Flying with Spirit Airlines can be an affordable and efficient way to travel, especially if you know how to navigate the airline’s unique processes. Spirit Airlines is one of the leading ultra-low-cost carriers in the United States, known for its low base fares and à la carte pricing model. This means you pay a low price upfront but may pay extra for services that other airlines include in the ticket price. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it’s important to understand how to prepare for your flight, check in, manage baggage, and get the best value from your experience. This article provides a detailed yet easy-to-understand guide on how to fly on Spirit Airlines, including tips for saving money and what to expect at the airport.
Introduction to Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is a budget-friendly airline based in the United States, serving both domestic and international destinations. Founded in 1980, Spirit has built a reputation for offering some of the lowest fares in the market by separating the base fare from additional services such as seat selection, carry-on bags, checked luggage, and onboard refreshments. This business model attracts travelers who prioritize low cost and are willing to pay only for the extras they need.
Spirit Airlines flies to numerous destinations across North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Their fleet consists mainly of Airbus aircraft, and their operations focus on secondary airports to reduce fees and turnaround times, which helps keep costs down for passengers.
Booking Your Flight on Spirit Airlines
Choosing Your Flight
When booking a flight on Spirit Airlines, you can do so through their official website or mobile app. The booking process is straightforward but requires attention because the base fare is intentionally low, and many optional services are offered as add-ons during booking.
Start by entering your departure city and destination, along with travel dates. Spirit Airlines often offers highly competitive prices, especially if you are flexible with your travel times and dates.
Understanding Fare Options
Spirit offers three main fare bundles: Base Fare, Big Front Seat, and Bundle It. The Base Fare is the cheapest but includes only a personal item that fits under the seat. For more comfort or convenience, you can pay extra for seat selection or larger carry-on bags. The Big Front Seat offers a larger, more comfortable seat near the front of the plane. Bundle It combines the seat, carry-on allowance, and priority boarding at a discounted price compared to buying each separately.
Preparing for Your Trip
What to Pack
Spirit Airlines allows passengers to bring one free personal item, such as a small backpack or purse, that fits under the seat in front of you. If you want to bring a carry-on bag or checked luggage, you will need to pay extra. This policy means packing light can save you money.
Make sure your personal item meets the size requirements (usually around 18 x 14 x 8 inches), so you avoid surprise fees at the airport. If you plan to bring additional bags, check the airline’s baggage fees and size limits online before your trip.
Check Baggage Fees
Spirit charges fees for both carry-on bags larger than a personal item and checked luggage. These fees vary depending on when you pay (online before the flight is cheaper than at the airport) and your route. Paying for bags during booking or before online check-in is the best way to save money.
Check-In Process
Online Check-In
Spirit Airlines strongly encourages passengers to check in online or through their mobile app, available 24 hours before the flight’s departure. Online check-in allows you to select your seat, pay for any baggage, and obtain your boarding pass without waiting in long lines.
Failing to check in online could result in additional fees at the airport or even denial of boarding in some cases. To avoid this, complete your check-in at least an hour before your flight.
Airport Check-In
If you cannot check in online, Spirit offers self-service kiosks at most airports. However, using airport kiosks or counters can be slower and more expensive, as additional fees often apply for airport check-in.
Be sure to arrive at the airport early—at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights—to allow enough time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
At the Airport
Spirit Airlines’ Airport Experience
Spirit Airlines operates from many major and secondary airports throughout its network. At the airport, look for Spirit Airlines signs or kiosks to start your check-in or bag drop if you haven’t done so online.
Due to its low-cost business model, Spirit’s airport counters tend to be more basic compared to traditional airlines. Their goal is to keep turnaround times fast and costs low, so be prepared for a no-frills experience.
Security Screening
After checking in and dropping your bags (if applicable), you will proceed to security. This process is the same as with other airlines. Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID ready and follow TSA rules regarding liquids, electronics, and prohibited items.
Boarding Your Spirit Airlines Flight
Spirit Airlines boards flights in groups, which are assigned based on your fare type, seat selection, or priority boarding purchase. Passengers who pay for priority boarding can enter the plane first, while those who did not pay must wait until later boarding groups are called.
Boarding typically begins 30-45 minutes before departure. Have your boarding pass and ID ready to show at the gate. Once on board, Spirit’s planes are configured for high seating capacity with narrow seats to maximize passengers, so keep this in mind for comfort.
In-Flight Experience
Seating and Comfort
Spirit Airlines offers standard economy seating with no reclining or seat-back entertainment screens. For more comfort, passengers can purchase the Big Front Seat, which is wider and provides extra legroom.
Onboard Services and Fees
Spirit follows an à la carte model, meaning snacks, drinks, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase during the flight. Bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks to save money.
There is no complimentary Wi-Fi or entertainment system. If you want to use your own devices, bring headphones and charge your electronics beforehand.
After Your Flight
Arriving and Baggage Claim
Upon arrival, follow airport signs to baggage claim if you checked luggage. Spirit Airlines uses shared terminals with other carriers, so baggage areas will be similar to those of other airlines.
If your bags are delayed or missing, contact Spirit’s baggage service counters immediately.
Customer Service and Support
Spirit Airlines offers customer support via phone, email, and social media. Because of its no-frills business model, customer service wait times can be longer than traditional airlines, so plan accordingly.
Tips to Save Money Flying Spirit Airlines
- Book early: Fares tend to be lowest when you book several weeks in advance.
- Travel light: Bring only a personal item to avoid baggage fees.
- Pay for bags and seats early: Online purchases are cheaper than paying at the airport.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks: Avoid buying food onboard.
- Use Spirit’s mobile app: Check in and get updates to avoid extra fees.
Conclusion
Flying on Spirit Airlines offers a budget-friendly option for many travelers who are willing to customize their travel experience by paying only for the services they use. By understanding how to book, check in, pack, and navigate the airport, you can make your journey smooth and cost-effective. Remember to plan ahead, use online resources, and keep an eye on fees to get the most out of your flight. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Spirit Airlines can provide a straightforward and economical way to reach your destination.
