This article is written for informational purposes only, and does not endorse nor does it express an opinion regarding Spirit Airlines. -- Sue Price, Price Travel Partners
Spirit Airlines has some really low fares for airfare, but please, please, PLEASE, read about their "optional fees" before you book. Charges that they consider to be "optional" are included at no extra charge on many other airlines. For example, Spirit's standard charge for a carry-on bag is $30-$45, depending on whether you pay the charge online/in advance or in person/at the gate. Their standard charge for the first checked bag is $28-$45. If you want the airport agent to print your boarding pass for you, that will cost $5 extra (this charge goes up to $10, effective April 16, 2013). If you want an onboard drink or snack, that will cost you between $1-$15. Seat assignments? Extra. You CAN take a couple of surfboards with you for only $100.
Spirit Airlines does offer a "$9 Fare Club Membership, which discounts baggage fees and entitles its members to members-only fares. The membership can be used by family members traveling on the same ticket, and includes private offers on other travel services such as hotels and car rentals. Again….read the fine print. The $9 Fare Club Membership is per person, and only for the 60-day trial period. The membership automatically renews at $59.95 per member per year.
Is the membership worth it? If you frequently fly between the cities Spirit serves, and if you travel light and don't fly on an empty stomach, you can get some real bargains compared to other airlines' prices. Unfortunately, availability might be limited, and fares are offered for selected dates, so flexibility and knowledge is key.
Their policies are quite transparent…just a little different.
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