Flying with Spirit Airlines can be a budget-friendly choice for travelers who want to keep costs low without sacrificing their travel plans. Known as one of the most affordable airlines in the United States, Spirit Airlines offers low base fares but charges extra for many additional services. For first-time flyers or even frequent travelers, navigating these fees can be tricky if you don’t know how to plan smartly.
This article will guide you step-by-step on how to save money when booking with Spirit Airlines. From understanding fare types to knowing when and how to book your airline ticket, you will gain insights that can help you reduce travel expenses significantly.
Understanding Spirit Airlines’ Pricing Model
Spirit Airlines operates on an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) model. Unlike traditional airlines that include many amenities in the ticket price, Spirit offers a low base fare but charges separately for extras such as carry-on bags, checked luggage, seat selection, and onboard refreshments. This pricing structure allows passengers who travel light and without many frills to pay only for what they need.
To save money, it’s important to understand how Spirit Airlines’ pricing works:
- Base Fare: This is the lowest cost for your seat. It does not include bags or extras.
- Optional Fees: Charges for baggage, seat assignments, priority boarding, and more.
- Booking Timing: Booking well in advance or at certain times can influence price.
How to Find the Lowest Spirit Airlines Fare
Book Early to Secure the Best Prices
Generally, airline ticket prices rise as the departure date approaches. For Spirit Airlines, booking your flight several weeks or even months ahead can help you lock in the lowest base fares. Since the airline operates with limited seats at the cheapest prices, waiting too long can mean missing out on the best deals.
Use Flexible Dates When Searching
If your travel schedule is flexible, use the airline’s or third-party booking sites’ flexible date search tools. Flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons often means cheaper fares. Avoiding peak travel times such as holidays or weekends can save you a significant amount.
Sign Up for Fare Alerts and Newsletters
Spirit Airlines sometimes releases flash sales or promotional offers to subscribers. Signing up for email alerts or following Spirit on social media platforms will keep you informed of these deals, allowing you to book quickly and save money.
Cutting Costs on Baggage Fees
Travel Light with Carry-On Limits
Spirit Airlines charges for both carry-on and checked baggage, which is different from many traditional airlines that include at least one free carry-on bag. To avoid baggage fees, try to pack everything into a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. Spirit allows one free personal item, but its size is strictly enforced.
Prepay for Checked Bags Online
If you need to check luggage, it’s much cheaper to pay for bags during the online booking process or before arriving at the airport. Bags purchased at the airport gate will cost significantly more, sometimes double the online price.
Combine Bags When Possible
If traveling with family or friends, consider consolidating belongings into fewer bags to reduce the number of checked bags you pay for. This requires some coordination but can reduce the total fees paid.
Save Money on Seat Selection and Other Extras
Skip Seat Selection to Save
Spirit Airlines charges for selecting your seat in advance. If you want to save money, choose the option to be assigned a random seat during check-in. Although you might not get your preferred seat, this can save you a few dollars.
Avoid Paying for Priority Boarding Unless Necessary
Priority boarding is an extra charge that lets you board earlier and secure overhead bin space. If you travel light and have no carry-on bag, you may not need this service. Save money by skipping priority boarding and boarding with the general group.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks
Spirit charges for onboard food and beverages. To avoid these costs, bring your own snacks and empty water bottle to fill after passing security. This simple step can reduce your expenses during the flight.
Use the Right Tools to Book and Check-In
Book Directly Through Spirit’s Official Website
Booking your airline ticket directly from Spirit Airlines’ official website often ensures you get access to all current promotions and options to add bags or services at the lowest rates. Third-party sites may charge service fees or have less transparent pricing.
Check-In Online Early
Spirit requires passengers to check-in online to avoid airport check-in fees. Checking in within the 24-hour window before departure is essential. Doing this early secures your boarding pass and saves money compared to paying for airport check-in.
Use Spirit’s Mobile App
The Spirit Airlines mobile app is a handy tool that allows you to manage bookings, check-in, and receive flight updates. Using the app can make your travel experience smoother and reduce potential last-minute fees.
Additional Tips to Maximize Savings
Travel During Off-Peak Hours
Flights scheduled very early in the morning or late at night tend to be cheaper. If you can adjust your travel times to these less popular hours, you can often find better deals.
Consider One-Way Tickets
Sometimes booking two one-way tickets instead of a round-trip can be less expensive. Check Spirit Airlines’ fares both ways separately before committing to a round-trip booking.
Use Rewards and Promo Codes
If you fly Spirit frequently, joining their loyalty program can earn you points for future discounts. Additionally, search for valid promo codes or partner offers to apply during booking for extra savings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking with Spirit Airlines
Ignoring Baggage Policies
Many travelers are surprised by Spirit’s baggage fees because they assume carry-ons are free. Always review baggage policies before booking to prevent unexpected charges at the airport.
Booking Without Checking Total Costs
It’s easy to look at the base fare and think the ticket is cheap. However, when adding fees for bags, seat selection, and extras, the total price can approach or exceed that of other airlines. Always calculate the full cost before finalizing your purchase.
Waiting Until the Last Minute to Book
Due to limited seats at the lowest fares, waiting too long can mean paying much more. Book early when possible to avoid higher prices.
Conclusion
To get the best deals on Spirit Airlines, plan ahead, book early, and be mindful of extra fees. Traveling light, prepaying for bags, skipping seat selection and priority boarding, and bringing your own snacks can significantly reduce your travel costs. Use the official Spirit Airlines website and mobile app for booking and check-in, and stay alert for promotions and fare alerts.
