Frontier vs Spirit Airlines: Which Budget Airline is Right for You?
Curious about how Frontier vs Spirit Airlines stack up? You’re not alone! As someone who loves to travel on a budget, I recently flew with both airlines and want to share my first-hand experiences. Ever wondered if the cheapest flights are worth it? Or if you should spend a little more for extra comfort? Here’s my detailed account of flying with both Frontier and Spirit Airlines in 2024.
Content Outline
My Experience with Frontier Airlines
Booking and Pricing
In May 2024, I booked a direct flight with Frontier Airlines from New York to Miami. The initial fare was incredibly low at just $89. However, I quickly realized that Frontier charges extra for almost everything. Adding a carry-on bag, selecting a seat, and purchasing in-flight snacks brought the total to around $150. Still, it was a reasonable price compared to other airlines.
Check-In and Boarding
Checking in online was straightforward, and I appreciated the Frontier Airlines app, which allowed me to manage my booking and Boarding pass easily. Boarding was efficient. However, I noticed that Frontier’s baggage policies were strictly enforced. Several passengers had to pay extra at the gate for oversized personal items.
In-Flight Experience
Frontier’s aircraft are basic but clean. The seats have limited legroom and do not recline, which can be uncomfortable on longer flights. The tray tables are tiny, just enough for a drink and a small snack. There is no in-flight entertainment, so I made sure to download some movies on my tablet beforehand.
The flight attendants were polite but not particularly friendly or attentive. I bought a bottle of water and a snack, which were reasonably priced but nothing special. Overall, the flight was uneventful and on time, which is always a plus.
Arrival and Post-Flight
We landed on time, and my luggage arrived promptly. The overall experience with Frontier was what I expected for a budget airline—no frills. Still, it got me to my destination without major issues.
Related Post: My Honest Frontier Airlines Reviews 2024
My Experience with Spirit Airlines
Booking and Budgeting: The Fine Print
In June 2024, I took a trip with Spirit Airlines from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. The ticket was a steal at $49, but like Frontier, Spirit charges extra for almost everything. After adding a checked bag, selecting a seat, and paying for in-flight Wi-Fi, the total cost was around $110.
Watch the latest video of Spirit Airlines Reviews;
The Check-In and Boarding Process
Spirit’s online check-in process was simple, and their app was user-friendly. However, I noticed that Spirit’s check-in lines at the airport were quite long. Boarding was somewhat chaotic, with many passengers confused about baggage policies and additional fees.
The Flight Itself: What to Expect
The seats on Spirit Airlines are similar to Frontier’s—narrow, with limited legroom and no recline. However, Spirit offers “Big Front Seats” at the front of the plane for an extra charge, which are more spacious and comfortable. I didn’t opt for these, but they seemed like a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking more comfort.
There is no in-flight entertainment, but Wi-Fi is available for purchase, which I found useful for short flights. The flight attendants were more attentive than those on Frontier, offering water and snacks for purchase. I appreciated their cheerful demeanour, which made the flight more pleasant.
Arrival and Beyond A Smooth Finish
The flight arrived on time, and my luggage was delivered quickly. Spirit’s overall experience was similar to Frontier’s, but the slightly better customer service made a difference.
Frontier vs Spirit Airlines: Pros and Cons Comparison
| Aspect | Frontier Airlines | Spirit Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower base fares – Additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and in-flight services | Ultra-low base fares – Numerous additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and services |
| Comfort | Standard seats with limited legroom and no recline – Better legroom options available for a fee | Standard seats with limited legroom “Big Front Seats” for additional comfort at a higher price |
| Customer Service | Mixed reviews on in-flight service – Slow refund process | Variable service quality – Challenging refund process |
| On-Time Performance | Reasonable on-time performance – Occasional delays | Slightly lower on-time performance Frequent delays |
| Frequent Flyer Program | Frontier Miles with redeemable miles for flights – Blackout dates can be a drawback | Free Spirit points for flights and upgrades – High point requirements can be a downside |
| In-Flight Amenities | No in-flight entertainment – Snacks and drinks for purchase | No built-in entertainment – Wi-Fi available for a fee |
This comprehensive comparison of Frontier vs Spirit Airlines should help you decide which budget airline best meets your travel needs.
Personal Recommendation
- Frontier Airlines: Choose Frontier if you prioritize on-time performance and can tolerate basic comfort for short flights.
- Spirit Airlines: Opt for Spirit if you’re looking for the lowest fares possible and are willing to pay for extra comfort with the “Big Front Seats.”
Conclusion
Choosing between Frontier vs Spirit Airlines depends largely on your travel priorities—whether it’s the absolute lowest fare or a more balanced experience with additional costs. Both airlines have their pros and cons, but understanding these can help you make an informed decision. Share your own experiences if you’ve travelled both, and follow our blog for more tips and reviews!
