Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier based in the United States. It is known for offering cheap fares and a unique pricing model. Unlike traditional airlines, Spirit Airlines separates the cost of the base fare from extra services. This means passengers can choose to pay only for what they need. If you are looking for a budget-friendly way to travel, Spirit Airlines may be a good option. But it is important to understand how their pricing works before booking your trip.
The Basics of Airline Ticket Pricing
What is an Airline Ticket?
An airline ticket is a document or electronic record that confirms your right to travel on a specific flight. It includes details like your name, travel date, destination, and seat assignment. When you buy a ticket, you are paying for the service of transportation from one place to another.
How Airlines Set Ticket Prices
Airlines use many factors to set ticket prices. These include:
- Demand: Prices go up when many people want to fly.
- Season: Holidays and weekends often have higher prices.
- Timing: Booking early usually means cheaper fares.
- Competition: Airlines may lower prices to compete with others.
- Seat class: First class, business class, and economy class have different price ranges.
Spirit Airlines uses a slightly different approach from most other airlines. They keep the base fare low and charge for extras like bags, seat selection, and food. This allows passengers to customize their travel experience and pay only for what they use.
Spirit Airlines’ Unique Pricing Strategy
The “Bare Fare” Concept
Spirit Airlines offers what it calls the “Bare Fare.” This is the base price of the airline ticket. It covers your seat and a small personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. Everything else—like carry-on luggage, checked bags, or choosing your seat—comes at an extra cost.
This model can be great for people who travel light or do not mind where they sit. But for others, these additional costs can add up quickly. It’s important to know what’s included in your fare before you buy your ticket.
A La Carte Pricing System
With Spirit Airlines, you only pay for the services you use. This is known as an “a la carte” pricing system. For example:
- Carry-on bag: $35–$65 (depending on when you purchase it)
- Checked bag: $30–$75
- Seat selection: $5–$50
- Snacks and drinks: $1–$10
If you choose not to buy any extras, your flight may be very cheap. But if you add bags, seats, and food, the price can be close to or even higher than other full-service airlines.
Booking a Ticket with Spirit Airlines
How to Start the Airline Ticket Booking Process
Booking a ticket with Spirit Airlines is easy. You can visit their website or use a travel app. You enter your travel dates and cities, and the website shows you available flights. Here’s what to expect:
- Search for Flights: Use the airline’s website or other booking sites to find flights.
- Choose Your Fare: Pick a flight time and view the base fare.
- Add Extras: Select bags, seats, and other extras.
- Enter Passenger Details: Fill in your name and contact info.
- Payment: Pay with a credit card and receive a confirmation email.
It’s helpful to compare the total cost of your ticket after adding all needed extras. This will give you a clearer picture of how much you’re really paying.
Tips for Saving Money When Booking
- Book early: Prices are lower when you book weeks in advance.
- Avoid peak seasons: Try flying on weekdays or during off-peak months.
- Travel light: Bring only a personal item to avoid baggage fees.
- Join the $9 Fare Club: This membership gives access to lower fares and discounts on baggage.
Comparing Spirit Airlines with Other Carriers
Spirit vs. Full-Service Airlines
Full-service airlines like Delta or American Airlines include many things in the ticket price, such as:
- Checked baggage
- Free drinks and snacks
- Assigned seating
- More legroom
These airlines usually have higher base fares. In contrast, Spirit Airlines offers a cheaper starting point but charges extra for each service. If you prefer comfort and convenience, a full-service airline may be better. But if your priority is saving money, Spirit can be a smart choice.
Spirit vs. Other Budget Airlines
Spirit Airlines competes with other low-cost carriers like Frontier and Allegiant. These airlines also offer low fares with extra fees for added services. Here are some key differences:
- Spirit has a larger network and more flight options.
- Frontier often offers cheaper bag prices if purchased early.
- Allegiant flies to smaller airports and has more limited schedules.
Each low-cost carrier has its own rules, so it’s important to read the fine print when comparing flights.
Understanding Fees and Charges
Common Extra Fees
Here are some common fees Spirit Airlines passengers may face:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Carry-on bag | $35–$65 |
| Checked bag | $30–$75 |
| Seat selection | $5–$50 |
| Flight change | $69–$119 |
| Printing boarding pass at airport | $10 |
To avoid surprises, check the airline’s fee chart before booking. These prices can change depending on your route and how early you book.
Baggage Rules
Spirit Airlines allows one free personal item that fits under the seat. It must be no larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Larger items like backpacks or suitcases count as carry-on or checked bags and come with a fee. The earlier you pay for bags, the cheaper it is.
For example:
- Paying for a bag during booking: Cheaper
- Paying at the airport: More expensive
Flight Changes and Cancellations
Spirit Airlines charges a fee if you change or cancel your flight. However, they offer a “Flight Flex” option for a small fee that allows one change without extra charge. If your travel plans are uncertain, buying this option may be a good idea.
Is Spirit Airlines a Good Choice?
Who Should Fly Spirit?
Spirit Airlines is a good choice for:
- Budget travelers
- People with flexible schedules
- Light packers
- Short-distance flyers
It may not be ideal for:
- Families with many bags
- Business travelers who need comfort
- Anyone expecting full-service amenities
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low base fares
- You only pay for what you need
- Wide range of U.S. and international destinations
Cons:
- Extra fees can add up quickly
- Less legroom and comfort
- No in-flight entertainment
- No free snacks or drinks
Spirit Airlines Rewards and Memberships
Free Spirit Loyalty Program
Spirit Airlines has a loyalty program called Free Spirit. Members earn points for every dollar spent. These points can be used to book future flights. Members also get special deals and faster point-earning opportunities by using the Spirit credit card.
$9 Fare Club
For an annual fee, travelers can join the $9 Fare Club. Members receive:
- Lower fares on select routes
- Discounts on baggage fees
- Early access to sales
If you fly with Spirit more than once a year, this club can save you money.
Important Reminders Before You Fly
Check In Early
You can check in online 24 hours before your flight. This helps you avoid the $10 fee for printing a boarding pass at the airport. Use the Spirit app or website for easy check-in.
Arrive Early at the Airport
Spirit Airlines boards quickly, and flights do not wait for late passengers. Be sure to arrive at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.
Read All the Rules
Before you book your airline ticket, read all the terms and conditions. Make sure you understand what’s included in the fare and what will cost extra. This helps you avoid surprises and enjoy a smoother travel experience.
Conclusion
Spirit Airlines offers a different way to travel. By keeping base fares low and charging for extras, they give passengers more control over what they spend. This model is not for everyone, but it works well for those who want to travel cheaply and are willing to give up some comfort.
When planning your trip, remember to look at the full cost of your airline ticket, not just the base fare. Factor in baggage fees, seat selection, and other add-ons. Doing this will help you decide if Spirit Airlines is the right choice for you.
Airline ticket booking should always be done with full understanding of what you are paying for. Spirit Airlines can be a great value if you are informed and plan ahead. Whether you are flying for business or fun, knowing how the airlines price their tickets helps you make smarter travel decisions.
