Why do people say not to fly spirit?

People often advise against flying Spirit Airlines primarily due to its misleading fee system and its impact on the actual cost of travel. While Spirit may initially show incredibly low prices, these "bare fares" frequently include only a small personal item and the flight ticket itself, leading to unexpected additional charges for services that many travelers consider standard.

The Misleading Fee System

Spirit Airlines is widely criticized for its pricing structure, which can make a seemingly cheap flight much more expensive than anticipated. The initial price displayed, known as a "bare fare," is intentionally low to attract customers. However, this base price comes with significant limitations.

Understanding the "Bare Fare"

The fundamental issue lies in what is not included in the advertised "bare fare." When you see a low price from Spirit, it typically covers only:

• The flight ticket: Your seat on the plane.
• One small personal item: This must fit under the seat in front of you and typically has strict size restrictions (e.g., a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag).

Anything beyond these two basic inclusions will incur additional fees, often adding up quickly.

Common Additional Fees

Many services that are standard or included with other airlines are considered extras on Spirit, for which you must pay. These can include:

• Carry-on bags: Even a standard carry-on suitcase that would fit in an overhead bin on another airline costs extra.
• Checked bags: Fees for checked luggage can vary based on weight, size, and when you purchase the baggage allowance (e.g., online versus at the airport).
• Seat selection: If you want to choose your seat, whether for comfort, to sit with companions, or simply to ensure an aisle or window, you will need to pay an additional fee. Otherwise, a seat will be randomly assigned at check-in.
• Printing boarding passes: If you don't check in online and print your boarding pass beforehand, or use their mobile app, there can be a fee for an agent to print it for you at the airport.
• In-flight refreshments: Snacks and beverages are not complimentary and must be purchased on board.

This unbundling of services means that while the initial ticket price might be attractive, the final cost of your trip, once you account for desired amenities, can often rival or even exceed that of a traditional airline.

Impact on Travelers

The primary reason for the negative sentiment is the frustration and surprise many travelers experience when they realize the true cost of their Spirit flight. What appears to be a budget-friendly option can quickly become comparable to other airlines once all necessary fees are added, leading to a perception of hidden costs or a lack of transparency.

This table illustrates the difference between what's typically included versus what costs extra:

For these reasons, many people advise against flying Spirit unless travelers are fully aware of and prepared for the airline's fee structure and are willing to travel with minimal luggage and amenities.