Jazmin Li
Spirit Airlines has a reputation for offering no-frills flights at low prices. One way to save even more money when flying with Spirit is to buy your tickets at the airport. This is because the airline charges a passenger usage fee for booking online or by phone, which does not apply to bookings made in person at the airport. However, it is important to note that this option may involve long waits at the airport, and the amount saved depends on the route and airport. Additionally, passengers cannot use coupon codes or take advantage of promotions when buying tickets at the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ticket purchase location | At the airport, at a Spirit Airlines ticket counter |
| Ticket purchase time | 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM |
| Fee avoidance | No "Passenger Usage Charge" when booking at the airport |
| Savings | Around $23 per ticket each way; savings depend on route/airport |
| Payment methods | Credit card |
| Vouchers | Can be used when booking at the airport |
| Online baggage purchase | Recommended to save money |
| Seat selection | Spirit charges passengers to choose their seats |
| Checked baggage | More expensive to check bags at the gate |
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What You'll Learn
Buying Spirit tickets at the airport vs online
Buying Spirit tickets at the airport can save you money, but it may also be a hassle.
Spirit Airlines charges a "passenger usage" fee for booking online or by phone, which does not apply to bookings made at the ticket counter at the airport. This fee can be as high as $22.99 each way for each passenger, so a family of four could save over $180 on a round-trip flight by booking in person. However, it's important to note that the savings may depend on the route and airport. In some cases, the difference in fare may only be a few dollars. Additionally, there are limited hours for purchasing tickets at the airport, typically from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Furthermore, there is no dedicated line for purchasing tickets, so you may end up waiting in a long line.
On the other hand, buying tickets online offers convenience and flexibility. You can book your travel at any time, from the comfort of your home, without having to make a special trip to the airport. Online bookings may also allow you to take advantage of coupon codes, sales, and promotions that are not available when booking at the airport. However, it's important to be cautious of the various fees and charges that may be applied when booking online, such as the "passenger usage" fee.
Ultimately, the decision to buy Spirit tickets at the airport or online depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you are travelling as a large group and can make it to the airport during the designated ticket-purchasing hours, buying tickets at the airport may be a great way to save money. However, if convenience and flexibility are more important to you, or if you plan to take advantage of online promotions, booking online may be the better option.
Additionally, it's worth noting that Spirit Airlines is known for charging extra for various services, such as seat selection and baggage. These fees can add up quickly, so it's important to factor them into your decision-making process. For example, it is generally recommended to pay for your bags as soon as you book, as the fees for checked bags can range from $30 to $100 if you wait until you arrive at the gate.
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Saving money by buying tickets at the airport
While booking a flight from your phone or computer is the easiest way to buy a ticket, you could be overpaying for that flight at the cost of comfort. Travel experts advise that buying tickets at the airport ticket counter can save you money, but only in certain circumstances and with certain airlines. This money-saving travel hack typically only applies to ultra-low-cost airlines that charge an online booking or passenger usage fee.
Airlines that charge a fee for booking online or over the phone include Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit Airlines. Allegiant Air, for example, charges an Electronic Carrier Usage Charge of up to $22 per flight segment for bookings made online or by phone. That's $44 per person for a round-trip ticket.
The amount you can save depends on the route, the flight, and the number of people travelling. A family of four could save over $180 on a round-trip flight by booking in person at the airport. One traveller reported saving $5.99 by buying their ticket at the airport, while another group of five saved $200 on their round-trip flight. On average, you can expect to save over $20 per person, each way, which is a total savings of $40+ per person for a round trip.
How to Buy Tickets at the Airport
To buy tickets at the airport, go to a Spirit Airlines ticket counter during their opening hours. Note that there is no dedicated portion of the counter for ticketing, so you'll have to join the standard check-in line, which can sometimes be long. It's also important to plan ahead as some airports only allow ticket purchases during specific times, such as from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM.
Additional Tips
If you're flying with Spirit Airlines, it's highly recommended that you pay for your bags when you book your ticket, as the airline charges more for checked bags at the gate. Fees for checked bags can range from $30 to $100. You can also save money by purchasing your bags online before checking in for your flight. Keep in mind that you won't be able to use any coupon codes, sales, or promotions when buying tickets at the airport. Additionally, Spirit Airlines charges passengers to choose their seats, so you may want to consider this extra cost when calculating your savings.
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Using vouchers when buying tickets at the airport
Buying Spirit tickets at the airport can save you money. Spirit Airlines charges a "passenger usage fee" for booking online or by phone, which does not apply to bookings made at the ticket counter. This fee is currently $22.99 each way for each passenger, so a family of four could save over $180 on a round-trip flight by booking in person at the airport.
However, it's important to note that Spirit Airlines aims to discourage customers from booking at the airport by keeping their airport staff minimal. As a result, you may encounter long lines and wait times when trying to purchase tickets at the airport. Additionally, you cannot use any coupon codes, sales, or promotions when buying tickets at the airport, and you will be charged extra for services like printing your boarding pass.
Now, when it comes to using vouchers when buying tickets at the airport, here's what you need to know:
Understanding Travel Vouchers
Travel vouchers are a valuable way to save money on flights, hotels, and vacations. They are typically issued by airlines, hotels, cruise lines, or travel agencies as compensation for service disruptions, canceled trips, or promotional incentives. These vouchers are usually digital and must be used with the same provider that issued them. While the terms and usage restrictions vary, most vouchers can be applied at checkout or by contacting customer service.
Using Vouchers at the Airport
When using vouchers to buy tickets at the airport, it's important to understand the specific terms and conditions of your voucher. Some vouchers may have blackout dates, minimum stay requirements, or specific usage limitations, such as being valid only for domestic flights. Additionally, vouchers may have an expiration date, typically ranging from a few months to a year, so be sure to check the fine print.
To use your voucher at the airport, go to the ticket counter of the airline that issued the voucher during their opening hours. Keep in mind that you will need to join the standard check-in line, which may be quite long. At the counter, present your voucher and specify that you want to use it to purchase a ticket. The agent will then apply the voucher to your booking and help you complete the reservation.
Combining Vouchers with Airport Savings
Using vouchers in conjunction with buying tickets at the airport can further enhance your savings. By avoiding the "passenger usage fee" and utilizing your voucher, you can maximize the cost reduction on your travel expenses. Remember to compare bag fees between online and airport purchases to determine the most economical option, as these fees can vary.
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Buying tickets at the airport for future trips
However, it's important to note that buying tickets at the airport may require waiting in long lines, and there may be limited airport staff available. Additionally, you won't be able to use any coupon codes, promotions, or sales that are available online. Spirit Airlines is also known for charging extra for carry-on and checked baggage, so it's recommended to pay for your bags online before checking in to get a lower price.
To buy tickets at the airport, locate the Spirit Airlines ticket counter during their operating hours. Keep in mind that there may not be a dedicated section for ticketing, so you'll need to join the standard check-in line. Provide the agent with your flight information and payment details, and they will process your booking.
While buying tickets at the airport can save you money on the passenger usage fee, it's important to weigh this against the potential inconvenience and additional costs for baggage. It may be more advantageous to book online, especially if you're travelling light or have access to promotional discounts.
Overall, purchasing tickets at the airport for future trips can be a strategic way to save money, especially for larger groups, but it's important to consider the potential drawbacks and additional costs associated with airport bookings.
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Buying tickets at the airport for a family
Buying tickets at the airport can be a great way for families to save money on their travel expenses. Spirit Airlines, for instance, offers cheaper tickets at the airport than online. This is because the airline charges a "passenger usage fee" for bookings made online or over the phone, which does not apply to bookings made at the airport counter. This fee can amount to around $22.99 each way for each passenger, so a family of four could save over $180 on a round-trip flight by purchasing their tickets directly at the airport.
However, it is important to note that buying tickets at the airport may come with some inconveniences. For instance, there may be long lines at the ticket counter, and families may have to wait for an extended period to speak to an agent. Additionally, Spirit Airlines is known for charging extra fees for various services, such as choosing seats and checking bags. These fees can add up quickly, so it is essential to consider them when planning your trip.
To avoid these extra fees, it is recommended to bring your own in-flight entertainment and purchase any checked bags in advance. Fees for checked bags can range from $30 to $100, so it is more cost-effective to pay for these services ahead of time rather than at the gate. Additionally, families who wish to sit together may need to pay extra to choose their seats, which can further increase the overall cost of the flight.
Overall, buying tickets at the airport can be a great way for families to save money, but it is important to be aware of the potential challenges and extra fees associated with this option. By planning ahead and considering all the associated costs, families can make an informed decision about whether purchasing tickets at the airport is the best choice for their travel needs.
- Check the location and operating hours of the ticket counter before your visit to ensure they are open.
- Be prepared for potential lines and wait times by arriving early and bringing entertainment for any children.
- Have all necessary information readily available, including flight details, credit card information, and any relevant membership or loyalty program numbers.
- Inquire about any available discounts or promotions that may apply to your purchase.
- Confirm all fees and charges before finalizing the transaction to avoid unexpected costs.
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Frequently asked questions
You can buy Spirit tickets at the Spirit Airlines ticket counter at the airport.
Buying tickets at the airport can save passengers money. The airline charges a "passenger usage fee" for booking online or by phone, which does not apply to bookings made at the ticket counter. This fee is currently around $22.99 each way for each passenger.
Yes, there may be long lines at the ticket counter and you cannot use any coupon codes, sales, or promotions.
Yes, you can use a voucher when booking at the airport, but reports suggest that many agents are not trained well enough to process them.
