In the realm of budget-friendly travel, Spirit Airlines often comes up as a go-to choice for domestic and some international flights, known for its unmistakably bright yellow planes and equally vibrant deals. As one of the most prominent ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCC) in the United States, Spirit Airlines promises to keep your wallet happy, but what does that mean for your overall flying experience? In this blog post, we’ll dive into what it’s like to fly with Spirit Airlines, covering everything from costs to comfort, and provide some tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.
The Business Model: Low Cost, High Efficiency
Spirit Airlines operates on a business model that focuses on basic transportation at the lowest possible price. The idea is simple: offer unbundled fares that cover the very basics, with additional fees for amenities that other airlines typically include in the ticket price. This a la carte approach to pricing allows passengers to choose and pay for only the services they need, such as carry-on bags, checked luggage, and onboard refreshments.
Booking with Spirit: The Initial Cost
When you book a flight with Spirit, the initial cost often appears significantly lower than those of other airlines. This is appealing for budget-conscious travelers, but it’s crucial to factor in the extra costs that can accumulate. Choosing a seat, bringing more than one personal item, and checking or carrying on bags can all add to your ticket price. Despite these added fees, the total cost of flying with Spirit can still be lower than flying with traditional carriers, especially if you plan carefully and pack light.
Onboard Experience: What to Expect
Once you’re on the plane, the experience can be quite different from other airlines. Spirit’s planes are densely configured to maximize passenger capacity. Legroom can be tight, as the seat pitch (the distance from one point on a seat to the same point on the seat in front or behind) is about 28 inches, compared to more traditional carriers that offer 31 inches or more. Seats are “pre-reclined,” meaning they do not recline, which can be a drawback for longer flights.
The cabins are clean and the seats are relatively new, as Spirit operates one of the youngest fleets in the United States. However, don’t expect complimentary drinks or snacks. Everything on board can be purchased using a credit card.
Customer Service: A Mixed Bag
Customer service experiences with Spirit can vary. The airline has been working to improve its customer service reputation and has made strides in on-time performance and handling customer issues. However, it’s important to go in with proper expectations: service is straightforward and functional, with less emphasis on frills.
Maximizing Your Spirit Experience: Tips and Tricks
Read and Understand the Baggage Policy: Knowing Spirit’s baggage fees and restrictions will help you avoid surprises at the airport. If you plan to bring more than a personal item, consider paying for your bag online in advance to save on higher fees charged at the airport.
Check-In Online: Save time and money by checking in online and printing your boarding pass before you arrive at the airport. Airport check-in costs an additional fee with Spirit.
Pack Lightly and Efficiently: Since space is at a premium, packing light can save money and hassle. Consider wearing your heavier items on the plane to save space in your luggage.
Bring Snacks and Entertainment: With no complimentary refreshments or in-flight entertainment systems, bringing your own snacks and devices loaded with movies or books can make your flight more enjoyable.
Consider the $9 Fare Club: If you fly with Spirit regularly, this membership can offer savings on fares, bags, and more. Do the math to see if it makes sense based on your travel habits.
Conclusion
Spirit Airlines is not for everyone, but for the budget-savvy traveler who is prepared to navigate the nuances of a ULCC, it can be a remarkably cost-effective way to fly. By understanding and leveraging Spirit’s business model, you can enjoy considerable savings on your next journey. So next time you’re looking to travel on the cheap, remember that with a little planning, flying with Spirit Airlines could be a great option to explore.
