Spirit Airlines Seats: Are They Worth It? (2024 Review)

Hey guys! Ever wondered about Spirit Airlines seats and whether they're worth the extra dough? You're not alone! Spirit often gets a bad rap, but sometimes, a super cheap flight is hard to resist. This review dives deep into everything you need to know about Spirit's seating options, from the standard seats to the Big Front Seat, so you can make an informed decision before you book. We'll cover comfort, legroom, cost, and everything in between. After all, nobody wants to be stuck on a cramped flight wishing they'd upgraded! Let's get started and see if those Spirit seats are a steal or a squeeze!

Standard Seats: What to Expect

Okay, let's talk standard seats on Spirit Airlines. These are your basic, no-frills seats, and honestly, they're pretty much what you'd expect from a budget airline. The pitch (legroom) is typically around 28 inches, which, let's be real, isn't a ton of space, especially if you're taller than average. If you're used to flying in economy on major airlines, you'll likely notice the difference. The width of the seats is also on the narrower side. Now, don't get me wrong, they're functional – they'll get you from point A to point B – but comfort isn't exactly their strong suit. Think of it like riding a city bus – it does the job, but you wouldn't want to spend hours doing it! One thing to keep in mind is that Spirit charges for everything, including seat selection. If you don't pay to choose your seat, the airline will assign you one at random during check-in. This means you could end up in a middle seat, or if you're traveling with companions, you might not be seated together. Paying for seat selection ensures you get the seat you want and can sit with your travel buddies. The cost of seat selection varies depending on the flight and the location of the seat. Seats closer to the front of the plane or those with extra legroom typically cost more. So, are standard seats worth it? If you're on a short flight and on a tight budget, they might be just fine. But if you're flying for several hours or value comfort, you might want to consider upgrading.

Big Front Seat: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Now, let's move on to the Big Front Seat – Spirit's version of a premium seat. These seats are significantly larger and offer much more legroom than the standard seats. We're talking about a roomy 36 inches of pitch and extra width, making a huge difference in comfort, especially on longer flights. Imagine stretching out your legs and having some breathing room – it's a whole different ballgame! The Big Front Seat is configured in a 2-2 layout, meaning there are only two seats on each side of the aisle. This gives you more space and makes it easier to get in and out of your seat without disturbing your neighbor. The seats themselves are also more padded and comfortable than the standard seats. Think of it as upgrading from that city bus to a comfy coach – much more pleasant! Of course, the Big Front Seat comes at a cost. The price varies depending on the flight and how far in advance you book, but it's typically a significant upcharge compared to the standard seat. So, is it worth it? That depends on your priorities. If you're tall, value comfort, or are flying on a long flight, the Big Front Seat can be a lifesaver. It can make a huge difference in your overall travel experience. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't mind being a bit cramped for a short flight, you might be better off sticking with the standard seat. It's also worth comparing the cost of the Big Front Seat to the price of flying on a different airline that includes more comfort as standard. Sometimes, the total cost might be comparable, and you'd get more amenities included.

Comparing Comfort and Legroom

When it comes to comparing comfort and legroom, there's a stark difference between Spirit's standard seats and the Big Front Seat. As we discussed earlier, the standard seats offer around 28 inches of pitch, which is on the lower end compared to other airlines. This can feel quite cramped, especially on longer flights. Legroom is crucial for comfort, especially for taller individuals. If you're someone who likes to stretch out or needs extra space for your knees, the standard seats might not cut it. The Big Front Seat, on the other hand, offers a generous 36 inches of pitch, providing ample legroom and allowing you to relax and stretch out. This can make a huge difference in your overall comfort level, especially on longer flights. In addition to legroom, the Big Front Seat also offers more width, meaning you won't feel as squeezed in. The extra padding also adds to the comfort factor. To put it in perspective, imagine sitting in a regular chair versus a recliner. The recliner offers more space, support, and overall comfort. The Big Front Seat is like the recliner of Spirit Airlines. When deciding which seat is right for you, consider the length of your flight, your height, and your personal comfort preferences. If you're flying for a short hop and don't mind being a bit cramped, the standard seats might be sufficient. But if you're flying for several hours or value comfort, the Big Front Seat is definitely worth considering.

Cost Analysis: Finding the Best Value

Let's break down the cost analysis to find the best value when it comes to Spirit Airlines seats. Spirit is known for its ultra-low base fares, but remember, that price typically only covers the seat itself. Everything else, including seat selection, baggage, and even drinks, comes at an extra cost. When booking your flight, you'll have the option to choose your seat. The cost of seat selection varies depending on the flight, the location of the seat, and how far in advance you book. Seats closer to the front of the plane or those with extra legroom typically cost more. The Big Front Seat is the most expensive option, but it offers the most comfort and space. To determine the best value, you need to consider your priorities and budget. If you're on a tight budget, you might be tempted to skip seat selection and let the airline assign you a seat at random. However, this could mean ending up in a middle seat or being separated from your travel companions. Paying a small fee for seat selection can ensure you get the seat you want and can sit with your group. If you're considering the Big Front Seat, compare the cost to the price of flying on a different airline that includes more comfort as standard. Sometimes, the total cost might be comparable, and you'd get more amenities included. Also, consider the length of your flight. If you're only flying for an hour or two, the extra cost of the Big Front Seat might not be worth it. But if you're flying for several hours, the added comfort could be well worth the investment. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and preferences. Weigh the costs and benefits of each seating option to make an informed decision.

Tips for Getting the Best Seat on Spirit

Alright, let's talk tips for getting the best seat on Spirit Airlines without breaking the bank! First and foremost, book in advance! The earlier you book, the better your chances of snagging a desirable seat at a reasonable price. Seat selection fees tend to increase as the flight gets closer, so booking early can save you some cash. Another tip is to check the seat map before you book. This will give you an idea of which seats are available and which ones offer extra legroom or other desirable features. Websites like SeatGuru can provide valuable insights into seat configurations and potential drawbacks. If you're traveling with companions, coordinate your seat selections to ensure you can sit together. This might involve paying a bit extra for seat selection, but it's worth it to avoid being separated on the flight. Consider signing up for Spirit's Free Spirit loyalty program. Members often receive discounts on seat selection and other perks. Plus, you can earn points for your flights and redeem them for future travel. If you're flexible with your travel dates, try flying on off-peak days or times. Flights that are less in demand tend to have more available seats, and seat selection fees might be lower. Keep an eye out for promotions and deals on seat selection. Spirit occasionally offers discounts on seat selection, so it's worth checking their website or social media channels for potential savings. Finally, if you're not willing to pay for seat selection, be sure to check in online as early as possible. This will give you a better chance of getting a decent seat assignment. While it's not guaranteed, it's worth a try!

Final Verdict: Is Flying Spirit Airlines Worth It?

So, is flying Spirit Airlines worth it? The answer, as with most things, is it depends. Spirit can be a great option if you're looking for a super cheap flight and are willing to sacrifice some comfort and amenities. If you're on a tight budget and can pack light, you can potentially save a significant amount of money compared to flying on a major airline. However, it's important to be aware of Spirit's fees and restrictions. You'll need to pay extra for everything from seat selection to baggage to drinks. If you're not careful, these fees can quickly add up and negate the savings from the low base fare. If you value comfort and amenities, you might want to consider flying on a different airline. Spirit's standard seats are quite cramped, and the overall experience is definitely no-frills. However, if you're willing to pay extra for the Big Front Seat, you can enjoy a much more comfortable flight. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to fly Spirit depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for the cheapest possible flight and are willing to put up with some discomfort, Spirit can be a good option. But if you value comfort and amenities, you might be better off flying on a different airline, especially for longer flights. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your decision. Happy travels, guys!