Spirit Airlines vs Competitors: A Budget Traveller’s Guide

Spirit Airlines vs. Competitors: How It Stacks Up for Budget Travelers

Budget travel in the United States is the main demand of travelers. They love to find the cheap tickets. There are many leading players in the aviation industry for budget travel, which are known for the ultra-low-cost model. Hence, while looking for cheap flights, you must know the big players in this industry. We are talking about Spirit Airlines. This is the major and low-cost airline in the United States, and the airline is offering affordable travel tickets to the passengers. However, baggage fees and seat selection fees are pretty much higher for the people. Budget carriers are always affordable in terms of airfare but expensive in terms of baggage fees and seat selection. This blog is all about the budget carriers that are against or the big competition for Spirit Airlines flights right now in the market.

1. Pricing: Spirit Airlines Leads the Pack

This is the cheapest airline in the United States. In the market or industry, right now, the airline is offering the lowest airfare prices in comparison to other low-cost airlines such as JetBlue and Southwest. The low prices are the best thing for the passengers, but there are additional fees on the baggage, onboard amenities and seat selection. Southwest, Frontier, and JetBlue are the main competitors for this airline because Southwest offers free two checked bags with no change fee. On the other hand, JetBlue provides a more inclusive experience with free in-flight entertainment and snacks, but its fares are typically higher than Spirit.

2. Baggage Policies: Pay as You Go

Spirit Airlines offers the option of “pay for what you use” for the baggage. However, passengers can carry one personal item, but a carry-on and checked bag fee are applicable. The main competitors of the airline baggage fee are Southwest and Frontier Airlines. Southwest offers the two checked bags for all passengers and Frontier offers both carry-on and checked baggage in terms of baggage fee. On the other hand, JetBlue includes one carry-on bag free.

You must pack light if you want to travel at an affordable price with Spirit flights because luggage is not free. You can carry all the essentials in one personal item.

3. In-Flight Experience: Minimal vs. Comfort

The airline offers a no-frills experience to the passengers, and for the meals, you must pay. Complimentary food and drinks are not part of the Spirit Airlines flight. On the other hand, Southwest is the big competition in terms of in-flight meals and snacks because this airline offers free snacks and drinks. Also, with Southwest you can enjoy the free live TV and free Wi-Fi for free but Frontier charges for snacks and drinks and offers limited in-flight entertainment. JetBlue offers complimentary snacks, drinks, and free Wi-Fi on all flights, along with seatback screens for entertainment.

4. Seat Comfort: You Get What You Pay For

Spirit Airlines seats are comfortable and cost-effective. Therefore, if you are thinking of choosing this airline, then the seats have limited legroom, though passengers can upgrade to the Big Front Seat for more space. On the other hand, Southwest offers decent legroom and allows free seat selection on a first-come, first-served basis. Frontier seats have tight seating but offer stretch seating for an additional fee.

The Bottom Line

Spirit Airlines is a leading ultra-low-cost carrier offering affordable airfare options for budget travelers. It stands out for its low base fares but compensates by charging additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and onboard services. When compared to competitors like Southwest, Frontier, and JetBlue, Spirit leads in pricing but falls short on inclusivity and amenities. Southwest offers free checked bags and snacks, while JetBlue provides a premium in-flight experience with complimentary entertainment and Wi-Fi. Frontier matches Spirit's low-cost model but also charges for most extras. Spirit is ideal for travelers prioritizing cost over comfort, especially if they pack light and skip additional services.

FAQs

What makes Spirit Airlines different from its competitors?

Spirit Airlines offers ultra-low base fares with a pay-for-what-you-use model, charging separately for baggage, seat selection, and onboard services.

How does Spirit Airlines' baggage policy compare to competitors?

Spirit allows one free personal item but charges for carry-on and checked bags. Southwest offers two free checked bags, while JetBlue includes one free carry-on.

Which airline provides the best in-flight experience?

JetBlue leads in in-flight comfort with complimentary snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and seatback screens. Spirit offers a no-frills experience without complimentary amenities.

Are Spirit Airlines seats comfortable?

Spirit seats are functional but have limited legroom. Travelers can upgrade to the Big Front Seat for more space and comfort.

Why is Spirit Airlines popular among budget travelers?

Spirit Airlines’ low base fares make it a top choice for cost-conscious travelers, especially those who pack light and skip extras like seat selection.

How does Southwest Airlines compare to Spirit?

Southwest offers slightly higher base fares but includes two free checked bags, free snacks, and no change fees, providing better overall value for some travelers.

What are Frontier Airlines' key differences from Spirit?

Frontier Airlines shares Spirit's low-cost model but offers stretch seating for an extra fee and charges for most onboard services, similar to Spirit.

Does Spirit Airlines provide in-flight entertainment?

No, Spirit Airlines does not provide complimentary in-flight entertainment. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own devices preloaded with content.

Is Spirit Airlines suitable for families?

Spirit can be budget-friendly for families traveling light, but extras like seat selection to sit together and baggage fees can add up.

Who should fly with Spirit Airlines?

Spirit Airlines is best for solo travelers and budget-conscious flyers who prioritize low fares over added comfort or amenities.