spirit airlines no seat assignment

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20 Frequently Asked Questions About Flying Spirit Airlines

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Spirit Airlines is one of several U.S. ultra-low-cost carriers, but with a restrictive fare model and no-frills planes, it’s not necessarily for everyone.

There are many complexities and restrictions that many travelers aren’t aware of when booking Spirit tickets, since its tickets only include the bare bones. So we’re here to look in depth at some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to flying Spirit Airlines. These include:

• How the airline operates
• How the ticketing process works
• Ticketing restrictions
• Ticketing fees and how to avoid them
• Seating options

Let’s dive right in.

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 in Atlanta (ATL), Atlantic City (ACY), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Detroit (DTW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (IAH), Las Vegas (LAS), Miami (MIA), and Orlando (MCO).

It has a fleet size of about 200 aircraft that fly to more than 80 destinations worldwide, primarily within North America. The company slogan is “Less Money. More Go.”

As of 2023, 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. The base fare can be as low as $29 , sometimes even lower.

How does can it afford to sell fares for so low? In March 2007, Spirit changed its fare model by removing amenities (which inflate the base ticket price on other carriers). Spirit charges a low base fare, and customers must pay for carry-ons, drinks, food, seats with additional legroom, and baggage. The more amenities included, the more a ticket costs.

So, to capture its market, Spirit reduces the cost of a ticket and lets passengers buy all ancillary items, like seat selection or checked luggage , separately. 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?

You must purchase a ticket to fly on any of Spirit’s flights. The base fare is usually between $29 to $39 for cheaper tickets, though it could cost less or much more. Seats are assigned randomly at check-in — specific seat selection is not included in your ticket price unless you pay extra for it in advance.

That means 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 an á la carte option. To choose a seat you want, you have to pay for seat assignment, starting at $5.

You can also pick what’s known as a Big Front Seat, which is essentially a first-class-style seat, though with fewer perks. This upgrade starts at around $40. A Big Front Seat has 32% more legroom and no middle seat — 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; 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 you add the required details, click Search Flights.  You’ll see results on the page, where you can book your flight. If you have a promo code, the website lets 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, since these options are less expensive online 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. (If you need assistance, there are customer service agents nearby.) You should complete your check-in or purchase of tickets at least 1 hour before departure .

Boarding passes are available at the check-in counter, 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. Who Can’t Check in Online To Fly With Spirit?

Here is a list of travelers who may not be able to complete check-in online:

• Unaccompanied minors
• Travelers with a lap infant
• Travelers with a military ID and no passport
• Non-U.S. citizens traveling from outside the U.S.
• Travelers who have purchased special items or extra seats
• Travelers who have made a group reservation of 10 or more
• Travelers with pets or service animals

These guests 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. Can I Travel With an Infant on My Lap?

Yes, you are allowed to travel with an infant on your 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 (as is the case with most airlines)
• Car seats are not allowed in the emergency exit rows or any row close to the emergency exit
• Child car seats and lap children are not allowed to occupy seats with inflatable seatbelts
• You can add a lap child when booking online

Fees and taxes are applicable when an infant accompanies you . The amount charged depends on the destination.

9. Can Unaccompanied Minors Travel on Spirit Airlines?

Unaccompanied minors can travel alone, but only on domestic direct flights (within the U.S., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico). They cannot travel unaccompanied on international flights , domestic flights where an aircraft change is scheduled, or connecting flights.

During flights, unaccompanied minors are taken care of by the airline staff. They will be offered snacks and beverages for a fee, just like any passenger. Unlike most legacy carriers, Spirit will not help children with gate transfers in connecting cities .

Here are the 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 (about 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, but you will be charged a fee if it’s too close to the flight date. Here are the current cancellation and change charges:

Customers who purchase Flight Flex can change their ticket for free up to 24 hours before departure.

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, any remaining balance is issued as credit. If you cancel via Spirit’s Airlines online portal, you will be issued a $10 voucher (one-way) applicable on future travels, provided the reservation charge is less than the cancellation fee.

To make changes or cancel yourself, sign in to your account and click My Trips . If you prefer not to do it yourself, you can text 48763 or 855-728-3555 on WhatsApp, direct message Spirit on social media, call 855-728-3555, or speak to a Spirit agent at the airport. You can also visit the reservations desk, but may be charged for this service.

You can learn more about canceling in this post: How To Cancel a Spirit Airlines Flight [Points or Cash Ticket] .

Bottom Line: Canceling or changing a ticket can cost you (at least $39 if you do it online). 

11. Can I Change My Name on a Spirit Reservation?

Yes, you’re allowed to change a name that’s misspelled by a few characters. Doing so is free of charge. To change your misspelled name, contact Spirit Airlines’ customer support team.

You can also request a change of your legal name, though you must provide reasons for the change and supporting documents (like a divorce decree, marriage license, or court order). You can request a name change online. Visit spirit.com/help — at the bottom, you should find an option to attach your documents.

If you need to change your contact information, date of birth, passport number, or gender, contact the Spirit’s reservations 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. You can carry these devices onto your flight at no charge . To check your mobility aid or wheelchair, visit the ticket or gate counter.

If you’re traveling with a battery-powered mobility aid or wheelchair, we recommend arriving at the airport 2 hours before departure to ensure it’s handled properly. Officials at the ticket counter will recommend that you carry any detachable items like footrests or seat cushions on board yourself. 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 handling the wheelchair or mobility aid and recommends bringing your user manual. You can also fill in a mobility aid information form .

13. What Are Spirit’s Baggage Fees?

Spirit Airlines allows travelers to check in with 1 personal item the size of a small box (such as a small backpack, handbag, or purse). These items are included in your base fare, so you will not be charged extra. However, Spirit will charge for extra baggage and some personal items.

If you plan on carrying extra luggage, 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 start at $31.

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 small personal items on board — which is why we’re so thorough in mentioning 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.

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, 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 must check it (and pay extra).

For checked bags, it’s a maximum of 62 total linear inches (the sum of the height, width, and depth, in inches) and 40 pounds. 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. Bags over 100 pounds cannot be accepted.

Certain regions, such as South America, have additional baggage restrictions, so be sure to check the Spirit website before you go to the airport.

Hot Tip: If you’re planning to travel with a checked or carry-on bag, make sure to check it online! Doing so at the airport will cost more.

15. Can I Carry My Personal Dialysis Machine, Insulin Device, or Other Medical Devices on Board?

Yes, Spirit Airlines allows you to carry a portable dialysis machine on board at no extra cost, and it doesn’t count toward your baggage allowance. Your device should not exceed 22 inches by 18 inches by 10 inches.

Although Spirit allows you to carry on these medical devices, it prohibits using the machine during the flight. The planes do not have compatible electrical plugs to charge or power medical devices.

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 aboard 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 on Board?

It depends. You can carry some sports equipment on your flight. All checked sports equipment, such as hockey sticks, tennis racquets, and others, are charged just like a standard checked bag and stored in the hold. The sports equipment should be secured inside a bag. Spirit will charge you for a separate bag if they are not packed securely in the bag.

Spirit Airlines only permits non-battery-operated and non-motorized skateboards. Electric or battery-operated skateboards and other sports equipment cannot be checked (batteries can contain hazardous materials that can endanger other travelers and the plane).

Sports items not within the normal carry-on dimensions will be checked in the hold, and you will be charged a checked baggage fee .

17. Can I Fly With a Musical Instrument?

Musical instruments such as ukuleles, violins, guitars, cellos, accordions, saxophones, acoustic guitars, electric guitars, and bass guitars are considered fragile. To prevent damage, pack your musical instruments in a case.

Instruments are charged like any other checked bag, meaning you’ll have to pay the checked bag price and any overweight charges. You must also 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?

Distinct 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, including 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. You could offset the membership fee above in as little as 1 booking, so the savings are potentially significant!

To join the Spirit Saver$ Club, you are required to register online and submit the following details:

• First, middle, and last name
• Date of birth
• Email address
• Contact information

You’ll also have to provide your billing information. Spirit Airlines accepts major credit cards and other popular payment systems, and your membership is renewed each year automatically 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 elements like Shortcut Security, Shortcut Boarding, and Flight Flex
• Exclusive offers with Spirit partners
• Discounted seats, shortcut security, and shortcut boarding

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:

A welcome email with your account information is sent to your inbox if registration is successful. 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 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?

Strangely enough, you can save upwards of $19 per ticket if you book at the airport . This is the opposite of most of Spirit’s policies, where speaking to someone at the airport incurs a fee.

Because airlines must pay a federal excise task on base fares, Spirit tries to avoid paying this tax by adding an $18.99 passenger usage fee to tickets booked over the phone or online. This fee is not a tax and is included in most online and phone booking scenarios. In this way, Spirit can increase what is essentially the fare of the ticket so it doesn’t incur the additional tax.

Because the fee is only applied to online or phone bookings, you can avoid this $18.99 charge by booking at the airport. When you arrive at the airport, speak to a customer service representative to get around paying 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 counterintuitive, but booking a ticket at the airport can save you money.

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. Spirit 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 the Free Spirit ® Travel Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Free Spirit ® Travel More World Elite Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the spirit airlines baggage fees.

Spirit Airlines allows travelers to check in with 1 personal item the size of a small box (such as a small backpack, handbag, or purse). These items are included in your base fare, so 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, 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 north of $25.

Do you have to choose a seat with Spirit?

You do not have to select a seat. If you choose not to, you will be assigned one at random. If you do want to select your seat, you’ll have to do it in advance and pay extra.

What is the Spirit Saver$ Club? What happened to the $9 Fare Club?

Distinct from the Free Spirit program, the Spirit Saver$ Club (formerly known as the $9 Fare Club), launched in 2021. 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. The new benefits, compared to the $9 Fare Club, are the discounted seats and time-saving options.

Does Spirit Airlines have a credit card?

Spirit Airlines partners with Bank of America, the issuer of its co-branded credit cards. You will earn Spirit Airlines points directly with the Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard® and Free Spirit® Travel Mastercard® .

Does Spirit have an awards chart?

Redemptions start at 2,500 points and are dynamically priced. When searching for your flight on spirit.com , select Points  as your payment type to see the total points required.

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About James Larounis

James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.

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What You Need to Know About Spirit Airlines Fees

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It can be easy to be fooled into thinking you scored a deal after nabbing a $26 flight to Las Vegas on Spirit Airlines.

But while the airfare itself is certainly cheap, there’s a good chance your total flight costs will far exceed $26. That’s because Spirit Airlines has one of the most comprehensive a la carte pricing models of any airline. Spirit seats on their own tend to be tantalizingly cheap, but things that other airlines typically include in the cost of airfare — like soft drinks and reserved seats — will cost you extra.

Suddenly, your $26 flight might start to cost the same, or even more, than the fares listed for non-budget airlines.

» Learn more: Spirit Airlines: The complete guide

Spirit Airlines bag fees

Base fares include one personal item, like a laptop bag or purse. But don’t think you can get away with not having to pay by stuffing all your possessions into a backpack, as even that might not fit. Spirit defines a personal item as anything 18 by 14 by 8 inches or smaller. Even something like this fairly standard-size Adidas backpack would be too large by Spirit standards.

For larger bags, like that backpack or rolling luggage, there’s a good chance that the cost to fly your stuff is more than the cost to fly yourself.

Spirit doesn’t publish standard bag fees, as they can vary not only based on route but also on when you pay for them. And the longer you wait, the more you’ll pay. If you’re paying at the gate, you could end up paying nearly twice as much as if you had paid the bag fee at the time of booking.

While fees can fluctuate, here’s what Spirit bag fees look like for the aforementioned $26 flight between Seattle and Las Vegas:

And that’s assuming your baggage weighs 40 pounds or less. Here are the additional fees you’d pay per bag if transporting large or heavy items:

For customers enrolled in Spirit’s add-on membership program called Spirit Saver$ Club, there’s some good news: Bag fees are discounted. The membership costs $69.95 for 12 months, $99.90 ($5 savings) for 18 months and $129.90 ($10 savings) for 24 months.

Here’s how much typical bag fees cost for that same flight if you’re a member of the Spirit Saver$ Club:

What does Spirit consider a personal item vs. carry-on vs. checked bag?

Depending on the size of your bag, it might not be considered a personal item, even if it fits under the seat in front of you. What’s more, you might not be able to carry it on, even if you think it’s a relatively small suitcase. Here’s how Spirit defines each type of bag:

Personal item: Maximum of 18 by 14 by 8 inches, including handles and wheels.

Carry-on: Maximum of 22 by 18 by 10 inches, including handles and wheels.

Checked bag: Maximum of 62 linear inches (length plus width plus height) including handles and wheels, and less than 100 pounds (overweight/oversize baggage fees apply).

Spirit Airlines change fees

Change fees are on hold temporarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Generally though, there’s a good chance that the cost to change or cancel your flight ends up being more than the cost of the flight itself.

Spirit does not offer any sort of refundable fare, but it does provide some options to change and cancel reservations.

Spirit typically charges $90 to cancel your reservation online and an even heftier $100 to cancel over the phone or at the airport. Perhaps what stings even worse than paying $90 to cancel your flight: You won’t get the amount you paid refunded back to your original form of payment. Instead, you get it as a Reservation Credit toward future Spirit flights. And adding insult to injury is that those credits have an expiration date; typically, your new flight made with the Reservation Credit must be booked within one year from the original date of purchase.

If you’re changing your flight within 24 hours of departure, you can pay $99 to stand by for an earlier flight.

If you booked an award ticket, expect to pay even more. The change fee is $110, and you still must pay the difference of any additional miles required for your new itinerary.

» Learn more: Plan your next redemption with our airline points tool

How to avoid Spirit Airlines change fees

Act quickly. As long as you’re booking a flight at least seven days before departure, Spirit does not charge a fee if the flight is changed or canceled within 24 hours after the initial purchase. Money is refunded to the original form of payment.

Book a Flight Flex (though we don’t recommend it). Flight Flex is a sort of insurance program offered by Spirit Airlines that allows you to modify your flight once without having to pay a change fee.

But Flight Flex comes with its own fee which, like bag fees, can vary by flight. For this $26 flight between Seattle and Las Vegas, the cost to add the Flight Flex option was $45. And Flight Flex comes with restrictions, including that you are entitled to only one change, and you need to make the change more than 24 hours before the scheduled flight. Plus, you’re still on the hook to pay for any difference in fares.

Here’s why Flight Flex is generally a bad deal: Say you’re changing your $26 flight to a new $100 flight. With Flight Flex, you would have paid $71 (that’s $45 for the Flight Flex option plus $26 for the original flight). You also still owe $74 to make up the fare difference, which means changing to a new $100 flight ends up costing $145 after all the fees.

Flight Flex is also included as part of Spirit’s Bundle It Combo (more on that later), which removes the a la carte aspect and instead packages a bunch of add-ons for one fee. If you want the ability to change your flight and anticipate checking bags anyway, the bundle option can make more sense.

Given that, it can often make more financial sense to just book your airfare sans Flight Flex, and then book an entirely new ticket should your plans change. If you do go this route, it's also generally smart to book a roundtrip flight as two separate one-way fares, so your return trip isn't void if you need to chance the outbound trip.

Generally speaking, trip insurance can turn out more useful than Flight Flex (especially if your credit card offers trip insurance for no extra cost anyway).

Fees to check in and obtain your boarding pass for your Spirit flight

There’s no fee to check in online for your Spirit flight. Once checked in, print your boarding pass at home, too, because it’s free.

But if you fail to plan ahead, you’ll have to pay up.

If you need to print your boarding pass at an airport kiosk, it costs $2. If you’re a luddite who prefers bypassing the kiosk in favor of a human, it costs even more: $10 to have your boarding pass printed by an airport agent.

Spirit waives those fees in a few circumstances, such as if you’re traveling as an unaccompanied minor, with a lap infant, or if you’re using a military ID instead of a passport and are unable to check in online.

Fees to select a seat ahead of time

Whether you’re trying to avoid the middle seat or you just want to guarantee that you can sit next to your kid, it’s going to cost you to choose your seat ahead of time.

Spirit doesn’t have a published list of seat assignment pricing as it varies per flight, though the airline says all seat reservations start at a minimum of $5.

But $5 is a liberal assumption for how much you’ll actually pay to reserve your seats. Here’s how much seat assignments cost on that same $26 flight between Seattle and Las Vegas:

The "Big Front Seats" have more legroom, are wider (no middle seat in the row) and cost an additional $40. The often-coveted seats in the emergency exit rows cost $20, and even a middle seat near the back costs $12 to reserve.

Fees for in-flight refreshments

Fees for in-flight food and alcoholic beverages are common across all airlines. Some more generous airlines will dole out complimentary in-flight snacks (we see you, Delta Biscoff cookies and JetBlue Terra Chips). But Spirit won’t even throw in a free Diet Coke.

All refreshments sold in-flight on Spirit come with a fee, such as coffee ($2), sodas and juices ($3), beer and wine ($8) and snacks like Pringles or Oreos (starting at $3).

In-cabin pet fee

Spirit charges $110 per pet container, each way, with a limit of four pets total in the cabin. Spirit allows you to put two pets in one container. If you are traveling with a pet or two, they’ll always ride with you in-cabin, as Spirit does not transport pets in cargo.

And even still, there are a number of limitations. Pets need to be small, since the container must fit under the seat, and pets must be able to stand and turn around in the container. Plus, the combined weight of the pet and carrier must be 40 pounds or less.

Priority boarding and security access

For an additional fee, you can whiz through security and be one of the first to board the plane. Starting at $7.99, Spirit’s “Shortcut Boarding” access allows you priority boarding in Zone 2.

Depending on the airport you’re departing from, you may also be able to pay for "Shortcut Security," though we don’t recommend it. It’s not TSA PreCheck , but it will allow you to go through security in an expedited lane. Costs vary per airport but don’t exceed $20, though it's not a guarantee your airport even offers the Shortcut Security program.

Unaccompanied minor fees

Is your kid flying alone? That’s an extra $100.

You’ll get hit with that unaccompanied minor fee if the child is 5-14 years old. On the bright side, Spirit will throw in a free snack and drink for your kid, a solid $6 value.

Spirit won’t allow children to fly alone if they’re 4 or younger, or if they’re traveling on a connecting flight, international flights or domestic flights that include a scheduled change of aircraft.

Bundle packages

Spirit offers bundled packages during the booking process. If you anticipate paying for a number of these fees anyway, then bundling them isn’t a bad deal.

Going back to that same flight between Seattle and Las Vegas, it costs $52.99 more for the Boost It package and $64.99 for the Bundle It package.

Here’s how much it would cost to order a la carte what you can get in the combo packages for one set price:

Boost It package (costs $52.99):

Pick Your Seat: $20 (exit row!).

Personal item: $0 (already included with airfare).

Checked Bag plus 10 pounds extra: $33 (if the bag weighs 40 pounds or less) or $63 (if it weighs 50 pounds or less).

Shortcut Boarding: $7.99.

The Boost It package is worth $88.99 in this scenario (if you take advantage of the 50 pound allowance), which is a $36 savings. If your bag is less than 40 pounds ($33) but you want to pick a seat ($20) and have Shortcut Boarding ($7.99), then you save only a few dollars on the Boost It bundle price. But if your bag is in that weight sweet spot (40-50 pounds), you’ll save $36 with this bundle.

Bundle It package (costs $64.99):

Pick Your Seat: $20.

Flight Flex: $45.

*It’s tough to assign a value to Spirit miles because you accrue a different number of miles based on your status within the Free Spirit program.

The 2x miles aside, the Bundle It package is worth $133.99 in this scenario, which is a $69 savings if you were to buy each item individually at booking. Spirit says it’s a $104 savings value, based on the company’s own mileage valuation.

Again, if you are packing that oversize bag (between 40 and 50 pounds) or you want the Flight Flex option (which we don’t really recommend), then it’s worth it. But if you want only a few things — say one checked bag that weighs less than 40 pounds, the ability to choose your seat and shortcut boarding — keep buying a la carte.

Fees across U.S. airlines

In NerdWallet's most recent analysis of airline fees , we compared seat selection, checked baggage and overhead carry-on baggage fees charged by the major U.S. airlines on typical one-way fares.

Note: This analysis is based on 2023 data and does not take into account recent baggage fee price hikes across multiple airlines. Our next analysis will happen in the fall of 2024.

Here's how they stacked up:

Spirit is a low-cost carrier, which means that the price you pay for the flight will include only the ticket itself. You will need to pay for everything you’d like to add such as bags, printing your boarding pass at the airport, selecting your seat, change fees, award redemption fees, meals on the flight, early boarding and more. The fees fluctuate based on when you purchase these add-ons, so a bag purchased at booking will be cheaper than if you purchase it at the gate.

Because Spirit is a low-cost carrier, you will need to pay extra for everything other than the flight. So, if you’ll be checking a bag, printing your boarding pass at the airport, purchasing food on the plane and paying for a seat up front, you’ll end up paying for each of these add-ons, which will increase the price of your ticket. If you often fly with Spirit and value these extras, the carrier offers the Spirit Saver$ Club, which provides discounts on bags, seats and more.

Spirit will assign a random seat to you during the check-in process. However, if you’d like to choose your own seat or select one at booking, you will need to pay for it. The proximity to the front of the plane also affects the cost of the seat. If you’re interested in the Big Front Seat, which is Spirit’s equivalent of domestic first class, it will be cheaper to purchase this seat in advance instead of at the airport.

You are allowed one personal item (e.g., purse, small backpack) free of charge. The dimensions must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) including handles and wheels. If your backpack is larger, refer to the carry-on and checked bag price list.

The bottom line

Book your $26 flight, but expect to spend a lot more than that.

You might have thought you could get away without a carry-on when you booked the flight, but as you start packing, you realize you’ll need a small rolling suitcase. That’s an extra $45 at check-in.

You don’t have a printer, so you’ll have to pay $2 to print your boarding pass at the airport kiosk.

You don’t want the middle seat so you accept you’ll pay $14 to choose an aisle, but why pay $14 for an aisle when it’s only $6 more for the exit row aisle? You pay $20 to choose a good seat.

Once flying, you pay $3 for a ginger ale. While your credit card is already out, you throw in Sea Salt PopCorners for $4.

Suddenly, your $26 flight has become $100. That’s not even including a number of other fees you might end up paying too, like pet fees, priority boarding, cancellation fees and more.

Don’t be fooled into thinking Spirit has ultra-cheap fares. Traveling with Spirit is cheap if you pack uber-light — and pack your own snacks. For budget travelers who can plan ahead, Spirit can be a deal. But pay attention when booking, because your “cheap” Spirit flight might cost more than a ticket on any of the other airlines.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Can You Choose Your Seat on Spirit Airlines? An In-depth Guide

Published on: September 12, 2023 Written by Karim Niru / Fact-checked by Evander Mac

Yes, on Spirit Airlines, you can choose your seat. However, there is a fee involved.

Spirit Airlines, a popular budget airline, has a distinct seating policy that travelers should be aware of. When you book a flight with Spirit, the system can automatically and randomly assign you a seat during check-in at no extra cost. While this option saves money, it doesn’t guarantee that groups or families will sit together.

Many passengers inquire if they can change their seats on Spirit after checking in. The answer is yes, but it may come with additional costs. If you have specific preferences, such as window or aisle seats , or if you wish to ensure that you sit beside your travel companions, it’s advisable to select and purchase your desired seat in advance. Prices for this service start at a nominal fee and can fluctuate based on the route, the seat’s location in the aircraft, and the timing of your purchase. A glance at the Spirit Airlines seat map can help you make an informed decision.

Furthermore, there are discussions, like on platforms such as Reddit, regarding how Spirit assigns seats . Many wonder about the charges for both seats and bags. It’s notable that while there are fees associated with seat selection and baggage, these enable Spirit to offer competitive ticket prices. If passengers opt not to pay for seat selection, they’re leaving their seating up to chance.

Curious about more details? We invite you to read the detailed article below for an in-depth look at Spirit Airlines’ seating policies .

The Spirit Airlines Seating Policy: A Broad Overview

Ever wondered what makes Spirit Airlines stand out from the rest? The airline operates a bit differently, and their seating arrangements are no exception. It’s not your everyday airline process, so let’s dive into it, shall we?

Spirit Airlines offers a blend of free seat assignments and paid options. Think of it like choosing between making your own sandwich or buying one pre-made. Both have their merits.

The Free Seat Assignment: Leaving it to Chance

There’s a bit of thrill in unpredictability. By not choosing a seat in advance on Spirit, the airline will assign you a seat at no additional cost . It’s like rolling the dice and seeing what you get. The plus side? You save money. The flip side? You might not sit next to your travel buddy. So, is the gamble worth it to you?

Opting for Paid Seat Selection: Peace of Mind vs. Pocket Pinch

Now, if rolling the dice isn’t your style, Spirit has you covered. For a fee, you can select your seat. Whether you’re eyeing that window view or need easy aisle access, there’s a price to make sure it’s yours.

Comparative Charges for Different Seat Positions

The price varies based on the route and your seat’s location . So, ready to spend a little for that peace of mind?

Spirit Airlines’ Seat Map: Navigating the Best Spot

Picture this: a map, but instead of cities and towns, it has seats. Spirit Airlines offers a seat map for travelers to select the best spot. It’s like playing a game of Tetris, ensuring your block fits perfectly. Need extra legroom? The map will guide you. Prefer a seat away from the lavatory? The seat map’s your friend.

Changing Your Seat Post Check-In

Life is unpredictable. Plans change. Similarly, you might want to swap your seat after check-in. Spirit does offer this flexibility, but it might cost you a tad more. Think of it as a last-minute ticket to your favorite show. Rare, but obtainable for a price.

Group Travel on Spirit: Ensuring Everyone Sits Together

Traveling in a pack? You wouldn’t want to scatter across the plane, right? Spirit Airlines has policies around group bookings. It’s a bit like reserving a big table at a restaurant. A tad tricky but possible. The trick is to book well in advance and choose seats together. Wouldn’t it be nice to chat with your friend or family during the flight rather than a random stranger?

Comparative Analysis: Spirit Airlines vs. Other Budget Carriers

While Spirit Airlines has its unique seating policies, how does it fare against other budget carriers? The above bar chart gives a visual insight. Blue represents Spirit’s charges, and red denotes other carriers. Notice the difference?

Cost Calculator: Estimating Your Total Flight Expense

Total Cost: $0

Use the above calculator to gauge your overall flight cost with Spirit. Just input the individual prices, and voila, get your estimated total!

Community Insights: What Travelers Are Saying

Wondering what the buzz is about Spirit’s seating policy? Various platforms, like Reddit, are rife with traveler tales. The consensus? A mixed bag. Some find the free seat assignment thrilling, while others swear by paid selections. It’s like pineapple on pizza – a matter of personal preference.

Maximizing Value: Tips to Save Money & Secure Comfort

Want some pro tips? Here you go:

• Booking Strategies: Early birds often get the best deals. Why not apply the same to seat booking ?
• Cost Breakdown: Sometimes, buying bundles can save you a penny or two.

The pie chart showcases a breakdown of costs associated with various booking options. The blue portion represents ticket prices, red for seat selection fees, and yellow for other additional charges.

What Does Spirit Airlines Offer for Seat Assignments?

Spirit Airlines provides passengers with the option to select seats of their choice for a fee. Alternatively, seats can be randomly assigned at check-in at no extra charge.

Are Spirit Airlines Seats Reclining or Fixed in Position?

Spirit Airlines seats are fixed in a non-reclining position. While this may hinder some travelers seeking enhanced seat comfort , it allows the airline to optimize space and offer lower fares. It’s advisable to bring a neck pillow or other amenities for added relaxation during your flight.

Are There Additional Costs for Choosing a Seat on Other Airlines?

Yes, on many other airlines, there are often additional costs associated with choosing a seat on a flight. This can have a significant impact on the overall cost of the trip. It’s important for travelers to carefully consider the impact of seat selection when budgeting for their flights.

How Can I Choose My Seat on Spirit Airlines?

When flying with Spirit Airlines, selecting your seat can be done during the booking process or by managing your reservation online. To choose your 19E seat Alaska Airlines , simply log into your account, navigate to your booked flight, and follow the instructions to select your desired seat. Remember, early selection allows you to secure your preferred seating arrangement.

Do Seat Sizes on Spirit Airlines Differ from Other Airlines?

When it comes to airline seating, many passengers wonder if there are smaller seats on spirit airline s compared to other airlines. While seat sizes vary across different airlines, Spirit Airlines is known for offering narrower and more compact seating options, which some travelers may find less spacious.

How Does Spirit Airlines Assign Seats?

If passengers don’t choose to purchase a seat selection, Spirit Airlines will assign a random seat during the check-in process . This ensures every traveler has a designated spot on the flight.

Are You Required to Buy Seats on Spirit Airlines?

No, you aren’t obligated to purchase a seat selection. However, if you opt-out, you’ll receive a randomly assigned seat at check-in.

Why Does Spirit Charge for Seats and Bags?

Spirit Airlines operates as an ultra-low-cost carrier. To keep ticket prices low, they offer a base fare and then charge separately for additional services, such as seat selection and bags.

Can You Change Seats on Spirit After Checking In?

Yes, passengers can change their seat assignments even after checking in. However, it might come with a fee, and seat availability might be limited.

Is Spirit Airlines Seat Selection Different from Other Airlines?

Every airline has its own policies. Spirit, being an ultra-low-cost carrier, offers seat selection as an additional service, which is a common approach among budget airlines.

Does Spirit Allow Travelers to Sit Together?

Spirit Airlines allows passengers to choose seats together if they purchase the seat selection option. Without this purchase, there’s no guarantee that travelers will be seated next to each other.

Spirit Airlines offers travelers a unique blend of choices for seat assignments. While some might love the thrill of random assignments, others prefer the predictability of paid selections. Armed with this guide, you now have the tools to make an informed decision. So, can you pick seats on Spirit? Absolutely! But whether you leave it to chance or play it safe is all up to you. Happy flying!

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Hi everyone!

I tried searching for this answer but could not find it!

If I fly spirit and don’t choose seats what are the chances by children will be with me? I have a 15 and 9 year old so I’m concerned about the little one.

It’s $445 in seat fees! Yup you read that right $445 for the cheapest seats bc of layovers and them charging for each one plus it being a holiday week

My only other option is to fly delta with the second leg being silver airways…..I don’t know which ones worse haha the $445 seat fees or chancing things going right with silver

Any advice is appreciated!

Yes the seat fees add up, but by paying them you should be able to be seated together. If you don't, you're taking your chances.

This is Spirit's policy:

"Spirit will randomly assign you a seat at check-in for free, but we can't guarantee that you'll get to sit with your friends or family. You can purchase a seat assignment and choose the seat you really want. "

If you are concerned, you should purchase seat assignments in advance.

Thank you guys!!!!

They seemed cheaper but ended up being the same as delta once you add all that in

Yup-- that's what I get when I add in everything else.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Frontier and Spirit Airlines Just Eliminated Most Change and Cancellation Fees — What to Know

U.S. budget carriers say they are entering an era of price transparency.

Two of the largest budget carriers in the U.S. have eliminated nearly all change and cancellation fees — making it easier for travelers to modify their flights than ever before.

On Friday, Frontier Airlines introduced four new fare classes: basic, economy, premium, and business. Each level offers varying amenities like seat selection and baggage, while the three highest fare classes come with the new key benefit of no change and cancellation fees. 

While changing a flight on Frontier is now free for those classes, travelers must pay any differences in airfare. On the other hand, canceling a trip altogether (more than 24 hours after booking) will give fliers a future trip credit with Frontier.

"Today marks the beginning of a new era for Frontier — one with transparency in our prices, no change fees, and the lowest total price," Frontier’s CEO, Biffle, said in a statement . "This is 'The New Frontier,' and we are committed to offering more than the lowest fares — we deliver the best price for all the options you want and the customer support you need when you need it.”

Spirit quickly followed its competitor by rolling out the new change and cancellation policies on its website late Friday. Travelers can now enjoy full flexibility in modifying their flights, subject to fare differences and travel credits depending on the booking. Modifying a Spirit flight previously cost travelers up to $119 in fees — often more than the cost of the airfare itself.  

“As we have said, Spirit has been evaluating changes to our product and strategy that will help us better compete, elevate the guest experience, and return to profitability,” the airline shared in a statement. “We are excited to roll out a no change and no cancel fee policy for all guests effective May 17. This new policy is among the best in the industry because it applies to each and every guest. We have many other enhancements in the works and look forward to sharing more soon.”

The moves from these low-cost airlines are no coincidence as the Department of Transportation (DOT) ruled in April that U.S. airlines must disclose so-called “junk fees,” including checking a bag or changing flights. Major airlines including American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Hawaiian, and Alaska, along with lobbying group Airlines for America, filed suit against the DOT last week to overturn the ruling.

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Spirit Airlines has joined Frontier in dropping change and cancellation fees

Both low-cost carriers completely eliminated charges for changing or cancelling flights amid a government crackdown on "junk fees".

Spirit Airlines is the latest carrier to do away with cancellation and change fees, as more and more airlines get rid of the extra charges.

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The policy change, first reported by SimpleFlying on Sunday, allows customers to modify and cancel their flights at no extra cost. “Change fees are now gone for all,” and “cancellation fees are canceled for everyone,” reads Spirit’s website.

Before getting rid of the fees, passengers had to pay $119 to change tickets within 6 days of departure, $99 for changes made between 7 and 30 days before departure, and $69 for changes made 31 to 59 days prior.

The low-cost carrier has had a tough year, after a judge approved a U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit aimed at blocking Spirit’s $3.8 billion merger with JetBlue over antitrust concerns. The airlines scrapped the deal, and Spirit’s dismal balance sheet has investors worried about its future prospects.

In a call with analysts following the company’s first-quarter earnings report, CEO Ted Christie called the airline industry a “rigged game,” particularly against smaller, non-legacy carriers that were particularly affected by the pandemic.

The elimination of change and cancellation fees at Spirit follows a similar move by low-cost rival Frontier Airlines. On Friday, Frontier announced several changes aimed at improving price transparency.

During the pandemic, major airlines including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines permanently did away with change fees on standard economy and premium cabin tickets.

The changes come on the heels of new U.S. Department of Transportation rules announced last month, which will require airlines to notify consumers upfront about fees for checked and carry-on bags, along with costs for reservation changes or cancellations, as part of the Biden administration’s crackdown on junk fees in the airline industry. The agency estimated that consumers will save more than $500 million each year that they currently pay in airline fees.

In October, the White House announced a new proposed rule to prohibit these so-called junk fees — hidden and misleading fees — and require companies to show full prices upfront. The Federal Trade Commission estimates that junk fees cost American consumers tens of billions of dollars each year in unexpected costs.

Industry trade group Airlines for America, alongside a coalition of major U.S. airlines, including American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Alaska and Hawaiian, filed a lawsuit last week against the Transportation Department in an effort to overturn the rule — a move that U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said left him “speechless.”

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The NEW Frontier!

Introducing NEW Transparent Pricing, No Change/Cancel Fees, and Enhanced Customer Benefits and Support.

NEW, TRANSPARENT, BUDGET-FRIENDLY BUNDLE OPTIONS

The New Frontier' delivers an even better value for your money - from more transparent pricing and no change fees to an enhanced customer experience. This transformation underscores our commitment to providing exceptional value and a superior travel experience.The New Frontier includes:

• *New*  Clear, Upfront Pricing and Options: New Economy, Premium, and Business options include benefits like no change fees, bags, seat assignments, and more.
• *New* No Change Fees: Zero change or cancellation fees for Economy, Premium, and Business customers, offering greater flexibility.
• *New* Expanded Customer Benefits and Support: Flight credit expiration extended to 12 months, enhanced live phone support, and more.
• *New* 'For Less' Price Guarantee: Customers who find a lower price elsewhere can receive 2,500 FRONTIER Miles.

BROWSE FLIGHTS

NEW! NO CHANGE/CANCEL FEES

We are boosting our travel flexibility by eliminating change and cancellation fees for customers who select Economy, Premium, or Business bundles, underscoring Frontier’s commitment to meeting customer expectations for flexible, stress-free travel options.

ECONOMY BUNDLE

Personal Item

Carry-On Bag

Standard Seat Selection

Zone 1 Boarding

No Change/Cancel Fee

PREMIUM BUNDLE

Premium Seat Selection

Board First with Overhead Bin Space

BUSINESS BUNDLE

(2) Checked Bags (50lbs each)

UpFront Plus Seat Selection

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE WITH OUR "FOR LESS" GUARANTEE

We are also introducing the “For Less” guarantee, reinforcing our commitment to providing the best value in air travel. If you find a lower price for a comparable flight on the same route and date, Frontier will award the customer 2,500 FRONTIER Miles after they have completed their journey with Frontier. This guarantee ensures that customers always receive the best deal possible when flying with Frontier. More details are available   here .

More premium experience with UpFront Plus seating

We continue to improve your options with our recently launched UpFront Plus seating, which gives you plenty of extra room with a blocked middle seat in the first row of the plane.

DISCOVER UPGRADED SEATING OPTIONS

EXPANDED CUSTOMER BENEFITS AND SUPPORT

• Extended Validity of Flight Credits: We have increased the validity of flight credits from three to twelve months, giving customers greater flexibility.
• Additional Support Options: We are reintroducing live phone support for customers within 24 hours of  flight or those with Elite status.  For more information visit Customer Service. 
• Improved Communication and Technology: This year, we are enhancing both its technology and communication. We’re upgrading our app and website to simplify your travel planning, and improving how we keep you updated on travel days.

We are dedicated to continuously enhancing our offerings and ensuring that our customers enjoy a seamless and affordable travel experience. It’s our mission to keep bringing new benefits, constantly striving to exceed expectations and elevate every journey. The New Frontier, is all about bringing you more than savings – it's about enhancing your travel experience every time you choose Frontier Airlines.  

Travel | Frontier Airlines breaks away from ultra-low…

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Travel | san jose: man shot and wounded by police after gun call, travel | frontier airlines breaks away from ultra-low cost ticket model, new fare categories include carry-on bags, seat selection and no cancellation fees..

Frontier Airlines, famous for deeply discounted ticket prices and bare-bones service, is adding new fare categories that include carry-on bags, seat selection and no cancellation fees as it seeks to appeal to US travelers who want more upscale options when they fly.

Frontier, a unit of Frontier Group Holdings Inc., is now offering four fare and service categories basic, economy, premium and business with varying benefits, the carrier said in a statement Friday. It’s also dropping change and cancellation fees for all but its lowest level of basic fares, improving live phone support for passengers and extending to one year the expiration time for flight credits.

Fares for the economy option will start at $30 more than the basic category, with premium at least $50 more and business starting at $100 more, Frontier said.

Deep fare discounters succeeded for years with rapid growth and low operating costs that allowed them to make money with charges for anything extra, like coffee or bottled water during flights, printed boarding passes and carry-on bags. Such “ancillary” costs often exceeded the ticket price.

Frontier’s new pricing options are now available only on its website; they will be added to its mobile app in the future. New business and premium categories, which have more leg room, will only be for the first two rows of Frontier’s planes. Business fares offer the airline’s UpFront Plus seating, which blocks off the middle seat in each of those rows.

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