I flew on Spirit from New York to Miami and found the carrier is a perfectly fine way to travel if you know how to avoid the extra fees

Taylor RainsNov 8, 2022, 19:05 IST

Taylor Rains/Insider

Spirit Airlines is commonly named one of the worst airlines in the US.
The carrier's name may soon be gone from the skies though due to a potential merger with JetBlue Airways.

Low-cost giant Spirit Airlines is infamous for its bare-bones yellow planes and costly add-on fees.

A Spirit Airlines Airbus A320 passenger jet taxis at the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.Robert Alexander/Getty Images

The carrier runs on an a-la-carte business model, meaning customers only get an unassigned seat and a personal item in the basic fare. For anything extra, like bags and inflight snacks, it'll cost — and there are strict size and weight limits.

Thomas Pallini/Insider

The carrier runs on an a-la-carte business model, meaning customers only get an unassigned seat and a personal item in the basic fare. For anything extra, like bags and inflight snacks, it'll cost — and there are strict size and weight limits.

For veteran travelers like myself, flying Spirit is no big deal because I know what to expect and the consequences of not pre-booking add-ons — particularly bags — before getting to the airport.

Spirit Airlines bag size and weight checkers at LGA Terminal A.Taylor Rains/Insider

For veteran travelers like myself, flying Spirit is no big deal because I know what to expect and the consequences of not pre-booking add-ons — particularly bags — before getting to the airport.

But, for those looking for a cheap flight with little experience traveling on a budget airline, it may come as a shock when you're asked to pony up hundreds of dollars for luggage at the ticket counter or gate.

Spirit Airlines ticket counter at Santa Ana, California, airport.Thomas Pallini/Insider

But, for those looking for a cheap flight with little experience traveling on a budget airline, it may come as a shock when you're asked to pony up hundreds of dollars for luggage at the ticket counter or gate.

Despite its poor reputation, Spirit continues to fill its planes, with its 2022 load factor nearly that of 2019 at 83.3% and 84.8%, respectively, according to the carrier.

Load factor is the percent of aircraft seats filled by passengers, so plenty of people are still willing to fly the low-cost airline.Thomas Pallini/Insider

Despite its poor reputation, Spirit continues to fill its planes, with its 2022 load factor nearly that of 2019 at 83.3% and 84.8%, respectively, according to the carrier.

With its success and large fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft, Spirit garnered interest from Frontier Airlines and JetBlue Airways, which both bid to buy the carrier in early 2022.

Frontier Airlines made the first bid.Taylor Rains/Inside

With its success and large fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft, Spirit garnered interest from Frontier Airlines and JetBlue Airways, which both bid to buy the carrier in early 2022.

Although Frontier was first, JetBlue swooped in with an "unsolicited proposal" that Spirit ended up accepting, despite pushback from its union. The deal is worth $3.8 billion.

Marcus Mainka/Shutterstock

Although Frontier was first, JetBlue swooped in with an "unsolicited proposal" that Spirit ended up accepting, despite pushback from its union. The deal is worth $3.8 billion.

In October, Spirit shareholders agreed to the merger and expect to complete the regulatory process by the first half of 2024.

Spirit Airlines aircraft.Carlos Yudica/Shutterstock

With the movement, customers and experts are wondering how a potential merger could impact the network, fares, and overall experience, especially since JetBlue has amenity-heavy planes with free snacks, WiFi, and entertainment.

Inside JetBlue Airways' Airbus A321neoLR.Thomas Pallini/Insider

With the movement, customers and experts are wondering how a potential merger could impact the network, fares, and overall experience, especially since JetBlue has amenity-heavy planes with free snacks, WiFi, and entertainment.

Christopher Raite, a senior analyst at research firm Third Bridge, told Insider that fares could rise in places like Miami and New York where the two currently overlap routes.

JetBlue planesPhoto by STEFANI REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images

Christopher Raite, a senior analyst at research firm Third Bridge, told Insider that fares could rise in places like Miami and New York where the two currently overlap routes.

But, low-cost competitors like Frontier and Avelo Airlines may pressure JetBlue to keep ticket prices down in other markets, he further explained.

Avelo Airlines is a low-cost startup that launched in April 2021.Vincent Games/ILG Spotter

I flew on Spirit from New York to Miami to see the full no-frills experience and how it currently compares to JetBlue — here's how it went, and how I managed the add-on fees.

Flying on Spirit from New York to Miami.Taylor Rains/insider

I flew on Spirit from New York to Miami to see the full no-frills experience and how it currently compares to JetBlue — here's how it went, and how I managed the add-on fees.

My journey started with the booking process, which I think is the most important step to pay attention to if you want to avoid any unexpected costs. Spirit is very clear online that most amenities cost extra.

Some add-on options during the booking process.Taylor Rains/Insider

My journey started with the booking process, which I think is the most important step to pay attention to if you want to avoid any unexpected costs. Spirit is very clear online that most amenities cost extra.

I booked my flight about a month out on the airline's website, and the basic fare cost $32 one-way. Remember, this only got me an unassigned seat and a personal item, which must fit under my seat and not exceed 18x14x8 inches.

The personal item size measure.Taylor Rains/Insider

I booked my flight about a month out on the airline's website, and the basic fare cost $32 one-way. Remember, this only got me an unassigned seat and a personal item, which must fit under my seat and not exceed 18x14x8 inches.

While I can typically manage with just a small duffle for free, I brought a carry-on for this trip. The bag cost a whopping $60 one-way and could not exceed 22x18x10 inches.

My carry-on is 20 x 12 x 8 inches.Taylor Rains/Insider

While I can typically manage with just a small duffle for free, I brought a carry-on for this trip. The bag cost a whopping $60 one-way and could not exceed 22x18x10 inches.

A checked bag was cheaper, starting at $55. The lower price encourages people to check their luggage rather than carry on to create more space in the overhead bins.

Taylor Rains/Insider

The total one-way fare came to $103 with taxes and fees, which, shockingly, was more expensive than if I flew Delta Air Lines, which included a carry-on for $69 total.

Pricing on the day that I booked, which was October 5. Though, the Delta flight was from JFK, which is not my preferred airport.Taylor Rains/Insider

United Airlines' and JetBlue's fares were also cheaper since adding a carry-on for both was only $30, bringing the total one-way fares to about $93 and $99, respectively.

Pricing for other flights from the New York area.Taylor Rains/Insider

United Airlines' and JetBlue's fares were also cheaper since adding a carry-on for both was only $30, bringing the total one-way fares to about $93 and $99, respectively.

Granted, I prefer to fly out of LaGuardia, so United wouldn't be my first choice since it flies out of Newark, New Jersey, and the Delta flight from LaGuardia left at 7:05 a.m., so those details were taken into account.

Spirit Airlines terminal at LaGuardia. Construction was going on during my trip.Taylor Rains/Insider

Granted, I prefer to fly out of LaGuardia, so United wouldn't be my first choice since it flies out of Newark, New Jersey, and the Delta flight from LaGuardia left at 7:05 a.m., so those details were taken into account.

Despite the slightly higher fare, I was happy with Spirit's 3:49 p.m. departure from LaGuardia. And, if I didn't bring a carry-on, which I normally don't, the $32 one-way fare would be a no-brainer.

Spirit Airlines aircraft at the gate.EQRoy/Shutterstock

Despite the slightly higher fare, I was happy with Spirit's 3:49 p.m. departure from LaGuardia. And, if I didn't bring a carry-on, which I normally don't, the $32 one-way fare would be a no-brainer.

There are a few other add-on options during the booking process, like paying for seats or expedited security, but I skipped these since I don't care about the seat location and I already have TSA Pre-Check.

Some pricing options during booking.Taylor Rains/Insider

There are a few other add-on options during the booking process, like paying for seats or expedited security, but I skipped these since I don't care about the seat location and I already have TSA Pre-Check.

My journey officially started at around 2:00 p.m. at LaGuardia Airport on November 1. Spirit flies out of Terminal A, which is pretty run-down and small, but I like it because it's easy and quick to navigate.

Terminal A at LaGuardia.Taylor Rains/Insider

My journey officially started at around 2:00 p.m. at LaGuardia Airport on November 1. Spirit flies out of Terminal A, which is pretty run-down and small, but I like it because it's easy and quick to navigate.

When I walked in, there were check-in kiosks available to get a boarding pass, and a weigh station for checked luggage. Anything over 40 pounds is considered overweight, per Spirit.

Taylor Rains/Insider

When I walked in, there were check-in kiosks available to get a boarding pass, and a weigh station for checked luggage. Anything over 40 pounds is considered overweight, per Spirit.

There are also containers that check the dimensions of your luggage, though the agent did not ask me to measure my items. According to Spirit, checked bags that are more than 62 linear inches are considered oversized.

Taylor Rains/Insider

There are also containers that check the dimensions of your luggage, though the agent did not ask me to measure my items. According to Spirit, checked bags that are more than 62 linear inches are considered oversized.

Travelers will pay for any luggage not pre-booked or is oversized or overweight. These fees range from $69 to $100 at the ticket counter and will cost even more at the gate, so it's important to pay attention and arrive at the airport prepared.

The full list of prices for bags and equipment on my flight. This can be found by searching for your specific flight on the carrier's bag information page.Taylor Rains/Insider

Travelers will pay for any luggage not pre-booked or is oversized or overweight. These fees range from $69 to $100 at the ticket counter and will cost even more at the gate, so it's important to pay attention and arrive at the airport prepared.

After receiving my boarding pass, which is free at the kiosk, I cleared security and headed to the gate.

You can also get your boarding pass on the mobile app for free.Taylor Rains/Insider

The boarding area was small with only one bathroom, but I appreciated the short walk and there was space to sit and relax.

Taylor Rains/Insider

Boarding started around 3:00 p.m. for a 3:49 p.m. departure.

Taylor Rains/Insider

Because I paid for a carry-on, I was in the first boarding group — zone 1 — ensuring overhead bin space.

Taylor Rains/Insider

I walked down the aisle passing the Big Front Seat and extra legroom rows before arriving at seat 22A, which was randomly assigned at check-in.

Taylor Rains/Insider

I had the option to purchase a seat during and after check-in, which ranged from $8 to $83 depending on legroom and location, with the Big Front Seat being the most expensive.

The Big Front Seat on a previous Spirit flight in mid-2022.Taylor Rains/Insider

I had the option to purchase a seat during and after check-in, which ranged from $8 to $83 depending on legroom and location, with the Big Front Seat being the most expensive.

I've flown the business-like lounger before and, personally, I don't find it worth the money. They don't recline and it doesn't come with any added perks, like free food or drinks.

The headrests are also stationary, which is actually really uncomfortable.Taylor Rains/Insider

I've flown the business-like lounger before and, personally, I don't find it worth the money. They don't recline and it doesn't come with any added perks, like free food or drinks.

I was happy with my window seat, which was a lucky steal since I'm used to getting the middle seat as a solo traveler.

Taylor Rains/Insider

However, in typical low-cost fashion, the seat had just 28 inches of legroom. For someone who is only 5'3" tall and on the smaller size, the minimal space isn't a big deal.

Taylor Rains/Insider

However, in typical low-cost fashion, the seat had just 28 inches of legroom. For someone who is only 5'3" tall and on the smaller size, the minimal space isn't a big deal.

But, for someone like my best friend who towers at 6'3", it's probably worth it to pay for an extra legroom seat, like the exit row, which has up to 34 inches of pitch.

Taylor Rains/Insider

In addition to the hard seat, Spirit also offers travelers a tiny tray table, but that's about it. There is no inflight entertainment or power…

Taylor Rains/Insider

…no recline or headrests, and no seatback pocket.

Taylor Rains/Insider

Though, there was a small cubby above the tray table that was just big enough for paper pamphlets — a water bottle wouldn't fit, but a slim phone would.

Taylor Rains/Insider

But, there was no WiFi despite a QR code on the seatback saying there was, so I was pretty disappointed. WiFi is a relatively new addition to Spirit aircraft, and the service starts at $2.99 for browsing and $5.99 for streaming, when available.

Taylor Rains/Insider

But, there was no WiFi despite a QR code on the seatback saying there was, so I was pretty disappointed. WiFi is a relatively new addition to Spirit aircraft, and the service starts at $2.99 for browsing and $5.99 for streaming, when available.

Fortunately, I downloaded some movies and podcasts, so I had entertainment to pass the time on the three-hour flight.

Taylor Rains/Insider

After getting settled, I waited for the rest of the plane to board. I even lucked out with the middle seat being left open, so I had plenty of space to spread out without disturbing my aisle-seat neighbor.

I was able to put my personal item under the middle seat, giving me more legroom.Taylor Rains/Insider

After getting settled, I waited for the rest of the plane to board. I even lucked out with the middle seat being left open, so I had plenty of space to spread out without disturbing my aisle-seat neighbor.

While Spirit can sometimes be unreliable, my flight pushed back at 3:42 p.m. and we were in the air right on time, which was a refreshing treat after a summer of travel chaos.

Taylor Rains/Insider

While Spirit can sometimes be unreliable, my flight pushed back at 3:42 p.m. and we were in the air right on time, which was a refreshing treat after a summer of travel chaos.

For the inflight service, there was a menu with prices for buy-onboard snacks and beverages. Even water costs extra, so I always bring a refillable bottle onboard.

Taylor Rains/Insider

I ordered the cafe snack box, a Buzzballz Lotta Colada mixed drink, and a Diet Coke, totaling $24.

Taylor Rains/Insider

The snack box included fruit snacks, chocolate chip cookies, crackers, cheese spread, almonds, and a wet wipe. The food was a filling enough lunch despite the hefty $9 price.

Taylor Rains/Insider

The snack box included fruit snacks, chocolate chip cookies, crackers, cheese spread, almonds, and a wet wipe. The food was a filling enough lunch despite the hefty $9 price.

Meanwhile, the $11 cocktail was actually pretty tasty — yet surprisingly strong.

Taylor Rains/Insider

Overall, my experience was exactly as expected. I got from point A to point B efficiently with no issues, arriving about 20 minutes ahead of schedule.

Taylor Rains/Insider

Funny enough, we departed right after a JetBlue plane. But, having flown the New York-based airline dozens of times, I can say Spirit's product is not much comparatively.

Taylor Rains/Insider

Funny enough, we departed right after a JetBlue plane. But, having flown the New York-based airline dozens of times, I can say Spirit's product is not much comparatively.

JetBlue seats are more padded, and the aircraft has inflight TV screens, complimentary WiFi, snacks, and drinks, and much more legroom in regular economy — at least four inches more than Spirit.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR.Thomas Pallini/Insider

JetBlue seats are more padded, and the aircraft has inflight TV screens, complimentary WiFi, snacks, and drinks, and much more legroom in regular economy — at least four inches more than Spirit.

But, that's the beauty of Spirit's business model. It keeps fares low by offering minimal amenities, and people are willing to suffer through it, including me.

Taylor Rains/Insider

And, if you know how the add-on fees work and the responsibility to book them in advance, then the flight should be smooth-sailing. Though, disruptions are bound to happen with any airline.

Spirit Airlines aircraftThiago B Trevisan/Shutterstock

And, if you know how the add-on fees work and the responsibility to book them in advance, then the flight should be smooth-sailing. Though, disruptions are bound to happen with any airline.

But, there is actually a lower chance of being delayed when flying Spirit versus some competitors, including JetBlue.

JetBlue landing at JFK.Eliyahu Yosef Parypa/Shutterstock

From January to August, the budget airline ranked 7th in the US for on-time performance at 69.3%, according to Bureau of Transportation data. That compares to Frontier's 64.5%, JetBlue's 62.9%, and Allegiant's 61.6%.

Taylor Rains/Insider

From January to August, the budget airline ranked 7th in the US for on-time performance at 69.3%, according to Bureau of Transportation data. That compares to Frontier's 64.5%, JetBlue's 62.9%, and Allegiant's 61.6%.

JetBlue may actually learn something from Spirit, with Raite telling Insider Spirit keeps fares low because of its efficient operation and network.

JetBlue Airways "hops" livery.JetBlue Airways

That's not to say the low-cost airline is perfect by any means, especially with its sometimes mediocre customer service and barebones planes.

Taylor Rains/Insider

But, joining forces with JetBlue, which clearly has a superior product that is consistently ranked high by passengers, a merger may be a perfect balance.

Spirit Airlines "Bare Fare" liveryCarterAerial/Shutterstock

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I flew on Spirit from New York to Miami and found the carrier is a perfectly fine way to travel if you know how to avoid the extra fees

Low-cost giant Spirit Airlines is infamous for its bare-bones yellow planes and costly add-on fees.

The carrier runs on an a-la-carte business model, meaning customers only get an unassigned seat and a personal item in the basic fare. For anything extra, like bags and inflight snacks, it'll cost — and there are strict size and weight limits.

For veteran travelers like myself, flying Spirit is no big deal because I know what to expect and the consequences of not pre-booking add-ons — particularly bags — before getting to the airport.

But, for those looking for a cheap flight with little experience traveling on a budget airline, it may come as a shock when you're asked to pony up hundreds of dollars for luggage at the ticket counter or gate.

Despite its poor reputation, Spirit continues to fill its planes, with its 2022 load factor nearly that of 2019 at 83.3% and 84.8%, respectively, according to the carrier.

With its success and large fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft, Spirit garnered interest from Frontier Airlines and JetBlue Airways, which both bid to buy the carrier in early 2022.

Although Frontier was first, JetBlue swooped in with an "unsolicited proposal" that Spirit ended up accepting, despite pushback from its union. The deal is worth $3.8 billion.

In October, Spirit shareholders agreed to the merger and expect to complete the regulatory process by the first half of 2024.

With the movement, customers and experts are wondering how a potential merger could impact the network, fares, and overall experience, especially since JetBlue has amenity-heavy planes with free snacks, WiFi, and entertainment.

Christopher Raite, a senior analyst at research firm Third Bridge, told Insider that fares could rise in places like Miami and New York where the two currently overlap routes.

But, low-cost competitors like Frontier and Avelo Airlines may pressure JetBlue to keep ticket prices down in other markets, he further explained.

I flew on Spirit from New York to Miami to see the full no-frills experience and how it currently compares to JetBlue — here's how it went, and how I managed the add-on fees.

My journey started with the booking process, which I think is the most important step to pay attention to if you want to avoid any unexpected costs. Spirit is very clear online that most amenities cost extra.

I booked my flight about a month out on the airline's website, and the basic fare cost $32 one-way. Remember, this only got me an unassigned seat and a personal item, which must fit under my seat and not exceed 18x14x8 inches.

While I can typically manage with just a small duffle for free, I brought a carry-on for this trip. The bag cost a whopping $60 one-way and could not exceed 22x18x10 inches.

A checked bag was cheaper, starting at $55. The lower price encourages people to check their luggage rather than carry on to create more space in the overhead bins.

The total one-way fare came to $103 with taxes and fees, which, shockingly, was more expensive than if I flew Delta Air Lines, which included a carry-on for $69 total.

United Airlines' and JetBlue's fares were also cheaper since adding a carry-on for both was only $30, bringing the total one-way fares to about $93 and $99, respectively.

Granted, I prefer to fly out of LaGuardia, so United wouldn't be my first choice since it flies out of Newark, New Jersey, and the Delta flight from LaGuardia left at 7:05 a.m., so those details were taken into account.

Despite the slightly higher fare, I was happy with Spirit's 3:49 p.m. departure from LaGuardia. And, if I didn't bring a carry-on, which I normally don't, the $32 one-way fare would be a no-brainer.

There are a few other add-on options during the booking process, like paying for seats or expedited security, but I skipped these since I don't care about the seat location and I already have TSA Pre-Check.

My journey officially started at around 2:00 p.m. at LaGuardia Airport on November 1. Spirit flies out of Terminal A, which is pretty run-down and small, but I like it because it's easy and quick to navigate.

When I walked in, there were check-in kiosks available to get a boarding pass, and a weigh station for checked luggage. Anything over 40 pounds is considered overweight, per Spirit.

There are also containers that check the dimensions of your luggage, though the agent did not ask me to measure my items. According to Spirit, checked bags that are more than 62 linear inches are considered oversized.

Travelers will pay for any luggage not pre-booked or is oversized or overweight. These fees range from $69 to $100 at the ticket counter and will cost even more at the gate, so it's important to pay attention and arrive at the airport prepared.

After receiving my boarding pass, which is free at the kiosk, I cleared security and headed to the gate.

The boarding area was small with only one bathroom, but I appreciated the short walk and there was space to sit and relax.

Boarding started around 3:00 p.m. for a 3:49 p.m. departure.

Because I paid for a carry-on, I was in the first boarding group — zone 1 — ensuring overhead bin space.

I walked down the aisle passing the Big Front Seat and extra legroom rows before arriving at seat 22A, which was randomly assigned at check-in.

I had the option to purchase a seat during and after check-in, which ranged from $8 to $83 depending on legroom and location, with the Big Front Seat being the most expensive.

I've flown the business-like lounger before and, personally, I don't find it worth the money. They don't recline and it doesn't come with any added perks, like free food or drinks.

I was happy with my window seat, which was a lucky steal since I'm used to getting the middle seat as a solo traveler.

However, in typical low-cost fashion, the seat had just 28 inches of legroom. For someone who is only 5'3" tall and on the smaller size, the minimal space isn't a big deal.

But, for someone like my best friend who towers at 6'3", it's probably worth it to pay for an extra legroom seat, like the exit row, which has up to 34 inches of pitch.

In addition to the hard seat, Spirit also offers travelers a tiny tray table, but that's about it. There is no inflight entertainment or power…

…no recline or headrests, and no seatback pocket.

Though, there was a small cubby above the tray table that was just big enough for paper pamphlets — a water bottle wouldn't fit, but a slim phone would.

But, there was no WiFi despite a QR code on the seatback saying there was, so I was pretty disappointed. WiFi is a relatively new addition to Spirit aircraft, and the service starts at $2.99 for browsing and $5.99 for streaming, when available.

Fortunately, I downloaded some movies and podcasts, so I had entertainment to pass the time on the three-hour flight.

After getting settled, I waited for the rest of the plane to board. I even lucked out with the middle seat being left open, so I had plenty of space to spread out without disturbing my aisle-seat neighbor.

While Spirit can sometimes be unreliable, my flight pushed back at 3:42 p.m. and we were in the air right on time, which was a refreshing treat after a summer of travel chaos.

For the inflight service, there was a menu with prices for buy-onboard snacks and beverages. Even water costs extra, so I always bring a refillable bottle onboard.

I ordered the cafe snack box, a Buzzballz Lotta Colada mixed drink, and a Diet Coke, totaling $24.

The snack box included fruit snacks, chocolate chip cookies, crackers, cheese spread, almonds, and a wet wipe. The food was a filling enough lunch despite the hefty $9 price.

Meanwhile, the $11 cocktail was actually pretty tasty — yet surprisingly strong.

Overall, my experience was exactly as expected. I got from point A to point B efficiently with no issues, arriving about 20 minutes ahead of schedule.

Funny enough, we departed right after a JetBlue plane. But, having flown the New York-based airline dozens of times, I can say Spirit's product is not much comparatively.

JetBlue seats are more padded, and the aircraft has inflight TV screens, complimentary WiFi, snacks, and drinks, and much more legroom in regular economy — at least four inches more than Spirit.

But, that's the beauty of Spirit's business model. It keeps fares low by offering minimal amenities, and people are willing to suffer through it, including me.

And, if you know how the add-on fees work and the responsibility to book them in advance, then the flight should be smooth-sailing. Though, disruptions are bound to happen with any airline.

But, there is actually a lower chance of being delayed when flying Spirit versus some competitors, including JetBlue.

From January to August, the budget airline ranked 7th in the US for on-time performance at 69.3%, according to Bureau of Transportation data. That compares to Frontier's 64.5%, JetBlue's 62.9%, and Allegiant's 61.6%.

JetBlue may actually learn something from Spirit, with Raite telling Insider Spirit keeps fares low because of its efficient operation and network.

That's not to say the low-cost airline is perfect by any means, especially with its sometimes mediocre customer service and barebones planes.

But, joining forces with JetBlue, which clearly has a superior product that is consistently ranked high by passengers, a merger may be a perfect balance.