How to Fly Spirit the Right Way
Everyone I know hates to fly Spirit. They charge you for everything, may leave you stranded, and their customer service sucks, but I love them because of their affordable prices.
I travel about 5–6 times a year and I’m able to do so because I’m frugal AF. I budget, research, and I’m very flexible. If you want to save money flying Spirit you need to get a bit crafty. Second to the flight prices you’ll spend the most money on your bags. I’ll show you how to avoid fees because they can add up quickly.
Avoid Spirit Baggage Fees
Spirit charges you for carry-ons and checked bags. You can avoid the fees entirely just by bringing the right bag along. Spirit allows for a free personal item, but the personal item cannot be more than 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches (45 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm).
I purchased an American Tourist (8in. x 14in. x 18in) because of this and I love it. It’s the largest bag that will fit within the personal item category, which allows me to get the most space without having to pay to bring it. I prefer the American Tourist not only because of it’s size but it has wheels. (Boarding Blue also offers a pretty good alternative without wheels)
Avoid Spirit Boarding Pass Fee
This is the easiest one to do! Print your boarding pass before hand or check in online and avoid the $2 — $10 fee each way.
Avoid Spirit Seat Assignment Fee
I won’t push too hard on this save unless, you are flying alone and/or are on a short flight (under 3 hours). Planes seats are cramped /uncomfortable to sleep on regardless of if you sit in the middle, aisle or window so I save more money by letting them assign my seat. Here are the prices in case that seat means that much more to you.
Bonus Save: Avoid Processing Free
Spirit charges a $19.99 Passenger Usage Fee on each direction of travel. If you live near an airport avoid the fees!
I’ve saved hundred if not thousands of dollars over the years by flying on Spirit Airlines when the price difference was large enough to justify the decision ($99 RT flight to Orlando).
Remember, be patient and enjoy the savings!
