eCommerce solutions for WordPress. It provides a seamless shopping experience, allowing users to add products to their cart and complete purchases efficiently. However, store owners often encounter an issue where the WooCommerce checkout page redirecting to cart prevents customers from finalizing their transactions.

When this issue occurs, users attempting to reach the checkout page are instead sent back to the cart, sometimes creating an endless redirection loop. This can significantly affect sales conversions and frustrate potential buyers. If your WooCommerce checkout redirects back to cart, it is crucial to identify the underlying causes and implement a proper fix.

Several factors can contribute to this problem, ranging from plugin conflicts to misconfigured settings. In this section, we will explore the most common causes behind the WooCommerce checkout page keeps going to cart issue, along with technical insights into why it happens.

Common Causes of the Issue

The WooCommerce checkout redirect issue typically arises due to conflicts within the website’s environment. Let’s break down the primary reasons why this occurs.

a. Plugin Conflicts

WooCommerce extends its functionalities using third-party plugins, such as payment gateways, security modules, and caching solutions. However, certain plugins may override or interfere with the checkout process.

Key Technical Issues:

  • Redirect Rules: Security or membership plugins may enforce specific redirect rules that send users back to the cart page instead of proceeding to checkout.
  • Session Handling Conflicts: Some plugins modify WooCommerce session handling, breaking cart persistence.
  • JavaScript Errors: Frontend scripts from third-party plugins may conflict with WooCommerce’s checkout scripts, preventing proper navigation.
  • Order Validation Checks: Certain plugins introduce additional validation on cart items, forcing a redirection to ensure order requirements are met.

If a newly installed or updated plugin is causing the WooCommerce checkout page loops back to cart issue, disabling conflicting plugins is the first step toward resolution.

b. Theme Compatibility Issues

Themes play a crucial role in WooCommerce’s checkout process. A custom or outdated theme may override WooCommerce templates or scripts, causing unintended behavior.

Potential Causes:

  • Template Overrides: WooCommerce templates customized by the theme might be outdated or incompatible with the latest WooCommerce version.
  • Incorrect Page Assignment: Themes sometimes include custom cart and checkout layouts, misconfiguring the checkout page path.
  • JavaScript Conflicts: Custom scripts loaded by the theme may interfere with WooCommerce’s checkout process.

Testing with a default theme like Storefront or Twenty Twenty can help determine whether the theme is responsible for the WooCommerce checkout keeps sending users to cart problem.

c. Caching and Session Storage Issues

WooCommerce dynamically stores cart and checkout data using session variables. If caching mechanisms interfere with these sessions, users may get redirected back to the cart.

Common Caching Problems:

  • Browser Caching: When browsers cache checkout pages, they may reload outdated content, causing redirections.
  • Server-Side Caching: Hosting services or plugins like WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache, or Cloudflare may cache the checkout page, preventing users from progressing.
  • Transient Expiry Issues: WooCommerce stores temporary session data in WordPress transients, which, if expired or cleared too soon, can force a redirect.

To prevent the WooCommerce checkout page keeps going to cart issue, cache rules should exclude WooCommerce’s dynamic pages (cart, checkout, my-account).

d. Session & Cookie Management Issues

WooCommerce relies heavily on cookies and PHP sessions to track cart data. If these are not working correctly, users may be redirected back to the cart page.

Technical Reasons:

  • Blocked Cookies: Some browsers or security settings disable cookies, preventing WooCommerce from tracking session data.
  • Expired or Missing Sessions: If the server is not storing session data correctly, WooCommerce fails to recognize the user’s cart status.
  • Conflicting Session Handlers: Some hosting environments use aggressive session management settings, terminating WooCommerce sessions prematurely.

You can check whether WooCommerce sessions are being stored correctly by enabling debugging logs in WooCommerce (WooCommerce > Status > Logs).

e. Incorrect WooCommerce Settings

Incorrect configurations in WooCommerce settings may result in the WooCommerce checkout redirect issue. These settings can impact how the cart and checkout pages are assigned and processed.

Key Areas to Verify:

  • Checkout Page Assignment: Ensure that the checkout page is properly assigned under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced > Page Setup.
  • Permalink Structure Issues: Incorrect permalink settings (Settings > Permalinks) can prevent WooCommerce from recognizing checkout URLs.
  • Force Secure Checkout Issues: If SSL is enabled but not configured correctly, users may be redirected to the cart page instead of proceeding to checkout.
  • Payment Gateway Restrictions: Some gateways validate orders before checkout. If a required field is missing, WooCommerce may send users back to the cart page.

f. Custom Code or Functions.php Conflicts

Developers often add custom code snippets to modify WooCommerce behavior. While useful, incorrect implementations can cause issues, such as the WooCommerce checkout page loops back to cart error.

Problematic Code Examples:

  • Redirection Functions: A poorly written wp_redirect() function may force users back to the cart.
  • Session Handling Modifications: Custom session overrides can break WooCommerce’s default session tracking.
  • JavaScript Customizations: Checkout-related JavaScript modifications might conflict with WooCommerce’s built-in AJAX functions.

If you suspect a custom function is causing the problem, review the functions.php file and temporarily disable added custom code.

Diagnosing the Problem – WooCommerce Checkout Page Redirecting to Cart

When the WooCommerce checkout page redirecting to cart issue occurs, it can be frustrating for both store owners and customers. The first step to fixing the problem is proper diagnosis. A systematic approach can help you find the root cause and apply the correct solution.

In this section, we will walk through a step-by-step troubleshooting guide to identify why your WooCommerce checkout redirects back to cart and how to fix it.

1. Checking for Plugin Conflicts

One of the most common causes of the WooCommerce checkout page keeps going to cart issue is a plugin conflict. WooCommerce relies on multiple plugins, but not all work well together.

Steps to Check Plugin Conflicts:

  1. Disable all plugins except WooCommerce. Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins and deactivate all except WooCommerce.
  2. Test the checkout process. Try placing an order to see if the problem is resolved.
  3. Enable plugins one by one. Activate each plugin and test the checkout after each activation.
  4. Identify the conflicting plugin. Once the issue reappears, the last activated plugin is likely the cause.
  5. Check for updates. If the plugin is outdated, update it and test again.

If the issue persists even with only WooCommerce enabled, the problem lies elsewhere.

2. Testing with a Default Theme

Themes control the appearance and functionality of WooCommerce stores. Some themes override checkout templates, causing the WooCommerce checkout page loops back to cart error.

How to Test for Theme Conflicts:

  1. Switch to the Storefront or Twenty Twenty theme. These are official WooCommerce-compatible themes.
  2. Go to Appearance > Themes and activate the default theme.
  3. Test the checkout process. Try placing an order to see if redirection occurs.
  4. If the issue disappears, the theme is the problem. Contact the theme developer for a fix or update.

If the issue continues, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

3. Clearing Cache and Cookies

Caching can sometimes prevent WooCommerce from processing checkout requests properly. This can result in the WooCommerce checkout keeps sending users to cart issue.

Steps to Clear Cache:

  1. Clear browser cache. Use Ctrl + Shift + Delete (Windows) or Command + Shift + Delete (Mac) to clear cookies and cache.
  2. Clear WooCommerce transients. Go to WooCommerce > Status > Tools and click “Clear Transients.”
  3. Disable caching plugins temporarily. If using WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache, or another caching plugin, deactivate it and test the checkout.
  4. Exclude WooCommerce pages from caching. Add cart, checkout, and my-account to the cache exclusion list.
  5. Flush server cache. If your hosting provider uses caching (e.g., SiteGround, Cloudflare), clear it from their control panel.

If caching was the issue, your checkout page should now work correctly.

4. Verifying WooCommerce Settings

Sometimes, incorrect settings in WooCommerce can cause the WooCommerce checkout redirect issue. Ensuring proper configuration is essential.

Key Settings to Check:

  1. Check assigned checkout pages:
    • Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced
    • Ensure that the checkout page is assigned correctly.
  2. Check force secure checkout settings:
    • If using SSL, ensure HTTPS is enabled under Settings > General.
    • Verify your SSL certificate is active.
  3. Check payment gateway settings:
    • Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Payments
    • Ensure all enabled gateways are correctly configured.
    • Some gateways require API keys or additional setup.
  4. Check for required cart items:
    • Some WooCommerce settings require a minimum order value.
    • Try adding different products and checking out again.

If any settings were incorrect, fixing them should resolve the WooCommerce checkout page loops back to cart issue.

5. Reviewing Custom Code and functions.php

If you have added custom code to your theme’s functions.php file or used custom JavaScript, it could interfere with checkout functionality.

How to Identify Problematic Code:

  1. Go to Appearance > Theme File Editor
  2. Open the functions.php file.
  3. Look for custom redirect functions.
    • If you see wp_redirect(), check if it affects WooCommerce checkout.
  4. Disable custom scripts temporarily.
    • If using a custom JavaScript file, remove it and test the checkout.
  5. Check if changes were made recently.
    • If the issue started after adding new code, revert to a previous version.

If the problem is due to custom code, removing or modifying the faulty script should fix it.

6. Enabling Debugging Mode

When troubleshooting, enabling WooCommerce debugging logs can provide insights into errors affecting the checkout process.

How to Enable Debug Mode:

  1. Go to WooCommerce > Status > Logs
  2. Select “Checkout” from the dropdown and click “View Log.”
  3. Look for errors related to checkout.
  4. Enable WordPress Debug Mode:

Open wp-config.php and add:
php
CopyEdit
define(‘WP_DEBUG’, true);

define(‘WP_DEBUG_LOG’, true);

define(‘WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY’, false);

  • This will create a debug log (wp-content/debug.log).
  1. Check the debug log for errors.

If logs indicate an issue with a plugin, theme, or payment gateway, that should be addressed first.

Implementing Fixes – WooCommerce Checkout Page Redirecting to Cartt

We diagnosed the possible causes of the WooCommerce checkout page redirecting to cart issue. Now, it’s time to apply the correct fixes. By following these steps, you can fix checkout issues and avoid disruptions.

1. Update WooCommerce and Plugins

Outdated WooCommerce versions and plugins can cause the WooCommerce checkout redirects back to cart issue. Developers regularly release updates to fix bugs and improve compatibility.

How to Update:

  1. Go to WordPress Dashboard > Plugins > Installed Plugins.
  2. Check if WooCommerce has a pending update.
  3. Update WooCommerce and all related plugins.
  4. Test the checkout process again.

If an update causes new issues, consider rolling back to the previous version using a backup.

2. Configure Proper Caching Rules

Caching plugins improve speed but sometimes interfere with the checkout process. If misconfigured, caching can prevent cart updates and cause the WooCommerce checkout page keeps going to cart error.

Fix Caching Issues:

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  1. Disable your caching plugin temporarily.
  2. If checkout works, reconfigure your caching settings.
  3. Exclude WooCommerce pages from caching:
    • Cart (/cart/)
    • Checkout (/checkout/)
    • My Account (/my-account/)
  4. Clear all cache and retest checkout.

If you use a CDN (Cloudflare, BunnyCDN), ensure dynamic pages are not cached.

3. Adjust WooCommerce Permalinks

Incorrect permalinks can cause the WooCommerce checkout page loops back to cart issue. WooCommerce requires proper URL structures for smooth navigation.

Steps to Fix Permalinks:

  1. Go to WordPress Dashboard > Settings > Permalinks.
  2. Ensure permalinks are set to “Post Name.”
  3. Click “Save Changes” (even if unchanged).
  4. Flush rewrite rules by saving settings again.

After adjusting permalinks, test your checkout process again.

4. Reinstall WooCommerce Checkout and Cart Pages

Sometimes, the WooCommerce checkout redirect issue occurs due to missing or broken pages. Reinstalling these pages can fix the problem.

How to Reinstall WooCommerce Pages:

  1. Go to WooCommerce > Status > Tools.
  2. Find the option “Create default WooCommerce pages.”
  3. Click “Create Pages.”
  4. Ensure the cart and checkout pages exist under Pages > All Pages.
  5. Reassign them under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced.

If the issue was due to missing pages, checkout should now work properly.

5. Check Payment Gateway Compatibility

Certain payment gateways require additional settings to function correctly. If not configured properly, they may cause the WooCommerce checkout keeps sending users to cart problem.

How to Fix Payment Gateway Issues:

  1. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Payments.
  2. Check if all enabled gateways are correctly configured.
  3. Ensure API keys and credentials are correct.
  4. Test the checkout process with different payment methods.

If a payment gateway is causing the issue, disabling it temporarily will help confirm the problem.

6. Modify WooCommerce Session Settings

WooCommerce relies on sessions and cookies to store cart data. If sessions expire too quickly, customers may be redirected back to the cart.

How to Fix Session Issues:

  1. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced.
  2. Ensure session storage is enabled in your hosting settings.
  3. Check your PHP session settings in your hosting panel.
  4. Increase the session timeout limit.

If your host is restricting session storage, contact them for assistance.

7. Fix Custom Code Errors

If you’ve added custom code to WooCommerce, it could interfere with checkout. Poorly written wp_redirect() or JavaScript snippets can cause redirections.

Steps to Fix Custom Code Issues:

  1. Go to Appearance > Theme File Editor.
  2. Open the functions.php file.
  3. Look for custom redirect functions and temporarily remove them.
  4. Test the checkout process again.

If the checkout works after removing code, rewrite the script properly or consult a developer.

8. Enable Debugging Mode for Further Analysis

If the issue persists, debugging logs can help pinpoint errors. WooCommerce has built-in logging tools for troubleshooting.

Enable WooCommerce Debug Mode:

  1. Go to WooCommerce > Status > Logs.
  2. Select “Checkout” logs and review recent errors.
  3. Enable WordPress Debugging by adding this to wp-config.php:

php

define(‘WP_DEBUG’, true);

define(‘WP_DEBUG_LOG’, true);

define(‘WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY’, false);

Check the wp-content/debug.log file for errors.

Analyzing these logs can help identify specific causes of the WooCommerce checkout redirect issue.

Preventing Future Issues – WooCommerce Checkout Page Redirecting to Cart

Fixing the WooCommerce checkout page redirecting to cart issue is essential, but preventing it from happening again is even more important. Implementing best practices ensures that your WooCommerce store runs smoothly without unexpected checkout problems.

In this section, we’ll discuss how to maintain a stable WooCommerce environment and prevent issues like the WooCommerce checkout redirects back to cart in the future.

1. Keep WooCommerce and Plugins Updated

Outdated plugins and themes often cause conflicts in WooCommerce. Keeping them updated prevents compatibility issues that might lead to the WooCommerce checkout page keeps going to cart error.

Best Practices for Updates:

  1. Regularly check for WooCommerce updates in the WordPress dashboard.
  2. Update all plugins and themes to ensure compatibility with WooCommerce.
  3. Backup your website before making updates to prevent data loss.
  4. Use a staging site to test updates before applying them to your live store.
  5. Monitor plugin changelogs for compatibility information and potential issues.

Frequent updates help maintain a stable environment and avoid unexpected errors.

2. Configure Proper Caching and Session Handling

Caching plugins improve performance but can also cause checkout failures. Improper caching settings often result in the WooCommerce checkout page loops back to cart issue.

How to Prevent Caching Problems:

  1. Exclude WooCommerce pages from caching:
    • Cart (/cart/)
    • Checkout (/checkout/)
    • My Account (/my-account/)
  2. Disable object caching for WooCommerce sessions.
  3. Clear cache regularly to prevent outdated session data issues.
  4. Use a WooCommerce-compatible caching plugin like WP Rocket.

Proper caching settings ensure checkout pages function correctly.

3. Regularly Test Your Checkout Process

Testing your checkout flow helps identify problems before customers experience them. A broken checkout can cause abandoned carts and lost sales.

Steps to Conduct Routine Testing:

  1. Place test orders regularly to verify checkout functionality.
  2. Use different payment gateways to ensure they process transactions properly.
  3. Test with various devices and browsers for a smooth checkout experience.
  4. Monitor analytics for checkout drop-offs or unusual behavior.
  5. Check WooCommerce logs for errors related to checkout failures.

Routine testing ensures that your store is always ready for customers.

4. Avoid Plugin Overload and Conflicts

Too many plugins increase the risk of conflicts, leading to the WooCommerce checkout redirect issue. Each plugin adds additional scripts and styles, which may interfere with WooCommerce.

How to Prevent Plugin Conflicts:

  1. Only install necessary plugins to minimize compatibility issues.
  2. Choose high-quality plugins that are frequently updated and tested with WooCommerce.
  3. Disable unnecessary plugins that are not essential for checkout functionality.
  4. Use a plugin conflict tester to detect issues before they affect checkout.
  5. Review WooCommerce logs after installing new plugins to check for errors.

A minimal and optimized plugin setup helps maintain checkout stability.

5. Optimize WooCommerce Settings for Stability

Misconfigured WooCommerce settings can cause the WooCommerce checkout keeps sending users to cart issue. Ensuring the correct setup prevents redirection problems.

Key WooCommerce Settings to Review:

  1. Assign the correct cart and checkout pages under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced.
  2. Enable HTTPS for secure transactions to prevent checkout interruptions.
  3. Check session expiration settings to ensure carts do not reset too soon.
  4. Verify correct payment gateway settings to avoid processing errors.
  5. Test checkout behavior after making changes to settings.

A properly configured WooCommerce setup prevents unnecessary checkout failures.

6. Maintain a Secure and Fast Hosting Environment

Hosting plays a crucial role in WooCommerce performance. A slow or misconfigured server can lead to issues like the WooCommerce checkout page keeps going to cart error.

How to Optimize Your Hosting:

  1. Use a WooCommerce-friendly hosting provider for better performance.
  2. Ensure PHP sessions are properly configured for checkout processing.
  3. Monitor server logs for errors affecting WooCommerce.
  4. Keep the PHP version updated to the latest supported release.
  5. Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN) to speed up page loads without affecting checkout.

A well-optimized server environment ensures smooth checkout operations.

7. Set Up Automated Error Monitoring

Unexpected errors can occur even after applying fixes. Monitoring tools help detect checkout issues in real-time.

Recommended Monitoring Practices:

  1. Enable WooCommerce error logging under WooCommerce > Status > Logs.
  2. Use uptime monitoring tools to track website availability.
  3. Set up email alerts for WooCommerce checkout errors.
  4. Analyze Google Analytics checkout behavior to spot unusual drop-offs.
  5. Run automated tests using tools like Selenium to check checkout flow.

Proactive monitoring helps prevent checkout issues before they impact sales.

Conclusion

Fixing the WooCommerce checkout page redirecting to cart issue requires careful troubleshooting and maintenance. Regular updates, proper caching, and plugin management prevent future errors. Testing and monitoring ensure a smooth checkout experience. By following these steps, you can fix the WooCommerce checkout redirect issue and boost sales with ease.

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