Venturing into the skies with Spirit Airlines is like embarking on a unique treasure hunt. With affordable fares, you’ll experience both the highs of travel savings and the quirks of budget flying. Here’s what you need to know before your Spirit adventure.
Embrace the unpredictability of flying with one of the most cost-effective carriers, Spirit Airlines. Known for its ultra-low-cost approach, this airline offers a range of experiences from budget-friendly tickets to options with more comfort. But, there are essentials you need to know to enjoy the journey.
The Spirit Fare Spectrum
Spirit Airlines presents a range of fares, starting with the basic economy. This option is devoid of perks, requiring extra payment for essentials like beverages and seat selections. Meanwhile, their more inclusive fares offer carry-ons and seat selection, but snacks are still chargeable. Flexibility and choice characterizes their offerings.
For those seeking comfort, Spirit’s Big Front Seat provides extra room and recline for a price. Free Wi-Fi and checked baggage are included at higher fare levels. Evaluate your needs and budget to select the appropriate fare, whether it’s for a no-frills journey or a bit more space to stretch out.
Understanding the Spirit Saver$ Club
Joining the Spirit Saver$ Club can unlock savings, but it requires a $69.95 annual membership. Members enjoy discounts on checked and carry-on bags, seat selection, and more. This plan is ideal for frequent flyers or group travelers who benefit from these savings on additional services.
Think of the Saver$ Club as a loyalty program that pays for itself quickly if you often fly Spirit and utilize added services like baggage and seat upgrades. The potential savings make it a worthy investment for regular budget flyers. Weigh the benefits and see if the membership adds value to your travel habits.
Baggage Policies Demystified
Spirit allows checked baggage for a fee, with prices varying based on when and where you purchase the allowance. Keep in mind that checked bags must be under 62 linear inches and 50 pounds. Overweight and oversized fees further increase costs.
Moreover, each passenger is entitled to a single personal item fitting beneath the seat. Carry-ons are only included with higher-tier tickets. Size limits on luggage are strictly enforced, so pack strategically. Understanding these limits can greatly affect your budgeting for the trip.
Consider weighing your luggage before heading to the airport to avoid unexpected fees. A little preparation can save you money and hassle at the airport, making your Spirit Airlines journey smoother and easier.
Choosing a Seat
Seat selection on Spirit varies greatly. For Go ticket holders, seat selection incurs costs, increasing closer to the flight date. Options from aisle to the coveted Big Front Seat can significantly impact comfort.
Choosing not to pay for seat selection means receiving a random assignment at check-in. While this is free, it may separate you from companions. Considering the importance of your seating location, it’s wise to decide this in advance.
Whether you prefer the front, middle, or back of the plane, Spirit offers various choices for a fee. It’s a choice between saving money or ensuring your preferred seating arrangement.
Indulging in the Big Front Seat
Spirit’s Big Front Seat is akin to a business-class experience without the service frills. Paying extra gives you more legroom and comfort. It’s pricy but adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank—no recline, however.
Passengers who opt for the Big Front Seat often find the extra space worth the price. It transforms a typical budget flight into a more pleasurable experience. Consider your needs and decide if the upgrade aligns with your travel preferences.
If comfort is paramount, investing in the Big Front Seat could enhance your journey. The decision involves balancing cost and comfort, ensuring you’re satisfied with your flight choice.
Check-In Process
Checking in online is encouraged to avoid fees, with Spirit offering mobile options for convenience. Airport kiosk check-in is a $2 charge, while counter services run $10. These fees, however, are waived when checking in is impossible online.
Using the Spirit app or website simplifies the check-in experience. You avoid long waits and unnecessary costs while gaining flexibility. An early check-in can also secure better seat assignments, enhancing your travel plans.
Plan ahead to streamline your check-in process with Spirit Airlines. Online check-in not only saves time but also avoids extra costs, creating a smoother start to your flight.
In-Flight Amenities and Options
Prepare to purchase any in-flight snacks or drinks on Spirit, as complimentary provisions are scarce. Credit card transactions dominate the skies, so plan snacks accordingly. Worth noting, some ticket types include complimentary drinks and snacks, enhancing the experience.
Spending more on tickets like Go Comfy and Go Big may reward you with free refreshments, a perk that could be significant for longer flights. Traveling smart means knowing what you might want to bring or purchase onboard.
Travelers aiming to keep costs low might bring their own snacks or water bottles (filled after security) to avoid onboard expenses. Prepare based on your ticket type and destination length to ensure comfort without additional spending.
Modifying or Cancelling Your Flight
Flight changes with Spirit can be straightforward within the first 24 hours post-booking. Afterward, fees may apply based on ticket type and date changes. Flexibility is appreciated but comes at a cost, especially with cheaper Go tickets.
For flights adjusted more than 60 days from the departure, expect no fees. However, closer to the flight, fees can vary from $59 to $99. Choose more flexible fare options to avoid these fees, allowing you greater control over your travel plans.
Canceling or altering flights without a fee is only possible with specific bookings. Strategize when booking if there’s a chance you’ll need to change travel plans. Embracing flexibility might require up-front investments.
Earning Spirit Points and Loyalty Perks
Spirit’s Free Spirit loyalty program rewards 6 points per dollar on fares and 12 points on add-ons. Loyal flyers can quickly stack points for future travels, maximizing the value of each journey. Higher status earns even more rewards.
Joining Free Spirit involves no cost and opens opportunities to save on subsequent flights. Enablers like points pooling boost your earning potential, especially when traveling with family or friends. Maximize these perks to enhance your travel value.
Capitalize on these loyalty benefits to stretch travel budgets. Understanding the program’s intricacies allows you to make informed travel choices, turning spending into further adventures.
Credit Cards and Additional Benefits
Spirit offers the Free Spirit Travel Mastercard and Travel More Mastercard. These cards provide perks like a $100 companion voucher and bonus points for purchases. Weigh the benefits of annual fees against potential savings on Spirit fares.
Beyond travel discounts, Spirit credit cards promise inflight purchase rebates and foreign transaction fee waivers. Frequent Spirit users may find value in these offerings. Compare card features with existing travel plans to determine suitability.
Choose a Spirit credit card if your travel habits align with their benefits. With potential savings on flights and extras, these cards can complement regular Spirit travel. Compare available options to optimize travel expenses and benefits.
Flying Spirit Airlines is an experience of its own. With knowledge and preparation, you can uncover savings and ensure a smooth journey. Discover where this budget-friendly carrier can take you next.
