Everyone and their mom has something to say about Spirit Airlines.
“Literally, the worst experience I’ve ever had.” “NEVER fly Spirit!” “My $180 flight turned into $500!” “If I could give Spirit Airlines zero stars I would.”
Type “Spirit Airline reviews” into Google and you’ll see that the general consensus is that people are not happy with this budget airline. But, maybe they’re just using it wrong…
Did you see that above I said “budget airline?” That’s because that’s what it is. It’s not a glamorous, spacious trip in the clouds. Spirit Airlines is meant to get you from point A to point B for as cheap as possible with no bells and whistles. In this post I’ll let you know the “in’s” and “out’s” of their system and how YOU can benefit from it!
*CONS*
Most airlines bundle several things into the price of the airfare. Spirit does not. Basically what you’re paying for when you buy the ticket is a ride from point A to point B. That doesn’t necessarily mean comfortably or with your things, but you’ll get there.
- If you’re not really the type of person that likes to plan ahead and you’re looking for a hassle-free ticket, that’s probably not going to be Spirit Airlines. They do charge for things that many airlines do not. This includes printing your ticket at the airport (gotta print it at home), carry on bags, choosing your seat, extra leg room (the standard Spirit seats have 3-4 less inches of leg room than Delta, United and Virgin America), the front seat of the plane (not first class… The front seats) and of course drinks and snacks.
- If you’re trip is going to be a few weeks long and accompanied by two giant suitcases, then you might want to price out your options. SPIRIT CHARGES FOR CARRY ON BAGGAGE AND CHECKED BAGGAGE. The price is determined by the size and weight of each bag you bring. Also, keep in mind that it’s cheaper to pay for your luggage in advance when you buy your ticket on the website rather than waiting to do so at the airport.
- A few other bummers… The airline seats do NOT recline, there are no video screens and definitely no Wifi.
Like I said, they get you to where you need to go with no extras, and I mean none. Now that all the not-so-great stuff is out of the way lets talk about how we can make this airline work for you!
*PROS*
At this point you’re probably thinking, “this sounds like a lot of work and it’s easier to book on a more popular airline.” You know what, in some circumstances you’re right but don’t give up just yet.
So, what the heck is Spirit good for?
Short trips and weekend getaways. Honestly, that’s is the BEST part about Spirit Airlines. Yes, you need to plan ahead. No, you cannot pack million “just in case” outfits, but you can getaway for a few days without breaking the bank.
I took a three night/four day trip to Portland in the Fall for $100 with only a back pack. Spirit Airlines charges for carry-on luggage but you ARE allowed one “personal item” for free as long as it fits under the seat in front of you.
In my backpack I had:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss
- Face Wash
- Coconut Oil
- Hairbrush
- Makeup essentials
- Phone charger
- 3 pairs of undies
- 3 pairs of socks
- 2 bras
- 1 sleep shirt
- 1 long sleeve dress
- 1 long sleeve flannel dress
- 1 thermal
- 1 pair black leggings
- 1 pair jeggings (YES JEGGINGS!)
- 1 scarf
And on the plane I wore:
- Hat
- Jeans
- Sweater
- Black leather boots
- Calvin Klein down jacket
I printed my ticket at home, sat in a small middle seat for two hours and wore a pair of leggings twice on my trip but I had everything that I needed and thanks to Spirit I got there for a more than affordable fare.
Even if you have to bring a larger bag, tack on $30 (each way) to the price of your plane ticket if your bag is below 40lbs. If you’re taking a trip with a friend then the two of you can share a bag that can weigh as much as 70 lbs for $55 (each way). Split the bill for the bag and leave room to bring back as many souvenirs as you’d like.
We don’t always have a large disposable income to spend on a trip. Sometimes we need to get creative but if you want to get out and see the world you CAN make it happen! Price out your options, plan ahead, understand what you’re agreeing to and utilize this airline for all that it has to offer.
Is Spirit always a good idea? No, but is it a good option to have? HECK YA!
I’ve always wanted to visit New Orleans and I recently found a round trip flight for $108.38 on Spirit Airlines. I mean COME ON!!! They’re making it too easy to make our dreams come true 🙂
