Spirit Airlines Economy Seats: What To Expect

Hey guys! So, you're thinking about flying Spirit Airlines and wondering about those economy seats, huh? Let's dive deep into what you can expect. Flying Spirit can be a great way to save some serious cash, but it's also good to know exactly what you're getting into, especially when it comes to seating. This comprehensive guide will cover everything from seat size and comfort to extra fees and tips for snagging the best spot on the plane. Trust me, with a little planning, you can make your Spirit flight a lot more enjoyable!

Understanding Spirit's Bare Fare

Before we even get to the seats, let's quickly touch on Spirit's business model: the Bare Fare. The Bare Fare is essentially the rock-bottom price for just a seat on the plane. Everything else – and I mean everything – is an extra charge. This includes checked bags, carry-on bags (yes, even those!), seat selection, snacks, drinks, and even printing your boarding pass at the airport. Knowing this upfront is crucial because those extra fees can quickly add up and negate the initial savings if you're not careful.

What This Means for Your Seat

So, how does the Bare Fare relate to your seat? Well, unless you pay extra to select your seat in advance, Spirit will assign you a seat at random during check-in. This means you could end up anywhere on the plane, and if you're traveling with friends or family, there's a good chance you'll be separated. If sitting together is important to you, you'll definitely want to factor in the cost of seat selection when comparing Spirit's prices to other airlines.

The Nitty-Gritty: Seat Size and Comfort

Okay, let's get down to the details you really want to know: how comfy (or not-so-comfy) are those Spirit economy seats? Generally speaking, Spirit's seats are known for being quite basic. They're pre-reclined, meaning they don't recline at all. This is one of the ways Spirit maximizes space on their planes, allowing them to squeeze in more seats. The pitch (legroom) is typically around 28 inches, which is less than what you'll find on many other airlines. Seat width is usually around 17.75 inches, which is fairly standard.

Breaking it down:

• Seat Pitch: Approximately 28 inches.
• Seat Width: Approximately 17.75 inches.
• Recline: None – seats are pre-reclined.

For shorter flights, this might not be a huge deal, but if you're flying for several hours, that lack of legroom and recline can definitely start to take its toll. If you're tall or just prefer a bit more space, you might want to consider upgrading to a Big Front Seat (more on that later) or paying extra for an exit row seat.

Navigating Seat Selection and Fees

Alright, so you know you might want to choose your seat. Let's talk about how to do it and what it'll cost you. Seat selection on Spirit is an extra fee, and the price varies depending on the flight, the seat location, and how far in advance you're booking. Generally, seats closer to the front of the plane and those with extra legroom (like exit row seats) will cost more.

How to Select Your Seat

You can select your seat during the booking process on Spirit's website or through their mobile app. You can also add seat selection later by managing your booking online. Keep in mind that seat prices can fluctuate, so it's often a good idea to book your seat sooner rather than later if you have a specific preference.

Understanding the Fees

The cost of seat selection can range anywhere from $5 to $50 or more per flight segment, depending on the factors mentioned above. It's worth checking the price for different seat options to see what fits your budget and comfort level. Also, remember that if you don't select a seat, Spirit will assign one to you at random during check-in, and you won't be able to change it unless you pay a fee.

Maximizing Comfort in Economy

Even if you're sticking with a standard economy seat, there are still things you can do to make your flight more comfortable. Here are a few tips and tricks:

Pack Smart

Bring a small backpack or personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. This will allow you to keep essentials like your phone, headphones, and a book within easy reach without having to constantly access the overhead bin. A neck pillow and eye mask can also make a big difference, especially on longer flights.

Dress Comfortably

Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. Avoid anything too restrictive that might make you feel cramped or uncomfortable during the flight.

Stay Hydrated

Air travel can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it up after you pass through security to avoid paying for expensive bottled water at the airport.

Bring Your Own Entertainment

Spirit doesn't offer free entertainment, so be sure to load up your devices with movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts before your flight. Don't forget your headphones!

Consider an Upgrade

If you're really concerned about comfort, consider upgrading to a Big Front Seat. These seats are significantly larger and more comfortable than the standard economy seats, and they come with extra legroom and a wider seat. While they're more expensive, they can be a worthwhile investment if you want to arrive at your destination feeling refreshed.

The Big Front Seat Option

Let's talk more about those Big Front Seats! These are basically Spirit's version of a first-class or premium economy seat, although they don't come with all the bells and whistles you might expect on other airlines. The Big Front Seats are located at the front of the plane and offer significantly more space and comfort than the standard economy seats.

What You Get

• Wider Seats: Big Front Seats are typically around 20 inches wide, compared to the 17.75 inches of the standard seats.
• More Legroom: You'll get a generous 36 inches of pitch (legroom), which is a huge improvement over the 28 inches in economy.
• More Comfortable: The seats are generally more padded and comfortable than the standard seats.

While you won't get free drinks, snacks, or other premium amenities, the extra space and comfort can be well worth the cost, especially on longer flights. Think of it as an affordable way to upgrade your flying experience without breaking the bank.

Exit Row Seats: Are They Worth It?

Another option for extra legroom is to snag an exit row seat. These seats are located in the rows next to the emergency exits and offer significantly more legroom than the standard seats. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before booking an exit row seat:

Exit Row Requirements

• You must be at least 15 years old.
• You must be able to understand and follow instructions in English.
• You must be willing and able to assist in an emergency evacuation.
• You cannot have any mobility issues that would prevent you from opening the emergency exit.
• You cannot be traveling with an infant or small child.

If you meet these requirements, an exit row seat can be a great way to stretch out and enjoy a more comfortable flight. However, be aware that you won't be able to store any personal items at your feet during takeoff and landing, as they could obstruct the emergency exit.

Tips for Snagging the Best Deals on Seats

Okay, so you're ready to book your Spirit flight and want to get the best possible deal on your seat. Here are a few tips to help you save money:

Book in Advance

As with most things in travel, booking your seat in advance is usually cheaper than waiting until the last minute. Seat prices tend to increase as the flight gets closer, so it's a good idea to book your seat as soon as you know your travel dates.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

If you have some flexibility with your travel dates, try searching for flights on different days of the week. Mid-week flights (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) are often cheaper than weekend flights, and the same can be true for seat selection fees.

Check for Sales and Promotions

Spirit occasionally offers sales and promotions on seat selection, so be sure to check their website and social media channels for deals. You might be able to snag a discounted seat if you're lucky.

Consider a Bundle

Spirit offers various bundles that include things like seat selection, checked bags, and priority boarding. These bundles can sometimes be a better deal than purchasing each item separately, so it's worth comparing the prices.

Weighing the Costs and Benefits

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pay extra for seat selection on Spirit Airlines comes down to your personal preferences and budget. If you're on a tight budget and don't mind the possibility of being assigned a random seat, you can save money by skipping seat selection altogether. However, if you value comfort and want to ensure that you're sitting with your travel companions, paying for seat selection might be worth the investment.

Questions to Ask Yourself

• How long is my flight?
• Am I traveling with anyone who I want to sit next to?
• How important is legroom to me?
• What is my budget?

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to pay extra for seat selection on your next Spirit Airlines flight.

Final Thoughts

Flying Spirit Airlines can be a fantastic way to save money on travel, but it's important to understand their Bare Fare model and the extra fees that come with it. When it comes to seats, you have options – from sticking with a randomly assigned seat to upgrading to a Big Front Seat or choosing an exit row for extra legroom. By planning ahead, packing smart, and considering your priorities, you can make your Spirit flight a comfortable and enjoyable experience, without breaking the bank. Safe travels, everyone!