Frontier Airlines Vs Spirit: Which One Is Best For You?

Budget travel is something many people look for when planning a trip. It is costly to fly abroad or even to a nearby city. This is where low-cost airlines like Spirit and Frontier are useful! They make air travel more convenient and comfortable for people by providing extremely low-cost flights. However, there is a catch to these cheap prices. Frontier Airlines vs Spirit follow a similar business model. They offer a basic ticket price, which only covers your seat on the plane. Everything else costs extra. You pay for each add-on separately. 

This approach keeps the initial ticket price low, but travelers find their total cost climbing higher than they expected. Many travelers wonder which of these two airlines offers a better experience. Do you get more legroom on one of them? Does one have fewer delays? Are the baggage fees more reasonable with one carrier? With the help of this article, you will learn about the differences between these two airlines. You will learn about their baggage policies, seat comfort, on-time performance, and other relevant details. This post will help you make your decision on to fly with which airline to fly! Keep reading to know more!

Spirit vs Frontier Airlines: Pricing & Fare

Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines have some of the cheapest airline tickets in the country, but their prices have a catch—added fees for just about everything. Here, we dissect their fare structures, compare prices, and summarize their loyalty programs in plain language to help you understand what you’re getting for your money.

Base Fares

Both carriers maintain low base fares to appeal to price-conscious travelers. Frontier typically starts at about $19-$49 for one-way domestic flights. Spirit’s prices can range from $20 to $50. Spirit will sometimes beat out Frontier with lower-priced tickets on more popular routes, but offers change. Check both carriers’ sites regularly for current specials.

Extra Fees

Both airlines charge a little in the base fare. You’ll pay extra for a carry-on bag, a checked bag, seat choice, and even snacks. Have a look at this brief overview:

• Frontier– Charges around $30-$60 for a carry-on bag and between $35-$70 for bags checked. It depends on when you buy (prices are lower online, more expensive at the gate). Seat selection is about $11-$55 per flight. Drinks and snacks cost between $2 and $7.

• Spirit– Carry-on bags cost $35-$65, and checked bags range from $30-$70. Seat selection fees range from $5 to $50. Food and drinks cost $2-$10. Spirit’s fees can feel steeper because they charge for printing boarding passes at the airport ($10-$25).

Bundles and Packages

Both carriers offer packages that make costs more manageable. Frontier’s “The Works” package ($50-$150) includes a carry-on bag, a checked bag, seat selection, priority boarding, and the ability to change flights. Spirit’s “$aver$ Club Bundle” ($40-$120) has similar extras but is attached to their club membership. Packages can be cost-saving if you require several add-ons; however, be sure the overall price doesn’t exceed what you would pay if you bought them separately.

Route Networks and Destinations

Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines offer travelers affordable flights to many destinations. Both airlines emphasize cheap traveling but operate on different routes and destinations. Know all about their destinations in the following section:

Frontier Airlines

You will have a large network when flying with this major airline, which primarily focuses on domestic flights. Frontier flies to approximately 77 domestic destinations and frequently adds and drops routes, resulting in a network that fluctuates. They operate to well-known vacation destinations such as Mexico and the Caribbean, as well as large cities in the U.S., from Maine to California and Texas to Montana. Do you need to cancel your plans? For hassle-free cancellations, see “Frontier Airlines Ticket Cancellation” for easy flight cancellations.

Routes & Destinations Covered By Frontier
Some Domestic Destinations
Fort Myers, FLGrand Rapids, MIGreen Bay, WIHarrisburg, PAHartford, CTHouston-Intercontinental, TXHouston-Hobby, TXIndianapolis, INIslip, NYJacksonville, FLKansas City, MO	Albany, NYAlbuquerque, NMAtlanta, GAAustin, TXBaltimore-Washington, MDBoston, MABuffalo, NYBurlington, VTCharleston, SCCharlotte, NCChicago-Midway, IL	Chicago-O’Hare, ILCincinnati, OHCleveland, OHColumbus, OHDallas-Fort Worth, TXDenver, CODes Moines, IADetroit, MIEl Paso, TXFargo, NDFort Lauderdale, FL
International Destinations
Antigua, Antigua and BarbudaArubaCancun, MexicoCozumel, MexicoDominican RepublicEl SalvadorGrand Cayman, Cayman Islands	Guatemala City, GuatemalaJamaicaLiberia, Costa RicaLos Cabos, MexicoMontego Bay, JamaicaNassau, BahamasPuerto Vallarta, Mexico	Punta Cana, Dominican RepublicSan Jose, Costa RicaSt. Croix, U.S. Virgin IslandsSt. Maarten

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines has a slightly bigger network, with 639 routes spanning 57 domestic cities and 28 international cities in 17 nations. They specialize in large U.S. cities, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Spirit’s bases of operation are Atlanta, Chicago–O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Houston–Intercontinental, Las Vegas, Miami, Newark, and Orlando. Their bright yellow aircraft are a dead giveaway, and they tend to land at larger airports, lowering fares on high-traffic routes. Spirit’s schedule is more regular, with daily or multiple daily departures on high-traffic routes.

Routes & Destinations Covered By Spirit
Domestic
Atlanta, GA (ATL)Atlantic City, NJ (ACY)Austin, TX (AUS)Baltimore, MD (BWI)Birmingham, AL (BHM)Boston, MA (BOS)Burbank, CA (BUR)Charleston, SC (CHS)Charlotte, NC (CLT)Chattanooga, TN (CHA)Chicago, IL (ORD)Cleveland, OH (CLE)Columbus, OH (CMH)Dallas/Fort Worth, TX (DFW)Detroit, MI (DTW)Fort Lauderdale, FL (FLL)	Fort Myers, FL (RSW)Hartford, CT (BDL)Houston, TX (IAH)Indianapolis, IN (IND)Kansas City, MO (MCI)Las Vegas, NV (LAS)Los Angeles, CA (LAX)Louisville, KY (SDF)Memphis, TN (MEM)Miami, FL (MIA)Milwaukee, WI (MKE)Minneapolis, MN (MSP)Myrtle Beach, SC (MYR)Nashville, TN (BNA)New Orleans, LA (MSY)	New York, NY (LGA)New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)Norfolk, VA (ORF)Oakland, CA (OAK)Orlando, FL (MCO)Pensacola, FL (PNS)Philadelphia, PA (PHL)Pittsburgh, PA (PIT)Raleigh/Durham, NC (RDU)Richmond, VA (RIC)Sacramento, CA (SMF)San Antonio, TX (SAT)San Diego, CA (SAN)San Jose, CA (SJC)St. Louis, MO (STL)Tampa, FL (TPA)Columbia, SC (CAE)Savannah, GA (SAV)
International
ArubaColombiaCosta RicaDominican Republic	Haiti)HondurasJamaicaMexicoNicaragua	PanamaPuerto RicoSt. MaartenU.S. Virgin IslandsEl SalvadorGuatemala

Comparing Route Networks

Both Frontier and Spirit serve more domestic routes, which is beneficial for flying within the U.S. Spirit, however, services a bit more cities in the United States.

• International Reach – Spirit has the most extensive international route network, operating 152 routes to 17 countries, while Frontier has 136 routes in 12 countries. Spirit’s destinations in Latin America make it an ideal choice for international travelers.
• Hubs and Focus – Frontier focuses its hub-and-spoke system on Denver, whereas Spirit operates a point-to-point network with multiple bases, which provides greater flexibility in peak markets.
• Flight Frequency – Spirit tends to offer daily or multiple daily flights, particularly on high-demand routes, whereas Frontier operates fewer flights, often only a few times a week.
• Route Stability – Spirit has more stable schedules, whereas Frontier frequently changes routes, which can impact planning.

Spirit Airlines Vs Frontier Airlines: In-Flight Amenities

Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines both intend to save on costs, so their in-flight experience foregoes many frills. Both airlines have a no-frills approach, although their seats, amenities, and service differ slightly. Know what to expect when flying with either of them.

Seat Comfort

Frontier employs narrow seats with minimal padding on Airbus aircraft. They are comfortable, with roughly 28-31 inches of legroom. You have a tray table but no seat-back pocket. Spirit also has slim seats on its Airbus planes, with a standard 28-inch space on most aircraft. Their seats are firm, and like Frontier, they have no seat-back pockets. Both airlines charge extra for choosing specific seats, such as those with extra legroom. Frontier’s Stretch seats provide up to 36 inches of pitch, and Spirit’s Big Front Seats provide 36 inches and added width at a premium price. Neither carrier’s standard seats recline, so be prepared for an upright flight.

Amenities Onboard

Frontier sells snacks and beverages, such as chips, candy, and soda. The costs range from $2 to $8. They don’t offer free water or entertainment, so please bring your snacks and device for movies or games. Spirit also operates on the same model, with a snack and beverage menu that ranges from $2 to $10. They also avoid freebies, as well as in-flight Wi-Fi and entertainment systems. Both airlines invite you to download their apps for flight information, but please note that you will need to bring your headphones and content for entertainment. If you prefer a blanket or pillow, neither carrier offers them, so get your own.

Customer Service

Frontier’s staff stays organized, providing fast service with a smile. Some travelers compliment their hospitality, while others comment on being rushed. Spirit’s crew also focuses on speed, with feedback. Most travelers find them cooperative, but others report minimal interaction due to the fast and low-cost model. Both airlines teach their staff to meet fundamental requirements, but don’t expect special treatment. Smiling and courtesy are crew- and flight-dependent.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Frontier maintains its cabins in good condition, with freshly painted planes that appear new but are somewhat harsh in their design. Tray tables and seats get cleaned between flights, albeit with less frequent deep cleaning due to budget cuts. Spirit’s aircraft are clean but plain, with maintenance standards. Both airlines fly modern Airbus jets, so don’t expect a luxurious environment; instead, expect a useful one. Hand sanitizer and a neck pillow will be your friends, as neither carrier provides much padding or legroom in regular seats.

Baggage Policies

Both airlines reduce fares by adding baggage charges. They have similar policies but provide some differences. This section highlights their carry-on and checked baggage requirements, as well as fees for saving money. 

Carry-On Baggage

Know about the dimensions below:

Frontier Airlines

It allows one a free personal item, such as a purse or small backpack of size 24” H x 16” W x 10” D, that can be stored under the seat and should not weigh more than 35 pounds. A carry-on suitcase, such as a roller bag, incurs an extra fee. The charges range from $23 to $99, based on when you pay. Measure your bag every time to surprise-proof yourself.

Spirit Airlines

This one also provides you with one free personal item. There is a fee for a carry-on bag, ranging from $20 if booked online to $100 at the gate. The maximum size for Spirit’s carry-on is 22 x 18 x 10 inches, which is a little larger than Frontier’s. Save money by booking early.

Checked Baggage

You should get aware of the checked baggage fees and sizes to make an informed decision.

Frontier Airlines

The airline has a fee for checked bags, from $30 to $100 per bag. The lowest cost is charged for the first bag if you pay online at the time of booking. Each bag can weigh 50 pounds or less and be no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Overweight or oversized bags incur an additional charge of $75.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit’s checked bag fees range from $25 to $100 per bag, depending on payment timing. Like Frontier, paying online early can save you money. Bags must weigh 40 pounds or less (stricter than Frontier) and measure 62 linear inches or less. Extra fees for overweight bags start at $30, and oversized bags incur costs of $100 or more.

Special Items

This section will help you think better:

Frontier

Frontier charges extra for special items, such as sporting goods or musical instruments, with costs ranging from $75 to $150. Bicycles, surfboards, and other oversized items are subject to specific limitations. 

Spirit 

Spirit also charges fees on special items, ranging from $35 for small items, such as golf bags, to $150 for larger ones, such as bicycles. Their size and weight restrictions are strict, so check Spirit’s policy before checking in.

Booking and Check-In Process: Frontier Vs Spirit Airlines

Both Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines make booking and checking in easy, but their processes differ slightly. This section compares how each airline handles reservations, online check-in, and airport procedures, using simple terms to help you understand what to expect.

Booking a Flight

Frontier and Spirit Airlines both have straightforward booking processes on their websites or mobile apps, where you select your destination, travel dates, and add any additional items, such as seats or bags. Frontier’s website appears more modern and colorful, but both airlines often ask you to purchase add-ons at the point of booking, which can be a little pushy. For the lowest fare, book directly online with either airline, as both impose additional fees if you book by telephone or in their offices.

Online Check-In

They both prefer that you check in online. You may use either their app or website to check in 24 hours before your flight, receive a mobile boarding pass, or print one at home without any charge. This saves you money and time, as you would have to pay a fee to both airlines if you want to check in at the airport. Both systems are easy to use, but Frontier’s app is typically faster and slightly friendlier than Spirit’s.

Airport Check-In

Both Frontier and Spirit Airlines maintain identical and straightforward airport check-in procedures. You’re free to use their self-service machines without charge if you’ve checked in online beforehand. However, if you need to check in at the counter without first doing so online, both airlines will charge a fee, typically ranging from $10 to $25. Spirit’s counters, particularly at larger airports, tend to become congested, so expect to arrive early if you’ll be needing their assistance.

Loyalty Programs and Perks

When it comes to gaining profits, loyalty programs play a significant role for frequent flyers. This section explains how each program operates, how you earn and redeem points, and more.

Earning Points

Both airlines allow you to accumulate points by booking flights, based on how much you spend, rather than how far you travel. Frontier rewards 1 point for every dollar spent on flights, with a bonus for extras such as checked bags or seat upgrades. The points earned on Spirit Airlines also depend on the amount you spend on flights. 

Redeeming Points

Saving points for flights on both airlines is simple. There are no blackout dates so you can use your points for any available seat. Costs are simple to compute and monitor thanks to Frontier Airlines’ point value, which based on the fare. The other one (Spirit) works on a much more dynamic model. You will get point values that switch by route and demand. It means fantastic bargains or less favorable prices. 

Benefits Of Credit Cards 

Both airlines provide co-branded credit cards to increase rewards. Members of one card receive free bags, points for regular purchases, and other benefits. The other card offers similar benefits, as well as additional perks like priority boarding and anniversary bonuses. Although both cards have annual fees, one is better for travelers on a tight budget because it keeps costs down. However, higher-end perks, such as lounge access and extra restaurant points, are available with the more expensive card.

Wrap-Up!

Now that you have reached the end of this Frontier Airlines Vs Spirit compare game, you can decide better! It gave you a choice between two low-cost carriers with comparable pricing structures. Frontier is an excellent option for leisure travelers due to its transparent pricing and straightforward loyalty program. Spirit offers richer benefits to frequent travelers who spend more money. To make an informed choice, think about what matters most to you: price, routes, or benefits. Frontier Airlines and Spirit offer options that fit your travel requirements and price range, whether you’re looking for simple discounts or exclusive benefits.

FAQs: Clarifying Your Doubts