What I usually do is check in as far as possible online but dont print a pass (I don't have a printer at home either).
Depending on the airline you can get as far as choosing a seat (my main reason for online checkin) and it remembers your selection when you reach the check-in desk. There's no problem getting the check in desk print the boarding pass providing nothing has been printed yet at home.
Last time I flew Emirates the online checkin wouldnt work for me at all.
If its a long haul flight be sure to check out seatguru.com