20 Frequently Asked Questions About Flying Spirit Airlines
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Spirit Airlines is one of the several U.S. ultra-low-cost carriers. With a really restrictive fare model and no-frills planes, Spirit is certainly not for everyone.
There are many complexities and restrictions when booking Spirit tickets that most travelers may not be aware of since its tickets only include the bare bones.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to flying Spirit Airlines, including things like:
- How the airline operates, so you can compare it to other airlines
- How the ticketing process works
- Ticketing restrictions
- Ticketing fees and how to avoid them
- Seating options
Spirit Airlines isn’t like every other carrier — in fact, its booking and onboard procedures differ from those of many other airlines. What may seem like common knowledge may not necessarily be so for folks interested in flying Spirit, so we’ll be exploring in-depth to help ensure that you have a smooth journey.
Let’s dive right in.
Table of contents
- What is Spirit Airlines and what is its basic business model?
- Why is Spirit Airlines considered ultra-low-cost?
- Do I have to purchase a seat on Spirit Airlines?
- Can I purchase a seat assignment while I book my ticket?
- How can I book my flight and get my boarding pass?
- Can I print my boarding pass at the airport?
- Are there guests who can’t check-in online?
- Are guests allowed to travel with an infant on their lap?
- Are unaccompanied minors allowed to travel on Spirit Airlines?
- Can I cancel or change my flight reservation?
- Can I change my name on a Spirit reservation if it is misspelled?
- Can I travel with my mobility aid or wheelchair on Spirit?
- What are Spirit’s baggage fees?
- Where can I check the size and weight limits for bags?
- Are travelers permitted to carry their personal dialysis machine, insulin device, or other medical device onboard?
- Can I carry my sports equipment onboard?
- Are travelers permitted to travel with a musical instrument?
- What is the Spirit Saver$ Club? How do I join and what are the benefits?
- What is the Free Spirit Frequent Flyer Program?
- How can I save by booking a Spirit ticket at the airport?
- Final Thoughts
Table of Contents
- 1. What is Spirit Airlines and what is its basic business model?
- 2. Why is Spirit Airlines considered ultra-low-cost?
- 3. Do I have to purchase a seat on Spirit Airlines?
- 4. Can I purchase a seat assignment while I book my ticket?
- 5. How can I book my flight and get my boarding pass?
- 6. Can I print my boarding pass at the airport?
- 7. Are there guests who can’t check-in online?
- 8. Are guests allowed to travel with an infant on their lap?
- 9. Are unaccompanied minors allowed to travel on Spirit Airlines?
- 10. Can I cancel or change my flight reservation?
- 11. Can I change my name on a Spirit reservation if it is misspelled?
- 12. Can I travel with my mobility aid or wheelchair on Spirit?
- 13. What are Spirit’s baggage fees?
- 14. Where can I check the size and weight limits for bags?
- 15. Are travelers permitted to carry their personal dialysis machine, insulin device, or other medical device onboard?
- 16. Can I carry my sports equipment onboard?
- 17. Are travelers permitted to travel with a musical instrument?
- 18. What is the Spirit Saver$ Club? How do I join and what are the benefits?
- 19. What is the Free Spirit Frequent Flyer Program?
- 20. How can I save by booking a Spirit ticket at the airport?
- Final Thoughts
1. What is Spirit Airlines and what is its basic business model?
Spirit is an American ultra-low-cost airline that operates flights in the U.S., the Caribbean, Latin America, and South America.
The airline is headquartered in Miramar, Florida with hubs Atlantic City (ACY), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Detroit (DTW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Las Vegas (LAS), and Orlando (MCO).
It has a fleet size of over 150 aircraft that fly to more than 65 destinations around the world, but primarily within North America. The company slogan is “less money, more go.”
As of 2020, Spirit Airlines has the following aircraft:
- Airbus A319-100
- Airbus A319neo (on order)
- Airbus A320-200
- Airbus A320neo
- Airbus A321-200
- Airbus A321neo (on order)
2. Why is Spirit Airlines considered ultra-low-cost?
Spirit Airlines offers great deals and incredibly low-priced air tickets to its customers — there’s no secret about that. Many consumers who are looking for a no-frills ticket look to Spirit Airlines for their flights.
The base fare can be as low as $29 in many circumstances… sometimes even lower. In March 2007, Spirit changed its fare model by removing amenities (which inflate the base ticket price on other carriers).
Basically, the more amenities you include, the more a ticket will cost. To capture its market, Spirit reduces the cost of a ticket and lets passengers buy all of the ancillary items separately (like seat selection or checked luggage).
Spirit charges a low base fare and customers are required to pay for carry-ons, drinks, food, seats with additional legroom, and baggage. This enables the carrier to earn extra revenue while posting fares much lower than traditional legacy carriers.
3. Do I have to purchase a seat on Spirit Airlines?
Yes — you must purchase a ticket to fly to any of Spirit’s destinations. The base fare is usually between $29 to $39 for cheaper tickets. But seats themselves are assigned randomly at check-in unless you pay in advance to choose one — so, to be very clear, a specific seat selection is not included in your ticket price.
As a passenger, there’s no guarantee that you’ll get to sit with family and friends unless you pay to choose seats. So if you are traveling with companions, take your time to read the Spirit Airlines policies and purchase seats ahead of travel.
Bottom Line: Seat selection isn’t included with your ticket on Spirit, so you’ll need to pay more if you want to choose where to sit.
4. Can I purchase a seat assignment while I book my ticket?
Yes, though Spirit considers this a Á La Smarte option. As discussed above, Spirit assigns random seats to its passengers during check-in — to choose a seat you really want, you have to pay for seat assignments starting at $5.
You can also pick what’s known as a Big Front Seat, which is essentially a first class-style seat with fewer perks (this upgrade starts at around $40). A Big Front Seat has 32% more legroom without a middle seat — definitely the prime real estate!
To view the seat prices for a specific flight, check the Seat page when booking online. You can also look under My Trips or the Online Check-in page within 24 hours of departure.
5. How can I book my flight and get my boarding pass?
Visit spirit.com for the quickest way to book your flight and get your boarding pass for free.
Start by signing in with your credentials. If you do not have an account, create one (it’s called a Free Spirit account). This only takes a few minutes, and then you can log in and print your pass at home.
Once you have created an account and signed in, select the Book tab. The page will display the following options:
- Round-trip, one-way, or multi-city
- Departure and return location
- Departure and return dates
- Number of adults and children
After selecting or adding the required details, click Search Flights. Results will be displayed on the webpage, where you can book your flight. If you have a promo code, the website has an option for you to enter it at checkout.
Once you finish the process, you can print your boarding pass. This is also a good time to buy a seat assignment if you want since these activities are less expensive online at home than in person at the airport.
6. Can I print my boarding pass at the airport?
Yes, Spirit Airlines has simple self-service kiosks where you can purchase tickets and print boarding passes in minutes. It is important to remember that check-in or purchase of tickets should be done 1 hour before departure.
If you are in need of assistance, there are customer service agents at the airport. At the check-in counter, boarding passes are available — but customers will be charged $10 to print a single boarding pass. So if you want to save, print your boarding pass at home.
Bottom Line: When it comes to Spirit bookings or boarding passes, avoid talking to a human if you don’t want to pay extra! At the airport, there are significant fees even to do simple tasks.
7. Are there guests who can’t check-in online?
Yes, there are. Here is a list of travelers who may not be able to complete check-in online:
- Minors who are unaccompanied
- Travelers with a lap infant
- Travelers with a military ID and no passport
- Non-U.S. citizens traveling from international locations
- Travelers who have purchased special items or extra seats (such as those who want more room to spread out)
- Travelers who have made a group reservation of 10 or more
- Travelers with pets or service animals
The guests above are required to check in at the airport counter. Unlike others who will be charged $10 when printing boarding passes at the airport, the guests listed above will have the $10 fee waived.
8. Are guests allowed to travel with an infant on their lap?
Yes, guests are allowed to travel with an infant on their lap. Before departure, you should check in with Spirit staff. Spirit Airlines provides the following guidelines when it comes to traveling with an infant:
- Adult travelers (ages 15 and up) can carry 1 child per lap
- Infants under 7 days old or requiring life support systems like an incubator are not allowed to board (like most airlines)
- Car seats are not allowed in the emergency exit rows, or in any row close to the emergency exit
- Car seats and lap seat children are not allowed to occupy seats with inflatable seatbelts
- Guests are allowed to add a lap child when booking online
As a traveler on Spirit Airlines, you need to know that fees and taxes are applicable when an infant accompanies you. The amount charged depends on the destination.
9. Are unaccompanied minors allowed to travel on Spirit Airlines?
Unaccompanied minors are allowed to travel alone, but only on domestic direct flights (within the U.S., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico).
However, they are not allowed to travel unaccompanied on international flights, domestic flights where aircraft change is scheduled, and connecting flights.
When flying domestically, unaccompanied minors are taken care of on board by the airline staff. They will be offered snacks and beverages for a fee, just like any passenger. Unlike most other legacy carriers, Spirit will not facilitate a gate transfer in connecting cities.
Here are guidelines guests should follow when booking flights for unaccompanied minors:
- Inform Spirit Airlines staff that you are booking an unaccompanied minor
- Check in at the gate together with the minor at least 1 hour before departure
- Request a gate pass when dropping off the child (available at the reservation counter)
- Guests must accompany the child to the gate and remain within the gate area until the flight takes off (~15 minutes after boarding)
- Unaccompanied minors will be released to the person indicated on the unaccompanied minor form or to a Spirit Airlines employee
10. Can I cancel or change my flight reservation?
Yes, due to COVID-19, Spirit is waiving all change and cancellation fees for travel booked by March 31, 2021. Refunds are processed as a full purchase price reservation credit to be used on future travel.
Here are the current cancellation and change charges:
| Days from Departure | Fee Amount |
| 0 to 6 days from departure | $79 |
| 7 to 14 days from departure | $59 |
| 15 to 59 days from departure | $39 |
| 60+ days from departure | Free |
Customers who purchase Flight Flex can change their ticket up to 24 hours before departure for free.
Same-day changes incur a $99 fee.
Sign in to your account and click My Trips to make the changes or cancellations yourself. If you are unable to do so, you can text 48763 or 855-728-3555 on WhatsApp, direct message Spirit on social media, call 855-728-3555, or speak to a Guest Service Agent at the airport. You can also visit the Reservation Center, but you may be charged for this service.
Spirit Airlines allows changes or cancellation requests to be made up to 1 hour before departure. If you cancel your reservation 0 to 60 days before departure, the remaining balance is issued as credit.
If you cancel via Spirit’s Airlines online portal, you will be issued a $10 voucher (one-way) that is applicable on future travels provided the reservation charge is less than the cancellation fee.
You can find out more about canceling in this post: How To Cancel a Spirit Airlines Flight [Points or Cash Ticket].
Bottom Line: Canceling or changing a ticket outside of the COVID-19 waiver period can cost you a pretty penny (at least $39 if you do it yourself online).
11. Can I change my name on a Spirit reservation if it is misspelled?
Yes, you’re allowed to change a name that’s misspelled by a few characters. Issues like this are normally made when typing and booking flights in a hurry, but they can be fixed.
To change your misspelled name (free of charge), contact Spirit Airlines’ customer support team. You can also request a change of your legal name, which will require you to provide supporting documents and reason(s) for the change (like a divorce decree, marriage license, or court order).
A name change request must be directed to Spirit Airlines Guest Relations Department and can be done online. Visit spirit.com/help — at the bottom, you should find an option to attach your documents.
If you need to make changes to your contact information, date of birth, passport number, or gender, contact the Spirit Airlines Reservation Center or email the Customer support team. Remember to have copies of your legal documents.
12. Can I travel with my mobility aid or wheelchair on Spirit?
Yes, Spirit Airlines accepts mobility aids and wheelchairs for travelers. If applicable, these devices can be carried on to your flight at no charge. To check your mobility aid or wheelchair, visit the ticket counter or gate.
If traveling with a battery-powered mobility aid or wheelchair, we recommend arriving at the airport 2 hours before departure to ensure proper handling of your device. Officials at the ticket counter will recommend that you carry any detachable items like footrests or seat cushions onboard. If this is not an option, they may be stowed in the cargo bin.
To make your check-in process fast and smooth, Spirit requests that guests provide the airport crew with written instructions on how to handle the wheelchair or mobility aid and recommends bringing your user manual. You can also fill in a Mobility Aid Information form.
Bottom Line: You can certainly travel with a wheelchair, but if you need to check it, there will be a charge.
13. What are Spirit’s baggage fees?
Spirit Airlines allows travelers to check in with 1 personal item the size of a small box (e.g., a small backpack, handbag, or purse). These items are included in your base fare, which means you will not be charged extra fees. However, Spirit will charge for extra baggage and some personal items.
If you plan on carrying extra luggage, make sure to check in online before departure! The charge for your extra items will be lower if you add them when booking your flight than if you wait and do it at the airport. Fees for carry-on bags run from $26 to $55.
Hot Tip: Prepay your bags when you purchase your trip to reduce expenses incurred at the airport.
Personal items allowed by Spirit’s airport crew at no charge include cameras, assistive devices, umbrellas, coats, wraps, hats, and books. Head and neck pillows are allowed, but they must fit inside your backpack or bag.
There’s a common misconception that true low-cost carriers such as Spirit don’t allow even small personal items on board — which is why we’re so thorough to mention everything you can and cannot bring with you.
Bottom Line: If you’re carrying on a bag (non-personal item), you could pay north of $50 to bring that bag onboard.
14. Where can I check the size and weight limits for bags?
Spirit Airlines allows personal items or backpacks under 18 x 14 x 8 inches. The personal items should not exceed the dimensions above including wheels and handles.
The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 22 x 18 x 10 inches. If your carry-on is too big to be stowed safely in the cargo bin, you’ll be required to check it (and pay extra).
For checked bags, it’s a maximum of 62 linear inches and 40 pounds. Bags over 100 pounds cannot be accepted.
Bags weighing over 40 pounds are charged more because they require special handling, and extra weight means the plane has to use more fuel during flight.
Hot Tip: If you are planning to travel with a checked or carry-on bag, make sure to check it online! Doing so at the airport will incur an extra fee.
15. Are travelers permitted to carry their personal dialysis machine, insulin device, or other medical device onboard?
Yes, Spirit Airlines allows travelers to carry a portable dialysis machine on board at no extra cost, and it doesn’t count toward your baggage allowance.
Although Spirit allows travelers to be accompanied by these medical devices, they prohibit using the machine during the flight. Why? Because the planes are not fitted with compatible electrical plugs to charge or power medical devices.
To ensure your medical device is stowed in the plane, it should not exceed 22 x 18 x 10 inches.
Passengers are welcome to carry insulin on board, but it’s recommended that guests inform airline staff about the insulin before boarding. Insulin is normally stored in special bags onboard the flight for safekeeping.
Like other medical devices, insulin will not incur a fee during check-in. However, if your insulin is in a bag together with other personal items (like socks, electronics, and clothing), you might owe a fee for the other personal items if the weight exceeds the recommended limit.
For more information about traveling with insulin and other medical assistive devices, check the TSA website.
16. Can I carry my sports equipment onboard?
Yes, you can carry some sports equipment on your flight. All sports equipment such as hockey sticks, tennis racquets, and others are charged similar to a standard checked bag and checked in the hold.
To ensure safe travel, the sports equipment should be secured to the inside of your bag. If they are not packed securely in the bag, Spirit will charge you for a separate bag.
If you intend to carry skateboards, Spirit Airlines only permits non-battery-operated and non-motorized versions. Electric or battery-operated skateboards and other sports equipment cannot be checked (since batteries can contain hazardous materials that can endanger other travelers and the plane).
Sports items not within the normal carry-on dimensions would be checked in the hold and charged a checked baggage fee.
17. Are travelers permitted to travel with a musical instrument?
Musical instruments such as the ukulele, violins, guitars, cellos, accordions, saxophones, acoustic guitars, electric guitars, and bass guitars are considered fragile. To prevent damage, it is recommended that all guests pack their musical instruments in a case.
Instruments are charged similar to a checked bag, meaning you’ll have to pay the checked bag price and any overweight charges. Travelers are also required to sign a release form before departure that relieves Spirit of liability for damage or loss of the musical instrument.
18. What is the Spirit Saver$ Club? How do I join and what are the benefits?
Separate from the Free Spirit program, Spirit has a program called the Spirit Saver$ Club (formerly known as the $9 Fare Club). This club offers benefits like discounted fares, baggage fees, seats, and time-saving options for a fee of $69.95 for 12 months, $99.90 for 18 months, or $129.90 for 24 months.
Applicants have the opportunity of offsetting the membership fee above in as little as 1 booking — so the savings are significant!
To join the Spirit Saver$ Club, you are required to register online with the following details:
- First, middle, and last name
- Date of birth
- Email address
- Password
- Contact information
In Step 3 of your registration, you’ll provide your billing information. Spirit Airlines accepts major credit cards and other popular payment systems, and your membership is renewed automatically each year unless canceled.
Benefits of joining the Spirit Saver$ Club include:
- Exclusive discounted fares for yourself and up to 8 additional guests
- Up to 50% off on checked and carry-on bags for you and up to 8 additional guests
- Your entire party will save on every seat, including the Big Front Seat and exit rows
- Save on À La Smarte Options like Shortcut Security, Shortcut Boarding, and Flight Flex
- Exclusive offers with Spirit partners
19. What is the Free Spirit Frequent Flyer Program?
Free Spirit is a free rewards program created by Spirit Airlines to reward its customers for flying Spirit on an ongoing basis. To join the program, you must fill out a membership form with the following details:
- First, middle, and last name
- Date of birth
- Password
- Contact information
If registration is successful, a welcome email with your account information is sent to your inbox. Alternatively, you can become a Free Spirit member when you book your first flight.
Benefits of the Free Spirit Program include:
- Earn points when you fly with Spirit Airlines and partners
- Buy or gift points to family members and friends (Gold and Silver elite members can also pool points)
- Use the points for travel
- Track the points earned
- Book and manage your reservations faster
You can book and manage your flight reservation using Spirit Airlines mobile app on Apple or Android. If you have any questions about bookings and managing your reservations within the program, call Spirit Airlines at 801-401-2222.
20. How can I save by booking a Spirit ticket at the airport?
You can actually save upwards of $19 per ticket if you book at the airport, strangely enough — this is contrary to most of Spirit’s policies where speaking to someone at the airport incurs a fee.
Because airlines have to pay a federal excise task on base fares, Spirit tries to avoid having to pay this tax by adding on an $18.99 passenger usage fee to tickets booked over the phone or online. This fee is not a tax and is included in the vast majority of online and phone booking scenarios.
Spirit is able to increase what is essentially the fare of the ticket without incurring the additional tax. You can actually avoid this $18.99 charge by booking at the airport. When you arrive at the airport, just stand in line to speak to a customer service representative. It’s a way you can get around this nuisance fee.
When you get to the counter, let them know your preferred travel dates and routing and they’ll price out the itinerary for you, less the $18.99 fee. While this does save you money on your ticket cost, you need to weigh the cost of driving to the airport and getting this done, which could be more expensive than just paying the fee at home.
Bottom Line: It may sound counter-intuitive, but booking a ticket at the airport can actually save you money.
Final Thoughts
There are many nuances to booking Spirit tickets, but with a little know-how, it’s easy to figure things out and save a few bucks in the process.
Spirit really can save you a ton of money when you travel, and understanding its processes and policies will help you maximize the experience and not overpay.
The information regarding Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard® and Free Spirit® Travel Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
Do spirit airlines have video surveillance in the cabin of the airplane and cameras?
Hi Kaiila – don’t think so but we’re not completely sure on this one… maybe some fellow airline experts can weigh in here…
I purchased a rather large photo at my daughter cheer competition, can I bring it on the plane?
Hi Tonya,
How is the photo packaged? Are you planning to bring it in your luggage?
I have a credit for my reservation going to TPA on April 9th. Will my $123.98 credit be applied only going to TPA or will it just be an overall credit with Spirit? It was a great deal and I am hoping that I can use it when this Virus is over with.
Hi Christina,
The credit will not be tied to a specific flight route. You can use it to go wherever you’d like with Spirit.
Thanks for reading!
why does it keep telling me its sold out?
Hi Anthony,
What are you referring to exactly?
Is the overhead luggage holder free to put a bag there? I was told it isn’t. Someone told me it is and that the agent at the airport was trying to just get more money. Also, last year I flew with spirit and they said that their airplanes would be equipped with WiFi. Did that ever happen or did the coronavirus stop that too?
Hi George,
If you have paid to bring a carry-on bag onto the plane then you do not have to pay extra to put it in the overhead bin, that’s exactly where it is supposed to be placed. As for personal items, you should be able to store those in the overhead bin provided that there is space available. Otherwise, you have to stow it underneath the seat in front of you. Some of the Spirit planes have begun begging equipped with Wifi, but the spread of Covid-19 has slowed down that rollout for the airline.
Thanks for reading!
I am flying Spirit on 6/25/2019 with my daughter and granddaughter. I am wondering if I can brings my daily meds in a weekly container on board in my purse? We will be gone for 3 weeks and I don’t want to brings all my meds in their bottles.
Also, what is the size/weight of personal items carried on or checked for my flight?
Hi Linda,
TSA states that “TSA does not require passengers to have medications in prescription bottles, but states have individual laws regarding the labeling of prescription medication with which passengers need to comply.” So you will need to check what the laws are for the state you’re flying to.
A personal item must not exceed 18″ x 14″ x 8″, not weight allowance is specified by Spirit.
Hope this helps!
What happens if the flight doesn’t reach a certain number of seats sold? Does Spirit cancel that flight? If so, what happens if you purchased a ticket for that flight?
Hi Jeffrey. Most often, a flight will not be canceled if a certain number of seats doesn’t get sold. In general, airlines take this type of risk into account with flights, though they may make an operational decision the day of the flight that would cause it to be canceled, such as with maintenance or flight crew availability. If Spirit (or any airline, really) should cancel your flight, you can receive a full refund, or be rebooked on the next available flight to your final destination.
I just want to make sure I can use my mobile app for the 3 people in my group to check in at the airport (show email boarding passes) as opposed to we all have to use our own device even though we are on the same itinerary booked through Expedia.
Hi Laura,
Do all three of you have individual accounts with Spirit? Or did you make the booking yourself for all three people in your party?
I booked 3 tickets with Spirit within 10 hours ago. The fare came down $30 each ticket. Is it worth for me to cancel the previous booking and reissue the bookings? Can I get the refund 100%? Will the insurance be refunded too?
Hi Sandie,
Ultimately, it’s up to you. You can cancel up to 24 hours after booking for a 100% refund as long as its a “reservation made 7 days (168 hours) or more before scheduled departure date.” Thanks for reading.
The fares to Puerto Rico are lowered due to the political unrest.
Can we get reimbursed the difference and/or cancel the trip if the situation doesn’t improve?
Reservation xxxxxx
Hi Alba,
We have removed your reservation number for your privacy. Please note that we are not Spirit Airlines, we are UpgradedPoints.com and have no affiliation with Spirit Airlines. You can contact Spirit directly using these contact details.
Just giving you heads up on seat assignments. You will most likely get seats together when your party is booked under the same reservation/reference code! No purchase necessary unless you want big front seats or a specific row seats.
Thanks for that info. I’m planning a trip and it will be the first flight ever for 2 of my daughters. I was wondering if I should pay more to be seated together?
Hi Sue,
How old are your daughters? Would they be okay by themselves? If you want to guarantee that you will have a seat next to them, then it may be a good idea to pay extra.
Hi, my sister is coming next month to CA and I want to take some trips with her. She is 16 years old and she lives in another country. I want to know if I need an authorization from my parents to travel or if she can travel with me without any authorization from them.
Thanks
Hi Chabeli,
It depends on your exact itinerary. If the travel is only on Spirit Airlines, then according to their policy, “Guests 15 years old and older are not required to have Unaccompanied Minor service, but they may be asked to present a picture ID or birth certificate to verify their age. The Unaccompanied Minor service charge will be collected if guests 15 and older if the service is requested.”
Also, please verify with the actual airlines directly before looking to other options. Thanks for reading.
I was a first time flyer with your airlines. Traveling from Lax to Portland OR. Was greeted by a very rude personal at the counter. I was 8 minutes late for my baggage to be processed. He did not give us an ultimatum. Was very disappointed. Missed flight and went with Alaska airlines.
Janaki,
Please note that we are not Spirit Airlines. We are Upgraded Points, which is a travel website and blog dedicated to providing information to our readers. If you have an issue with Spirit Airlines, please take it up directly with them. Thanks for reading.
I booked a flight with you thru Cheapo Air on 9/16/19 from Bush Houston to Jacksonville FL. My daughter was very ill. It was Flight SL125B on 9/17/19 leaving 6am, arriving 8:33 pm, a long day. I am 79 and my daughter said no, and re-booked me. I called less than 30 minutes to cancel but I was refused. I need a written statement that I did not fly on your flight. I tried for hours thru your website and talked to agent. Did not work. Can you help, please?
Hi Martha,
I am very sorry that this happened to you. I imagine it was very frustrating! But unfortunately, we do not represent Spirit Airlines. We are Upgraded Points, a website that publishes helpful information to travelers. I’m afraid you will have to try getting in contact with their customer support team again. I hope they are able to help!
Thanks for reading!
My $9 Fare Club membership is due to be auto-renewed in a few weeks and I went online to cancel it. However I notice that when cancelling you *immediately* lose membership benefits, so I’m tempted instead to cancel a day or 2 before my membership is due to auto-renew. My question though is if *before* cancelling I book a special fare only available for Fare Club members and then I cancel my membership, can I still fly on that ticket without paying any extra given that I will no longer be a member on the date of the flight? Also how will this scenario affect luggage fees?
Hi Jim,
Other $9 fare club members with a similar issue have reported that as long as the tickets and baggage were purchased prior to canceling the membership, that there were no issues and the rates were honored. But be advised that we are not Spirit Airlines and cannot guarantee this will be the case.
Thanks for reading!
How can I see if there are any seat cancellations after I booked my 2 seats in the front row (wanted 2 together – my husband and myself) but couldn’t get both together?
Hi Heather,
You should be able to see what seats are available through the seat assignment section on of the Spirt Airlines website.
Thanks for reading!
In #4 you state that to choose a seat it will cost an extra $5. Not sure where you came up with that figure. Seat prices range between about $12-$24 extra depending on where that seat is, not including the big seats up front.
Hi Don! We’ve adjusted the wording to make this a bit clearer. Spirit’s website advises seat assignments start at $5, but we’ve recognized our error here since many customers will choose seats that cost more than this (depending on the route and seat location). Thanks for the heads up and thanks for reading!
What is the cost of traveling with a dog under 20 pounds?
Hi Barry,
The cost for your dog to fly will be $110 each way.
Thanks for reading!
Do you pay for luggage each way?
Hi Laura,
Yes, the luggage is charged per way. Safe travels!
Is there any way for my company to be the owner of the account and have it assign and outright purchase the tickets as it adds to about 300 tickets a year (600 one way rides) and to leave this to each traveler has complications for us.
Hi Max,
For help regarding that issue, I would recommend you reach out to the Spirit Airlines customer service team directly.
Thanks for reading!
I have $188.60 in reservation credit for my husband and me on spirit airlines due to Covid which must be used by May 31, 2021. We will not be flying spirit. Can I link my son to the reservation so he can use it?
Hi Janelle,
Unfortunately, your credit can only be used by the guest(s) that the credit was originally issued to.
I was wondering if we can bring an inflatable foot rest.
Hi Vegan Traveling Mama,
You would need to contact Spirit Airlines directly to see if they would allow that on their aircraft.
Thanks for reading!
I want to book a flight for 01/2020 but the site will not let me. Is there a minimum purchase days?
Hi Delphine,
I just tested this out and bookings for January of 2020 seem to be working fine for me, perhaps there was no available flight for the day or route you selected? If this problem persists, I would contact the Spirit customer support team directly.
I purchased a carry on for my trip, however I end up changing it for a luggage. Will they honored my payment made for my carry on for my luggage at the airport?
Hi Nubia,
Just to clarify, are you saying you’re no longer bringing a carry-on bag and are instead bringing a bag that you plan to check?
I flew first my and last time on Spirit. Flew 8-10-20 from ATL. Flight attendants were exceptionally nice but Spirit’s customer service sucks. They don’t understand and they will also hang up on you, then call back. I canceled a flight because David couldn’t get how I wanted to change the dates, it was awful. Then, if you ask for a supervisor, they will put you on hold, then come back to the phone like they the supervisor, horrible customer service.
Keep in mind the old adage ^you get what you pay for!^ uncomfortable seats, no leg room (forward & sideways) horrible flight times and don’t get me started on their $9 scam club! Pay the extra fare with a better airline so you can bring a bag, recline your seat, not sit thigh to thigh with a stranger and choose a better arrival/departure time. Just my opinion.
Hi there!
My wife and I are flying to Tampa this week, and we’d obviously like to have seats together. What are the chances that our seats will be together given that both tickets were purchased at the same time?
Hey Dave, there’s no real rhyme or reason to Spirit’s seat assignments. We recommend that you purchase seat assignments in advance if you’d like to sit next to each other. Unfortunately, there’s no other way to guarantee this. Safe travels!
When will I be able to book a flight from Detroit to Houston during the month of June, 2020?
Hey Cathy, Spirit doesn’t publish when it opens bookings for future dates. We recommend that you keep checking the Spirit Airlines website to see when the booking engine opens to 6/2020. Thanks for reading!
I’m flying home to Akron Ohio for Christmas. Can I bring homemade Christmas cookies in my personal bag on the plane?
Hi Kitty. Yes, TSA allows you to bring Christmas cookies through. If you have a lot though, you might want to pull them out of your bag to go through security.
Hello
I booked six tickets from Tampa to Las Vegas. Now my one daughter-in-law wants a divorce and she can’t or shouldn’t come to our family event. Now my other son has a girlfriend that we want to have fly with us. We paid for row 20 both ways. Am I gonna lose the price of her ticket and seat because she wants a divorce, or can the girlfriend use the pre- paid ticket and seat.
How can we not lose hundreds of dollars because she wants a divorce.
Help me please. Mother in-law just wants no drama.
Hi Aniko,
Spirit Airlines won’t allow you to change the passenger name on the booking, so unfortunately it is likely you will lose the ticket. It’s worth giving them a call to see if there is anything they can do e.g. any travel credit towards a future flight. Good luck!
I flew on Spirit for the first time last month and only checked 1 bag, only to find out they charged my card $98. That’s outrageous to say the least. Spirit airlines is a RIP OFF, in my opinion.
Is the $90/100 cancellation fee per seat or per confirmation number? i.e. 2 confirmations with 2 adults seats per confirmation? Would that total $180?
Hi Kelly,
The cancellation fee should be per seat.
Does Spirit have a default address when booking online? My address is incorrect and shows I live in New York? I live in Minnesota. How can I change my address? I leave on January 11th, 2020.
Hy Cynthia,
You will need to contact the Spirit customer support team directly to get this resolved. You can reach them at 801-401-2222.
I purchased 2 tickets for me and my girlfriend but didn’t purchase certain seats. We don’t care where we sit as long as we are together. Can we still sit together or will one of us most likely be sitting somewhere else at random?
Hi Francisco,
There is a chance you could be assigned seats next to each other, but more likely than not you and your girlfriend will be assigned seats apart from each other. You could always ask someone to switch seats with you after you board the plane.
I flew to Orlando on January 15th. I had paid for an upgrade with more legroom. However, it was the front seat and there was actually less leg room than a standard seat. Before take off, the stewart ordered me to put my satchel up in the overhead, because there was no seat to put it under in front of me. I simply said, “I didn’t know that when I booked an upgraded seat.” ” My billfold and cash is in my satchel.”
Without any warning, he started screaming at me. He yelled, “You should have read about it when you booked!”
I said, “I didn’t know.”
He got closer to my face, literally, leaning over the gentleman between us. I could feel his spit hitting my face. He continued screaming, “I’ll have you dragged off this plane!” “You will never fly again for years with any airline!!!” He screamed many more things at me, but I can’t recall them all.
I am an older adult with many hip problems. I was scared and knew I couldn’t defend myself, physically. As he got closer and spitting in my face, all I could think to do is just look down. I said, “Please just leave me alone.” “I’m sorry if I said something wrong.”
He continued screaming at me. Others around me didn’t know what had happened, I barely knew what had happened. I just looked down and he was gone after I uncurled myself from trying to get out of his line of fire. I really thought he was going to strike at me. His hands were flying and I was just cowering.
After he left the two ladies behind me asked if I was alright. They even said they could understand his anger. The gentleman next to me reassured me that I had in no way, provoked this. That made me feel a little better, but I worried the entire flight that I would be removed or attacked again.
I’ve never seen anything like this. It was my first flight with Spirit. I was afraid for my life.
Hi Dave,
Sorry to hear of your experience, that sounds awful. I advise that you get in touch with the customer service/complaints department at Spirit as we have no affiliation with the airline.
I just booked a flight for April 13th BWI which lands in Fort Myers, FL @ 9:50 and then driving 21/2 hours to Miami at the cruise terminal. I have about 6 hours wiggle room but am 2nd guessing my decision to book a flight the same day as my cruise leaving. What would happen if my flight were delayed or canceled? Do you work with other airlines to move the flight to another airline?
My brain needs to rest . . . have been stressing since I booked yesterday.
Thank you for your advice 🙂
Hi Amber,
We do not represent Spirit Airlines or any other airline for that matter. We are Upgraded Points, a website that provides educational travel information. For assistance with this, I recommend you reach out to Spirit Airlines customer service team directly at 1-(801) 401-2222.
Thanks for the info. We drove to the airport to purchase tickets, family of 5 and we saved $230! The international feel for booking online/phone is $22.99 per ticket one way. This helped pay for seat selection (can’t risk when traveling with small kids) as well as luggage.
Do the big front seats ever get cheaper closer to the flight or the day of the flight?
Hi Winifred,
Generally these seat prices will not get cheaper closer to the flight. If you’re willing to take a gamble, you could wait until the airport and see if the check-in assistant will move your seat free of charge.
How can one of the passengers on a multi-passenger reservation, cancel that passenger’s ticket, without cancelling the entire flight ? Is a ticket transferrable to another person replacing the passenger who must cancel? Or, if the cancelling passenger just does not show up for the flight, will that passenger be entitled to a credit? Need to know soon. Thank you.
Hi Tony,
This is an easy fix. You just need to contact Spirit Airliens and have them split the reservation into two separate reservations. Then you can cancel one without canceling the other. The customer service number for Spirit is: 1 (801) 401-2222
I need to talk to a person.
Hi Gail,
Here is the contact number for Spirit Airlines customer support: 1 (801) 401-2222
I was checking online for a flight I have, however, it is NOT a nonstop. It looks like there will be one stop before getting to my destination. Do I have to pay twice to check my bag? Help!
Hi Evelyn,
No, you should not have to pay to check your bag twice. Thanks for reading!
Spirit airlines took it upon themselves to change our flight to a different airline without our permission. I will never book with this airline again as they have been nothing but problems.
Can I check a foldable wagon? Do I need to do it on the app or once I get to the airport?
Hi Denise,
Yes, you should be able to check a foldable wagon but you will likely need to do it at the ticket counter.
Safe travels!
Hi Denise. Were you allowed to check in a foldable wagon? I’m thinking of doing that on my upcoming trip.
Is spirit airlines sitting their passengers 6 feet away from each other?
Hi Kathy,
Spirit is not limiting capacity onboard their flights or blocking off any seats. They are requiring travelers to wear face coverings over the nose and mouth when flying. The masks are not provided though, so customers need to bring their own in order to be able to fly.
Why does the points and miles community pretend that Spirit airlines is a normal carrier? What about all the fights and brawls that have taken place on this airline – passengers fighting each other in flight, passengers fighting with ticketing agent?
My flight was cancelled by Spirit for a Sept 2020 flight. Can I get a full refund and how?
Hi Richard,
Yes, if your flight was canceled then you are entitled to a full refund. You will need to contact the Spirit Airlines customer service team and request one. Their contact number is 1-(855)-728-3555.
How do we get our money back after they canceled our flight?
Hi John,
What was the reason that Spirit canceled your flight? Have you contacted their customer service team?
How can I get my money back or get my flight credit?
Hi Vicky,
You will need to contact the Spirit Airlines customer service team by calling 1-(855)-728-3555.
I have a Mac desktop 21.5″ in its box. must I purchase a carry on for my trip?
Hi Erika,
If the box exceeds the personal item dimensions of 18″ high x 14″ long x 8″ wide, then you will have to purchase a carry-on.
Cameras aren’t extra? Could I carry my camera in its case around my neck? It isn’t this exact camera but it’s about this size: https://www.qvc.com/Canon-EOS-Rebel-T7i-DSLR-with-18-55mm-Lens%2C-Case-%26-SD-Card.product.E294959.html?sc=SRCH with the case it’s kind of large.
Also, I see that fanny packs aren’t on the list of items that don’t cost extra. Has anyone worn a small fanny pack with their phone and license and not gotten in trouble for bringing an extra item? Someone reviewing another airline said fanny packs count as part of an outfit like a belt, but maybe Spirit is stricter about?
Hi TTT,
Yes, you should be fine to travel with your camera around your neck but you may need to stow it under the seat in front of you during take-off and landing.
Are you allowed to carry a fanny pack or will you be charged for it? Can the camera be in a camera case around one’s neck?
Hi qwertyuiop,
You should not be charged for bringing a fanny pack, and yes you can bring you camera in a case but you will need to stow it underneath the seat in front of you during takeoff and landing.
We had booked a flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico to cruise in October. The cruise was canceled due to COVID. The cruise line refunded our money, but Spirit would not. We are both on social security and saved for this once in a lifetime event. Now we are stuck with a $725 credit that we can’t use, and Spirit has not answered our request for a refund. Shouldn’t consideration s be made in this unusual circumstance due to the pandemic?
Thanks!
I have two children traveling with me. Will they have a separate QR code to scan? Under my flights, the is only my ticket, but their names are listed on the ticket.
Hi Heather,
If both of their names are listed on the ticket then you should just need to scan the one QR code. Safe travels!
I wanted to know if spirit allows an extra passport purse along with the personal item.
The passport purse is only big enough to fit passports and a mobile phone.
Hi M,
Yes, you should be able to bring that without any issue.
Can you use your Spirit Saver$ discount (50% offish) for other guest during booking or is the cheaper fare only for the Club Member while the baggage discounts can be shared?
Hi Elliott,
If you are purchasing the ticket on behalf of another person, then yes you should receive a discounted fare.
If I purchased a plane ticket with a friend, can I get my own confirmation number if she no longer wants to travel anymore?
Hi Shawn,
You should be fine to keep the same confirmation number, but feel free to contact the Spirt customer service team directly to make certain at 1-(855)-728-3555.
FYI, there is no charge for a wheelchair that needs to be checked, nor for any other needed assistive device, medical equipment, medication, etc…checked or carry on. The only requirement is that it not be packed w/ anything other than medical items or you can be charged.
Is curb side luggage check-in allowed?
Hi Paul,
If the curbside luggage kiosk is open the day you are flying, then yes. But lately, it seems that they are usually closed.
I want to pay for checked bags and big seats, but I am having trouble. I managed to join the saver club (showed payment on my cc), but every time I enter the same credit card number for my bags and seats, the site has an error. When I check my itinerary, it shows the bags and seat assignments, but no charges to my credit card. Help.
Hi Denise,
I’m afraid we would not be able to assist with that as we do not have any affiliation with Spirit. We are Upgraded Points, a website that publishes helpful guides for travelers. I recommend you call the phone number on the back of your Spirit credit card to see what the issue is.
I travel a lot and have never seen a priority security line. I only see two lines, general, and precheck (which I have). Spirit offers shortcut security through “priority screening lines”. Can anyone actually confirm they have been through shortcut security?
So I’m not so new to flying but I’d like to know just your opinion. I recently made my reservation to fly on the 11th to move states completely, with all of my clothes and items I need a plastic storage bin to take my items. Do you think Spirit would take this as “check luggage” or should I stick to possibly mailing the storage bin to myself? I know you aren’t directly apart Spirit Airlines but, I just need an opinion as I’m moving on my own.
Thanks and I hope your day is amazing!
Hi Jena,
As long as the plastic storage bin fits the maximum dimensions for Spirit checked luggage, then yes that should accept it for you! Otherwise, you might just be better off shipping it through USPS. Safe travels!
I am flying Spirit for the 1st time. I have not flown since the 90’s. If I don’t have a seat number and I want to check a bag, how long should I allow to get through the line and TSA to be comfortable to make my flight to the gate? Flying from Lou to West Palm Beach.
Hi Kathy,
If you arrive to the airport 2 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart you should have more than enough time. Safe travels!
I don’t want to fly to New Orleans. Spirit will charge me around 150 dollars to cancel my and my wife’s round trip tickets. We used some credit for this purchase (from last year) so we paid only 80 dollars more for these tickets. What if we simply do not show up at the airport for the flight? We don’t want the credit refunded. We are good with losing our funds. Will spirit still charge us if we “couldn’t” get to the airport and make the first leg of our trip? Thanks.
Hi Jeff,
If the cancelation fee exceeds the value of the credit you would receive, then yes it makes more sense to just no-show for your flight. You will not be charged any additional fees if you miss the flight.
Is it still possible to avoid the Passenger Usage Charge when buying the ticket at the airport?. Spirit web states “This applies to bookings created online, at international airports or via reservations centers.” (look at: https://www.spirit.com/optional-services > Other > Booking Related > Passenger Usage Charge). Could anybody give a confirmation? Thanks!
Hi Scheff,
Yes, you should be able to avoid this charge by booking your ticket in person at the airport.